Salzburg and Hallstatt vs. Ljubljana and Lake Bled

Hi, we have been to all the above cities and I would just like to mention a couple things. 3 trips to Vienna but I would still recommend at least 3-4 nights there minimum. With small children, it changes the dynamics of the trip, slower I should think. Lake Bled - very much a slower pace, mostly walking, relaxing, eating the local delicious desert and scenic down time, my opinion, one night is enough, possible 2 if you really want some quiet time doing nothing basically. . Salzburg, wonderful, I would think a couple days there is enough. I don't know your intinery and how all these places string together, but after the busy time of Rome, then Vienna, the other cities will be a nicer paced visit for you and children . Also, we did th train from lake bled to Vienna and I "think" it was 6 hours? Whereas Vienna to Salzburg was a nice short trip. Something to keep in mind with kids. Others will have some more detailed advice, have a great trip!

Wow that the is quite an itinerary. U do not mention how long your trip is? It sounds tiring due to driving distances involved. I love vienna but forchildren it could be boring, hopefully u are staying in town center everything is beautiful and elegant. Also salzburg is great and kids could poss enjoy this area more altho drive will be long. Hallstatt is a slice a beauty and tranquility a great place to relax.Dubrovnik is terrific and everyone should love it. Walls, old town, visit an island for the day a fun family place. Lublijana is also lovely think prommenadesand cafes with a touch of art deco architecture. Lake bled relaxing, beautiful with fun boat rides for childrn to castle that is an island. Food can be a bit tricky for kids in some of your area hopefully u have some of their fav foods in your baggage. I go go on pls reply if u need specifics. I have visited everywhere on your itin and just came back ladt mo from Croatia.

Thanks for the feedback! Our trip is 30 days, so I was thinking roughly 9-10 days in Croatia, Austria (Slovenia?), and Italy. We have to return the rental car to Croatia, which is why I thought after Vienna we could either spend a 4-5 days in Salzburg and Hallstatt or head south to Slovenia since it's on the route back to Istria. I agree with stretching things out and slowing down for the kids. It's our first time traveling so far or long with them along.

Slovenia is lovely and more similar to Austria than to Croatia in some ways. I think you'll be happy with time spent time there, instead of detouring to Salzburg.