I am lucky enough to be grated a 4 week sabbatical next Year any time after March 2026. I'd like to go to Paris, Italy and idk where else maybe end with a week in Portugal. Friends may join me for various parts. I'd love some help on timing, where to go first, where to end... should i rent a place or use hotels? Im a bit lost starting out on this. I've only ever been to London and Marbella Spain ( in Europe.) I want to see things/places before I get too old. I don't like boats. i'm fine walking etc... I don't want to backpack, but I don't need total luxury either. Please HELP me so i can do this!
Posted by
California USA
4242 posts
If you can go any time after March, I’d choose April for less crowds and cooler temperatures and fly into the most southern city first and out of the most northern city. The three places you mention for your 4 week trip would probably require intraeuropean flights to connect. It might be good to know what your interests are to organize your itinerary.
Posted by
Cloud
414 posts
You must book or settle the airline ticket first today.
What city do you fly out of?
Book it into Rome and out of Lisbon.
You could fly into Rome from the USA and tour Italy
Then train to Paris then fly to Lisbon.
Then fly home from Lisbon.
Once you settle the flight first, then fill in the blanks
Posted by
San Diego, California
6560 posts
From our experiences-
Avoid the week before and the week after Easter. Also avoid the May 1 Labor Day holiday in Italy, along with the weekend after. Always check out the big holidays in any country, and try to avoid them, because of crowds and closures.
Have a wonderful adventure!
Posted by
Republic of Texas / U.S.A. / Magyarország / Budapest
23334 posts
Generalizations dont work for me. Probably best to book your tickets by the end of the year. The week prior to Easter might be an issue some places, here in Budapest its full of street vendors and celebrations. Easter Sunday? Go to church and experience the culture.
March or April? Maybe warmer in April, maybe wetter in April. Possibly a lot wetter in May.
My choice for you? A complete random selection based on absolutely no input: Paris, Budapest, Rome, Lisbon. Four flats a week each + or - and lots of day trips. Discount flights (cheap) between each.