France City breaks for October half term

[dahliadiva]

Looking for recommendations for an interesting city break in France for October half term. It's for me and my daughter, who is 16. The only place we've been in France already is Paris. We like castles, old town centres, architecture, good food, museums and walks. Would be nice by the coast but not absolutely necessary. Has to have good public transport as I'd rather not hire a car. So if anyone has had any fantastic experiences, please share! Thanks 😊

Maybe those familiar with Carcassonne can comment.

So many lovely places in France, it sounds like you're flying?

Nice, Bordeaux, Toulouse, St Rochelle (and hire bikes and cycle around Ile de Re), Annecy, Tours, Montpellier, Carcassonne, Avignon etc etc are all great choices.

@EvelynBeatrice I've only been to Carcassonne during the summer holidays, yes it was busy, but still worth it.

Omg thank you so much for all these. Yes, we will be flying. Nice does look tempting, although we might take a train trip somewhere else during our stay. Lots of people recommending Carcassonne - will definitely try to fit that in.

I came to say Toulouse!

It's fabulous, good shopping, lovely old town, loads of cafes, very student-oriented and lively.

There is a wonderful art gallery and both Carcassonne and Albi are stunning day trips.

Lyon is similar.

3 or 4 nights would be a lot in Carcassonne imo. You really only need a day there.

It is stunning but touristy and cramped at this time of year.

From Toulouse it is an easy day trip (as is Albi with its incredible cathedral), but Toulouse, for me, has more to sustain a four night visit.

Yes, Toulouse is really lovely.

Oh, I just realised you are going in October.

That would help, but not remedy, crowds in Carcassonne.

But the autumn light in Toulouse is beautiful. It is known as La Ville Rose for all the lovely pink brick, and that southern light glances so beautifully off the buildings at that time of year. And it is the happiest time of year for students, who will all be out enjoying the last of the warmth and not yet burdened by exams.

The weather in Nice should be good on October. The airport is close to the city, and there’s lots lot do in that area. The local coastal train from Nice takes you to Monaco, Menton and Ventmiglia in Italy.
Bordeaux is another great place with lots to see. It has the longest pedestrianised shopping street in Europe (Rue St Catherine) if that’s of interest.

Lyon. Avignon. Narbonne, Beziers, Nimes. Carcassonne. Bordeaux. I'm planning Dijon/Beaune next.

Loved Marseille. And it's an easy train trip to Avignon. From there, easy to get to Arles, Orange, Pont du Garde but Avignon itself is great. Montpellier also good.

I didn't really enjoy Carcassonne. Way too touristy.