What to See and Do in Lucerne, Switzerland (including a Hidden Gem!)

Are you trying to decide where to stay in the Jungfrau Region for your upcoming trip to Switzerland? With so many charming Swiss villages to choose from, it can feel overwhelming to pick the right base. In this episode, we simplify that choice and help you find the location that best suits your travel plans.I'm joined by local expert James Wilson, a resident of Wengen, who brings years of firsthand experience in the Bernese Oberland. Together, we explore five of the most popular destinations in the region: Interlaken, Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, and Mürren. You'll get clear, honest insights into what makes each village unique and who it's best suited for.We cover the key differences between each town in the Jungfrau Region, from the vibrant hub of Interlaken to the quiet charm of Mürren. You’ll hear which places are best for stunning views, easy access to transportation, or a more tranquil stay. We also share our personal recommendations for hotels and accommodation, and where to eat. The episode highlights popular day trips, scenic rail routes, and top-rated Swiss mountain excursions, plus helpful advice for those interested in hiking in the Jungfrau Region. You'll also get practical Swiss travel tips, including when to book your stay, what to expect once you're there and why you should consider purchasing a Swiss rail pass.If you're planning a Switzerland travel experience that includes majestic scenery, efficient transportation, and unforgettable excursions like a Lake Brienz cruise, this episode is a must-listen. Let us guide you to the perfect spot to call home for your stay in the heart of the Alps.Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 133🚞 Get your Swiss rail pass here📖 Free guide 21 useful things to know before you visit Switzerland - 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🇨🇭 Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland trip discounts.Support the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

Don’t leave your sightseeing in Lucerne, Switzerland to chance!  Join me in this episode as my guest, Celine Deplazes takes us on a Lucerne city tour.  Celine shares some of the top things to do in Lucerne which include visiting the Chapel Bridge, Water Tower, Old Town and the Lion Monument, and she tells us why a cruise on Lake Lucerne is a great idea.There are plenty of interesting stories shared, too.  You’ll learn why many of the buildings in Lucerne’s Old Town have painted facades, where to enjoy the local specialty, Lucerne puff pastry, and which restaurant pipes its beer directly from a local brewery.As well as the most popular attractions, there are some hidden gems that Celine recommends you add to your must-see in Lucerne list, too.  You’ll discover what they are and how to get there, in this episode.Tune in to discover what to see and do in Lucerne even if you’re short on time. Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 132📖 Free guide 21 useful things to know before you visit Switzerland - Get your copy hereWhere to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:•On our website•Subscribe to our newsletter•Join our private Facebook group•On our YouTube channel🇨🇭 Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland travel discounts.Support the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

Most people think all cable cars in Switzerland offer the same experience. They don’t. The ride to the Schilthorn is one of a kind, both for its engineering and the views at the top and that’s what we’re going to talk about today.In this episode, I’m joined once again by Alan Ramsay from Schilthorn Cableway Ltd to talk about the major upgrades to one of the most iconic mountain excursions in Switzerland, the Schilthorn cable car.You’ve probably heard of Schilthorn, Switzerland, especially if you’re a James Bond fan. But there’s a lot more to this Bernese Oberland peak than just movie trivia. From the upgraded cable cars - one of which is the steepest in the world - to the Skyline Walk, the cliff-hugging Thrill Walk Switzerland, and the revolving restaurant at Piz Gloria, there’s a lot more to experience at the Schilthorn.We cover everything you need to know to plan your trip. You’ll learn how the upgraded cableway system works, what to expect at each stop along the route, and how to reach the summit from the Lauterbrunnen Valley. We also talk about what it’s like to walk on the Skyline and Thrill Walks, how to reserve a table at the Piz Gloria revolving restaurant, and what to do in Mürren and Birg along the way. If you’re using a Swiss Travel Pass or a Bernese Oberland Pass, we explain how the pricing and discounts work. Alan also shares tips for anyone who might be nervous about riding in Swiss cable cars.Planning a trip to Schilthorn, Switzerland? This episode has everything you need to know before you go.Join us for the full episode and get a complete picture of what makes the Schilthorn worth the visit.Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 131🚞 Get your Swiss Travel Pass or Berner Oberland Pass here📖 Free guide 21 useful things to know before you visit Switzerland - Get your copy hereWhere to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:•On our website•Subscribe to our newsletter•Join our private Facebook group🇨🇭 Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland trip discounts.Support the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

