If you could only choose one of these to finish your two-week trip, which would you choose?
The itinerary could be either Rome- Florence-Cinque Terre- Nice OR Rome- Florence-Chamonix- Geneva. Too many choices, too little time. Thanks again.

Your first itinerary appeals more to me.
But what are you looking for?

Lots of hiking and mountain scenery: Chamonoix. Beaches and sunshine: Nice.


What month is this by the way? That could make a big diffence.

Sorry-- it would be early May this year.

Nice is one my favorite cities, so of course I have to recommend it. I think it's a lot more appealing than Geneva- so much more to do and see, and a great base for day trips (even without a car- Nice has wonderful train and bus connections to most cities/towns) along the Cote d'Azur.

In early May, definitely Nice. Mt Blanc is great, but the town of Chamonix is not that interesting at all, compared to other destination in France, IMHO.

Stu Dudley

Hi MaureenB,

Instead of Chamonix, why not spend the time at Lake Geneva then fly out of Geneva? In May, the weather will be chilly in the shade and warm in the sun. Perfect for outdoor cafes and strolling. Also, the lakeside promenades will be full of flowers; in fact, I think Morges' tulip festival falls will be 1 Apr - 15 May.

Here are some ideas of what to do there --

Montreux old town
http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserR...reux_Vaud.html

Lavaux
http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserR...reux_Vaud.html

Promenade Fleuri
http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserR...reux_Vaud.html

Morges
http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserR...rges_Vaud.html

Gruyeres
http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserR..._Fribourg.html

Saanen
http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserR...wiss_Alps.html

Gstaad
http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserR...wiss_Alps.html

Train schedules at www.rail.ch.

Good luck!

s

"Geneva" doesn't need to mean in the city. The train system is excellent and connects directly to the airport. You could easily stay at one of the lovely towns along the lake such as Morges, Lausanne, Vevey, or Montreux for the last couple days of your trip, then fly out Geneva.

You are all so helpful. Thank you.
The Chamonix idea comes from my travel companion (my daughter). She has heard of a fabulous gondola ride you take over Mont Blanc and she's dying to do it.
Anyone know if that is even open around May 19?