Hi everyone, I have been reading different experiences in the forum but I decided to ask the seasonal traveller for advice to plan my own trip since this is our first time to Europe.

I am planning to go with my wife (is a surprise for her) for 7 to 8 days in the second or third week of September (still defining), I would like to go to Paris (4 days), Brussells and Brudges(2 days) and Amsterdam (1 day). Is this enoigh time? can somebody give some ideas of the main places we should visit.

In term of lodging, I am not sure whre to stay Hotels or Hostels, we do not want to spend too much to use that money for other things( I have seen hotels are in average 100 euros), any ideas of decent places, we are a young couple and like to experience things while enjoying

I appreciate any ideas and tips to make my planning

Jk.

What do you want to accomplish during that one day in Amsterdam? One can easily spend 4-5 days in Amsterdam. I'd say either visit Brussels/Bruges; OR Amsterdam but not both.

So, either 4 days Paris, 3-4 days Belgium; or 4 days Paris and 3-4 days Amsterdam.

We have done Amsterdam-Brussels-Paris a couple of times. I think Amsterdam deserves at least 2 full days, Brussels a day, Bruges a day, and Paris 3-4 days (or more!). These are not counting arriving and departing Europe - those days are just spent traveling, getting to hotel, etc. So, for us, a full 10-11 days works well.

If you really can only spend 7-8 days (does that include flying or train in/out of Europe?), and it's your first trip, I'd limit to 2 cities at most.

September is a nice time for all the choices.

Plan to fly into one city and fly out of the last city to avoid 'back-tracking'. This is no more cost than a round-trip ticket (it's called 'open jaw' or 'multiple flights' when you try booking it).

1 day is not enough for Amsterdam. Really it isn't. Either drop Amsterdam from your trip, or drop Belgium. Given you will be travelling to these different cities during your stay it further reduces the time you have in any of them. Please reconsider your plans.
The IBC, a massive conference and exibition takes place in Amsterdam every year in September, this year from 10-15th which will seriously affect your chances of finding a hotel during those dates.

One suggestion for Paris: if you can find an affordable hotel within the Eiffel Tower district, go for it. Paris is full of charming neighborhoods and sights but for the first time, it's worth staying within walking distance of the Tower. I say this because during the day the area is mobbed by tourists and tour buses, but after around 6 or 7 pm you can stroll to the Tower at sunset and it's surreal how incredibly beautiful it is, lit by the setting sun and free of the crowds. It's a most romantic, one-of-a-kind experience (which, if the trip is being planned as a surprise for your wife, soemthing tells me Romance is high on the priorities list).

Agree with the above. Select two areas you want to see, my preference would be Amsterdam and Paris. I havent been, but from what I have read here Brussels doesnt offer nearly as much as Paris or Amsterdam. I spent 3 days in Bruges and it was lovely so Paris and Bruges would also be a good choice in my opinion.

Also agree with looking for flights flying into one city and out of the other to avoid backtracking.

Happy Travels!

Hello jcamargo - As this is your very first time in Paris why not book an extremely reasonable hotel right slap-bang in the centre of Paris, right outside the doors of Notre Dame Cathedral? From here (look at your big Paris map) you will see all the most visited places, excludung the Eiffel Tower, are close at hand.
We have just stayed here a few weeks ago - can look at my trip report for deatails.

http://www.hotel-hospitel.com/ang/accueil.htm