caitlynajh

My friend and I are interested in spending our college Spring Break somewhere in Europe, but the problem is: we have no idea where to go! We know of the typical countries everyone says such as France, Italy, England, etc. but we're also open to places that aren't generally talked about. And if we were to go to one of the above, we wouldn't know which cities, which districts, or how to do it.

We're two 20 year-old girls, so safety would be something we would have to take into consideration. We enjoy beaches, cities... the environment isn't a huge deal really as long as it's beautiful and lively. And since we're young and energetic, we're more interested in having a good, active time rather than a relaxing one. We want a fun, young environment where we could mingle with our peers and meet cool people (as cheesy as that sounds).

We live in a place (Florida) where Spring Break is a big event and we're just tired of being around a raunchy, drunken, girls-gone-wild type of place. We want to travel and see what other countries have to offer! So advice on where to visit, where to stay, what to do, etc. would be great. Give us any details you can think of, please. The dates are March 4-11. I'm not sure if that's important to know. Thanks for any advice!

worldinabag

Hi

Mmm, one week isn't long. I think you need to be more specific in your interests. Eg. are you into museums, art, shopping, horse back riding etc. March unfortunately is not beach weather in Europe. Also it would help to state your budget. Given that you have only one week I would restrict it to one country. I would pick Spain. My kids loved Barcelona and this city certainly seems popular amongst the young. I would also include Seville and Granada if you can squeeze them in. Stay at youth hostels if you want a "fun, young environment where we could mingle with our peers and meet cool people".

nytraveler

Europe is way north of FL and for your dates you will be limited in the areas that have beach weather. In Italy the CT and Amalfi Coast do not have beach weather then. Also the Riviera will most likely be too cold to go in the water.

You may do well in the south of Spain - but it might be chilly there too. We've been in late April and it was in the 80s plenty warm enough - but I don;t know about early March.

Have a look at March temperatures in southern Spain and Sicily - to see if you can swim there then. (Just had a look at the high temps in southern Spain in March are 66 - with a low of 49). So either you will have to give up on a beach - or you will need to look beyond Europe.

There are a ton of cities that will have mildish spring weather and be fun - but beach could be an issue.

simpsonc510

I'm in Europe every year in late March/early April... mainly in Switzerland, Germany, Italy. I've also been to the south of France a couple of times. I have had really nice weather, as in flowers blooming and lots of sunshine and pleasant temps, and I have also had lots of rain and snow at that time of year. Most years I experience rain. The warm sunny weather happens about one out of five or six spring trips to Europe. If you want a warm spring break, I think you should consider other locations than western Europe. Just my opinion after years of making that trek every March/April.

caitlynajh

Well like I said, I don't care if it's a beach place, city life, or mountains even. I live in a beach city so I can be excited by something else. Also, I understand weather isn't Florida status at that time. And budget wise... it really just depends on how good something sounds, because I'm willing to work during the school year to be able to afford this. I just want opinions on what people have experienced and what their personal favorite locations are.

adrienne

March is definitely NOT swimming weather on Sicily.

Go to Prague. There's tons of young people hanging out there. It's a fun city with plenty to do. It'll be cold but you mentioned mountains and they will be very cold in March. You'll need warm clothing.

adrienne

Stay in hostels - that's where you'll meet people to hang with.

nytraveler

Prague is a great city for young people - but in early March it can still be winter - like NY or Boston you can have snow or really cold rain.

If it were me I would head for either a city with higher temps (perhaps Rome - which can keep you occupied forever) or an area like southern Spain. A culture unique in europe - wonderfully fascinating - visit Seville, Granada and Cordoba - to see both Spanish and Moorish culture.

London and Amsterdam are also interesting - but they may still be quite cold - or not - varies year by year. I would;t do the Riviera - since while wonderfully interesting = it's hard to really see a lot without renting a car.

ira

Hi C,

>we're just tired of being around a raunchy, drunken, girls-gone-wild type of place.....<

Only 20 and already jaded and worn out.

Paris is my first choice.

For a second choice I suggest Paris.

You might also consider going to Paris.

Enjoy your trip.

txtree

Paris would be a fantastic choice. I went with a friend when I was your age and we had a great time - wonderful walking, unbelievable museums, shopping, funky markets, cafes, vibrant nightlife, delicious food. If you're open to it, you'll definitely meet cool and interesting people. Have fun!!

anita63

Should I be embarrassed that this 47 year old went to Daytona Beach for her Spring Break back in the 80's? LOL

I agree with PARIS...lots to do indoors if the weather sucks and lots to do outdoors if the weather is nice...plently of young people, hip area, active and it's an 'experience' type of trip not a lay-on-the-beach kinda trip.

But, i would be remiss as a Canadian to not suggest a visit up here in March to Toronto or out west to Vancouver...both could fit your bill if Europe doesn't pan out.

Fodorite014

If warm wheather isn't your main concern, Berlin is lively, fun and inexpensive.

Malaga in southern Spain is a good choice with a lively night life. Lot's of interesting day trips: Granada with the Alhambra (1,5 - 2 hours by bus), Cordoba with the Mezquita (2,5 hours by bus), Ronda in the mountains (2 hours by train).

Istanbul is a personal favourite. Lot's of history and culture and amazing architecture. A very lively night life as well. March is likely to be quite rainy though.

dutyfree

My daughter went to college in Florida for her undergrad and she always loved going to Rome during spring break. Sicily is fabulous but better if you have a car and have been to other places in Europe first as it is a slower pace.
Rome will be great in March as you will be able to wear Tshirts,sit outside for wine and pasta,shop some great stores and the tourist invasion will still be just starting. There is a ton of things to do there for a week and is also a great place to do daytrips out of to places like Orvieta and Pompeii.
If you have never been to Europe before I would chose Rome first,then Paris then London. Prague,Amsterdam and other European cities in that area are going to be still cold and very rainy.

marysmommy

My first trip to Europe was to Italy and I think that was a fabulous introduction to Europe. The Italians are so nice and welcoming. There is SO much to see. The food is fabulous. The weather is pretty good too, at least in Rome. That being said, you can't really go wrong with just about any country in Europe for a great experience.

Do you speak any languages? That makes it extra fun if you finally get to communicate in another language you've studied.

I think it's fabulous that you're doing this instead of the "get drunk" kind of spring break--it'll be so much more memorable (pun intended) and enjoyable, I promise!

Vttraveler

I'd pick Paris or Rome, giving Rome an edge in March because you have a better chance for good weather there.

nytraveler

I think Paris is a great choice - but it's likely to be rainy and too cold for cafe sitting - which, for me, is a large part of the charm. If you stay south of the Alps it's likely to be warm enough that you can sit outside and enjoy watching the world go by.

jamikins

I would not expect to spend time in March on any beach. If you are into cool cities, with great vibes there are lots of choices. My top:

Berlin
London
Barcelona
Rome
Paris

(in no particular order)

jamikins

Oh forgot Amsterdam!