Venice and what else

I'm not sure what kind of thoughts you'd like on Croatia, but my husband and I were there a few years ago in March and had a few rainy days, a bunch of sunny days, and a snowy day, as it had just snowed in Plitvice right before we arrived. The park was gorgeous covered in snow, although the pathways were a little slick. We loved it, however, especially as it meant we practically had the place to ourselves because we were among the few knuckleheads willing to be out there. Being March, we didn't attempt to get to any of the islands but I don't recall encountering any sights that were closed (other than the caves below Predjama Castle in Slovenia and, again in Slovenia, the Vrsic Pass). Hotels/sobes were easy to come by and restaurants were open for business. For historical weather information, the following link is useful in determining annual averages: http://www.wunderground.com/tripplanner/index.asp As for hopping on the train and going, in Croatia you'll find that to be a bit more problematic. There aren't a whole ton of rail connections there, and a lot of people rely on (somewhat arduous) bus transport, instead. Overall, I believe that renting a car is the best option - especially in March when tourist traffic should be at a minimum. Slovenia is stunning, too, with the Julian Alps, although the chance of snow will be greater than further south in Croatia. But just wanted to throw one more option into the mix!

You should post your Croatia question in the "To the East" section of the board for better results.

It's an extremely broad question. Tell us what you enjoy doing, whether you've been to Europe before, etc.

In March they will still be skiing in the Dolomites, so unless you are interested in that, you should choose somewhere else. Same for the alpine areas of Switzerland. The lakeside cities of Switzerland ( Luzern, Montreux, Lausanne, etc. Could be nice, or it could be cold and rainy. My kids went to Croatia in May and said the season was just starting. Not sure what you would find in March. What about more of Italy, to the south of Venice? Start with Verona, move Sotho into Tuscany.

Start with Padua and Verona. Milan? Than head to Lake Comuo area? You can go to Lugano Switzerland from there? I agree with others way to broad, narrow it down

Yes, you're right. Too broad. We have been to Europe many times but not to Venice, Switzerland or across the Adriatic. We are walkers and don't mind getting lost. We are thrilled with new museums, love art and try to find a good walking tour where we can learn from the locals. We are open to just about anything. We take carry on luggage so we can "hop" on trains. We go with an itinerary in hand but no problem to make a change. It does sound as it could be too cold for the Dolomites. Thoughts on Croatia?

Maryann
Have you been to the south of Italy- that would be warmer in March. If you are set on Switzerland and Dolomites then winter conditions will prevail. If you are skiers that would be great. I can't comment on the Dolomites but I would go back to the Swiss Alps in a heartbeat. I am a skier and wish I had gone in March but went in late April. Beautiful scenery just the same.

In Italia.....Padova, Ravenna, Ferrara, Verona (IMO a must see), Bossano del Grappa. Move a little further south.....San Leo, San Marino. If you're in the area Rimini is worth a stop.