We have been to Europe on several occasions and have enjoyed The Netherlands, Germany, Austria and Switzerland. It has been a bit of time since we've been and our trip books are in storage 1500 miles away, but I can make the following recommendation.
Berchtesgaden ("gateway to the mountains") in the southeastern part of Germany, quite close to Austria, is absolutely beautiful. While there, we stayed at Haus Geiger, a beautiful centuries old family owned hotel, where we were treated so very well.
From here, we took the southern root just down the road into Austria and then more northerly to Salzburg. On the way, we stopped at Hellbrunn Palace, once the palace of the Archbishop of Salzberg. This place is a must to see, as the Archbishop was very fond of "water toys." Watch out! You might get squirted!
In the same vicinity, we visited the salt mines, (which are not in Salzberg proper). These were originally dug by the Celts, then took over by the Romans who improved them. When you enter the mines, you put on a white jumpsuit which protects your clothing from the salt. Then you're given a gunny sack. I wondered about this, until we came to a number of long linden slides: this is how the miners got from one level to the next. There are beautiful crystaline structures to see and unbelievably clear underground lakes, along with friendly lectures on the history of the mines and the area.
Salzburg itself was wonderful. Many churches with wonderful architecture and, when we were there, two were being excavated and we were able to view roman mosaic floors. Do take in the catacombs, where early Christians had to hide to worship. And take the tram up to the fortified castle. There is much music offered in the city. Look for daily postings of Mozart and other Classical composer programs.
We did make it down into Innsbruk, only to stay half a day for two reasons: it was fogged in really bad, so we couldn't see a thing; and, the city was actually dirty, which was unlike any European city we had been in. There are many Italians who live in Innsbruk, so if you speak Italian, you'll do well there.
I can second the comment on prices in Switzerland: outlandish. The first night we were in Schaffhausen in northern Switzerland. We went to a restaurant and ordered 1 medium pizza and 3 garden salads, as there were 3 of us. The tally was $78.00 and that was in 1992. I can't imagine what it is now, with the dollar doing so poorly.
Please do make your reservations NOW, expecially in Switzerland, as that country is a "convention country," plus has many international political meetings going on, we were told. We ended up staying in places that we normally wouldn't and in one instance, had to share a large room with 3 Italian guys. That was not my idea of fun. And we made our reservations months in advance. I'd stay out of large cities and head into smaller towns.
Good luck and have a great time!
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