8 Lesser-Known Swiss Villages and Towns near Lake Lucerne to Include in Your Trip to Switzerland

Big cities grab the spotlight, but Switzerland’s heart beats in its quiet lakeside towns and mountain villages. Just beyond the city limits, there’s a richness of culture, scenery, and tradition waiting to be explored.In this episode, I’m joined once again by Celine Deplazes from Lucerne Tourism to take you on a journey through some of the most beautiful boutique towns surrounding Lake Lucerne.We explore hidden gems like Brunnen, Beckenried, and Sörenberg, where you'll find everything from lakeside serenity to immersive outdoor activities. Celine shares local tips, accommodation recommendations, and authentic experiences that offer something a little different from the well-trodden tourist path.You’ll also learn how easy it is to visit these towns thanks to excellent public transport in Switzerland and of course, the Swiss Travel Pass makes getting around even simpler. We’ll touch on incredible excursions to Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi, and dive into some truly unique cultural experiences like glass-blowing in Hergiswil and exploring traditional craftsmanship in Stans, Switzerland.If you're dreaming of scenic boat rides, mountain hikes, and postcard-worthy villages, this episode will give you plenty of inspiration for your Swiss itinerary.Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 157🇨🇭 Get free travel days with the Swiss Travel Pass and take advantage of more exclusive Switzerland trip discounts📖 Free Switzerland Trip Planning Starter Kit and Guide - Get your copy here🎙️ Tell us what you love about the podcast by leaving a voice messageWhere to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:•On our website•Subscribe to our newsletter•Join our private Facebook group•On our YouTube channelSupport the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

Switzerland has something for everyone, but figuring out how to fit it all in when you're traveling with family can get tricky. From mountain adventures to quiet lake days, it’s all about finding the right balance for every age and interest.In this episode, I’m joined by Samantha Russell, who shares how she crafted the ultimate family vacation that blended outdoor adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable cultural experiences across Switzerland.From gliding through the skies with paragliding Switzerland to, Samantha walks us through her 10-day itinerary that included alpine villages, lakeside strolls, one of the best hikes in Switzerland and some of the most beautiful scenic train rides in the country. Her family explored destinations like Wengen, Lucerne, and Lugano, making the most of every moment thanks to thoughtful itinerary planning and flexible travel options using the Swiss rail pass.We also dive into how her group celebrated Swiss National Day, made the most of a rainy day with Lucerne sightseeing, and tackled multi-generational needs with ease. If you’re dreaming of a vacation in Switzerland filled with playground stops, relaxing lake views, and memorable moments paragliding, Switzerland offers all this and more.Whether you're looking for Switzerland travel tips or ideas for hiking in Switzerland with kids in tow, this episode is packed with real-life inspiration that will help you plan an unforgettable family escape. Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 156🇨🇭 Get free travel days with the Swiss Travel Pass and take advantage of more exclusive Switzerland trip discounts📖 Free Switzerland Trip Planning Starter Kit and Guide - Get your copy here🎙️ Tell us what you love about the podcast by leaving a voice messageWhere to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:•On our website•Subscribe to our newsletter•Join our private Facebook group•On our YouTube channelSupport the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

With its snow-capped peaks, alpine villages, and turquoise lakes, the Jungfrau Region is one of the most magical corners of Switzerland. In this episode, I’m sharing a well-paced, three-day Swiss itinerary designed for first-time visitors who want to experience the highlights without feeling rushed, from epic mountain excursions to peaceful lakeside moments.I take you through unforgettable experiences like riding the cogwheel train to Jungfraujoch, often called the Top of Europe, exploring the charming car-free village of Murren, and standing in awe at the summit of Schilthorn. You'll also get my insider travel tips for navigating the region efficiently with a Swiss rail pass, including how to make the most of Switzerland cable cars and train connections.You’ll hear about stunning lake cruises on both Lake Brienz and Lake Thun, must-see stops like the powerful Trümmelbach Falls, and gentle hikes such as the alpine lake hike to Bachalpsee at Grindelwald First. For those looking for classic things to do in Interlaken, don’t miss the panoramic views from Harder Kulm or the charming Lauterbrunnen waterfalls.Planning a quick getaway or a longer Swiss vacation? This episode will help you choose the right experiences in the Jungfrau Region, stay on schedule, and enjoy every moment of your journey whether you travel Switzerland by train or car.Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 155🇨🇭 Get free travel days with the Swiss Travel Pass and take advantage of more exclusive Switzerland trip discounts📖 Free Switzerland Trip Planning Starter Kit and Guide - Get your copy here🎙️ Tell us what you love about the podcast by leaving a voice messageWhere to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:•On our website•Subscribe to our newsletter•Join our private Facebook group•On our YouTube channelSupport the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

