Hello Everyone,

I'm planning a "surprise" trip to Paris to celebrate my husband's birthday. Neither one have been to Paris but we have traveled through Europe some.

My question is, how convenient and "worthwhile" is it to spend 3 nights - wed, thur & friday in Paris and then change hotels to spend sat & sun in Brussels; flying out of CDG on Monday afternoon?

I can't tell you if it's worthwhile or not. A lot of people would definitely not do that and spend all five days in Paris. But, if you want a taste of Brussels, it is pretty convenient. The fast train is only about 90 minutes between Paris and Brussels, as I recall. I went to/from Brussels as a day trip easily, so remember the train ride is simple.

If you don't have airfare, you might as well just flight out of Brussels, though. There are usually cheap flights on KLM/NW out of there.

I know everyone is going to tell you not to do that, to stay in Paris, but it is convenient.

Was there something specific or special you were wanting to do in Brussels?

I would personally stay in Paris, but if you enjoy the train experience and don't mind packing etc., why not?

One thing to think about: The days are very short at that time of year in Paris, so your sightseeing time might seem more limited.

Based on the responses (thank you all very much) a day-trip sounds perfect. A train-ride, a great meal and a walk around "the block," will be just enough especially since the days will be short.

Hmmm, I have never been to Brussels, but I would suggest at least 3 full days in Paris...so it might be 4 nights in Paris (you count the night of the day you arrive), plus three full days in Paris.

I've sent you a link to my notes on taking the Thalys to Brussels, but I'll post it here for the good of the order. It's an E-Z day trip:

http://tinyurl.com/p8nl9

You're picking a really nice surprise for your husband's birthday! We were in Paris this past January and it was wonderful, as always. You may find you can get a great deal on a very nice hotel at that time, as we did.