Bacharach/ Rothenburg OR Salzburg/Hallstatt

If you prefer wineries, outdoor activities like hiking and biking, medieval buildings and castles, and lower prices, you'll enjoy the Bacharach/Rothenburg option. Be sure to see Marksburg Castle in Braubach if you go as well. But Bacharach and R'burg are not all that close to each other, and R'burg does provide an overdose of tourism and tourists. Salzburg is a small but major city, a wonderful place with some fine structures and an interesting history - also heavily touristed - and Hallstatt is picture perfect - but somewhat geriatric. I could do without the Mozart balls myself, but Salzburg is still fun. Bring a bit more money for this option. So you're looking at some very different choices.

You don't say from where you are starting, or where you are flying from. That would make a difference. I've been to all of them. Salzburg and Bacharach are nice, but Rothenburg is an icon and Hallstatt, IMO, is the most beautiful town in the area.

Hi Tom, Been to all of them. Our favorites out of your 4 are Salzburg and Rothenburg. If those are the combo's you're looking at, and not knowing where you're coming from and then going to, I'd go with Salzburg and Hallstatt. We liked Hallstatt but love Salzburg. Loved Rothenburg also. Near Bacharach, Marksburg castle is a must see. In my honest opinion, you can't go wrong with either pairing. Either way you "win". Really depends on where you'll be coming from and heading to afterwards. Paul

In answer to Lee's question, I was thinking of taking an early monring train from Paris to Mannheim Germany and renting a car there. Alternatively, take an overnight train from Paris to Munich and renting a car (and proceed to Salzburg/ Hallstatt)

Its kind of like asking which of my grandkids I love the most... you have chosen 4 great locations and I am sure you will have a great time no matter which you choose. I have a special place in my heart for all of them and love them all equally for different reasons.

We have visited all of the places you mention numerous times over the past 10 yrs, most recently in 2010. They are all favorites of ours. Salzburg and Hallstatt will both be crowded during the day with "daytrippers" from bus tours but it should thin out by late afternoon. The same is true for Rothenburg. You really have to stay overnight to experience the towns without all the crowds. I think you'll be happy no matter which you choose.

My thanks to all for your comments and suggestions. Tom

All are places worth going, and returning, to. Of the group, Salzburg is one of my favorite places on the planet. It would be more of a shame to miss that than any of the other choices.