Help in planning out of Paris
 

Paris my love yet again...
9 days in November to see operas and concerts.
In the middle I have 2 free evenings so I thought of a little two and half days trip out of Paris and then back, all must be on public transportation only.
General thoughts:
Lyon (never been there, an old friend I haven't seen for 35 years urges me to come visit her),
Strasbourg and Colmar,
Etretat,
Loire Valley - already saw bit of Tours, been to the Chateau de Blois, Chenonceau, Amboise and Chambord. Would like to visit the zoo of Beauval.

Please pour on me all your thoughts and ideas.

November may well be damp and coldish, I'd go to a city, so Lyon or Strasbourg

Go see your old friend!

Lyon seems obvious to me, being a city and you could see your friend. And easy to get there. I don't even understand why you'd want to go to Etretat in November, let alone when you don't have that much time. It would take you maybe 4 hrs to get there by train, and one transfer at Breaute. If you don't care about Lyon, I'd do Strasbourg.

Lyon! To see your friend and to enjoy the city. Roman history, fabric industry, pioneers of moving pictures, World War II intrigue, a center for culinary excellence. Fascinating.

Depending on your timing in November, the Christmas markets may be open. Strasbourg is well-known for its markets and attracts many visitors, especially on the weekends. The anticipation of busy outdoor markets may help you decide—pro or con— about a side trip to Strasbourg.

What would you think about a trip to Reims, famous for its cathedral and its Champagne? Reims is an easy getaway from Paris by train, around 1 hour, which makes it perfect for a quick 2‑day escape: Paris - Reims by train.

I’d start Day 1 at Reims’ Notre‑Dame Cathedral, going early so you can really enjoy the stained‑glass windows and the atmosphere. From there, head straight next door to the Palais du Tau, which gives a great overview of the coronations and the history of the cathedral. Afterwards, just wander through the historic center.
For food, L’ExtrA is a good pick if you like a modern bistro vibe, while Le Square is better if you prefer something more classic.
On Day 2, it makes sense to dedicate the whole day to Champagne: book at least one major Champagne house (like Taittinger, Veuve Clicquot, Pommery, etc.) for a proper cellar tour and tasting, and maybe add a second visit if you still have the energy.
For accommodation, the boutique hotel Le N°3 works very well if you like elegant places and want to lean into the Champagne atmosphere; it’s a great option for a chic, Champagne‑themed stay.

Christmas markets in Strasbourg last about a month and start around Nov 24 to 26. So she is likely going earlier in the month.

Lyon is a delight! I'd normally say to wait until you can give it at least 4 days, but with a friend there, it seems a perfect choice.

It's a HE ;-) and you are right, my trip is at the begining of November.

Thank you for the detailed reply. Already been to Reims 10 years ago. A lovely day indeed.
U.O I loved St Remi more than the cathedral ....
Will be back someday bur not on this occasion.

Thank you for the replies. It goes towards Lyon. What would you recomend to see and do?

You have a wealth of options! A good guidebook should help you decide. The Michelin Green is excellent. And you might get some ideas from my trip report; the section on Lyon starts with post # 190. https://www.fodors.com/community/eur.../#post16966888

In your first post, you said "her." 😀
If he lives in Lyon, surely he could give you lots of ideas for what to do...

Hi Zvi, do your concerts include any at Sainte-Chapelle? I recco a visit even if you don't go for music.

Spectacular! Thank you. I'm going to take the weekend to read this thorougly.

Been there several times. Didn't have the chance yet to attend a concert.

Perhaps there was a misundersatnding, I'm the HE the friend is a SHE.

Ahh, good clarification! 😁
My question remains the same, if she lives in Lyon, wouldn't she be able to give suggestions?

If you go to Lyon, keep your eyes peeled for the wonderful 'trompe l'oeil' murals around the city.
https://traveltolyon.com/best-lyon-murals-street-art/

And if you're in the Place Bellecour, look for the sweet statue of Saint-Exupéry and the Little Prince.
https://en.visiterlyon.com/discover/...-saint-exupery

Zvi, since you have been there already, no need to attend Ste. C. Others can say otherwise and I won't disagree though!