My boyfriend and I are going to Milan for a wedding in April and we have five days beforehand that we want to spend traveling in Europe. We want to stay in Paris for two to three days and visit another major city either before or after that. Where else would be the most logical and economical place to visit that would maximize an introduction to continental Europe while not taking us too far out of the way? I've looked at going from Amsterdam to Paris, Munich to Paris, Paris to the Swiss Alps or Bern, taking a night train from Barcelona to Paris, or just spending all five days in France, although I'd love to be in at least two different countries. Obviously, this is a very subjective question, but it's such a tough decision (I want to see everything!) that I think practical and economic considerations will end up deciding for us (train tickets, weather, time to get places, etc). I've done a lot of research and we are still having trouble deciding, so any thoughts would be much appreciated! Also, since we are traveling in mid April, what would be the best areas to go climate-wise?
Posted by
Pantego, NC, USA
1014 posts
I would spend all my time in Paris, before going to Milan OR I would do a stopover in Nice, on the way. Booked early, flights from Paris to Milan or Nice can be had for 10 Euro or less. Gives you more time on the ground so to speak. You could take the train from Nice to Milan or fly, whichever you choose. If you have a lot of luggage, flying is out. Look at the train or bus (Eurolines.com) for transport.
Posted by
OP
Denver, CO, USA
11 posts
Thanks for the suggestion, I didn't even think about flying into Milan! Will look into that. Nice sounds awesome too, how is the weather there in April?
Posted by
Pantego, NC, USA
1014 posts
We were there -Nice- In June and the weather was wonderful. Warm in the day and cool at night. It is on the water, so April might be cool but, do a search and see what the average temp there is.
Nice is a city that is really alive. Lots of things to do and see. The plaza at night is an interesting experience, as is the boardwalk around the harbor. Lots of nightclubs, etc.
I would not eat in that area though. To touristy and expensive for what you get. Go into town,under the overpass and blue lights (you will understand when there) and there are several restaurants in the area that are good and fairly cheap.
Posted by
Boston
4132 posts
Amsterdam-Paris-Milan is a good choice if you can locate a cheap flight into Milan.
Alternatively, I'd suggest stopping in Provence in between Paris and Milan. I think it is a better choice than Nice generally--more to see and do, more options if the weather is bad.
Posted by
Ann Arbor, MI, United States
9 posts
Definitely spend a few days in Paris. I would recommend more time in France--Arles is a southern gem that feels very Spanish. I've been to France in April and the weather in the south as delightful and warm. Aix en Provence is nice, kinda touristy, lots of shops if you like that. Really liked Nice as well. You don't have a lot of time--don't spend it all on trains. Take some time to focus on an area and enjoy it, the Provencal area is a great bet!