Expert Tips for Planning Your Dream Swiss Vacation

Are you planning your first trip to Switzerland and wondering how to make the most of your visit? This episode is packed with expert advice and insider tips just for you!In this unique episode, in which we celebrate five years of the Holidays to Switzerland podcast, I switch roles and become the guest. In my chat with Lynne Niemann from the Wander Your Way podcast, I share my personal journey of falling in love with Switzerland and why I keep returning again and again.Lynne and I discuss my recommended 7-day Switzerland itinerary for first-time visitors, my favourite places to visit - both famous Swiss destinations and some lesser known beauties - and why I love travelling by train in Switzerland.I’ve also got some money saving tips and practical advice that will be super helpful if you are visiting Switzerland for the first time.  We also discuss the best time to visit Switzerland and how to include authentic Swiss experiences in your trip.Tune in now and let me help make planning your Switzerland vacation as smooth as Swiss chocolate!Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 143📖 Free Switzerland Trip Planning Starter Kit and Guide - Get your copy here🎟️ Learn more about Swiss rail passes here 🎙️ Tell us what you love about the podcast or ask a question 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 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 travelers to Zurich head straight for the Old Town, Bahnhofstrasse, or maybe the Lindt Home of Chocolate, but have you ever heard of the Schanzengraben?In this episode, I’m joined by Evelyne Jeannerat from Zurich Tourism to uncover one of the city’s most surprising hidden gems: the Schanzengraben, a quiet waterway just steps from the heart of Zurich. Whether you explore it on foot or by stand-up paddleboard, this peaceful spot offers a whole new way to experience the city.Evelyne shares why this former 17th-century defense moat is now one of her favorite places to unwind. You’ll hear about the best parts of the Schanzengraben promenade, from shady benches and historic bridges to the iconic Männerbad and nearby botanical garden.You’ll also get insider tips on how to explore Zurich like a local, like renting a stand up paddleboard, grabbing a picnic lunch to enjoy by the water, or catching a sunset cocktail at Rimini Bar.We also talk about the unique Zurich lifestyle: a perfect blend of city nature, culture, and laid-back charm. From early-morning swims to outdoor dining, you’ll see how easy it is to slow down and soak it all in.Whether you're visiting for a weekend or adding Zurich to your Switzerland itinerary, this episode will inspire you to step off the tourist trail and discover one of the most relaxing walks in the city.Hit play now and get ready to see Zurich from a whole new perspective!Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 142🇨🇭 Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland trip discounts📖 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 groupSupport the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

Most travelers to Switzerland have heard of Zurich, Lucerne, and Interlaken, but have you ever considered stopping in Chur?In this episode, I’m joined by Lara Schäffeler, Marketing Manager at Chur Tourism, to uncover everything you didn't know you needed to know about Chur, Switzerland, officially the oldest city in Switzerland! With over 13,000 years of history and stunning mountain views, Chur is far more than just a stop on the Glacier Express or Bernina Express routes.Lara shares her local expertise and passion for this charming gem in Graubünden, a region known for its natural beauty and cultural richness. From its well-preserved Old Town to vibrant street art and active adventures, you’ll quickly see why Chur attractions deserve a place on your Swiss itinerary.You’ll discover the fascinating history of Chur, the oldest city in Switzerland, and explore the best things to do in Chur, from urban golf and cathedral visits to spontaneous alphorn concerts. You'll get insider tips on what to do in Chur, Switzerland year-round, including how to reach the scenic Brambrüesch mountain right from the city center. We also share why Chur, Switzerland is the perfect base for day trips to Lenzerheide, Surselva, Flims Laax, and the storybook Heididorf. Plus, find out what to eat with local favorites like Capuns, Maluns, and Churer Fleischtorte, how the Chur guest card helps you save, and what it’s like to ride the Bernina or Glacier Express from this underrated Swiss gem.Whether you're planning a Swiss vacation or just love uncovering hidden gems, this episode will inspire you to slow down, stay a little longer, and discover the real heart of Chur, Switzerland.Hit play now and start planning your perfect Swiss escape!Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 141🇨🇭 Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland trip discounts📖 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 groupSupport the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

