I am considering taking three grandchildren to Europe during Easter 2013 (8 days total in Europe). Children ages are 14. 11. 9. Any suggestions on visits to Paris, and Switzerland? Tentatively I a considering a Parisian visit of several days then on to either Switzerland. I am also comparing an auto rental but we will have a total of six people thus we need a van or travel via train. Is there an economical way to travel with trains Paris to Switzerland and travel within Switzerland?
Posted by
Boston
4132 posts
What an age spread, 9 to 14! If it were later in the year I would cheer Switzerland as a great choice. However in April the mountains will not be hospitable, but the country will still be expensive. I do not know what your alternative is, but you might consider (a) a road trip (with van) to either Burgundy (Guedelon, Vezeley, Rochepot castle), or Normandy (but likely wet and cold) (b) Amsterdam > Brugges> Paris, all by train (c) Paris > Provence, also by train It's really hard to make intelligent suggestions without knowing the interests of the people involved. If you can talk to everyone I am sure you can make a plan.
Posted by
Fontainebleau, France
893 posts
Adam's (a) suggestion was exactly what I was going to suggest. Unless there's a specific reason you want to go to Switzerland (ie visit some relatives), I would recommend that with only 8 days, you stay in France. We did Burgundy with my kids and my parents and it was an enjoyable trip. However, Normandy has been my kids favorite region of France (outside Paris). I also have to seriously disagree with the Disneyland Paris and Versailles gardens recommendation. My kids enjoyed Versailles, but the gardens held no particular interest for them. And I think your grandchildren are too old for Disneyland Paris. It really lacks the thrill rides and attractions to hold the older kids' attention. You definitely could rent a van - watch how much luggage you bring! - and drive to whatever your second destination is. We've found that driving can be more economical (and flexible) when you've got a group that size.
Posted by
Ann Arbor, Mi
3696 posts
I travel with my grandkids as much as possible and there is nothing quite like it. I took a 15 year old boy to Paris last Nov. and we had a fabulous time. We went to Normandy (per his request) and then on to the Christmas Markets in Germany & Austria. We did have a car for Normandy and I would suggest it with that many people. It is easy enough to head out of Paris and the drive was great. I have driven a van around France before and its fine. I would suggest Paris and possibly do a road trip for a few days including Normandy. With such a short time I don't think I would spend all the travel time to go to Switzerland with so much to see in France.... half the time city, half the time countryside would be a nice balance. My grandson loved Bayeaux. You will have a wonderful time and the age difference should be no problem... they will all get different things out of the trip, but it will change them forever (and you)
Posted by
Sammamish, WA
403 posts
Oh, you'll have such a great time! We took our kids to Paris for Easter 2 yrs ago, when they were 14 and 10. They loved it! Their top 5: Eiffel Tower Climbing Notre Dame Trampolines in the Tuilleries Gardens (1-2E per 15 min of jumping!) Baguettes to eat every day
Wax Museum (not my favorite, but they liked it) The appreciated the Louvre and the Pompidou, but d the boat cruises boring. If you feel like REALLY splashing out, Cafe de la Paix (across from the Opera Garnier) offers an insanely over the top Easter brunch. There is a huge buffet area just for the kids. They had cotton candy on a stick for brunch! Reserve far in advance. Easter brunch is a big deal in Paris and many places have special meals that day.