Are you dreaming of a trip to Switzerland but unsure where to start? Whether you're drawn to the majestic peaks or scenic towns, there's no better way to explore this beautiful country than by train. But with so many choices for itinerary planning, it can feel overwhelming to know where to go and how to get there. That’s why in today’s episode, I’m excited to share all the reasons why the Swiss Travel Pass is a game-changer for anyone wanting to experience Switzerland on their own terms.I’m joined by solo traveler Karen Langballe, who just returned from her very first Swiss adventure. Karen’s journey is full of insightful Switzerland travel tips, and she’s here to talk about how she made the most of her rail pass. From exploring Appenzell’s traditional charm to hiking in the peaceful alpine village of Belalp, Karen shares how she used the Swiss Travel Pass to explore the country’s best-known spots and hidden gems via Swiss panoramic trains.Karen walks us through her entire itinerary, offering tips for solo travelers, how to make the most of train travel, and why having flexibility in your plans is so important. If you're looking for inspiration on how to design your own trip, whether it’s visiting iconic destinations or discovering off the beaten path Switzerland, this episode is packed with great advice!If you’ve ever wondered how to make the most of your rail pass or are looking for new Swiss vacation ideas, this episode is for you! Tune in for some inspiring travel planning advice, plus a few surprises along the way.Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 154🇨🇭 Get 5% off your Swiss rail vacation and take advantage of more exclusive Switzerland trip discounts📖 Free Switzerland Trip Planning Starter Kit and Guide - Get your copy here🎙️ Tell us what you love about the podcast by leaving a voice messageWhere to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:•On our website•Subscribe to our newsletter•Join our private Facebook group•On our YouTube channelSupport the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

If Lucerne is on your Swiss itinerary, you’re probably planning to see iconic sights like Chapel Bridge and the Lion Monument. But what if you could go deeper, beyond the tourist trail and connect with authentic Swiss culture through immersive, hands-on experiences?In this episode, we're joined by Celine Deplazes from the Lucerne Tourism Board to explore some of the most unique and memorable things to do in the region. From artisan Swiss cheese making in the mountain village of Marbach to creating your own bar of Swiss chocolate just minutes from the city center, Celine introduces us to unforgettable ways to experience Swiss traditions firsthand.We also dive into outdoor adventures like a scenic Mount Pilatus hike, relaxing lakeside bike tours, and authentic Swiss barbecues with jaw-dropping alpine views. Whether you're traveling solo, with a partner, or planning a family-friendly trip to Switzerland, this episode is full of inspiration.Celine also shares practical tips for getting around by public transport, supporting sustainable tourism, and discovering hidden gems in rural Switzerland. If you’re looking for culturally rich things to do in Lucerne, or want to combine leisure with learning, don’t miss this insider’s guide to Lucerne travel at its most authentic.Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 153🇨🇭 Get free travel days with the Swiss Travel Pass and take advantage of more exclusive Switzerland trip discounts📖 Free Switzerland Trip Planning Starter Kit and Guide - Get your copy here🎙️ Tell us what you love about the podcast by leaving a voice messageWhere to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:•On our website•Subscribe to our newsletter•Join our private Facebook group•On our YouTube channelSupport the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

Want to make the most of your trip to Switzerland during the autumn and winter season?This episode is packed with everything you need to know about an exciting new Swiss Travel Pass promotion that's perfect for travel in Switzerland in autumn or Switzerland in winter. Whether you're dreaming of scenic train rides, snow-covered landscapes, or cozy village strolls, now’s the time to take advantage of extra travel deals in Switzerland.I break down how to claim your bonus days with the first-class Swiss Travel Pass, plus what makes it such great value, from unlimited public transport to free access to Swiss museums, three free mountain excursions, and more. You’ll also learn why first class travel is a smart choice during the off-season.We’ll cover what to do with your pass, including visiting iconic places like Mt. Rigi and Lake Lucerne, riding the Stoos funicular, and enjoying a journey on the famous Glacier Express. I’ll also share what’s open and running this time of year, from Christmas markets in Switzerland to panoramic trains, thermal spas, and scenic hikes.And if you’re traveling with kids, I explain how the Swiss Family Card gives your children free travel. Whether you're into castles, cheese, or hiking in Switzerland, this pass makes your holiday planning much simpler.Tune in for expert tips on choosing between Swiss rail passes, buying Swiss train tickets, and making the most of your Swiss adventure, all before prices go up in 2026!Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 152🇨🇭 Get free travel days with the Swiss Travel Pass and take advantage of more exclusive Switzerland trip discounts📖 Free Switzerland Trip Planning Starter Kit and Guide - Get your copy here🎙️ Tell us what you love about the podcast by leaving a voice messageWhere to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:•On our website•Subscribe to our newsletter•Join our private Facebook group•On our YouTube channelSupport the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

