Hi, All. I have a significant birthday this Oct19; and two of us want a quick inexpensive fantastic days in Europe. What do you suggest? We depart from Chicago, USA. Thank you.
Posted by
Pittsburgh, PA, USA
2773 posts
I would suggest you limit yourself to cities that you can fly to direct. With only four days, you want (need) the flight to be as short as possible. If you lived in Pittsburgh, the decision would be easy. You would go to Paris. I imagine you have more choices leaving from Chicago. You can have a fabulous time in any city in Europe. Pick the one that appeals to you the most based on whatever criteria is important to you -- weather, food, beer, wine, sights, etc. Or you might want to pick the one that has the cheapest flight. When you only go for four days, your all-in cost per day is pretty high.
Posted by
Lawrenceville, Georgia
693 posts
Vera, I think October 19 kids are the greatest! It'll be my granddaughter's 16th birthday....With just four days, I'd aim for the shortest flight from Chicago - maybe head for Lisbon, Portugal or Madrid or maybe even Barcelona. Plenty to see and do and really party! Of course, there are always London, Paris and Dublin, but I'd go for Southern Europe. Let us know what you decide!
Posted by
St. Louis, MO USA
1976 posts
Hi Vera. Where are you interested in visiting? At the current exchange rate, no country that uses the euro (or the pound, or the Swiss franc) is inexpensive, though it's hard to say what will happen by October. Flights are cheaper in the off-season but honestly a trip to Europe doesn't seem worth it to me for 4 days. If you want to get out of the country you might consider the Caribbean or a resort in Mexico.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23622 posts
Our quickest trip was 5 days for a birthday party in London. With jet lag and everything it make for a tiring trip. But it is not going to be inexpensive given the current level of airline fares and the weak dollar. However, it you would like a nearly European experience, less expensive trip try Quebec. It has very strong French flavor with some great places to eat and things to do
Posted by
Seattle, WA, United States
873 posts
For a relatively inexpensive European trip, I'd recommend Prague or Budapest. The weather was lovely when I went there last October, and Czech Republic/Hungary are more affordable compared to UK/France/Germany, etc.
Posted by
OP
Indianapolis, IN, USA
2 posts
Thank you one and all. These are all excellent suggestions. Lisbon I had not considered but you are right. London, we travel in and out of once a year on academic business. Paris is wonderful but expensive. Barcelona also a great idea. Amsterdam has a Techno Music Fest scheduled for our weekend, so it is out. I will keep you posted.Again, thank you.
Posted by
WI, WI
88 posts
I went to Istanbul for a 5 day trip and flew ORD to Istanbul on Turkish Air for very reasonable. Loved Istanbul!