Holidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss Vacation

Hiking in Switzerland is a dream for many, with the country offering a diverse range of trails suitable for all abilities.

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced hiker, understanding what to expect and how to prepare can make all the difference.

In this episode, I am joined by seasoned Swiss hiking expert Tanya Deans from Swiss Family Fun. You'll learn about the beauty and challenges of Switzerland's most talked-about hikes. 

We're talking about trails that look incredible on social media but might require more experience from hikers than meets the eye. You'll find out what you need to consider before attempting popular routes like the Ebenalp to Seealpsee and Stoos Ridge hikes, ensuring you’re fully prepared for what lies ahead.

Discover practical tips on choosing the right trail for your experience level and hear personal stories that highlight why preparation is key in the Swiss Alps. From understanding trail classifications to packing the right gear, we cover it all to help you make the most of your time hiking the Swiss trails. 

We also discuss safer, yet equally scenic, alternatives for those who may not be ready for the most challenging paths. These options ensure you still get to experience the breathtaking views without the stress of navigating the more daunting trails.

Tune in now to gear up for your next great Swiss adventure!

Happy travels,

Carolyn

👉 Show notes - Episode 108

📖 Free guide 21 useful things to know before you visit Switzerland - Get your copy here

Where to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:

•On our website

•Subscribe to our newsletter

•On our YouTube channel

🇨🇭 Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland trip discounts.

Support the show

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

Switzerland in winter is truly magical, and one of the best ways to experience it is by train. 

With snow-covered landscapes, festive Christmas markets, and world-renowned ski resorts, a winter trip to Switzerland offers something for everyone. 

But planning a trip can be overwhelming—especially if you’re trying to figure out how to see it all. That's where winter rail packages come in. These hassle-free packages make traveling through Switzerland simple, secure, and unforgettable.

In this episode, I’m joined once again by Fabian Bryner from Switzerland Travel Centre, and we’re talking all things winter in Switzerland! You'll learn about the amazing winter rail packages available, including trips to magical destinations like Lucerne, Interlaken, and Montreux. 

Fabian explains why booking a rail package is the easiest and most convenient way to plan your Switzerland winter vacation. We also chat about the benefits of traveling during quieter months like January and March.

Find out which rail packages are perfect for experiencing Christmas markets, skiing, and even combining snowy mountain adventures with scenic valleys. Plus, discover how you can customize your itinerary and get a 5% discount on your booking!

Whether you’re looking to experience a Winter Wonderland or plan a Swiss trip for any time of the year, this episode will help you get started.

Happy travels,

Carolyn

👉 Show notes - Episode 107

🚞 Book your Swiss winter rail package here

Where to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:

•On our website

•Subscribe to our newsletter

•On our YouTube channel

🇨🇭 Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland trip discounts.

Support the show

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

Planning a trip to Zermatt, Switzerland? This picturesque alpine town, nestled at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn, is a dream destination for many. 

Whether you're drawn by the majestic mountain peaks, the charming car-free village, or the endless outdoor activities, Zermatt offers something for everyone.

In this episode, I’m thrilled to sit down with Viviane Zellweger from Zermatt Tourism to chat about everything you need to know when planning a visit to Zermatt. You'll learn about the top Zermatt attractions, including the iconic Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and Gornergrat, and how to get around this charming car-free village. 

Find out how Zermatt has bounced back from recent floods and what that means for your travel plans. Viviane shares insider tips on where to stay in Zermatt, the best time to visit, and unique experiences like meeting the famous blacknose sheep. We also dive into local specialties, like where to find the best chocolate Matterhorn and authentic Swiss cheese. 

Discover why Zermatt is a year-round destination and how to make the most of even a short visit. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning for another adventure, this episode is packed with useful tips and inspiration to help you plan your perfect Zermatt getaway.

Happy travels,

Carolyn

👉 Show notes - Episode 106

🚞 Get your Swiss rail pass here

Where to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:

•On our website

•Subscribe to our newsletter

•On our YouTube channel

🇨🇭 Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland trip discounts.

Support the show

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

Whether you're looking to scale mountain peaks, enjoy serene lakeside towns, or discover hidden gems, Lucerne offers a wealth of opportunities for every traveler in Switzerland.

