A 12-Day Family Friendly Journey Through Frankfurt, Heidelberg, Cochem, Munich, Salzburg, Austria, and Zurich, Switzerland

  • Day 1: Frankfurt
    0 minutes from City Center

    Welcome to Frankfurt! Begin your journey exploring its stunning architecture at the Römerberg Square. Nearby is St. Bartholomäus’ Cathedral, which houses a vast treasury dating back to the early 14th century. End your first day in Frankfurt with family-friendly fun at the Main Tower Observation Deck.

  • Day 2: Heidelberg
    0 minutes from City Center

    Travel to Heidelberg, to admire the beautiful Heidelberg Castle. Stroll along with the charming Philosopher’s Walk, and snap some memorable family photos with the idyllic views in backdrop.

  • Day 3: Cochem
    240km (150 miles) - 2 hours 30 minutes from Heidelberg

    Take a scenic drive to the fairytale region of Cochem. Visit the astounding Reichsburg Castle and the picturesque Moselle Valley and, if time permits, take a leisurely river cruise, while enjoying the striking landscapes.

  • Day 4-5: Munich
    400km (250 miles) - 4 hours from Cochem

    Head towards Munich, where there’s much to explore, from the notable Marienplatz Square, Nymphenburg Palace, and the renowned English Garden Park. Take a breather and enjoy the view of the Olympic Park from the Olympiaturm. A day trip from Munich to the world-famous Neuschwanstein Castle could also be arranged.

  • Day 6-7: Salzburg, Austria
    148km (92 miles) - 1 hour 30 minutes from Munich

    Cross the border to the charming city of Salzburg, Austria. Take a walking tour around the beautiful Old Town, visit the house of Mozart, and get awestruck by the beautiful baroque architecture of the Salzburg Cathedral and Mirabell Palace. Take a funicular up to the Hohensalzburg Fortress for breathtaking views of the city.

  • Day 8-9: Zurich, Switzerland
    303km (188 miles) - 3 hours from Salzburg

    Enjoy a long but scenic drive towards Zurich, Switzerland. See the famous landmarks, including the Grossmünster Church, Fraumünster Church, and Zurich Zoo – which all have their charm. Breathe in the panoramic view of Zurich from the Uetliberg Mountain or the Polyterrasse terrace.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Römerberg Square (1 hour, free)
  • St. Bartholomäus’ Cathedral (1 hour, €3)
  • Main Tower Observation Deck (2 hours, €7)
  • Heidelberg Castle (2 hours, €8)
  • Philosopher’s Walk (1 hour, free)
  • Reichsburg Castle (2 hours, €10)
  • Moselle Valley (2 hours, free)
  • Marienplatz Square (2 hours, free)
  • Nymphenburg Palace (2 hours, €13)
  • English Garden Park (3 hours, free)
  • Olympiaturm (1 hour, €8)
  • Neuschwanstein Castle (4 hours, €14)
  • Old Town Salzburg (2 hours, free)
  • Mozart’s Birthplace (1 hour, €11)
  • Salzburg Cathedral (1 hour, free)
  • Mirabell Palace (2 hours, €4)
  • Hohensalzburg Fortress (3 hours, €15)
  • Grossmünster Church (1 hour, free)
  • Fraumünster Church (1 hour, free)
  • Zurich Zoo (3 hours, €26)
  • Uetliberg Mountain (3 hours, €13)
  • Polyterrasse (1 hour, free)

  • Total Estimated Costs: €145

Transportation

Consider renting a car to make the most of your family-friendly journey, particularly when driving between cozy towns and villages. Domestic flights are also an option. Flights between Munich (MUC) and Salzburg (SZG) can be found for €60-€80 per person one way, and a train ticket from Salzburg to Zurich costs around €30-€40 per person. Keep in mind that parking fees can get expensive particularly in the city centers.

Useful Tips

If you have a few days left, consider visiting the magical Black Forest region, Freiburg or Stuttgart. If you have more time, consider adding Berlin to your itinerary.

Airports

You can fly directly into Frankfurt International Airport (FRA), Munich International Airport (MUC), or Zurich International Airport (ZRH). Frankfurt and Zurich airports are both less than 30 minutes from their city centers, while the Munich International Airport is about 30 minutes from Munich city center.

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