If a visit to Mount Titlis is part of your Switzerland itinerary, you won’t want to miss this episode. I’m joined by Olivia Hecht for a live, on-location tour from the charming mountain town of Engelberg all the way to the summit of Mt.Titlis—the highest peak in central Switzerland. We’ll also show you how to get to Mt. Titlis from Lucerne, including tips for public transport and cable car tickets (and how to skip the queues with online booking!).You’ll discover everything there is to see and do at Mount Titlis, no matter what time of year you visit. From the famous rotating Mt. Titlis cable car to the stunning views, and unique experiences like the Titlis Glacier Cave, the thrilling Cliff Walk suspension bridge, and summer snow tubing, every visitor is catered for.Plus, find out why Lake Trübsee is a local hidden gem and why you might want to add a stop there.Traveling with a Swiss Travel Pass? Olivia explains how you can get 50% off your Mount Titlis tickets and shares practical details about accessibility for wheelchairs and prams. Whether you’re an adrenaline-seeker, a family with children, or just want to marvel at the snowy peaks year-round, Mount Titlis offers something for every traveler.Tune in now and start planning your visit to Mt. Titlis.Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 140📖 Free Switzerland Travel Planning Starter Kit & Guide - Get your copy here🎟️ Buy your Swiss Travel Pass here 🎙️ Tell us what you love about the podcast or ask a question 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 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. ❤️

Are you planning a trip to Switzerland this July to attend the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025? Or are you wondering if the tournament will affect your Swiss vacation plans? This episode is packed with all the essential info you need!I’m joined by Matthias Albrecht from Switzerland Tourism, and co-lead of the Women’s Euro 2025 campaign, to answer the most commonly asked questions from fans planning their trip. We’ll cover everything you need to know about attending the UEFA EURO 2025 for women, the biggest women’s sporting event in Europe, whether you’re a football fanatic or simply love the excitement of international tournaments.Whether you’re gearing up to cheer in the stadium, soaking up the atmosphere in a city fan zone, or planning a Switzerland trip and wondering what to expect in July, this episode has you covered. We’ve got loads of tips to help you make the most of your EURO 25 experience and ensure your Swiss adventure is smooth, safe, and unforgettable.Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 139📖 Free guide 21 useful things to know before you visit Switzerland - Get your copy here🎟️ Buy your Swiss Travel Pass here 🎙️ Tell us what you love about the podcast or ask a question 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 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 not a regular public transport user, the thought of navigating your way around Zurich railway station can be a little daunting. But it’s not as difficult as you might think.In this live-on-location video, Andy Nef takes us on a tour of Zurich main station and shows us the facilities and services available at the station.  We learn about the platforms and signage, connection times, how to know where to board your train and where to find the ticket and information office.At Zurich train station, luggage storage lockers are always in high demand and Andy shows us where to find them and how to pay. He also points out the large shopping mall known as Shopville which is open seven days a week.If your Swiss travel plans will have you arriving at, departing from or transiting through Zurich HB (main station), don’t miss this episode for essential tips to make your rail travel in Switzerland easier.Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 138📖 Free guide 21 useful things to know before you visit Switzerland - Get your copy here🎟️ Buy your Swiss Travel Pass here 🎙️ Tell us what you love about the podcast or ask a question 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 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. ❤️

Are you planning to explore Switzerland by rail and are wondering which Swiss train tickets to buy? Or is a Swiss rail pass for tourists is a better choice? It can be very confusing but don’t worry, in this episode I discuss the different rail passes and Swiss train tickets for tourists to help you decide which is the best option for you.The Swiss Travel Pass is one of the most popular rail passes for visitors to Switzerland but if you are spending most of your time in the Jungfrau Region, it may not be the best-value rail pass for you.  Two regional alternatives, the Berner Oberland Pass and the Jungfrau Travel Pass, may be more cost-effective for your itinerary.I highlight who each of the passes is best suited to and weigh up the pros and cons of the Jungfrau Travel Pass vs. the Bernese Oberland Pass, and the Swiss Half Fare Card vs Swiss Travel Pass. I also answer the question “Can I get a Swiss Travel Pass discount?” and discuss the discounts available on other Swiss rail passes.Also covered in this episode are the Swiss Half Fare Card, the Eurail/Interrail Global Pass and the Tell Pass for the Lake Lucerne region.I also discuss the different types of point-to-point tickets that are available, share how to get cheap Swiss train tickets, how to buy train tickets in Switzerland and special public transport tickets for children.If you’d like the various rail passes and Swiss train tickets explained in an easy to understand manner, don’t miss this episode!Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 137📖 Free Swiss rail pass cheat sheet - Get your copy here🎟️ Buy your Swiss rail pass here 🎙️ Tell us what you love about the podcast or ask a question 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 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. ❤️