While the city itself is a delight to explore, one of Lucerne's greatest assets is its access to some of the most breathtaking day and half-day excursions in the region. 

In this episode, I’m joined by Céline Deplazes from Lucerne Tourism to explore some of the best day and half-day excursions you can take from Lucerne. You'll learn about the different mountains you can explore, like Mount Pilatus, Mount Rigi, and Mount Titlis, each offering unique experiences.

Céline and I chat about everything from the peaceful and lesser-known Stanserhorn to the thrilling ride on the steepest funicular in the world to reach Stoos. We also talk about visiting charming lakeside villages like Brunnen, and small towns near Lucerne, perfect for those who want to experience authentic Swiss village life.

Tune in and find out which mountain excursions are best for you and why Lucerne is the perfect year-round destination. 

Happy travels,

Carolyn

👉 Show notes - Episode 105

🚞 Get your Swiss rail pass here

Where to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:

•On our website

•Subscribe to our newsletter

•On our YouTube channel

🇨🇭 Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland trip discounts.

Support the show

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

Planning a trip to Switzerland can be both thrilling and overwhelming. With so many breathtaking destinations to choose from, it's hard to know which scenic train journey to get. 

In this episode, I am joined by Swiss travel expert Chris Rigert to share insights about the Luzern Interlaken Express, a spectacular two-hour journey between Lucerne and Interlaken. You'll learn about the route's highlights which include five crystal-clear lakes, picturesque waterfalls, and stunning mountain views. 

Find out which side of the train offers the best views and why booking your seat in advance is a good idea, especially during peak times. Chris also shares tips on making the most of your trip, from enjoying local meals on board to connecting seamlessly with the scenic route to Montreux along the Golden Pass Line.

I also discuss my own experiences on this route and why it’s one of my favorite train rides in Switzerland. Plus, we’ll touch on the Luzern Engelberg Express for those wanting to explore Mount Titlis and its year-round snowy landscapes.

This episode is packed with practical tips and personal stories to help you make the most of your Swiss adventure. Tune in and find out everything you need to know about the stunning Luzern Interlaken Express and more!

Happy travels,

Carolyn

👉 Show notes - Episode 104

🚞 Get your Swiss rail pass here

Where to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:

•On our website

•Subscribe to our newsletter

•On our YouTube channel

🇨🇭 Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland trip discounts.

Support the show

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

Ever felt excited but a bit stressed about planning a trip to Switzerland? I get it! 

Picking the best places to visit, sorting out how to get around, and finding the right spots to stay can seem like a lot.

Join me as I share the highlights and insights from my recent three-week adventure through Switzerland! Fresh from the journey, I dive into a detailed overview of our travels, starting with a scenic train ride from Austria and moving through picturesque towns like Lucerne, Locarno, and Lauterbrunnen. I'll talk about the unique experiences we enjoyed, from riding the Voralpen Express to exploring the serene beauty of Bettmeralp and witnessing the majestic Aletsch Glacier.

Learn practical tips on how to navigate Switzerland’s transportation with ease, the best uses for travel apps like MeteoSwiss and SBB Mobile, and why sometimes carrying a bit of cash is a good idea. I also share my thoughts on staying connected with E-sims and some of the charming hotels in Lucerne.

Whether you're planning your own Swiss adventure or just love hearing about exciting travel experiences, this episode is packed with valuable advice and inspiration to help you get the most out of your visit to Switzerland. 

Happy travels,

Carolyn

👉 Show notes - Episode 103

🚞 Get your Swiss Travel Pass or Berner Oberland Pass here

Where to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:

•On our website

•Subscribe to our newsletter

•On our YouTube channel

🇨🇭 Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland trip discounts.

Support the show

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

Are you looking to explore the breathtaking Bernese Oberland region in Switzerland?

Join me as I chat with Jana Amacher, the manager of the Berner Oberland Pass, and discover the incredible benefits of this all-in-one ticket for exploring one of Switzerland's most stunning areas.

In this episode, you'll learn about some fantastic destinations you can visit with the Berner Oberland Pass, including Niederhorn, Mount Niesen, Mount Stockhorn, Alpentower, Oeschinensee, and Sillerenbühl. From scenic excursions and panoramic views to family-friendly activities and adventurous hikes, we'll give you a glimpse of what awaits you.

