Traveling by train in Dec.

I usually travel to Europe only in the colder months. To answer your questions- I like Europe much better at this time of year, but part of that fits with my personal aversion to hot weather. The weather in those countries should be milder than in the midwest. It won't be warm, but nothing like Chicago, Minneapolis or South Bend (where I experienced a few harsh winters and learned the meaning of "lake-effect weather"). Most museums and sites remain open throughout the year, but have reduced hours in the winter. This is not a problem, because without the usual summer crowds, lines are much shorter to non-existent. The only destinations that close are some of the outdoor folk museums and amusement parks. You will find sight-seeing far more efficient. Also, unlike the summer, most of the high cultural activities, such as the prestigous symphony orchestras and operas (as opposed to the Mozart-wig concerts attended only by tourists) perform regularly. As for packing, this is the time of year that compressor bags earn their value. I usually bring one coat and where it on the plane to save room for sweaters and heavier pants in my suitcase.

It can also be wet. We were in France == Paris, Nice -- over Christmas and New Years about five years ago. We had a lot of rain so it was damp and chilly -- high 30s, low 40s. The days will be fair short with weak sun. Remember you are are a lot further north than the US. The key to staying warm is lots of layers of light weight clothing. But you do not spend a lot of time outside. Long underwear, turtlenecks, mid weight sweater, gloves, stocking cap, scarf. For a jacket we wear a fleece vest under our normal rain jacket that we use in the summer.

Luella: Answering some of your specific questions:You can't pack as light in winter as in other seasons. It will be cold in December especially when you get away from the ocean and into the continental interior, this is northern Europe, except for Italy.Will you have as good a time? That's hard to answer, but giving you accurate advice includes confirming what you already know, that it will be different than a trip at other times of the year. You'll want to spend more time doing indoor things. Some attractions won't be open or will have reduced hours.There are fascinating indoor things to do that can make your late December trip a good one.

If you want to stay in warmer areas, stick to the south: France, Italy, Spain, etc.

For packing light, try to pick lightweight warm clothes, like silk long underwear, lightweight fleece, etc. Pack gloves and a scarf/hat (or buy one in Europe). As long as you dress in layers, which includes on the plane, you should be fine. The only time I was cold was when I was silly and didn't wear my long underwear or a scarf when I went up to Florence.

I prefer winter because it is less crowds, bugs, and heat. Most major places in most major destinations will be open. As for 'as good a time' you'll have as fantastic a time as you want to have, especially if you do your planning and research. Europe is good at any time of the year!

Hi Luella, I spend 10 days in Italy from December 14-23. I visited Rome, Florence, Venice. Florence was the coldest - probably due to the wind. I wore layers and ended up buying shearling mittens to put over my gloves. There was no rain, but a bit of snow on the ground between Rome and Florence. I very much enjoyed the sights being less crowded - had Accademia Museum and San Marco Square all to myself! Some restaurants that I frequented back in May last year were closed. But I found plenty to choose from. This is low season too - so you save considerable amount of Euros on hotels. If the budget allows, I will go back anywhere in Europe in December.