Holidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss Vacation

Planning two days in Zermatt? Local expert Claudia Wyss shares her tips for creating the perfect Zermatt 2 day itinerary, with plenty of ideas for making the most of your stay beneath the Matterhorn.

You'll discover some of the best things to do in Zermatt, from riding the Gornergrat railway and visiting Matterhorn Glacier Paradise to exploring the Matterhorn Museum.

Claudia also shares her favourite walks and hikes, including the 5 Lakes Hike and Matterhorn Glacier Trail, plus suggestions for the best restaurants Zermatt has to offer.

Whether you love mountain views, hiking, local history...

With so many spectacular mountain excursions to choose from, how do you decide which ones to include in your Jungfrau Region itinerary? 

In this episode, Carolyn chats with Angela from Jungfrau Region Tourism about seven incredible mountain excursions, including Jungfraujoch, Harder Kulm, Schilthorn, Grindelwald First, Männlichen, Schynige Platte and Pfingstegg. 

Discover what makes each one unique, how to get there, who each excursion is best suited to, plus useful local tips, rail pass discounts and advice to help you choose the perfect Jungfrau Region mountain experience for your Switzerland trip.

Happy travels,

Ever wondered what makes Switzerland unique? In this special episode, three passionate Switzerland experts - each with a very different connection to the country - share why Switzerland holds such a special place in their hearts.

Together, we explore everything from Switzerland's breathtaking landscapes and seamless public transport to its rich traditions, regional cultures and unforgettable experiences. 

You'll also hear their top tips for first-time visitors, favourite Swiss foods, how they'd spend their perfect day in Switzerland and the one piece of advice they think every traveller should know before planning their trip.

W...

Planning your first trip to Switzerland? Grocery shopping in Switzerland is one of the easiest ways to save money, enjoy delicious local food and experience everyday Swiss life. 

In this episode, we take you inside a Switzerland supermarket and share practical Swiss travel tips for first time visitors to Switzerland. 

Discover what to buy in a Swiss supermarket, from fresh bread, cheese and chocolate to picnic favourites, plus learn about opening hours, shopping bags, self-checkouts and other handy tips that will make your visit easier and more enjoyable.

Happy travels,
Carolyn

...

Planning two days in Zurich? This episode shares a practical Zurich itinerary for first-time visitors, covering the city's must-see attractions, local neighbourhoods, delicious food and helpful travel tips.

Along with guest, Laura Storrer, we discover the best things to do in Zurich, from exploring the charming Zurich Old Town and vibrant Zurich West to enjoying fantastic Zurich restaurants, sampling local specialities and enjoying great views of the city.

We also discuss why the B2 Hotel Zurich is a great place to stay and why purchasing the Zurich Card is a good idea.  

If y...

Discover why autumn is the best-kept secret for Switzerland travel. In this episode, my guest Oliver Weibel from Switzerland Tourism, shares essential tips for planning the perfect Switzerland fall itinerary.

From scenic hikes in the Swiss Alps in autumn to watching a traditional alpine cow descent, we cover must-do seasonal experiences and share tips on savoring seasonal cuisine.

We discuss seasonal closures, what weather conditions to expect in Switzerland in autumn, and which activities to seek out.

If you love the idea of attending a Swiss wine festival in the picturesque Lavaux vineyards...

If you're passing through Lucerne station for the first time, it's easy to feel a little overwhelmed. So we’re here to help!

In this episode, Swiss rail expert Andy Nef takes us on a live, on-location tour of Luzern Bahnhof, as it’s known locally, pointing out everything from the scenic trains from Lucerne to the practical facilities most first-time visitors miss.

Andy walks us through the platforms, showing where to catch trains like the Luzern Interlaken Express and Voralpen Express, and how luggage storage at Lucerne train station works, from selecting a locker to p...

Dining out in Switzerland is one of the real highlights of any Swiss adventure, but for first-time travellers, it can also bring a few surprises - especially when it comes to Swiss dining etiquette. 

