My brother, sister-in-law, and I are planning an 18 day trip to the places listed above. We currently have 3 days in Vienna, 2 days in Salzburg, 3-4 days in Germany (Bavaria & Munich) 3 days in Switzerland, and the rest of the trip in the Northern Lake District of Italy. Does anyone have a good game plan for the most efficient travel route, sights or experiences to definitely not miss, etc. We will travel Sept. 18-October 6. Thanks so much!!
Posted by
Edmonds, WA 🌨 ☂
11176 posts
Where are you landing for your arrival, and what is your departure point? Trying to offer advice for a good routing requires that detail.
Do you arrive in Europe on the 18th or 19th?
Posted by
Northamptonshire, England
32740 posts
Switzerland, although somewhat small, is very diverse. Languages and regions vary, and there are those mountains dividing everything up, so the regions really are quite different one from the other.
Where in Switzerland did you have in mind?
Bavaria is a very large German state, from Coburg and Bamberg in the northeast to nearly Frankfurt an Main to the northwest, nearly Switzerland in southwest, and then the Alps in the south. Where did you have in mind? Nuremberg, too.
Posted by
NSW Australia
703 posts
having spent a reasonable amount of time on a number of trips to those places I would consider spending more time in and around salzburg , while the city is good to visit ( we were there again in December) the general area has so much to see and do that is varied, not overly expensive and easy to access. so don't just think of it as a city. ( unless you just like visiting cities?)
as you have not listed what you are interested, one thing perhaps worth considering is the cost. around austria, bavaria etc the accomodation and sight seeing costs are generally reasonable , however we have found switzerland 'punishingly' expensive.( must add- we have had great trips there) so unless you have specific things to see and do there, consider your time there.
hope this helps.
Posted by
613 posts
The must see cites in EU are London, Vienna, Prague, and Rome. Do more days in Vienna, add Prague (at least 4 days), skip Munich, include Melk Abbey, the Wachau, the Saltzkammergut % Gosauzee, the 3 Passes tour, Lauturbrunnen Valley & environs.
Posted by
Southwest Florida
856 posts
A bit more information would be helpful. You've chosen some great spots for this journey but assisting you is difficult without knowing where you are arriving and what you want to see or do.
If you have not booked flights I would suggest arriving in Vienna and departing from Milan. Doing so would then give you:
Vienna-Salzburg-Munich-Switzerland-Lake Como But keep in mind that a train from Munich to the heart of Switzerland will be a 5 hour journey, at least.