We'll also share practical tips on how to get the most out of your pass, ensuring you make the most of your time and budget while exploring this beautiful part of Switzerland. Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, the Berner Oberland Pass offers flexibility and significant savings, making it an essential part of your Swiss adventure. 

Tune in to get all the details and start planning your dream trip to Switzerland today!

Happy travels,

Carolyn

👉 Show notes - Episode 102

🚞 Get your Berner Oberland Pass here

Where to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:

•On our website

•Subscribe to our newsletter

•On our YouTube channel

🇨🇭 Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland trip discounts.

Support the show

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

Planning a trip to Switzerland’s Jungfrau Region can be as daunting as it is exciting. 

With so many beautiful destinations to choose from, deciding where to base yourself can make or break your Swiss holiday experience. 

In this episode, I dive deep into the charming destination of Grindelwald (towns don’t get any more authentically Swiss than this!) with local expert and tourism professional James Wilson. We explore everything this idyllic location has to offer, from breathtaking mountain excursions to cozy village amenities.

James provides practical advice on navigating local transportation, choosing the right Swiss rail passes to save money, and selecting the best spots for dining and lodging. We also discuss top activities such as hiking to the picturesque Bachalpsee, experiencing the thrill of Grindelwald First's adventure offerings, and enjoying serene walks through the Glacier Gorge.

Tune in to gain valuable tips to make your Swiss travel adventure as enjoyable as possible with our best resources to help you plan your perfect trip to the Jungfrau region. 

Join us and discover how Grindelwald can become your dream Swiss vacation base!

Happy travels,

Carolyn

👉 Show notes - Episode 101

Where to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:

•On our website

•Subscribe to our newsletter

•On our YouTube channel

🇨🇭 Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland trip discounts.

Support the show

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

Have you ever wondered, “What is the best time to visit Switzerland?” 

If you're considering a trip to this stunning country, Switzerland in autumn might just be the perfect answer. 

In this special 100th episode, we'll explore the incredible beauty of autumn in Switzerland.

During fall, the Swiss landscape transforms into a breathtaking canvas of vibrant colors that makes Swiss travel particularly magical. I've interviewed several experts who share their favorite experiences and tips for traveling during this beautiful time.

We'll take you on some of the most scenic train rides Switzerland has to offer, like the famous panoramic trains. Switzerland’s spectacular panoramic train routes wind through the amazing towns and lush countryside in autumn colors.

Join us as we discuss everything from the best spots to enjoy during autumn to hidden gems that are less crowded during this time. 

Tune in to discover why Switzerland in autumn is a must-visit, and get all your questions answered about Swiss travel during this enchanting season.

Happy travels,

Carolyn

👉 Show notes - Episode 100

Where to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:

•On our website

•Subscribe to our newsletter

•On our YouTube channel

🇨🇭 Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland trip discounts.

Support the show

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

Planning a trip to Switzerland can be overwhelming. With so many beautiful places to see, how do you ensure you're choosing the best experiences that make every moment count?

Today, we’re going to uncover the lesser-known yet breathtaking Gotthard Panorama Express. This unique travel experience combines a relaxing boat cruise on the picturesque Lake Lucerne with a scenic train journey through the historic Gotthard tunnel to Lugano. 

Join me and my guest Laura Lichtenberger, Sales Manager for the Gotthard Panorama Express, as we dive into the captivating history of the Gotthard Tunnel, discuss the exceptional services offered on the journey, and share tips to make the most of this unforgettable trip. 

Whether you’re planning your first visit to Switzerland or looking to rediscover its charm, this episode will inspire you to add the Gotthard Panorama Express to your itinerary. Don’t let this hidden gem slip through your travel plans!

Happy travels,

Carolyn

👉 Show notes - Episode 99

🚆 Get 'The Essential Guide to Travelling by Train in Switzerland'

Discount code: PODCAST for 30% off until 31 May, 2024.

Where to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:

•On our website

•Subscribe to our newsletter

•On our YouTube channel

🇨🇭 Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland trip discounts.

Support the show

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