Planning an excursion to Mt. Pilatus from Lucerne? This episode is for you!I’m joined by Manuela Blapp, live from Mt. Pilatus, to learn all about what makes this a must-visit mountain.  Manuela tells us about the Mt. Pilatus Golden Round Trip which includes a ride on the Mt. Pilatus cogwheel train, the steepest cogwheel train in the world.She also shares details about the different activities you can enjoy on the mountain, options for staying overnight, and important information about purchasing Mt. Pilatus tickets and the discounts that are available. Manuela also takes us on a ride on the Mt. Pilatus cable car known as the Dragon Ride, which connects the middle station Fräkmüntegg with the summit.  She shares plenty of fun facts and interesting anecdotes about the mountain, too.If you’ve been wondering how to get to Mt. Pilatus from Lucerne, and what to do when you arrive, this episode has all the answers.Tune in now and start planning your visit to Mount Pilatus.Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 130📖 Free guide 21 useful things to know before you visit Switzerland - Get your copy here🎟️ Buy your Swiss Travel Pass here Where to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:•On our website•Subscribe to our newsletter•Join our private Facebook group•On our YouTube channel🇨🇭 Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland travel discounts.Support the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

If you're planning a family vacation in Switzerland, this episode is tailor-made for you! Join me as I chat with Hana Hurabova to discover favorite outdoor activities that make Switzerland a perfect destination for families.We explore a range of exciting activities to keep your kids entertained, from Alpine playgrounds and themed hiking trails to adrenaline-pumping scooter rides and rodelbahns, Switzerland has them all. You’ll also learn about other activities in Switzerland, like marble runs in the Bernese Oberland and intriguing treasure hunts in cities.And if you’re not traveling to Switzerland with kids, don't worry—these activities are just as enjoyable for adults, offering opportunities to soak in Switzerland's breathtaking beauty while having fun. Tune in to discover how to make your Switzerland family holidays truly magical with experiences that everyone in the family will cherish!Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 129📖 Free guide 21 useful things to know before you visit Switzerland - Get your copy here🎟️ Get the discount code for Hana's itinerary planning service here Where to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:•On our website•Subscribe to our newsletter•Join our private Facebook group🇨🇭 Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland travel discounts.Support the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

If you're dreaming of a train journey that’s just as stunning as the destination, you’re going to love what this episode has in store. Today, I’m joined by Frédéric Delachaux from the MOB Railway to chat about one of the most popular Swiss scenic trains, the GoldenPass Express. We dive into what makes it such a special journey, connecting two must-visit spots, Montreux and Interlaken, in style and comfort.You'll learn what to expect on board this beautiful Swiss panoramic train, including the differences between the Prestige, First, and Second class options, what kind of local food and drinks are served, and even a few insider tips about where to sit for the best views. We also cover everything you need to know about tickets, including the discounts offered for Swiss Travel Pass and Berner Oberland Pass holders, and why you should book your seat reservations in advance. But the GoldenPass Express isn’t the only gem MOB Railway has to offer. We also explore other memorable journeys like the nostalgic GoldenPass Belle Époque train, and two delicious experiences: the Chocolate and Cheese Trains. Switzerland’s unique rail journeys even allow you to enjoy a true taste of Swiss culture and culinary delights! Whether you're looking to enjoy scenic views, experience vintage charm, or sample local treats, there's something for everyone.If you’re planning a trip between Montreux and Interlaken, or you’re looking for the perfect way to experience Switzerland train travel with breathtaking views, this episode is packed with helpful information to make your Swiss train adventure unforgettable.Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 128🚞 Get your Swiss Travel Pass here📖 Free guide 21 useful things to know before you visit Switzerland - Get your copy hereWhere to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:•On our website•Subscribe to our newsletter•Join our private Facebook group🇨🇭 Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland trip discounts.Support the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

