Interlaken vs. Innsbruck

[greeneyes]

Hi guys,

I've pretty much got my basic itinerary planned out but now I'm having second thoughts about one section. After Venice I had planned on taking the train into Switzerland to stay in Interlaken for a few days (for some relaxation, hiking, scenery, etc) before heading on to Munich and then Salzburg/Vienna. I had a few concerns about the time spent traveling into Switzerland and whether it was worth it for only 2 days (in terms of money as well). I remember reading about Innsbruck in the Tirol region of Austria being very scenic as well and I was wondering if I should switch my itinerary around and leave Switzerland out in order to save money and time. Is there much to do in Innsbruck .. hiking and such? I know this sort of question is pretty much up to personal preference but any advice would be appreciated.

Thank you!

[madamtrashheap]

If you are staying in Interlaken/the region for the full two days, then it's worth the day's journey there (and back) however if Innsbruck fits into your itinerary better in terms of time, location and money then it's a very good substitute. The town is small enough to explore in a day and the Tirol valley offers lots of activities (hiking, mountain biking, rafting). It is up to personal preference, and it would be great to fit both in, but you need to look at your schedule and make the decision from there too.

Good luck!

[herrbert]

I think Innsbruck makes a good alternative for Interlaken. As the Madam already explained you can see the town, in basicly one day.

As for hiking: you could take a cable-car in the town itself, and make it to the Hafelekar (beautiful views of the city) and use one of the stations as a startingpoint for a good hike. If you don't want to pay for the cablecar, you will find enough other routes, that start from the city.