My family and I are flying into Frankfurt, Germany from the US on 05/20/2020 and flying back to the US on 06/03/2020. There are 6 adults (four are seniors) and a 12 year-old. During our two week trip we plan to visit the following places:
Drive from Frankfurt to Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland and ride train to the Top of Europe
Drive to Fussen, Neuschwanstein Castle, and Oberammergau
Drive to Salzburg, Austria
Ride the train to Venice, Italy and back to Salzburg
Drive to Munich, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Wurzburg, and then back to Frankfurt.
Since we have so many people traveling together my current plan is to rent a 9 passenger van for the entire time (cost is $1,100) and only take the train to/from Salzburg to Venice. I hope the van will hold all of us plus our luggage (trying to pack light).
Is this the best plan? Or, should we take the trains for more of the trip and only rent a van while driving in Switzerland? I am hesitant to only take the train to locations because my husband and I like to explore places on our own and not be confined to a train station, but with four seniors with us that might be our best bet. We plan to stay in hotels and or vacation rentals with free parking, when available, so we should have minimal parking expense except while we are in Venice.
Any advice about the best way to travel with this many people would be appreciated.
I am also concerned with the size of the van we are renting. I know the roads in Europe are narrower than the US, how big of a problem do you think driving a van will be? We have experience driving a mid-size SUV in Scotland.
I appreciate any input anyone may have to help me plan this trip so we have a great time!
Thanks!