If you’ve already started planning your Swiss vacation you’ve no doubt realised that it’s an expensive country to visit. But just how expensive is Switzerland?You’ll probably find that goods and services cost more in Switzerland than they do in your home country but don’t despair - in this episode you’ll discover plenty of ways to travel in Switzerland on a budget.I’m joined by Fabian Bryner who shares some easy ways to get the best bang for your vacation dollar so you can travel Switzerland on the cheap. Tips include booking early to get the best Switzerland travel deals, and Fabian has some great ideas to help you save on transport and accommodation, too. Plus you’ll hear how to eat and drink in Switzerland for less and learn about a fantastic coupon pass which offers over 100 buy 1, get 1 free deals for admission fees, excursions, activities, dining and more. If you want to learn how to travel in Switzerland cheap - or as cheap as possible - tune in for lots of helpful tips to help stretch your travel budget further.Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 127📖 Free guide 21 useful things to know before you visit Switzerland - Get your copy here🎟️ Buy your Digital Swiss Coupon Pass hereWhere to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:•On our website•Subscribe to our newsletter•Join our private Facebook group🇨🇭 Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland travel discounts.Support the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

Switzerland is known for its jaw-dropping scenery, but if you want to experience one of the most stunning and underrated spots, you need to visit Aletsch Arena. Home to the Great Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps, this breathtaking region is one of the most spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Switzerland. In this episode, I’m chatting with David Kestens, a local expert, to uncover what makes Aletsch Arena so special. We talk about the car-free Swiss mountain villages, where you can truly disconnect and enjoy nature, and explore the best viewpoints to see the glacier up close. You’ll also hear about the exciting activities available year-round, from hiking along scenic alpine trails in summer to skiing and snowshoeing in the winter months.We break down the best ways to visit Aletsch Arena, including Glacier Express stops and the easy connections from Brig. Plus, if you’re traveling with a Swiss Travel Pass, you’ll love hearing about the Swiss Travel Pass discounts available for cable cars and other transport options in the area.If you’re planning a Swiss adventure, this is the perfect destination to add to your itinerary. Whether you love outdoor adventures, peaceful alpine getaways, or just want to explore beyond the usual tourist hotspots, Aletsch Arena is a must-visit. Tune in to hear why this is one of the most unique places to visit in Switzerland and why it deserves a spot on your Switzerland bucket list!Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 126🚞 Get your Swiss Travel Pass here📖 Free guide 21 useful things to know before you visit Switzerland - Get your copy hereWhere to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:•On our website•Subscribe to our newsletter•Join our private Facebook group🇨🇭 Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland trip discounts.Support the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

Looking for accommodations in Switzerland? In this episode I share my thoughts on three hotels I recently had the pleasure of staying at.My recent trip to Switzerland included stays at B2 Hotel Zurich (surely one of the coolest hotels in Switzerland with its unique 33,000-book library), Glacier Hotel Grindelwald and Volkshaus Basel.Each of these Swiss hotels has its own personality and style, from urban chic to cosy accommodation in the Swiss Alps, and all delivered a comfortable and relaxing stay.If you are trying to choose hotels in Zurich, Grindelwald or Basel, tune in to learn why I loved these properties before you make your Switzerland hotel booking!Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes and promo codes for hotel bonuses - Episode 125📖 Free guide 21 useful things to know before you visit Switzerland - Get your copy hereWhere to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:•On our website•Subscribe to our newsletter•Join our private Facebook group🇨🇭 Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland trip discounts.Support the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

If you are planning a Swiss vacation and are wondering what is the best way to take money to Switzerland, this episode is a must-listen.Credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted and I share some tips that may save you some money if this is your preferred method of payment.  I also answer commonly asked questions such as ‘do I need cash in Switzerland?' and ‘does Switzerland accept Euros?’You’ll also learn some useful facts about the Switzerland currency and find out where to exchange money in Switzerland.Tune in now for helpful tips about paying for goods and services in Switzerland.Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 124📖 Free guide 21 useful things to know before you visit Switzerland - Get your copy hereWhere to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:•On our website•Subscribe to our newsletter•Join our private Facebook group🇨🇭 Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland travel discounts.Support the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️