Five of us are traveling to Europe for three weeks leaving the last week of April and returning mid-May 2008. We will be flying into Brussels and returning from Munich. We plan to do most of our travel by train with maybe a one day car rental here and there. We want to see Belgium (Brussels, Brugge, and Liege; Netherlands (Amsterdam and the tulip gardens at Keukenhof); Germany (boat ride St. Goar to Bacharach, Wurzburg, Rothenburg, Ingolstadt (Audi Factory tour), Munich, Dachau, Fusen, and Reutte); Austria (Salzberg); and Switzerland (Interlaken area). We know it's crazily ambitious, but we hope to accomplish all of the above. Any suggestions?
Posted by
Virginia, USA
5850 posts
Hi Diana,
It definitely can be done. Of all the destinations, I might consider cutting out Switzerland as it really isn't "on the way" between Brussels and Munich. You will get some beautiful mountain scenery in the Salzburg area and Salzburg is very easy to get to from Munich. Switzerland is great, but save it for the next trip. I would also suggest that you look at ways that you can minimize the number of times that you have to switch hotels by taking day trips where cities are close together.
One final suggestion is that when you arrive in Brussels (assuming it is early in the day), go directly to a smaller town like Brugge to start your trip.
Posted by
Danville, VT
12040 posts
Your trip sounds fun, but unfortunately, much too ambitious. You will spend far too much time in transit. Cutting out Interlaken might be preferable, because not much is open for business in the mountain villages at that time of year. Also, if you want to stay in Reutte, there really is no reason to make Fussen an extra stop (or vice-versa).
Posted by
OP
Portland
21 posts
Thanks everyone for your comments and suggestions. I'm going to take another look at the itinerary. Maybe the Interlaken area should be saved for another trip. I have been worried that we are trying to be too ambitious. Any suggestions for "base cities" and hotels (maybe in the 3 star category)?
Posted by
Levelland, Texas, USA
9 posts
Hi Diana
While in the Munich, Salzberg area check out the Kings-castle Herrenchiemsee. It is not in Rick's book but is well worth the time. It is about half way between Munich and Salzberg (just off the autobahn). Built by Ludwig II on an island in lake Chiemsee. It is about a 15 min. boat ride from the town of Prien. If you are staying in Reutte it is only a 30 min. drive to Ludwig's castles so I would skip Fussen. My wife and I enjoyed staying at the Gasthof-Pension Waldrast in Reutte. It is on the edge of town and the view from our balcony was like a little bit of heaven on earth.
George
Posted by
Charlotte, NC, USA
3428 posts
Base yourself in Salzburg. You can do lots of day trips, including Innsbruck, Burchesgarden, Hitler's Eagles' Nest, not to mention the Sound of Music! I'd suggest considering cutting several cities and focus on just 3 or 4. You will get a better taste for the culture, people, etc. Do days trips and dont' push so hard -- you;ll enjoy it more. Keep in mind Steve's advice-- plan to come back!