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Traveling in mid february through mid march Western Europe

Posted by (Gainesville, FL, USA) on

This will be my second trip to Western Europe, however I would like to take some low cost airlines in addition to some trains. I guess the only thing i am worried about is the potential for cancellations due to weather. Does this seem more likely during this time of the year? We are traveling Feb 18-March 10th.

Here is our transportation (tentative) arrangements so far

USA---->LGW
LGW----> Belfast Int'l
Belfast Int'l---> Barcelona
AVE Train from Barcelona to Madrid
MAD to Basel Airport
Train from Basel to Interlaken
Direct train (no Changes) from Interlaken to Frankfurt
Frankfurt-->USA

I'm comfortable with the amount of traveling we'll be doing in the relatively short time frame. Last time I was there we did all train travel (overnights too) with a railpass. Would it be beneficial to buy a Swiss Half Fare Card? If I book in advance on the web for RENFE AVE train, I can get a 49 euro fare for 2nd class at a peak time in the morning. I am trying to mix economy and convenience. Let me know what you all think.

Posted by
6 posts

Also, how early should I arrive at the airport for flights within europe? I'm trying to use Aer Lingus as much as possible, as I have had a positive experience with them.

Posted by
12040 posts

You should be fine, weather-wise. Snowstorms significant enough to affect airline operations are rare in Britain and Spain. There is a chance that weather could be a factor in Basel or Frankfurt, but I wouldn't worry too much about it.. For your train routes, unless there's an avalanche, snow usually doesn't have a huge impact on rail travel.

And just making sure you're aware... you aren't planning to hike in the mountains around Interlaken at that time of year, are you? Great time and place for skiing, though.

Posted by
6 posts

Yeah, no hiking. I went there last time and did some canyoning in the summer. I'm hoping to take advantage of the awesome ski weather. I'll probably stay at Balmer's again. Are the ski resorts within walking disance?

Posted by
12040 posts

The slopes are all located up in the mountains, on either side of the Lauterbrunnen valley. So no, they're not within walking distance, but easily accessible from Interlaken by rail.

I personally think this area is a tad over-rated and over-priced for summer hiking... but worth every cent for skiing. Enjoy, it's a winter paradise.

PS- If you haven't seen it yet, rent the old James Bond movie "On Her Majesty's Secret Service" to get a good glimpse of this area in the winter.

Posted by
6 posts

Is there anywhere I can get a deal on a train ticket from Interlaken to Frankfurt? Its $150 USD 2nd class for the 5hr7minute journey with no changes. I can get the High Speed AVE train from Barcelona to Madrid (3 hrs or so) for $45 euros if I book in advance. Does that price sound right or should I be able to get it cheaper?

Posted by
9143 posts

For taking flights within Europe, anywhere between 1.5 and 2 hours is good. Depends on the airport actually, if it is a weekday, holiday, a commuter flight, etc.

It hardly ever snows in Frankfurt very much, but it doesn't mean that it can't if it wants too. :-)

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