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Switzerland - travel suggestions/recommendations

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We are doing a family of 4 trip (all over 18) through Germany and Switzerland. In Germany we are driving and will be in the Garmisch area in Germany before crossing over the border and starting our Switzerland part. Itinerary is to spend 2 days in Grindelwald and 2 days in Interlaken/Lucerne area. We have hotel in both places. Questions:
1. The train says nearly 8 hours from Garmisch to Grindelwald and driving is 5-6 hrs without stops. Has anyone done either drive or train and which do you recommend?
2. I know you don't really need a car in either of our Switzerland stops but are there places we should go where a car would be beneficial?
3. We are scheduled to stay at the Hotel Pilatus Kulm, is it worth the price or better to just visit Mt Pilatus and stay elsewhere? if elsewhere, recommendations?
4. Also, with a car what train passes should we purchase?

Thank You,
Mike

Posted by
5493 posts

When is this trip?
I'd suggest checking with the rental car company to see if that car can cross the border. Also, a Swiss vignette is probably required. Where are you flying out of? Dropping off a car in a different country is very expensive.
Perhaps drop the car off in Germany and use the world-class Swiss train system. Many of the mountain towns are car free, so the car would just end of sitting in an expensive Swiss parking lot. I've been to Switzerland three times and have never had a car, and never felt I needed one. Parking lots can be outside of town, and the trains usually go to the city center.
If possible, I would choose one place to stay the four nights in the Berner Oberland. It's easy to get around and can be more relaxing to be in one place for four nights.
How many nights in the Lucerne area?
Most folks probably break even with the half- fare cars and the BO Pass, but it all comes down to penciling out all the Swiss routes taken. I personally like the Swiss Travel Pass, and use it more than planned , because I have it and can just spontaneously do something - the convenience is great. Of course, not all summits are covered, or some are just discounted.
You have obviously done some research and planning, and will have a great time. Enjoy my favorite country. Safe Travels!

Posted by
2 posts

Thanks for your reply. We will be in Germany-Switzerland and Austria for 12 days total. This is a see some very specific places in Germany and then a broad take it in trip to Switzerland with a day and flight out of Vienna. We will be in Switzerland from July 2nd-6th. Only in the Jungfrau region.
I'm leaning towards dropping the car in Germany and training the rest of the trip. Already have overnight train from Zurich to Vienna.
Because of little time in country, I think you are right a car wouldn't be needed.
Any favorite excursions to do?
I know I need the Pilatus cog wheel ticket and probably the Swiss half fare card but any others I should consider?
Also, with the Pilatus cog wheel (silver Ticket) is there anything I need with the up/down tickets since we will be staying at the Hotel? Any use in pre-buying tickets or do they do a hotel ticket?

Thank you!

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