Help with itinery for Aussie travellers

I thought Aussies were fascinated by mountains!!! Switzerland has some terrific ones!

If you have access to Rick Steves books, you may find his suggestions useful in your planning--a variety of big cities and small places. Your itinerary seems to allow time to enjoy each place without going non-stop. Sounds like quite a trip!

Steve, my only advice is to not rush around like Louie the Fly. Choose a few bases so that you can trip around, or do nothing but enjoy each other's company. As an Aussie, I like to see things we don't have here - ancient ruins, castles etc etc

Tricia, we like pointy mountains, not having them ourselves, but Australia actually has more snow than Switzerland, per season. :-)

With so much time yor have many options, so it's hard to critique your plans based on logistics. The rest is your choice.

If I were planning a group trip of that length, I would have everyone read some guidebooks--not necessarily the same ones--and then tackle the difficult business of setting priorities. I'd investigate renting a house or apartment for one of those weeks in one of the wonderful places, to slow down the pace and smell the flora. I would consider building in some time when the two couples split up (from each other), both to accommodate different plans and to give you a break from each other.

And I'd think that 4 days out of 49 is short shrift for Paris. But the point is, what do you think?

Have a blast.

My experience in Italy may not be typical, if anyone else has knowledge on this. . .

I decided at the end of August to go to Milan/Venice/Florence/Cinque Terre/Milan from Oct 3-15. I booked the flights and by Sept 1 had worked out my itinerary. I then started booking hotels, and I had a great deal of difficulty finding accommodations, as most places were booked up. I was looking at the low end of the price scale (100 euro or less), and mainly single rooms (which are much scarcer). I understand September is more popular. I have no idea if the Hilton level is similar. Also, to see the creme de la creme of Italian art, you have to book reservations well in advance, if that is a priority for you.

It may not be that easy to be spontaneous in the cities.

Happy trails.

Since you mention them I suggest you stay in hostels. For me (80 years old) they are exciting and interesting as well as economical and convenient. Many now offer private rooms for 2,3 or 4.

We break the monotony by splurging once a week in a 2 or 3 star motel, B&B or pension.

Be sure to plan for a minimum of 5 days for Cinque Terre and surrounding area. Amalfi Coast is similar so consider the distance to it when you plan.

I always buy a good highway map of the area I will travel in and plan my days considering the distance between stops.

The distances and time you will be there almost demands renting a car. With four in your party I would investigate leasing a new car from Volvo or Peugeot.

Hi Steve, I have just returned from 6 weeks trip in Europe, here are my thoughts. I would consider going to Rome if you are in Italy. My wife and I enjoyed the history side of Rome, very different to northern Italy. Plan to spend at least 3 days there. We traveled by train through Italy and found it easy - less luggage is best.

We did not spend much time in Switzerland, however it would be worth the visit if you have time. On the way home to Australia we stopped at Singapore for a few days. Singapore was easy to get around and was a great time to relax before the final flight home.

hope this helps, enjoy your trip !

Hi All, thanks so much for your replies. Car hire/lease is an option we would consider.I guess in the end we have to decide where to go but I have enjoyed your comments. Keep 'em coming!Aussie $ not looking so good !!Thanks
Steve