Rome, Paris, Hotels and trains

If you are not completely committed to taking the train from Rome to Avignon, this journey might be better to fly. It's about a 10 hour train trip. My limit is about 6 hours on a train, then I'll fly.

For Paris, you might look at hotels on Ile Saint-Louis which is the island directly behind Notre Dame and connected by a foot bridge. I've not stayed there but a number of folks on the forum have recommended various hotels.

It is almost always cheaper to purchase a train ticket as soon as you know the date you want to travel.

Somewhere different to stay near the Vatican ? I stayed here last month - Casa per Ferie Beata Madre Margherita Calani. It’s a nun run accomodation, i.e. a convent stay. Nice room, inexpensive, across the street from a nice restaurant, great gelato shop, and grocery store. I booked thru monasterystays.com. No religious requirement to stay there.

In Paris, we've stayed at Hotel des Deux-Iles and were very pleased. They also have a sister hotel on the island, and there are a couple of other hotels on the island as well.

Staying on Ile St. Louis right in the heart of Paris is about as central and as convenient a location as can be had. It's right behind Notra Dame, a metro stop is close by, and there are several places to eat on the main street.

If you stay on the island, we can tell you about a great little place for breakfast for not too much money, as well as several other places to eat.

Rome to Avignon is a LONG train trip with multiple transfers. Unless you just really love this kind of traveling and have the time to do it, you might want to consider a flight.

Our family group of 7 (4 rooms) stayed at Hotel Della Conciliazione in Rome near the Vatican. Hotel is a 5 minute walk from St. Peter's (visiting the square at night is peaceful and breathtaking), and a 7 minute walk from the Vatican Museum. Hotel is located on a pedestrian-only street with restaurants, stores, and gelato very nearby and offers a respite from the very busy streets of Rome. Staff is helpful and friendly, and common areas - lobby/bar, and small garden are very nice. Would definitely return