Hello, I'd love some advice about my itinerary this May to Europe. We are a family of 5. We are leaving May 7 and flying into Paris for five days and then flying into Rome on EasyJet. Here's our itinerary from there: Rome 4 days Florence 3 days Cinque Terre 2 days Berner Oberland 4 days Zurich 1 day (fly out) So here's my question. Should we add a day to either Florence (gives us the chance to day trip to Lucca or ???) or the Cinque Terre and take a day away from Switzerland? Originally, I had wanted that much time to spend in the mountains, but I've read a lot of information that suggests that May is not an ideal time to go to the Alps. I already have reservations, but I can easily add another day in Florence. I have to contact the hostel in Manarola to see if there is still availability. But, I wanted advice first. We love to hike, we love history, and we love walking and taking it all in. I'm sure I'm over thinking this all, but I'd love any advice. Thanks!
Becky
Posted by
Huntsville, AL, USA
8371 posts
I like your itinerary. It looks okay. Travel from city to city can be done by train. If you want to go to Lucca, stop there on the way to the C/T. It's right on the way. May is fine for the Alps, except some of the highest passes may be still snowed in. Maybe not, however. Switzerland and the Alps are simply better when explored by rental car/van.
The only problem about traveling through European farm areas is that they sling 'natural fertilizer' in the Spring. Many countries can sometimes have offensive smells to "city folks."
Posted by
OP
Woodinville, WA
97 posts
Thanks for the reply! We were thinking of buying the Swiss Flex-Passes. We have three kids, and one will need a pass, but the youngest two (9 and 13) can travel free with us on the train. Should we consider a car instead? Maybe that would give us more flexibility in case the weather isn't good for the mountains. Likewise, what other places should we consider exploring? I don't want to find new accommodations (we found an apartment and it was difficult to find something affordable for that many people!). We are very happy with day trips, though. So...car or pass? Day trip ideas should we need to consider? Thanks!
Becky
Posted by
Northamptonshire, England
34321 posts
Apartment where, Becky?
Posted by
OP
Woodinville, WA
97 posts
Hi Nigel, We found an apartment in Wilderswil (right outside of Interlaken) through a recommendation. The location seemed good as we will be close to the mountains, but we also have the flexibility of exploring other areas too. Plus, did I mention affordable in Switzerland? :) Thanks,
Becky
Posted by
Northamptonshire, England
34321 posts
Wilderswil is a good place for convenience - I hope it works well for you. I can't speak for the pass 'cause I don't know from passes. If you have a car you will be able to run to the market for groceries - the big MMMigros in Interlaken West is the best in the area in my opinion, the Coop at Interlaken Ost is pretty good, too. I think there is a small Coop (or maybe Migros) in Wilderswil. You can run over to the waterfall that killed Moriarty in his battle with Holmes near Meiringen where meringue was invented. A ride up and over the Brunig Pass is cool in a car. All of the above can also easily be done by train, or train and Postbus. Of course, to go higher up the hills above Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald you will need to use the trains and/or cable cars/gondolas.