Paris and where else? Where should we go?

[80sjunkie]

We are flying into Paris for 8 days and we have both been multiple times so we want to explore more of either France or Europe in general. We chose Paris because we are visiting a very good friend that just moved there. Where else would you go? Friend is suggesting Bordeaux (we love wine) but for whatever reason I am not convinced (plus we went to Napa/Sonoma in September and are going again in December). So help us decide, where should we go?

[80sjunkie]

Forgot to add, we are going in November. We have a one night layover in London before heading back to the states.

[knitty]

Been to Normandy? The Loire? Riems?

[mdgirl]

We've done two Paris combo trips: one with the Loire Valley, and one with Amsterdam (those are links to my blogs about those trips). Amsterdam might not make sense because it's a lot easier to do if you fly into one city and out of the other, but it's still not a bad train ride if you want to go back and forth. The Loire was beautiful and very relaxing. We looked into going to the south of France when we ended up in the Loire Valley, but we didn't think we had enough time. Depending on how many days you want in Paris and if you're willing to fly that could be an option, too.

[Deleted]

I love Belgium and Amsterdam. I'd probably choose somewhere in Belgium for myself.

[Deleted]

I had a great time in Lyon earlier this year. The food is really good and so much cheaper than in Paris. You can spend about 2 days there and then continue to Nice, Cannes, and Monaco.

[pittpurple]

Have you been anywhere else in Europe already? Are you thinking another city or countryside and what time of year?

[80sjunkie]

I've only been to Moscow, and we have a trip to Spain planned for March. My husband lived in Spain so he's explored more of Europe. We weren't sure what else to do (stay in France or leave) which is why I posted. Initially I liked the idea of Belgium but I think we are leaning towards staying in France. The Loire Valley sounds nice as does St. Emillion and Bordeaux. We are going in late Nov so I think it might not be the best time to head to the south of France.

[jobell]

We're doing 2 days in Belgium at the end of our Paris trip. 1 night in Bruges and 1 night in Brussels.

[hz80408]

The train from Brussels to Paris is only about 1.5 hrs

We took the train from Amsterdam to Paris; it's about 3 hours and very relaxing. I know you have a layover, but one night isn't much time in London. Maybe consider adding that?

[MommaK]

Oct 23, 2012 8:28:44 GMT -5 80sjunkie said:

I've only been to Moscow, and we have a trip to Spain planned for March. My husband lived in Spain so he's explored more of Europe. We weren't sure what else to do (stay in France or leave) which is why I posted. Initially I liked the idea of Belgium but I think we are leaning towards staying in France. The Loire Valley sounds nice as does St. Emillion and Bordeaux. We are going in late Nov so I think it might not be the best time to head to the south of France.

IMO, there is NO bad time in the south of France!
The TGV can get you to Avignon in a couple of hours. Rent a car and explore some of the villages of Provence.

[travelingjen]

I vote for a region within France. Some of my personal faves include Normandy, the Loire, the Dordogne, and Provence. I've got multiple entries in my travel blog on France that you can take a look at for more ideas.

[mrsukyankee]

I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Provence, so that would be my vote!