Recommendations for France?
Later this spring, Mr Chiots and I may be headed to France for a week. He needs to go to Paris for work for a day or two, so we figured, why not make a short vacation out of it. I’m looking at lodging, meals, and sightseeing options for April. We don’t necessarily want to stay in Paris for the entire time, we’re hoping to visit Villandry and Monet’s garden as well. Other than that, the rest of the time is unplanned.
I figured I’d ask all of you for any recommendations on things to see and do in France, what’s overrated, what’s a must see, where should we eat & stay?
Our favorite meal we had in Paris was at Les Papilles. It is a fixed menu restaurant with reasonable lunch pricing. Each day the menu changes based on seasonal availability and what the chef feels like creating that day. Definitely a highlight of our trip!
As an aside, we originally came across the recommendation from David Lebowitz and we were not disappointed!
http://www.lespapillesparis.fr/
https://www.davidlebovitz.com/10-insanely-del/
to Chione's comment
OOOO, I do love him. I’ll definitely check out those links!
to Susy's comment
Also, we ran across the WWI memorials in NE France while we were visiting. The grounds and views were stunning.
This is my personal blog (travel journal really) of what we saw in that region of France.
https://kmg.kellerg.com/2018/08/03/north-east-france/
to Chione's comment
Thanks, I’ll definitely check out your blog!
to Susy's comment
My husband and I traveled to France a few years ago and really enjoyed going to Normandy and seeing the WWII battlefields. After seeing several movies on D-Day, seeing the actual place where it happened was awe inspiring. And, like you say, Monet gardens are a must. We were on a tour so I don’t have any recommendations for places to stay, but I know you will enjoy your trip.
to Jean's comment
I was thinking about WWII stuff, good to hear it’s worthwhile.
to Susy's comment
Susy, safe travels. You seem to always find gardens where ever you go. Enjoy your minni vacation.
Nebraska Dave
to David's comment
I wish I was going! Never been, but have a great time!
to Misti's comment
Muse Dorsay, montes Garden, WW2 sites, Versailles
to Brenda's comment
I loved the Rodin museum in Paris! The sculptures are placed in the back garden and the house was his own that he left to the city. A really peaceful and special time.
to PennyAshevilleNC's comment
I’ve been to France twice and everyone has given you wonderful recommendations–and more up-to-date than anything I could say. One timeless thing I would recommend is to not go out of your way to see the Mona Lisa at the Louvre. It’s usually crowded and I found it underwhelming both times. Oh, and April in Paris can be chilly.
to Mary W's comment
Funny, my neighbor said the exact same thing about the Mona Lisa.
to Susy's comment
We skipped the very crowded Louvre and went to the d’Orsey which was perfectly spendid. The Eifel tower at sunset was good timing. Those are my favorite memories of Paris. Have a good trip!
to Pat in Nebraska's comment