October or Spring???

One thing to consider is that the days are much longer in April/May. Also, there will be spring flowers and the chestnut trees will be blooming in Paris around that time. The October weather wouldn't worry me; it could be rainy or cool in spring, too - or not. If you love gardens, a visit to Monet's in Giverny in the spring would be fabulous. I was there that time of year and everything was in bloom, except for the famous waterlilies.

One Other thing to consider is if you are prone to allergies. The spring is usually much worse for someone with allergies than the fall, but I would expect the weather to be about the same - maybe slightly drier / warmer in October.

I assume you are talking about this October and April 2013? If you are talking early Oct. I would think the weather would be similar. As far as time to plan....I could plan that trip in seven weeks, or if I had to, in seven days....Yes, you can definitely plan a trip with that amount of time. Just do some research, ask for some advice and jump right in and make some decisions, and don't second guess yourself. I would go this fall instead of next spring, but my motto is 'do it now, why wait?'

We prefer October as it is generally warmer and dryer while April can be very cool and rainy.

I haven't been to Europe in the spring, but I'm a big fan of the fall! I spent a fall semester in Paris during college and returned a few years later in mid-October with my husband. It's great! It can be a little chilly and rainy, but I think we only had one day it rained in Paris, and it wasn't much rain. You'll want to pack layers, just in case. Most days, we were quite comfortable--but I'd personally rather have it be a little cool instead of really hot. We wore mostly light sweaters and long-sleeved tees I think. I love the fall colors, and Paris in the fall is wonderful. I love the trees along the Champs-Elysees when they are turning; it's really pretty.
I do remember, when I studied abroad, visiting Venice and freezing, but I feel like we went in November? I can't remember. I do remember it being very rainy and much colder than I expected. But it's Venice! You'll love it regardless of the season. So, I guess my real advice is to consider which season you appreciate more. I'm obviously in love with autumn--but if you prefer spring, maybe go then? I don't think either is a bad choice, but I don't really think going to Europe is ever a bad choice. Have fun!!

April for Italy, May for Paris if possible. We toured Italy in October and it was ideal from a weather perspective. I'm not sure Paris in October would be as nice. April in Italy would probably be a little greener but similar in terms of temperatures.

I would choose the springtime and start in Italy. Paris is always a little rainy, you can count on that. October is very nice too (I would not worry much about cold and rain) but as others have said there is more daylight in April and May. Paris will be gorgeous in early May, so start in the south.

Either one would be great and you have enough time to plan for either one as well. Go with what's cheapest/easiest for you. Paris is rainy year round, it's really hard to guarantee nice weather there no matter what time of year.

I have traveled in Europe for the past 10 years and always try to plan my trip around mid May to June. I have been to Southern France and all over Italy. Even though the late spring can bring showers, I love the flowers in both countries so I would pick May for this reason.