TravelWise555

I would be grateful for recommendations from those who have traveled to Paris, Alsace, Champagne and/or Edinburg. Any/all suggestions welcomed – even changing the destinations.

I am traveling to Edinburg for work and will be in meetings there for three days (late October) after which I would like to make the most of the pleasure part of my trip (one week, late October, early November).

First, my plan was to tour Ireland and Scotland but with the weather conditions thought Paris would offer more indoors activities. (That is where I can get an easy connection flight from my US city.) Looking further into the trip I found the train will take me to Champagne and then Alsace pretty quickly/inexpensively.

About me: late twenties, love to explore new things and experience the destination as locals do, estate sales and antiques, architecture, coffee shops, bookstores, good food, the outdoors. However, when traveling alone I am in my hotel by dark so nightlife recommendations are not necessary.

Paris seems a bit overwhelming to me and I would like to find out the best things to do there other than the typical tourist destinations (although the Eiffel Tower is an exception). Walking around in Alsace and going to the only place actual Champagne comes from seem enjoyable to me.

I do not want to overload you with information at this time and will be happy to answer any questions you may have about me, the trip, etc.

Questions:

1. How long to I need to experience Edinburg
2. What should I see in Edinburg in the evening after work and during the day when I first get there
3. Are there any day trips (without renting a car) that I should look into
4. What are the best non-tourist things to do/see in Paris
5. I know the possibilities are endless in Paris, but what do you suggest as a reasonable amount of time to experience the city
6. What is the best area outside of Paris that I get to by train
7. Have you been to Alsace, Lorraine and/or Champagne? If so, what are the highlights here? Which is a ‘must-see’ and do you think I should skip any of these?

ira

Hi TW,

>Paris seems a bit overwhelming to me and I would like to find out the best things to do there other than the typical tourist destinations ...<

Hmmmmmm. Other than the usual touristy things for your very first visit.

Would you be interested in visiting the water works?

Seriously, there are reasons why first-time visitors go to the touristy places.

I suggest that you go to Paris for the week.

What's your budget?

Sassafrass

For a first visit, go to Paris for the week, and try to do a day trip or two. Don't worry so much about avoiding touristy sights. Paris has everything you like: great cafes/coffee shops, bookstores, antique markets, etc. Paris is not an overwhelming city like NYC. It is easy walking, easy to find your way around, good transportation, etc. In many areas you would feel fine even at night being out. I would definitely choose Paris over the other places.

TravelWise555

Thank you so much for the suggestions.

Have you been to Alsace? One reason that I want to go there is because of family ties.

What is water works?

Is Nice as great as all the blogs are saying? What town outside of Paris should I definitely not miss?

Sassafrass

I have been to the Alsace area. It is lovely. However, I still say, at the time of year you are going, and for just a week: Paris, if you have not been there before. Paris has everything you want. I like the touristy things, the museums, the cafes, the parks. You can day trip to Versailles and lots of other places, just depends on your interests. Also, I would choose Provence over Alsace.

OTOH, do you actually have family you could stay with and visit, who could show you around in Alsace? That would make a difference because seeing family in another country can be great.