My family and I (includes 2 kids 5&9) are insanely taking a whirlwind tour through key cities in Europe in April. We arrive into London, plan on then heading to Paris then on to Rome, Florence and Venice (in that order). My travel agent is insisting we fly from Paris to Rome, but my husband hates flying and after the transatlantic round trip, I don't want to push it. Would love any advice on getting from Paris to Rome some other way...help.

From Paris to Roma, it's a long day's journey by TGV to Milano, then changing to an Italian Eurostar or Inter City train, or there is an overnight train from Paqris to Roma with restaurant and sleeping cars. Try www.seat61.com for more information.

If you were landing in Paris and taking the next flight to Rome, I'd say force the issue. I'm not a good flyer, but I guess after 10.5 hrs on the plane from L.A., I'm too tired to argue or worry about the second flight.

However, since that is NOT your plan, take the train to Rome from Paris. We've done that as well, and I am like your husband on this one. I'm on the ground a day, and you wouldn't want to push me either! It is a long haul, so your best best it taking the night train. There's a train that leaves Paris Bercy around 7 p.m. and arrives in Rome around 10 a.m.

One question, will we all actually sleep on this train? ie is it somewhat comfortable or will we be exhausted for our first day in Roma?

Book a compartment. With a family of 4, get two compartments or, if you're on a budget see if they have the 4 berth in second class. The kids will love it and will sleep well. As for you, I don't know. My husband and I sleep very well and find it very peaceful, but for some, they have trouble. The beds are comfortable and clean, and they provide toiletries and a small bottle of water per person.

We bring sodas and extra water for the kids, and wine and water for us, and snacks. We also bring a portable dvd player so we can watch movies after it gets dark outside.

We've done a similar trip and I'd suggest you take the train from Paris to Venice(if time, stop off someplace overnight like Montreaux, which is lovely, then go to Florence, and down to Rome. I think it makes much more sense to do it this way.

I agree with artlover about changing the order to Venice, Florence, Rome.

There are better flights out of Rome than Venice.

See train schedules and prices at www.voyages-sncf.com and www.trenitalia.com

Another vote for changing your city order, then do an overnight train from Paris to Venice in private cabin(s).

Most people can sleep somewhat on the train and I'm guessing the kids would think it was pretty fun. Definitely pack beverages, snacks and a picnic dinner.

If for some reason you can't make this change then I'd say overnight train Paris to Rome. This may or may not be better for your husband then sucking it up and making that one other short connecting flight immediately upon arrival.