My sister and I are planning a week or two trip in May. Our problem is...we are too open in terms of where to go. We have spent time on the Amalfi coast of Italy and thought it paradise. I am tempted to go back but also would like to explore. Then aagain, we are looking for a place with a similar small town feel on the water. Museums, good food and local color would be great. We would like some nightlife but drinking and partying isn't really in the plan. We would prefer a great sunrise and morning marketplace. Any ideas about Portugal or Spain? Others? We are very flexible. Greece? Our budget is not unlimited but since this is a post-med school graduation trip we aren't planning on skimping either. Any suggestions would be appreciated. <BR> <BR>Thank you.

Have you been to the Cote d'Azur? It's got everything you want, and you could stay in a small town on the coast like Villefranche, but still have access to all the museums, art towns, nightlife, markets, gardens, villages perches, beaches, etc.

Or the north coast of Spain around Bilbao? best of both worlds?

Sort of going along with Sheila, the Costa Verde in Portugal and adjacent northwest coast of Spain hits all the requirements you listed. I would only add Viana Do Castelo, a beautiful seashore medieval town in Portugal. I was there last May and CAN NOT WAIT to go back. Daily routine consisted of sightseeing beautiful nearby medieval small towns till noon, beach time till four, barbecued every day for dinner, went into town for a drink (or two), same the next day. Life was good.

Thanks to all who replied. Great suggestions. I am going to check them all out. thanks again.

If you loved the Amalfi coast you will <BR>die in Santorini. The other option is <BR>the Italy Lakes---more than one good <BR>location here and Milan as a kicker.