What if exploring Zurich could make you healthier and help the planet?In this episode, I’m joined by two inspiring women who are changing how we experience Switzerland’s biggest city without the crowds or the big carbon footprint.First, meet Giada Rocca, a former lawyer and yoga teacher who now leads energizing urban hikes through Zurich. Her company, Zurich Urban Hikes, blends movement, nature, and history into one unforgettable experience, perfect for those curious about hiking in Switzerland but short on time.Also meet Diana Fischer, a tourism professional with a master’s degree in innovation and management. She’s the founder of Detours Zurich, which runs Zurich walking tours with a difference: each one is rooted in social impact tourism, from ethical chocolate tastings to upcycling workshops and circular economy initiatives.You’ll discover what an urban hike is and why it’s a unique way to experience Zurich. We explore how Zurich tours like Zurich Urban Hikes and Detours Zurich support the local community and combat over-tourism through ethical tourism and social impact tourism. You’ll learn practical tips for responsible travel, how to embrace slow travel, and how Zurich walking tours can connect you with local changemakers, hidden spots, and even wild food. Whether you’re planning to go hiking in Switzerland, or just want to see Zurich in a more authentic way, this episode will open your eyes to Zurich’s sustainable, soulful side.So lace up your walking shoes and tune in! Zurich is ready to surprise you.Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 136🇨🇭 Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland trip discounts.📖 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 groupSupport the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

If you’ve ever dreamed of taking the perfect Switzerland road trip, this episode will help you turn those dreams into reality! Join me as I chat with Sandra Babey from Switzerland Tourism about one of the best scenic drives in Switzerland—the iconic Grand Tour of Switzerland.In this episode, you’ll discover everything you need to know about embarking on this epic 1,600-kilometre circular route, designed to showcase the most picturesque landscapes, famous landmarks, and hidden gems Switzerland has to offer. From sparkling lakes and dramatic mountain passes to charming villages and UNESCO World Heritage sites, Sandra reveals what makes the Grand Tour of Switzerland by car a must for every traveler who loves independent adventures.Whether you’re looking to do the full Grand Tour of Switzerland or just add a few scenic drives in Switzerland to your itinerary, this episode is your go-to resource for expert advice, sustainability tips, and itinerary inspiration. Plus, find out how to book self-drive packages and the most convenient places to stay along the way.Ready for the road trip of a lifetime? Tune in and get ready to plan your unforgettable Switzerland self-drive vacation.Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 135📖 Free guide 21 useful things to know before you visit Switzerland - Get your copy here🚗 Book your Grand Tour of Switzerland self-drive vacation here🎙️ Tell us what you love about the podcast or ask a question 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 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. ❤️

Hiking in Switzerland no longer means carrying a heavy backpack for days on end. Today’s Swiss hiking experience is all about comfort, flexibility, and unforgettable alpine views. In this episode, I’m joined once again by Andrea Caspani, founder of My-Mountains, to reveal how you can experience the magic of the Swiss Alps on foot without sacrificing comfort, flexibility, or stunning views. Andrea shares how his guided and self guided hiking tours help travelers explore Switzerland’s beauty with ease.We’ll walk through how his team curates memorable Swiss hiking tours, including the famous Via Alpina route, and how features like the included luggage transfer service and hotel stays make even multi-day hikes feel like a breeze. You'll hear about scenic routes through Lucerne, Zermatt and St. Moritz, plus insider picks like the trail from Melchsee-Frutt to Meiringen and relaxed hikes around Mt. Rigi. Andrea also explains how to combine your hiking adventure with a scenic rail trip through his sister company, Echo Rails.If you’ve ever dreamed of walking through the Swiss Alps surrounded by lakes, peaks, and peaceful meadows, this episode is for you. Let’s start planning your perfect alpine escape!Safe travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 134🚞 Get 5% off your My-Mountains hiking tour with our discount code📖 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•On our YouTube channel🇨🇭 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. ❤️