Bruges or Loire Valley/Normandy
 

I am leaving in two days for a two week trip to Germany and France. I am spending a few days in Germany and then going to Paris; I will be mostly solo (single 40ish male), though I will spend a couple of days in Paris with a friend. I will be spending over a week in Paris, where I have been many times, but I am thinking about a side trip for two or three days from Paris.

I have never been to Bruges or to the Loire or Normandy. I have reserved a car, and now I just need to decide where to go. One of my concerns is that the Loire and Normandy will not be ideal trips to do alone; I am also intrigued by Bruges, which also seems somewhat "couply" and quaint.

Any thoughts or advice is appreciated.

I think that Bruges is quaint and also very urban. If you have a car you will be able to explore the glorious countryside of the Loire or Normandy in the spring. It would be a lovely contrast to Paris.
http://www.travelmagpie.com

I think Normandy is wonderful--and the Loire. But maybe lean more to Normandy, especially with a car. Lots to see--nice food by the seaside.

fishskis, may we assume that you have read about the "sights" in these places? Surely that would help you decide.

Hub and I took bus tours from Paris to Bruges and to Loire Chateaux. Loved both but remembered saying to DH that a Loire Valley area would be a lovely drive-so that gets my vote.

Can't speak to the "solo" aspect though.

I admit to not being a fan of Brugge. I'd go for Normandy as my personal first choice, followed by the Loire Valley, but only you really know which has the most to interest you.

Thanks for the responses everyone. For now, I think I am leaning towards three days combining the Loire and Normandy - I am going to play it by ear and not book anything yet (which is unusual for me).

Brugge is fun. You'll like it. Have a beer at the pub that opened in 1515. Lots of good restaurants. Don't know much about the late night life (I'm middle aged and happily married), but absolutely loved the town when we were there last month.