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So I was looking for some input on a short, but enjoyable trip with my husband and two teens (16&17) to either Paris or Rome in the middle of October. I love visiting both cities, but think the weather may be more enjoyable in Rome. But, ahhh Paris. Beautiful no matter the weather. My children have not been to either before, and are looking forward to the trip regardless of which place we choose. Any input would be appreciated. Also, I know 3 days just scratches the surface of either place, but it's all the time we have available right now. Thanks!
I'd go to Rome, (and have when given the choice). Whatever place you choose, do your homework first and determine what you want to see. Yes, three days isn't very much time to see all of what you would want to see and experience. If going to Rome, but sure to get out at night. It's a different city after dark. The tourist go back to their hotels for their fancy dinners or shows. The vendors who cater to tourists go home and the locals come out and re-claim their city.
Unlike here, when we are finished with a building and we tear it down so we can build something else, in Rome, they are proud of their heritage. They have floodlights illuminating all their old ruins. Rome is a magical place, day or night.
Last time there, I rented a bicycle to get around. I'm totally convinced that it is the best way to get from place to place.
Well, there are hardly any infos on what you are actually looking for. Hard to recommend something.
My advice: Get a good guidebook, check out wikitravel.org, buy/borrow the Guide Michelin for both countries/cities and watch the respective episodes of Anthony Bourdain's "No reservations".
Both cities would be fine for me. My priority list would be (1) Do I know someone in the city? (2) How's the food? (3) Overall atmosphere, including architecture, people ... (4) Nightlife? (5) Museums, sights to actually visit.
You see, I don't really care about fancy museums. The Louvre? Nah, people only rush to Mona Lisa anyway. It's way better to have a nice afternoon walk or coffee in a nice neighborhood. The Eiffel Tower? Impressive, but why the hell should I actually go up there (well, I have done that. But it's way better to see it at night while sharing a bottle of wine with friends along the Seine). I would be able to have a blast in both cities
Thank you for your replies. It's a hard decision, as they're both fabulous cities. I am leaning towards Rome, due to the walkability, close proximity of sites. And gelato. True about bad weather vs bad clothes BigSwede, will make sure I only wear my dark, haute couture clothing
We would love to stay longer, but the kids are back in school, work schedules, etc. This summer seemed to fly by, and we had many out of town guests coming to visit, we just didn't fit in a proper holiday. My daughter spent 2 weeks in Berlin and they both spent a week in Mexico with Grandparents. I am needing a little getaway, and Europe is beckoning! I guess we'll ultimately flip a coin and go with it, besides, spontaneity is the best way to travel, in my humble opinion...
Anyone have reasonable hotel ideas? We need 2 rooms that won't break the bank!!!
Anyone have reasonable hotel ideas? We need 2 rooms that won't break the bank!!!
tripadvisor.com is your friend.
Last visit to Roma, I stayed at Hotel Julia. Pretty close to Barbarini's Fountain and about two/three blocks from Trevi. It was pretty inexpensive by Roman standards, but the breakfast was good. I didn't go to Rome to spend time in a hotel room. I just went to the hotel to shower and sleep.
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