by rtsyrtsy » Tue Jan 06, 2015 10:45 pm
I will not answer the question on how to pack Europe into a couple of weeks. I think that you risk having a very rushed and superficial experience of the old world. You can certainly do it. If I were to do something like this, I would read and prepare a lot beforehand.
However, 2 weeks is more than decent time for 2-3 cities. Again, this is personal opinion as we prefer a more relaxed pace, we prefer to linger in spots we like, we do not mind getting aimlessly lost in some unesco world heritage site old town in case we are unable to execute flawlessly on our itinerary. Speaking of itineraries, check out Frommer's suggested itinerary. It is always my first stop when planning a trip.
I lived in Switzerland. Yes, it is not cheap especially given how strong the franc is. But it is certainly doable. We avoid eating in sit down restaurants. We'd buy French bread or croissants at the corner boulangerie, sausages and cheese on sale at a Migros or Coop, and we're good. Though it is one of those places that scan be seen on a shoestring. Lots of the attractions are not paid--hiking in the alps/glaciers, walking along the awesome lakes, cycling in the vineyards, etc.
Other places like Portugal, Spain, Italy Are easier to visit on a shoestring. If i am not ready for Switzerland, I will save it for till I am so I can experience it's true majesty! The cost of those trains, funiculars, cable sr's, add up pretty quickly. But how can I miss those gorgeous mountain passes? How can I not sit down for a raclette or fondue? And one of my greatest frustrations--why did I not bring home a real cuckoo clock?
Depending on the time of year you are going, some sights are a must, like the tulip blooms in the Netherlands during Spring.
Bon voyage!