Chris would love to know how the car train works for you & the cost. That really cuts out the boring bits.
Same here John; will look forward to hearing how Chris gets on.
Calais to Düsseldorf is just over four hours - where as Calais to Innsbruck is circa 11 (without fuel / breaks).
I've done this route many times over the past three decades and generally go via France towards Strasbourg, before heading back into Germany for the last stretch to Austria. Whilst I used to enjoy the German Autobahn, now, and in particular, this route, seems to have constant 'improvement' projects, that feel never ending and play havoc with the traffic (Pforzheim to Munich getting a particular mention).
Missing out that section alone, would be welcome; whilst I've never taken the train, I've spoken with Austrian / Dutch / German colleagues who have and they felt it was worthwhile. Thus, Chris's feedback will be very interesting.
Have a great holiday Chris.