If Jungfraujoch is on your bucket list, you’re in for a treat. This is one of those once-in-a-lifetime places that truly lives up to the hype. You’ll find panoramic views, crisp alpine air, and postcard-perfect scenery around every corner. But knowing how to get there, which trains to take, and how to avoid the crowds? That part can be tricky.In this on-location episode, we’ll take you on a tour through the heart of the Jungfrau Region with Daniel Bott from Jungfrau Railways as our guide. We ride the Jungfrau cogwheel train from Kleine Scheidegg to Eiger Glacier, before descending to Grindelwald aboard the sleek and modern Eiger Express. It’s all part of the famous route to Jungfraujoch, the Top of Europe, one of the most breathtaking mountain excursions in Switzerland.As we explore, Daniel shares expert tips on seat reservations, the discounts available to Jungfrau Travel Pass and Swiss Travel Pass holders, and what visitors need to know when traveling from Interlaken to Jungfraujoch. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at real-time logistics and learn how to plan with confidence.We also cover the best times to visit, where to stop for the most scenic views, and how to enjoy everything from year-round snow activities to unforgettable hiking in Switzerland.If you're building your Swiss itinerary or dreaming up the perfect trip to Switzerland, this episode is packed with the insights you need to travel to Jungfraujoch like a pro.Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 151🇨🇭 See all the benefits of the Jungfrau Travel Pass and take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland trip discounts📖 Free Switzerland Trip Planning Starter Kit and Guide - Get your copy here🎙️ Tell us what you love about the podcast by leaving a voice messageWhere to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:•On our website•Subscribe to our newsletter•Join our private Facebook group•On our YouTube channelSupport the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

Thinking about a ski trip to Switzerland but overwhelmed by the planning? Not sure which Switzerland ski resort is right for your skill level or if it’s even worth it for non-skiers to tag along? Wondering how to manage ski lift passes, ski gear rental, or transportation across the Swiss Alps?There’s good news! Planning a winter trip to Switzerland can be easy, fun, and totally worth it - even if you’ve never skied before.Whether you're a beginner, intermediate, or seasoned skier, this episode has you covered. You'll hear from Andrea Caspani of My Mountains, a ski expert with over 20 years of experience and insider knowledge of top Swiss Alps skiing destinations like Grindelwald-First, Kleine Scheidegg, Zermatt, St. Moritz, Engelberg, Davos, and more.Andrea shares expert advice on choosing the right resort based on your skill level, what to expect when renting gear, and key beginner ski tips. He also explains how Epic Pass and Ikon Pass holders can use their passes across multiple resorts.From breathtaking train journeys like the Glacier Express to unforgettable ski runs, this episode gives you everything you need to craft a seamless Swiss itinerary including insight into the best time to ski Switzerland.Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 150🇨🇭 Get 5% off your Switzerland ski trip by using our promo code HTSWISS - Get all the details📖 Free Switzerland Trip Planning Starter Kit and Guide - Get your copy here🎙️ Tell us what you love about the podcast by leaving a voice messageWhere to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:•On our website•Subscribe to our newsletter•Join our private Facebook group•On our YouTube channelSupport the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

Planning a trip to Switzerland? Don’t miss this deep dive into the country’s most beloved Swiss festivals! From winter to autumn, Switzerland celebrates its rich heritage with vibrant events that bring locals and travelers together.In this episode, Kathrin Spinnler returns to the show to guide us through the colorful calendar of Swiss celebrations. We chat about Bern’s iconic Zibelemärit, or Onion Festival, where confetti, onion tarts, and quirky traditions take over the city. You'll also learn about Carnival Switzerland, locally known as Fasnacht, with its wild masks, brass bands, and festive Glühwein.Explore Zurich’s springtime Sechseläuten festival and the fiery fate of the Böögg, then fast-forward to summer for cow parades, cow fighting, and the patriotic pride of Swiss National Day. We also highlight the charm of Christmas markets, the sweet traditions of St. Nicholas Day, and the homemade joy of Swiss Christmas cookies.Plus, discover Swiss Easter traditions, cozy cheese festivals, rich Swiss wine, and events that showcase traditional costumes, yodeling, and more. Whether you love cultural immersion or simply great food, these Swiss festivals are a must for your itinerary!Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 149🇨🇭 Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland trip discounts📖 Free Switzerland Trip Planning Starter Kit and Guide - Get your copy here🎙️ Tell us what you love about the podcast by leaving a voice messageWhere to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:•On our website•Subscribe to our newsletter•Join our private Facebook group•On our YouTube channelSupport the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

Planning a trip to Switzerland and wondering how to make the most of its world-class rail network? If you’re dreaming of exploring lakeside towns, or riding the iconic Swiss panoramic trains, this episode will help you feel fully prepared.In this episode, I’m sharing everything you need to know about Switzerland rail travel. Whether you’re riding sleek Swiss trains between major cities or heading up to the Alps on one of the famous mountain trains Switzerland is known for, you’ll get clear, practical advice for a stress-free journey.You’ll learn how the SBB mobile app can simplify your planning, when seat reservations are required, and how to decide between first class Swiss trains and second class. I’ll also share my favorite Swiss travel tips for navigating stations, spotting the best scenic train routes, and making connections without feeling rushed. We’ll cover everything from packing smart to following train etiquette, and even when to seek out a quiet carriage for a more peaceful ride.Whether you’re planning to buy tickets on the go or travelling with one of the numerous Swiss rail passes that are available, this episode will give you a toolkit of train travel tips that will make exploring Switzerland by rail as enjoyable as the destinations themselves.Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 148🇨🇭 Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland trip discounts📖 Free Switzerland Trip Planning Starter Kit and Guide - Get your copy here🎙️ Tell us what you love about the podcast by leaving a voice messageWhere to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:•On our website•Subscribe to our newsletter•Join our private Facebook group•On our YouTube channelSupport the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️