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My family is traveling to France and Switzerland next month. See our plans here and here. That trip is still on. But, I realized that I’m quickly approaching the booking window for flights for our next planned trip to Europe in 2023.
Originally, we planned to visit Moscow, Russia before heading to Italy to embark on a Greek Isle cruise. My sons were born in Russia, and we’ve jumped through some serious hoops to get their paperwork in order for a return visit to Russia.
However, things have changed. For various practical and personal reasons, we no longer plan to visit Russia on our next trip. So, we’ve been mulling around ideas for a different destination to replace the Moscow leg of our trip.
Our cruise departs from Rome. But, we’d like to visit another European destination for a few days before heading to Rome. I’ve already visited the major cities in Italy, but the rest of my family has not. I’ve been to Madrid and Barcelona. My husband and I have also been to the UK (prior to kids).
Here are my ideas:
Venice
It’s been almost 20 years since I visited Venice, but I do remember it was spectacular. This city would be a convenient destination since we could simply take a train to Rome for our cruise.
Venice is such a unique, iconic city. It doesn’t hurt that there’s a reasonably-priced (on points) Hyatt Centric that looks convenient. We could use our credit card free night certs there.
Italian Riviera
Capri, Pompei, and the Cinque Terra area all look amazing! I did not visit this part of Italy on my previous trip. Our cruise does stop at Naples for one day, but that doesn’t seem like nearly enough time to see this region.
London
Is there anything easier than a quick trip to London? There is so much to see in the city itself. Plus, a day trip to Stonehenge and Bath would be cool.
Amsterdam
I’ve always been curious to visit Amsterdam. The canals looks lovely, and a day trip to see windmills is just a short train ride away. Also, Efteling amusement park looks interesting.
Which destination would you pick?
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Author: Nancy
Nancy lives near Dallas, Texas, with her husband and three kids. Her favorite vacations include the beach, cruising and everything Disney.
My vote would be Venice especially if the ship doesn’t stop there. We went there 20 years ago via cruise ship and we had an overnight stay on the ship in Venice so we essentially had 2 full days there. I’ve longed to go back since because it’s just so different. Plus, it’s an easy train ride to Rome.
@Liz Thanks for your input. Our cruise ship doesn’t stop there, so going to Venice first is definitely appealing.
My husband and I loved Cinque Terra. The hiking between towns was so fun and had amazing views!
Yes, we loved it there! Also, easy to get a train to the port outside of Rome.
@Laurie and Lynn Cinque Terra does look amazing!
Not sure what a few days is? Venice is probably 3 days at most, so you could easily combine that with some time the Cinque Terre. Both are easily reached from Florence by train, as is your cruise port near Rome, so those are also the most convenient. That said, London has a lot to offer for the kids (Don’t forget the theatre and other attractions– lots of point hotels as well) and makes a good transition point to ease your way into a European vacation.
@Chris Thanks for your input. So much to think about!