In this episode, I’m joined by local foodie Kristin Reinhard, to answer the most common questions about eating at Switzerland restaurants and to learn more about Swiss traditional foods like Fondue and Raclette.

Kristin shares practical tips about meal times, dinner reservations in Switzerland, ordering tap water, and the frequently asked question: “Is tipping expected in Switzerland?”

There are als...

Planning a trip to Switzerland is exciting but it’s also easy to become overwhelmed by endless options. Should you go the DIY travel route for complete control, or lean on a Switzerland travel specialist for guidance and support? 

The first step is planning how to visit Switzerland in a way that truly suits your style, whether that’s with a small group tour of Switzerland, tailor-made support, or personalised Switzerland travel experiences.

In this episode, I draw on nearly four decades of Swiss travel experience to help you discover the best way to plan your...

Wondering if Basel is worth visiting, or how best to spend two days in Basel before or after your Rhine River cruise? You’re not alone! Many travelers overlook Basel, but this charming Swiss city on the banks of the Rhine River is packed with history, culture, and surprises - making it well worth including in your Swiss itinerary.

In this episode, I chat with Basel resident, Melinda Schoutens. Melinda shares her suggested Basel itinerary for two days, covering what to do in Basel for a day or more and how to make the most of your ti...

If a panoramic train journey through Switzerland is on your bucket list, the legendary Glacier Express is a must. But questions abound: How do you get Glacier Express tickets? When should you book to ensure you secure seats - especially in the coveted Glacier Express Excellence Class? Is the eight-hour Glacier Express route between St. Moritz and Zermatt really worth it?

In this episode, I chat with Gabi Aberle, Manager Overseas Markets for the Glacier Express, to get her insider tips on traveling between iconic stops like Chur, Andermatt, Brig, and Zermatt. 

We discuss breathtaking h...

Dreaming of discovering a side of Switzerland where palm trees sway, gelato replaces fondue, and the mountains meet the Mediterranean? Then Ticino, Switzerland’s sunniest region, is calling your name!

With so many amazing things to do in Ticino, planning your visit can feel both exciting and a little overwhelming. 

Should you wander the UNESCO-listed castles of Bellinzona, Switzerland’s castle capital or stroll the elegant lakefront promenades of Lugano or Locarno on Lake Lugano and Lake Maggiore? 

Would you like to explore the wild and untouched Bavona Valley, where time seems to stand...

Planning your Switzerland vacation can feel overwhelming - especially when you’re faced with choices like the Berner Oberland Pass vs Swiss Travel Pass, or trying to decide which Switzerland travel pass is the best value for your trip.

In this episode, I chat with Fabienne Harnisch, Manager of the Berner Oberland Pass, about all the essentials: What does the Berner Oberland Pass include? Is the Berner Oberland Pass worth it? How does it compare with other Swiss rail pass options, especially for families using a Swiss Family Card?

We dive into how this pass co...

If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland and want to make the most of your limited time in Zurich without feeling overwhelmed with logistics, a small group tour could be your answer.

In this episode, I’m joined by Catharina De Sa from Swiss Epic Tours to learn more about their guided small group day tours from Zurich. 

We chat through the full range of Zurich day trips they offer, including memorable journeys to Mt Titlis (with a private lakeside fondue experience!), the spectacular Rhine Falls and a visit to the Lindt Home of Choco...

If Bern, Switzerland’s capital city is on your must-visit list but you’re not sure where to start, you’re in the right spot! 

In this episode, I’m sitting down with Bern native Kathrin Spinnler to spill all our favourite secrets about how to make the most of 2 days in Bern - from the best things to do in Bern, Switzerland to can’t-miss local highlights.

We’ll take you on a stroll through the gorgeous Bern Old Town with its fountains, covered arcades and the impressive Bern Minster, show you where to catch the fam...

Trying to pick the best mountain excursion near Lucerne can be a real challenge - especially with so many amazing options right on your doorstep! 

If you’ve ever wondered which Lucerne mountain excursion you should do, or you’re busy searching for things to do in Lucerne beyond the city, this episode is for you.

