cdayton

Contrary to some advice, I think you will regret not having a longer lens. My favorite travel lens was an 18-200 on a crop body but it is so darn heavy that I now travel with a 55-200 and my wife takes the Sony a6000 with pancake lens. If you are on a hop-on-off bus or on a river cruise, you will appreciate the extra reach.

cambriaman Loc: Central CA Coast

Works for me! There's few shots you won't be able to take (such as architectural details),

CWGordon

I use an a6000 for bicycling touring. Space in a handlebar bag is most certainly at a premium. I found on a multi-week tour throughout Europe I rarely needed more than the 30mm Sigma lens I bought for it at a very low price. It was plenty sharp and took little room in the bag. I also took a 19mm that I used frequently. It too was awesome. Both lenses by Sigma performed flawlessly. If pushed to take only one, it would be the 30mm, but it is close. The kit zoom lens appears a great option, but was somewhat “soft.”
I was disappointed in its’ performance and so left it home. My trip to Paris, Normandy, and some of the other places you will likely go, was on a cruise. My ship allowed more room and I took my DSLR’s and so I did not take the Sony. However, I never needed more than a “standard” type of lens, anywhere. I am a big telephoto guy so was surprised to find I did not need a longer lens. I didn’t, but you might wish one. Take a shorter rather than long reach telephoto (or zoom) if you are sure you want one.
Enjoy your trip. Sorry you will miss out on Notre Dame.

gdophoto

I too am a fan of the 18-135. The 16-50 kit lens is pretty soft, & the 55-200 is way too long to get all the shots you may want to take in historic city centers. The 18-135 is the only lens you'll ever need. It's sharp, & as a bonus, has decent bokeh. So why compromise your photos from a great trip by using a mediocre lens?

BTW, I'm going to Eastern Europe in September, & will be using the 18-135 as the only lens on my a6000.

317tman Loc: Indianapolis, In

Thank you everyone for your insight. I think the 18 - 135 would be a nice addition or replacement. Now need to decide. Thanks again.

wgraburn Loc: Chicago

You might regret not having longer lens capability. I have the 16-50mm lens which came with the camera but have stopped using it. I don't think it is terrible but the 18mm-135mm is reasonably lightweight, versatile enough for most travel needs and a fairly sharp lens. If I take one lens on a trip, and that's all I will take in the future, that's the one. If I were willing to carry two lenses, I would choose the 35mm prime.

David Taylor

Don't forget to adjust for the difference between imperial and metric when metering.

317tman Loc: Indianapolis, In

I was just in Paris 9/19-9/29 and went to the same places. I mostly used a 17-40 on my full frame. Also used a 24-105. I took a 70-200 but never used it. I think there will be times you will have liked a bit more range both wider and at the long end. Perhaps the long end say getting out to at least 135 would be nice. You can probably get by with the 24 for wide angle or use you cell phone if you need wider. Sony's 18-135 would be a nice lens.