Hello,
We (DH & I) have been to Italy and France several times, but alas, next year's trips will likely be our last.
I have done a lot of research and have narrowed our spring trip to Milan and Lake Como. Nowadays, we prefer staying in one area and not moving around frequently. We will have 9 or 10 days to split between Milan and Lago di Como. We want to be near hikes, as well as ferries, and the usual cultural sights. Of the main towns, Como, Bellagio, Menaggio and Varenna, what are your preferences? I'm quite open to any other towns, also.
I'm also hooked on the idea of Christmas markets in December. We'd fly in/out of Paris, as we want to see Notre Dame again. I'm beginning to sour on Strasbourg, because of the crowds & cost. I would consider Metz, Reims, or Nancy as an alternative base, and make a day trip to Strasbourg. However, I understand that Strasbourg is very popular because it has much to offer, so I could still be convinced that Strasbourg is the best option. What are your experiences? I'd plan on 6 or 7 days. We'd be 5 adults on this trip.
Thanks in advance.
Posted by
North Georgia, USA
1385 posts
We had planned to go to Strasbourg last Christmas with our daughter and her husband, but ended up cancelling. I had reserved an apartment (AirBnB) only about a block or two from the center that had excellent reviews. I did not think it was particularly expensive, especially compared to Paris, and for four people. This requires booking early.
We had been to Strasbourg on a day trip from Colmar a couple of years earlier. Strasbourg is crowded, yes, but it's the granddaddy of the Christmas markets. It's also a very easy train trip to other places. You could stay in Strasbourg and do day trips, then hit the markets at night.
You could rent a car from there for a day and explore Alsace. Easy driving! We really enjoyed Haut-Koenigsbourg castle and the American cemetery, but you need a car.
Yes, the markets will be crowded. It's part of the fun!
Posted by
North Georgia, USA
1385 posts
Adding on to my prior post. If you decide against Strasbourg, I'd recommend Colmar as an alternative. The Christmas markets there were lovely and there are so many options in the villages around there. We had rental car and found driving and parking to be very easy in Colmar. We stayed in an excellent apartment right on one of the main pedestrian streets.
I have never been to Metz, Reims, or Nancy, so I can't compare. I am sure someone here will chime in.
Posted by
OP
134 posts
Thank you, Celeste for your response!
Your comments have me again, leaning back to Strasbourg. I had learned that besides the markets, Strasbourg has sights apart from Christmas ones, that would be interesting. I know there seems to be a lot of time to plan, but we'd probably need a 3 bedroom, 2 bath place, so I'm thinking ahead. And the castle would be a must for all!
I have looked at Colmar, too and that's an option.
Thanks again for your advice.
J.