I’m joined by Lucerne local, Celine Deplazes, and together we break down everything you need to know about Lucerne’s six big peaks - Mount Pilatus (well-known for the Pilatus cogwheel train), Mount Stanserhorn, Mount Rigi, Mount Titlis, Mount Sto...

Planning your first trip to Switzerland can feel exciting… but also completely overwhelming, particularly if you don’t want to follow a generic Switzerland itinerary.

Between choosing destinations, booking hotels, deciding on scenic train rides, and trying to include both the famous highlights and lesser-known gems, it’s easy to spend hours researching and still feel unsure.

The solution is to use a specialist Switzerland trip planner.

In this episode, I’m joined by Cédric Simon from Watch & Cow, a Switzerland-based travel company that creates tailor-made Swiss itineraries designed around each traveller’s interests...

Curious about Switzerland’s hidden gems and ready to venture off the beaten path? In this episode, I team up with Swiss travel expert James to reveal secret Switzerland—those unique places to visit in Switzerland that most travelers never find.

Together, we share an inspiring week-long Switzerland itinerary packed with unforgettable stops: the car-free paradise of Braunwald, the authentic alpine village of Savognin Switzerland in the heart of Graubünden, the underrated city buzz of Winterthur, the colorful streets of Appenzell, and the historic treasures of St Gallen. 

From scenic rail journeys through dramatic landsc...

Planning your dream Swiss vacation and wondering, Is Montreux worth visiting? Absolutely it is! 

In this episode, I’m joined by Martina Fuhrer from Montreux Riviera Tourism for your ultimate Montreux travel guide, packed with expert insights for an unforgettable visit to this stunning lakeside gem.

We dive deep into the best things to do in Montreux, and share a perfect 2-day Montreux itinerary that balances iconic sights, foodie delights, and hidden gems you definitely don’t want to miss. 

You’ll get the inside scoop on must-see places to visit in Montreux, from fai...

Thinking about a Switzerland summer vacation but not sure exactly when or where to go? You’re in the right place!

In this fun and info-packed episode, I’m catching up with fellow Swiss fanatic Christen Fleming to talk about all things summer in Switzerland - and, honestly, it might just be the best time to visit Switzerland. We swap stories, favorite spots, and essential tips for making the most of those long sunny days in the Swiss Alps.

We’re covering the absolute best places to visit in Switzerland in summer—think epic views from Sch...

Planning to take a Swiss rail vacation? Join me in this episode to learn more about Echo Rails who offer some of the best Switzerland tours by train. 

I'm joined by Andrea Caspani, owner of Echo Rails, to chat about their small group guided tours of Switzerland that have earned over 500 five-star reviews.  You'll learn about the different Switzerland itinerary options offered by Echo Rails, which include rides on the famous panoramic trains Switzerland is so famous for. 

Tour guests travel on the Glacier Express and Bernina Express, amongst other popular trains, but also get to...

Are you dreaming of exploring Switzerland by train, bus, or boat but want to do it at your own relaxed pace? In this episode, we explore the fantastic Swiss public transportation network and discover how to embrace slow travel in Switzerland for a relaxing, stress-free adventure.

I’m joined by Andy Nef, market manager for Swiss Travel System, to uncover how the legendary Swiss train network makes it effortless to enjoy Switzerland day trips without the stress of packing and unpacking each day. 

We discuss the growing trend of Day Discoveries - setting up in one...

Is Lucerne one of the destinations you’ll visit on your trip to Switzerland? If you’re short on time and are wondering what to do in Lucerne in just a couple of days, this episode is for you!

I’m joined by local expert Sabine Föhn who shares her insider tips for how to spend 2 days in Lucerne. 

Whether you want to stroll across the iconic Old Town Lucerne bridges, relax on a scenic Lake Lucerne cruise, taste location specialties at one of the many restaurants in Lucerne, or marvel at breathtaking views from a m...

Searching for some of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland that aren’t popular tourist hotspots? Tune in as I chat with Christian Guerra from The Most Beautiful Villages in Switzerland Association to uncover Switzerland’s hidden gems. 

Christian shares expert insights on why the association exists, what makes a village worthy of inclusion, and how these destinations offer something truly unique. 

