josa Posted November 9, 2009 Share Posted November 9, 2009 Hi -my wife and I are having a quick weekend trip to France on 20th November, returning to UK on 22nd. We often go to Lille, but thought I might try Amiens or Reims for a change - I think I am too early for the Amiens Christmas markets (or does someone else know differently?), but wondered if anyone has a recommendation as to which one would be best, or any other recommendation within a reasonable drive from Calais?We just want a bit of sightseeing, a bit of shopping and a choice of reasonable restaurants - any suggestions gratefully received. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Gardengirl Posted November 9, 2009 Share Posted November 9, 2009 I like both Reims and Amiens. But if it's cold and damp, I think I'd prefer Amiens, as I love the hearty local food and lovely cakes! It's an attractive town, but then of course there's all that Champagne at Reims!I believe the Amiens Christmas market is from 1 - 18 and 19 - 27 December. There are also special shopping weekend breaks to tie in with it, probably on the tourist office website. They also do other weekend packages, so it's worh a look.GG Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Gardengirl Posted November 9, 2009 Share Posted November 9, 2009 Another thought, Arras is also very pleasant. Again, the Christmas market is 27 November - 24 December, so not good dates for you. But it's a nice town, with interesting buildings, some good restaurants and patisseries. Again, there are some winter bargain rates, such as at the 3 Luppars, and there's a very good B & B, La Corne D'Or near the centre.GG Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
brianagain Posted November 9, 2009 Share Posted November 9, 2009 Having just returned from a few days in Belgium, have you considered lovely cities like G(h)ent or perhaps Ieper. Same or less driving time/distance from Calais as Amiens and much nearer than Reims. Gent is one of my favourites places, especially going to see Van Eycks masterpiece in St Bavo's Cathedral, the lovely buildings around the Graslei and of course the superb Belgian beers. Good filling meals such as Flemish stews, esp in the Patersol area. If you don't speak Dutch don't worry as almost everybody speaks English anyway (best to avoid speaking French tho'). Ieper is a lovely place completely rebuilt after the Great War but has many reminders of that period, esp. the last post ceremony at the Menin Gate every evening - some restaurants will allow you to break your meal so as to attend.Otherwise, if it must be France, don't forget Arras is worth a visit.Brian (again) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
josa Posted November 9, 2009 Author Share Posted November 9, 2009 They all sound good - I've never thought of going to Ghent, but that could just be the place!! - thanks for your comments - once again this forum comes to the rescue!! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
suzy Posted November 10, 2009 Share Posted November 10, 2009 We are going over the same weekend and are heading to Troyes for our Champagne. The centre of Troyes has been renovated beautifully and is well worth a visit. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Gardengirl Posted November 10, 2009 Share Posted November 10, 2009 Yes, a lovely place. Do you like their andouillette? [:)] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
josa Posted November 10, 2009 Author Share Posted November 10, 2009 I do love Troyes (but NOT the andouillette!) - but having been there several times I fancy somewhere different.I actually thought I might even stay in Calais and see what it has to offer as all I ever do is get off the ferry and race elsewhere! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
suzy Posted November 11, 2009 Share Posted November 11, 2009 Does anybody like andouillettes ? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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