Where should I visit between Paris and Amsterdam?
I've got 8 days in Europe, starting in Paris and ending in Amsterdam -- where should I spend my time in between?
I actually made this same trip in 2002. We stopped in Interlaken, Switzerland in between. It was the highlight of the entire trip. Hostels can be had very cheap. The scenic views are a nice break from the big city.
We went Amsterdam to Interlaken, Interlaken to Paris. I think it was 3+2+3.
I don't remember how long the train ride was from Amsterdam to Interlaken, but it wasn't bad. I think it was, like, four hours. About the same for Paris.
http://www.raileurope.com/train-faq/european-trains/eurostar/how-to-book.html
11 Answers
Honestly, I would say you need as much time as possible in both Paris and Amsterdam. If you must make a stop in between, Belgium would be my suggestion. Where in Belgium depends on what you want to get out of the visit. Bruges (Brugge on European maps) is a beautiful small town, but dont go looking for a wild night. It's an older city with pitcuresque windmills and canals. Brussels (Bruxelles on European maps) offers a little more spice to the trip. It does'nt have the postcard beauty, but a much more lively nightlife.
Definitely spend more time in Paris. There is much more to see and experience. I've never been to Bruges personally, but I've heard nothing but great things. I've also heard that Rotterdam is a much more laid back version of Amsterdam, and far less touristy. Not a fan of Amsterdam though, and probably wouldn't visit again. Maybe I'm just bias since I left that country with a bad case of strep throat.
I don't know much about Paris, but the Dutch speak English pretty well. That might be a consideration.
One thing you should know. People who live in Amsterdam hate the fact their city attracts douches that go there for the the obvious reasons (i.e. for the red light district and the drugs). If you're going there for douche-like reasons, then best just spend your time in Paris.
Sounds like a great trip. I would focus most of your time on the main cities and less in between... nothing too exciting for a tourist. Given 8 days, I would spend 5 days in the Paris area and 3 days in Amsterdam. Do some day trips in Paris to Normandy and Versailles. If you do go somewhere in between, its usually Brussels, but given that Paris/Amsterdam are only 4 hours away from each other, do you really need to stop? Three days in Amsterdam is the perfect amount of time in that city and there is plenty to keep you occupied there. Have fun!
I don't think Steven quite understood the question.
As a real life Belgian I would recommend Leuven (for the history and beer) Antwerp for the culture
Lille (France) and Bruxelles (Belgium) are 2 beautiful cities.
Bruges (Belgium) is gorgeous as well and worth a visit, depends on how old you are. (check the movie "in Bruges")