Collecting advice for my tour on Europe.
 

So, to continue with my post about renting a bike in Germany,
I merely decided where to visit during tour.

Until now, I'm thinking...

Germany (Berlin, Frankfurt, Munchen, Fussen, Dresden)
Czech Republic (Prague)
Austria (Lucerne, Zermatt)
Italy (Venezia, Firenze)

I know what u guys are thinking, "Why the hack does this guy want to visit Venezia with bike?" So, I'm planning to return bike before I arrive at Venezia.

Anyways, With those informations I've chatted, here's some questions I have.

1. Which country should I start with and end? I'll fly to Europe from ROK (Rebulic of Korea)

2. I only speak Korean, Japanese, and English. (Well, A bit of German, but I speak bearly like a kid from Kindergarden.) Would Czech, Austria, and Italy would be comfortable with speaking English?

3. Lastly, If u guys have some recommendations about tour spots not listed
above, plz tell me.

I think you confused Austria with Switzerland :biggrin:

It depends what you would like to focus on: historical sites, mountains, country side?

First, don't rent from Switzerland. It will be more expensive.

Germany or France or Austria will be more attractive from a cost point of view.

Possibly, arriving in Germany and renting there. Then, make an Alps tour in Austria and some of the mythical passes in Switzerland. Also the entire Austria-Italian alpine section by the border is stunning. Depending on how much time you have, make a loop via Slovakia?

For really good historical places, you could consider the Loire valley in france which has a nice castle collection and worth a look. If you are into gastronomy, then the Bourgogne area is well worth a look , and you could drive through the Vosges area.

To go to Venice, the best way is by far the train. It is cheap and will get you there in time.

In Venice, there are plenty of crooks waiting for tourists. So be cautious and agree on the prices beforehand.

Good luck and let me know if you have any additional questions.

I haven't been to Venice in ages but it's nice to know nothing has changed. :rolleyes2:

swk - How long are you in Europe for? Many of the cities you listed are on the list of those my daughter visited last summer and she did it all by train over about six weeks. If you're looking at "city break" travel - i.e. mainly going from city to city I'd suggest looking at rail travel. A lot less trouble (and probably cheaper) than bike (or car) rental.

Yup, I've found that travelling in trail rather than bike or any vehicle is much cheaper. I guess I'll travel in foot or trail this time. LOL

I don't think you can take a motorized vehicle into Zermatt. Pretty sure you have to get a train in from outside somewhere. Look into it, I was going to stay there last year and didn't fancy parking my Hayabusa and leaving it unattended for 2 days.

Have you checked up on requirements for entry to the Schengen zone - time allowed, visa required. Depends on what passport you carry.

I can confirm that you need to take a train up the hill.. Besides Zermatt is very expensive to stay! You however could also do a nice hike up to Zermatt (just follow the trails).

If you're looking for dramatic views on the Matterhorn, a lot of places in the vicinity will do just fine. I would recommend VerBier. IMO the roads up to Verbeir or Grimentz are alot more exciting than the one going to Zermatt.

And please note you are not visiting Austria but Switzerland! So you will have to buy a sticker costing 40 euros to be able to use highways (easy to get at the border). Bear in mind, these guys are Swiss, they seem to know when you didnt buy one!

Prague is nice, but perhaps try to stay only 2 days in the city centre (cheap place for beers, accommodation) and explore the surroundings.

People in Europe all tend to speak English, although the French sometimes do not feel to eager.. The countries you visit and the places youre going to, will be no problem.

Looking at your list of places, perhaps taking other means of transport would be more appropriate (think city parking, taking your gear everywhere).

Have a look at interrail