clare_petrie

Hi there,

Hoping someone can offer some advice. I have a 3 week family trip to Ireland in September, and am thinking of going early to do some solo travel in Spain and France.

I have 6 "free" days, and was thinking of flying into Barcelona and doing the following:

Aug 26-29: Barcelona
29-30: Aix en Provence
31: Travel to Cork, Ireland (I'll be in Ireland for 3 weeks from this point)

I would very much appreciate any advice on whether or not these timelines are realistic. Also, any travel advice? Best to take a train through France and then ferry to Ireland? Better to fly? I'm also open to any suggestions. I haven't been to either south of France or Spain.

BTW, I'm a woman in my late 30's so safety is a concern. I'm basically looking for a nice time on my own with some delicious views, food and drink.

Thanks very much!

BigAleinstein

With six days I would choose Spain or France.

Would you fly into Dublin? Is there a closer airport?

Check flights and trains and see how much time that will eat into your six days.

BigAleinstein

Sorry, check airlines like Ryan, Vueling, Easyjet and see where they fly from and to. Also notice that some times they use lesser used airports. AND they are very strict and have severe penalties for extra and overweight luggage.

clare_petrie

Good point - I'm working with limited time. I should focus. I've spent quite a bit of time in Paris, and Spain might be better for a separate trip.

So...

If I were to do 6 days in France, is this more doable:

Fly in to Marseille
A few days in Aix en Provence
Any other recommendations for France (south or otherwise) for 1-2 days?
Either fly (Ryan/easetjet, etc...) into Dublin (or Shannon) or take a ferry.

I wouldn't mind spending some time on the train or bus, so if anyone has any recommendations, I'm open.

Thanks!

StuDudley

Two nights in Aix is fine. Then take the train/bus to Nice & spend your remaining time there - with day-trips to Villefranche, Antibes, etc. Lots of flight options from Nice.

Stu Dudley

danon

In August, I would rather spend time on the coast than in Aix.( we found24 hours in Aix long enough)