Getting out the door early on my European trips is one main reason why I prefer to travel solo. My husband is fine too, as he will get up as early as I tell him. However, one time I traveled to Italy with a friend, and that trip really placed a lot of strain on our friendship. There were a bunch of issues, but one of them was getting out the door early. My friend is someone who needs 2 hours to get ready in the morning (vs me who needs 30 mins); so I was quite upset that I "wasted" 1.5 hours every morning waiting for her. And she isn't someone who is willling to get up 1.5 hrs earlier to get ready... she prefers to sleep until at least 9. By the time we headed out, it was lunch time!

I am with the early risers as it happens to be my best time of day. I love to get out and take pictures in the early morning light in empty streets. I usually have some fruit in the room to hold me until breakfast. (Not a coffee drinker so don't have to worry about finding an empty cafe) Even if it is pouring rain, I can't seem to sleep in so I make sure that I have a book or something to read.

yk, it's bad enough when it's your own spouse or children who won't get up when you want them to!

Martha T., those waters lapping on the edge of the Grand Canal at 7 am are in my memories, too. As well as the 6 am morning fog seeping between the hills in Tuscany, or that special light along the Seine. Much can be said for peaceful mornings in places dear to your heart. And more can be said for afternoon happy hours back in the room with a little wine, some cheese and a quick nap to get ready for a wonderful evening to come. Our vacation days take on a special pace that disappears once we arrive home and for us, those magical early morning hours are part of the allure.

--Annie

I think on the same premise...

on work days i can hardly get up, on the weekends i am up at 8 ready to have fun !!!

I get up early, eat breakfast quickly and head out. I plan my day so I hit the major site first thing. At most major sites you can arrive early and walk right in - no line or hassles. Wait a couple of hours and the tourist hordes arrive. Lines become long and everything is crowded and uncomfortable. I go to minor sites or a park during the busy time of the day to avoid getting caught up in the herds.