Last Minute Trip to Germany

Posted by slacktt on 02/09/17 01:43 AM

Our trip to Switzerland got derailed because we fly standby and flight to Zurich is full. So plan B is to fly to Munich. All we know is we plan to spend
two nights in Salzburg. Two big questions: First, we land at 7:50 AM Feb 19 and are renting a car. On our way to Salzburg, do you recommend Linderhof or Herrenchiemsee?

Second, after Salzburg, we have one more day and night before returning to Munich. Is Innsbruck a good choice? We like to shop, eat, and would be good with skiing for a few hours. Please help! I'm usually good at planning itineraries but am stymied on what to do.

Posted by Nigel

Northamptonshire, England

02/09/17 08:43 AM

32819 posts

If you are driving on the autobahn to Salzburg and onwards into Austria be sure to buy the road toll Vignette at a service station near the border before crossing. There will likely be police cars at or just past the border waiting for cars to sail past without, and then stop you and extract a large on the spot fine. If the lads and lassies in the police cars don't nab you likely the cameras set up for the same purpose (stick the vignette on the windscreen following directions (in English) printed on the back) or the cameras will take a selfie of you and send you the ticket by mail.

Are you planning on driving immediately after a over night transatlantic flight?

Posted by sla019

Augsburg, Bavaria

02/09/17 09:51 AM

2338 posts

I'd not drive on that crowded motorway right after an overnight flight, that would be downright dangerous. Moreover, for your destinations a car is completely unnecessary (in view of the steep parking fees in Salzburg, rather an hindrance). The train brings you to Salzburg and Innsbruck as fast as a car. To avoid gambling with pre-booked saver tickets, travel to Salzburg on a Bayern Ticket with regional trains (valid after 9pm, S8 from the airport to Munich East / Ostbahnhof, transfer to the Metronom to Salzburg). Book your ticket Salzburg - Innsbruck at the OeBB website in advance to get a favourable price (there are no local trains going through the Bavarian corridor between Salzburg and Innsbruck).

Linderhof is not on your route to Salzburg, Herrnchiemsee is. Leave the Salzburg-bound train at Prien, transfer to the narrow-gauge train or bus (depending on season and daytime) to Stock, where you take the boat to the Island.

In Innsbruck, the Nordkettenbahn brings you right from the city center to an excellent skiing area: https://www.snow-online.com/ski-resort/innsbrucker-nordkettenbahnen.html

Posted by Nestor

Virginia

02/09/17 02:01 PM

597 posts

Driving to Salzburg will be about 90 minutes and it's not too bad. Just take your time and take a break if you feel you need it. About the vignette, check with the rental company to see if the car has one already that is still valid. I think they are good for a month (?).

Posted by TC

Atlanta

02/09/17 03:00 PM

4870 posts

Are you sure you want to drive the same day you arrive? Jet lag, lack of sleep, and not being familiar with the local road system can all be a problem. There are some people that are not bothered by any of those things. Others think they are ok but are really driving somewhat impaired. Still others are complete zombies and should never drive the same day. You might want to take a train to your first destination, spend a day there recuperating, and then rent a car. Don't mean to rain on your parade, just something to think about.