Help plotting out a route: 30 days Germany and Poland
 

Hi there! I'm planning the Germany and Poland portion of a 4 month European journey with my family. (We'd also like to visit Salzburg..and possibly Vienna if there is time) I have 31 days. I'll be leaving out of Venice, Italy and need to be in Hamburg, Germany the day before we depart for a 12 night cruise to Norway.

It is myself, my husband, and our two teens: 15 and 17.

Our interests include: Berlin, Rothenberg and the Romantic Road, Munich, Bavaria, Rhine and Mosul Rivers (villages and castles), Salzburg, Austria; and we must get to Krakow and Auschwitz. My husband really wants to get to Baaden Baaden as well.

In terms of transportation to Krakow, Frankfurt has 5 or 6 90 minute nonstop flights daily to Krakow..so that appears to be the quickest way for that part. Although I still have PTSD from trying to get through Frankfurt airport last week...but I digress...LOL

Hubby and boys are very interested in WW2 history. My daughter and love to shop. I intend to buy a clock and visit the Christmas shops. Hubby and I also want to stroll, relax, enjoy quaint towns..eat, drink etc.

We are wondering if you could recommend the best route to take ? We are not opposed to driving in Germany, nor are we opposed to trains and flying. :) Whatever makes the most sense and is most efficient.

Thank you!

For your interests in Germany a car is best IMO - Rhine and Mosel areas especially and do more than a day or two - the Mosel Valley is one of the mostscenic valleys in Europe - Rhine one of most dramatic and though trains can take you to key points a car is much better IMO.

You may want to take trains to Venice - returning car in Germany and taking trains Vienna-Salzburg-Venice - really nice scenery on day trains. Book long-distance trains well in advance at get nifty discounted fares - www.seat61.com has superb tips on doing this yourselves online - general train info BETS-European Rail Experts and www.ricksteves.com.

Nurnberg is a big venue for WW2 relics in its Nazi Parade Grounds with stadiums, museum, etc just south of Nurnberg by S-Bahn train - Berlin of course is loaded too.