Was given a week at a timeshare just south of Salzburg by the in-laws for a week this August. Worked out FF miles for the flights, and I'm taking DD for her 18th birthday. We have 10 days (of course really 7 after flight days). The main thing she wants to do is shop (though she doesn't realize her $$ will run out faster in Europe!). She is also interested in possibly seeing Venice, maybe some places in Germany, and Milan for the shopping. What places would be doable? I'm thinking we'll rent a car. She is very active and would probably enjoy outdoor stuff too. Any suggestions for a teenager & her mom? :-)
Posted by
Myrtle Beach, USA
12313 posts
Munich is probably the better city choice from where you are. Venice is great but it's a pretty big round trip and is so much better if you can stay a night or two. Milan from Venice is a pretty good trek also.
A Munich/Salzburg - Venice - Milan/Lake Como triangle would be a great trip but it's not something to do in a week unless you fly point to point.
For your time I would probably visit Salzburg, Munich and add some mountain time (maybe where your timeshare is?). That will be entertaining but not leave you feeling like you are constantly running.
A rental car will allow you to explore at your leisure rather than being confined to train schedules. For two, it will cost more than trains but will save some time. For your situation, I'd prefer trains but it might not be practical depending on where you are staying.
Posted by
OP
Walnut Creek
51 posts
Thanks for your help!
Posted by
Shoreline, WA
216 posts
Munich is a lively city you both would enjoy (the churches (and the beer halls) are extraordinary!) The student quarters at Schwabing and other downtown venues will keep her busy. Public transportation is quick, easy to comprehend, and safe.
Salzburg is a bit more sleepy, esp. when the tourists are gone in the evening. However, just a little east of this capital is the Lake District of Upper Austria (Salzkammergut) made famous by SOM (guess what movie?). Across from St. Gilgen there is a Sommerrodelbahn (summer toboggan) that anyone can get a kick out of. Go farther east and then down to Hallstadt to visit one of the must-sees in Europe. Take the funicular up to the salt mines and take the salt mine tour. More fun. Go on to the Dachstein Ice Caves and take her through that. At Altaussee there is another salt mine with tour and exciting on-your butt slides!
Haven't had enough? Then go up the tallest mountain in Austria, the Großglockner. Scary hairpin turns that go on forever!
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32351 posts
Robin,
With only 7 days to work with, travel to other locations in Germany and Italy is going to be a bit of a challenge. With such a short time, you might want to focus on the Salzburg, Hallstatt, Vienna or Munich areas. There are some Luge rides in the area that might be fun (check Rick's book for locations). When in Munich, a trip to the Castles might be interesting.
If you were thinking of a quick visit to Milan for shopping (fashion?), an overnight trip via train might be your best option. If you travel by car, you'll have to deal with parking costs and other "problems", and for two people it won't be as cost effective as public transport.
You might suggest that your daughter have a look at the exchange rates, so she'll have a clear idea of exactly how much she'll actually have for shopping.
My preference would be to limit touring to some extent, otherwise you'll spend all your time travelling and not have much time to enjoy the areas.
Happy travels!