Cesky Krumlov / Hallstatt / Salzburg
 

From Vienna to Prague, I'm thinking to visit one of these: Cesky Krumlov / Hallstatt / Salzburg

Which one is your favorite and recommend? And why...

Thanks

How many days are we talking about? Geographically, Cesky Krumlov makes the most sense (personally, I haven't been there) but without knowing how long you have it's difficult to say.

Salzburg and Hallstatt are both worth a visit, but to compare them is apples and oranges, and not an either/or decision.

Driving or taking the train - makes a difference too.

If a short visit C Krumlov is small enough to be appreciated in a few hours if need be as the town itself is the lure.

The others would require much more time to fully appreciate, especially Salzburg.

There really isn't much at Hallstatt. My favorite town in the region is St Gilgin.

>>There really isn't much at Hallstatt<<

True, just that glorious lake... nothin to see, folks.

Nothing much to see in Hallstatt but its awesome setting but it is a great base for excursions into the high Alps surrounding it - salt mine tours too.

I just spent a day and night there and it is one of my real highlights of European travels - just the spectacular setting if nothing else.

Based on your previous posts, presumably you will be doing this itinerary by train/bus rather than hired vehicle? And your travel time is still November/December? Is it your intention to stop over for a night (or more), or just visit while passing through? Look at the train schedules to help determine the most realistic option, taking into consideration, as well, the shorter daylight and less chance for "optimal" weather.

Having been to Cesky Krumlov as a day trip on both a gray and cold April day, and as an overnight on a sunny and warm August weekend, I found I enjoyed CK more the second time around.

Hallstatt in inclement weather is pointless. The magic and beauty of the teeny tiny village is its setting on the lake, surrounded by massifs and trimmed with blue sky. We live in Vienna, and waited almost four years for the "perfect" overnight, which happened in June. The village was choked with tourists during the day, but when we emerged after an afternoon pause from the balcony of our lakeside hotel at 1700, to rent a boat and enjoy the village before dinner, we felt as if we had the village all to ourselves.

Salzburg around the holidays is a treat. The numerous markets and their twinkling lights lend a merry feeling to a visit, even if the weather is not so grand.

If you are just thinking of "passing through," Cesky Krumlov will fit the bill. The town should have its markets up during your visit as a bonus. Personally, I would skip Hallstatt on this itinerary. If you're thinking of an overnight or two, you will enjoy Salzburg.

I hope this is helpful.

Dear fourfortravel and all,

Yes, i have include Berlin, Prague, Vienna and Budapest in my full 15 days. Will be travelling mostly by train.

Planning to include another small town or city into this region.
If i can put one of the German castle into the list, that would be great. Any suggestion?

Yes, i have include Berlin, Prague, Vienna and Budapest in my full 15 days. Will be travelling mostly by train.>

If also training to Hallstatt and C Krumlov, etc investigate the European East Railpass, good in Hungary, POland, Slovakia, Czech Republic and Austria. Vs full fare tickets a good deal perhaps and gives you complete flexibility to virtually hop any train anytime - discounted tickets or buses will be cheaper no doubt overall than the pass.