We (four sixty-something adults) are beginning to plan a trip for spring 2007. We would like to visit Germany (Rhine River, Bavaria & Liepzig), Prague (possibly Cesky Krumlov, Venice, and a few Italian cities(Padua, Bologna, Ravenna and Cortona). We have three weeks and we'll rent a car in each country. What itinerary would you experienced travelers suggest? Where would you fly into and where would you fly out of? Thank you in advance for your help. Oisa

Probably would fly into Frankfurt (or Cologne or Duesseldorf, if you get a better fares).Get car there, then drive, Rhein as far north as Koblenz. return to Mainza nd follow the Main river, with a possible side trip to Rothenburg from Wuerzburg. Then head Bamberg, Leipzig, Dresden, Prague.

Leave car in garage there, cheaper than renting a car in the Czech Republic. From Prague, drive to Cesky Krumlov, Linz, and visit wherever youn want to go in Austria and Bavaria. Return your car in Germany (probably Munich). Take train to Venice. After your visit there, rent car to do your Italy travels. Return your car in Italy (possibly Bolzano, if you want to visit the Lake district or the Dolomites, Cortina), and take train back to Munich, from there you return to the US on an "open jaw" ticket.

Many car rental companies will allow that the car go into Prague and other eastern countries. Check your agency will allow this trip.

Blackduff

Thank you both for your help. If we are in Italy at the end of our trip, wouldn't it be easier to fly out of Florence or Milan? Or is that far more expensive?

Yes, Florence, Milan, Pisa or Venice make the most sense for your itinerary. The airport at Florence is pretty small.

I agree, if you can get a decently priced flight out of one of the Italian airports back to the States you are obvioulsy better off.