If you’ve only ever thought of Swiss cuisine as chocolate and cheese, you will be surprised because there's a lot more to taste across Switzerland and much of it is hidden in plain sight.

In this episode, I’m joined by Swiss-Canadian pastry chef and cookbook author Andie Pilot to take you on a culinary journey through the country’s regional specialties. You’ll hear about hearty alpine meals like Älplermagronen, Rösti, and Capuns, along with classic dishes like Züri Gschnätzlets and Cervelat sausage.

Andie shares what to try in different parts of the country, including her favorite Lucerne food and must-eats in Zurich. You’ll also learn the difference between Swiss Raclette and Swiss Fondue, and why you should try both.

For those with a sweet tooth, Andie highlights some beloved Swiss desserts and Swiss pastries like Barli-Biber, Schaffhauserzungen, and the colorful Luxemburgerli.

If you want to eat like a local and discover the full flavor of Swiss food culture, this episode will help you find the best bites whether you're visiting a mountain hut, restaurant or a village bakery.

Safe travels,

Carolyn

👉 Show notes - Episode 161

🇨🇭 Book your trip to Switzerland with our preferred partners and take advantage of exclusive Switzerland trip discounts

📖 Free Switzerland Trip Planning Starter Kit and Guide - Get your copy here

🎙️ Share your feedback and tell us what you love about the podcast by sending an email to: podcast (at) holidaystoswitzerland.com

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

Support the show

If you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

If you're planning a winter trip to Switzerland and want to experience the mountains without being tied to ski resorts, this episode is for you. We're taking you to Interlaken, where you’ll find a peaceful base with access to some of the most iconic scenery and experiences in the country.

Live from the rooftop of the Hotel Metropole Interlaken, Renato Julier from Interlaken Tourism shares why this region is ideal in winter. You’ll hear about visiting the Jungfraujoch, home to the highest train station in Europe, also known as the Top of Europe, and how easy it is to reach from town.

We also talk about lesser known winter adventures like kayaking in Switzerland on Lake Brienz, and unique experiences like chocolate workshops at the Funky Chocolate Club and Raclette rafting at sunset. Whether you're outdoorsy or prefer relaxed cultural outings, there are plenty of Interlaken winter activities to choose from.

If you're into scenic train rides, and would love to ride on a panoramic train, Switzerland has plenty to offer. Renato recommends enjoying a day trip on the GoldenPass Line which connects Interlaken with Montreux. We also touch on nearby day trips to Brienz, the woodcarving capital, and Thun, a lakeside city surrounded by castles.

For those visiting in December, Interlaken hosts charming Swiss Christmas markets, and there’s easy access to others in Montreux and Bern. 

If Interlaken’s been on your list, this is the sign to go. Add a few of these ideas to your itinerary and get ready for a different kind of Swiss winter experience.

Safe travels,

Carolyn

👉 Show notes - Episode 160

🇨🇭 Book your trip to Switzerland with our preferred partners and take advantage of exclusive Switzerland trip discounts

📖 Free Switzerland Trip Planning Starter Kit and Guide - Get your copy here

🎙️ Share your feedback and tell us what you love about the podcast by sending an email to: podcast (at) holidaystoswitzerland.com

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

Support the show

If you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

If you're working on your Switzerland itinerary and want to go beyond the usual tourist stops, this episode is for you! I’m sharing three destinations I recently visited that completely charmed me, each one offering something a little different, a little quieter, and a lot more local.

First up is Savognin, a peaceful alpine village in Parc Ela that’s close to the Landwasser Viaduct, a must-see if you love scenic train views or hiking. It’s a great place to slow down and enjoy nature.

Next, I take you to Lenk Switzerland in the Bernese Oberland. It’s one of those Swiss ski towns that’s perfect for families, with wide open spaces and a relaxed vibe. I stayed at the beautiful Lenkerhof Gourmet Spa Resort and can’t wait to tell you all about it.

And finally, we head to Winterthur, just a short train ride from Zürich. It’s full of culture, cozy cafes, and some amazing Switzerland museums. I stayed at the lovely Park Hotel Winterthur, which I highly recommend. 

If you're dreaming of authentic Swiss towns and villages, beautiful landscapes, or relaxing family ski resorts, these spots deserve a place in your Switzerland vacation.

Safe travels,

Carolyn

👉 Show notes - Episode 159

🇨🇭 Get 15% off your stay at Lenkerhof Gourmet Spa Resort and Park Hotel Winterthur with our exclusive promo codes and take advantage of more exclusive Switzerland trip discounts

📖 Free Switzerland Trip Planning Starter Kit and Guide - Get your copy here

🎙️ Share your feedback and tell us what you love about the podcast by sending an email to: podcast (at) holidaystoswitzerland.com

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

Support the show

If you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

Snow-dusted peaks, shimmering lakes, and storybook villages are the things that make Switzerland a traveler's dream. But how do you fit it all into one unforgettable adventure? 

In this episode, I’m sharing my personal Switzerland itinerary from a month-long journey filled with breathtaking train rides, charming alpine towns, and local traditions you won’t find in any guidebook.

From the iconic GoldenPass Express to regional trains, you’ll learn how to experience the best of Swiss rail travel with ease and why the Swiss Travel Pass and Berner Oberland Pass are your ultimate tickets to freedom. I’ll take you through highlights like the roaring Rhine Falls, peaceful Appenzell, and the dramatic Bernese Oberland, home to stunning mountain scenery and hidden gems.

You’ll also hear about unforgettable moments in the Jungfrau Region, from scenic hikes on Schynige Platte and Brienzer Rothorn to discovering the historic Landwasser Viaduct and vibrant cow parades that celebrate Swiss alpine life. I also share how a Swiss eSIM can keep you connected throughout your travels.

Planning your first trip to Switzerland or returning for another round of alpine magic? This episode is full of insider tips to help you enjoy scenic Swiss hiking trails, must-see Swiss museums, and authentic local experiences.

Safe travels,

Carolyn

Support the show

If you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

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 message

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

Support the show

If 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 message

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

Support the show

If 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 message

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

Support the show

If 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 message

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

Support the show

If 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 message

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

Support the show

If 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 message

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

Support the show

If you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️