StacyB

The first thing that stuck out to me was the car rental. Remember there are some zones in many cities that ban cars or restrict them. Perhaps in any big city, one thing to do is explore inside the city first, then train or rent a car to see places further afield. Trains are so great in Europe and they are often more relaxing than car travel. Driving in a large city like Paris is different than some back roads of Ireland. That said, take some more time to decide what you want to do and see. Are you more active? Like museums? Always wanted to go up the Eiffel Tower? Need warm weather? After you decide your parameters, then you can make better decisions about your trip. Knowing your traveling style is a good idea. Have fun!

PalenQ

If driving to say Paris there are many motel-style hotels ringing the city on the autoroute exits with metro or trains usually available to the city center. Many hotels in Paris may not have parking.

suze

<We will be renting a car like we did for Ireland, which was probably one of the best decisions made.>

Just because a car made sense for the Ireland trip, doesn't mean you would want one in London, Paris, or Barcelona.

If I were choosing, I'd go to Paris (or Barcelona) and stay in the city the entire time (9 days isn't all that long), but sounds like you have a different itinerary planned.

Basically any of those 4 you could do what you describe in your post.

Do you have guidebooks yet? With such a wide open question like this one, I think they can be more beneficial than asking for personal opinion on a forum. Check out a pile from the library, look at photos, read about what's available in each location (or maybe you've already done this to narrow down the list?).

WoinParis

On 9 Feb 2018 sky will clear at about 10 am and we'll get a nice sunny afternoon with remis un the low 10 c.

For weather on subsequent days please send me a check of 12.5 euros per day at 'woinparisetsespredvtionsdemerde at arnaque dot com'