Jolen

we are heading to a small italian town near the southern france border (Nice airport) in may to visit my father. our flight is US to Paris to Nice. We have some time to kill before hooking up with my father and we are trying to decide whether to (1) stop over in Paris for a few days before flying to Nice or (2) whether to head straight to Nice and tour around that area of France or (3) a friend suggested Paris for a few days and then a few more days via train to Dijon/Burgandy, and then travel southward towards Aux en Provence and then on to Nice (which means skipping the flight to Nice altogether)We have up to 7 days we could spend there before visiting my father. <BR> <BR>Neither my husband nor I have ever been to France. We've both been to and love Italy and figure maybe we should give France a chance. Any suggestions on an itinerary?? Thanks

Ellen

If you like cities, Paris is just great. You could easily spend the time in Paris and just take some day trips outside Paris by rail or local transportation. Paris is my very favorite place so I am biased. <BR> <BR>If you want a more laid back atmosphere, stay around Nice or even stay in one of the towns in Provence. Places like Avignon, Arles, Gordes, Rousillon, St. Remy and Le Baux could easily, easily fill a week. Great places around Nice include Vence, St. Paul de Vence, Eze village. <BR> <BR>I'd either do Paris or Provence/Riviera. Dijon etc. is nice but pales in comparison to your other options. <BR>Ellen

elvira

If you like train rides, and want to see a bit of French countryside, then spend 3 days in Paris, take a morning train from Paris to Nice via Dijon (strictly a train ride, no stopovers to visit the city); 10 hour ride, partially on the TGV; then 3 days in and around Nice. To maximize time, you could spend 3 days in Paris, then take an overnight train to Nice, and have 4 days in Nice. The only difficulty with flying is getting to and from airports, but if you can get an early evening flight from Paris that arrives late evening Nice, you could still do 3 days Paris and 4 days Nice. <BR> <BR>Eventhough 7 days isn't enough for Paris or the Cote d'Azur, I think you can do both. Just realize you'll get only a 'taste' of both, but it might just tickle your fancy enough to make a return, and longer, visit.

Steve

An alternative version of Elvira's excellent suggestion is, after Paris, take the TGV (reservations required) to Lyon, pick a rental car, and take 3-4 days driving toward/into Italy, via Provence and the coast.

RJD

Since this is your first time in France, you will regret not visiting Paris. Its glories are spread across these pages.

jolen

Thank you for the wonderful suggestions. I appreciate the responses!!