LucyB10

I am traveling to Europe (Rome, Barcelona and Paris) the last week in December. Just checking to see if businesses, etc. are open as usual during this time period.

We will be leaving Washington, DC December 26th landing in Rome on the 27th, then from Rome to Barcelona, arriving in Barcelona the late morning the 29th. Then off to Paris arriving in Paris the late morning of the 31st.

I have been to Europe but my traveling companion has not but plans for future trips are on the horizon.

I look forward to hearing your responses.

nytraveler

No - many things are closed New Year;s Day and will close early new Year;s Eve, I don't get this trip since you seem to be only one day in each place, except Paris- which is 2 days - but on one everything will be closed.

Given the weather, the very short days, the fact that many places will be operating on shorter off-season schedules - I would pick one place and try to see something there = rather than spend the entire trip in airports.

kerouac

Tourist business as usual in Paris. Shops will start closing down early on the 31st, though. Early = 4 or 5 pm in many cases.

Christina

it won't be tourist business as usual because Jan 1st is one of the major holidays of the year when public sites are closed, such as museums. There are really only a few holidays now where almost all museums are closed, and NY day is one of them. Maybe they all are, I don't know one that is open. Of course, if you don't care about museums, it may not matter that much (I'm talking about Paris). I think maybe the Pompidou is open, they are open on a lot of holidays others are closed.

anad123

Your agenda is crazy for Europe. The best part of a European holiday is absorbing the local culture and atmosphere by just sitting outside at a cafe or enjoying a local coffee house. I agree that you should just pick one place and enjoy it. Rome would be a great place and you could see a lot in a few days. Good luck!

LucyB10

Thanks so much for the feedback. Much appreciated. We will take another look at our itinerary and take into consideration your comments.

LucyB10

Any suggestions for New Year's Eve in Paris?