Why? Unless you’re planning to visit places that are inaccessible by train a car will be a bit of a hassle. Fuel is expensive, and the logistics of parking should you visit Venice & Florence will complicate things.

Driving on the Autobahn is one of the things on my to do list. Plus I think renting will offer more freedom. I have heard of parking garages in Venice…I dont know how expensive they are. I certainly agree fuel is very expensive. You think we should do rail?
I am not sure how rail would be cost wise etc.

Definitely travel by rail. What I am about to say might be considered blasphemous to some, but the Autobahn is just a freeway, nothing more. Plus, it’s better for the environment.

I agree, the Autobahn is nothing special, really. Some parts of it let you drive super fast, but most parts have a speed limit, and there are a lot of traffic jams too. It is definitely better than our highway system, but still it’s only a highway in the end, and getting around via rail is faster and easier.

ok guys you all have convinced me to take the train.

I think you have too many sites to see in the few days you will be there. I would omit Venice and stick to Germany and Switzerland.

As to transportation, the economics favor public transportation over car rental for a single traveler in almost every case, but with two of you that might change; you should compare train costs for two with rental (including gas, parking, tolls, rental fee) for one, since the second person costs no more when you rent a car. I’ve not rented in Germany, but I think its fair to say that in a rental car you probably will not be in the high speed lanes on the Autobahn. In Switzerland, you have to have a sticker to drive on the highways (but not the secondary roads where all the scenery is) so if you rent, be sure that the rental company has that sticker on the car, or you’ll have to buy one yourself. Also, look into rules of the road, as they differ in some aspects from those in the US. Many Americans have no idea how a traffic circle works, for example, and those of us who are used to driving in the passing lane will have a rude awakening.

I’ve driven Europe a few times and actually prefer cars over trains. Yeah driving a car can be more expensive, but also gives you a lot more freedom (you’re not tied to train schedules) and you can get off the beaten track easier. Also you’re only travelling for 9 days so driving won’t bankrupt you. Driving on the Autobahn may be fun if you’re behind the wheel of a Porsche, not so great if driving a rented Fiat.