We spotlight must-see villages like Urnäsch in the Appenzell region, Champery in Valais, and Bönigen in the Bernese Oberland, all recently added to the association’s exclusive list. 

Discover how you can...

Are you dreaming of seeing the Matterhorn up close, riding one of Switzerland’s most iconic mountain railways, or discovering breathtaking views without the crowds? Then this episode is for you!

Join me as I chat with Gabi Aberle, Head of Overseas Markets at Matterhorn Gotthard Railway, for an insider’s guide to the classic Zermatt to Gornergrat cogwheel train journey. We answer everything you need to know about the famous Gornergrat train, including tips for getting the best Matterhorn views and why Gornergrat deserves a place on every Switzerland itinerary.

We discuss why the Gorn...

Thinking about your dream trip and not sure whether to travel by train or car in Switzerland? You’re definitely not alone! In this episode, I break down the ultimate travel dilemma for Switzerland: car vs train.

If you’ve been wondering if you should hire a car in Switzerland to explore those tiny villages and winding mountain roads, or if hopping on one of Switzerland’s trains is the way to go, this episode is for you. 

You’ll learn the pros and cons of both, what it’s really like driving in Switzerland, how easy it...

Is Gstaad worth visiting? It may have a reputation for glamour and luxury but beyond that, Gstaad is an authentic Swiss village in the Bernese Oberland with charming traditions and stunning scenery.

In this episode, I’m joined by Selina Riegert from Gstaad Saanenland Tourism to reveal the true character of Gstaad and its surrounding villages. 

We bust the myth of exclusivity and dive into what really awaits visitors: down-to-earth locals, beautiful wooden chalets, farmers alongside luxury, and a warm welcome for everyone.

You’ll hear how easy it is to reach Gstaad by tr...

Are you considering a trip to Switzerland and wondering if spring is the right season for your visit? 

In this episode, Swiss local Tanya Deans returns to answer the big question: Is spring a good time to visit Switzerland?

We cover everything you need to know about Switzerland in spring, including what to expect from Switzerland spring weather, which flowers are in bloom, and why planning around Switzerland public holidays and cable car closures is essential. 

Tanya shares her favorite spring itinerary ideas, the best places to see spring flowers, must-try spring bike tr...

Are you planning your Swiss itinerary and wondering “Is Zermatt worth visiting?” This episode will answer that question - with a resounding ‘yes’. 

I'm joined by local expert, Viviane Zellweger, for a winter walk in Zermatt to get a local’s perspective on the best things to do in Zermatt.

Viviane answers the questions most first-time visitors ask, from “Where is Zermatt in Switzerland?” to the best ways to experience its world-famous mountains, how to get to Zermatt and what to do there.

Viviane shares insider tips on unique activities like walking the picturesque Pen...

Curious about the real cost of a Switzerland vacation? In this episode of the Holidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast, I take an honest look at one of the most asked questions by travelers: Is Switzerland expensive to visit? 

Drawing on my own experiences and up-to-date January 2026 pricing, I break down everything you need to know to confidently plan your trip and budget for your dream Swiss getaway.

Tune in as I discuss what you can expect to pay for your Switzerland hotel room price, daily meals, transportation, and top attractions. Wondering how much does a m...

Planning your first trip to Switzerland and not sure where to start? This episode is packed with practical inspiration!

Join me as I chat with first-time visitor Kristian Hedin about his two-part Swiss adventure, featuring an epic rail journey and tips for visiting the top Swiss destinations with ease. We take you inside Kristian’s experience of booking a Grand Train Tour of Switzerland rail package - covering everything from itinerary planning and hotel selection to how seat reservations and luggage transfers really work.

You’ll learn how a Switzerland rail pack...

Feeling overwhelmed planning your Switzerland trip? Terrified that you might be caught freezing on a mountain peak because you forgot your waterproof jacket or essential gear? Wondering how you will drag heavy bags between cities or if you will manage to find luggage storage space on busy trains?

Truth is, it is hard to plan for Swiss weather. You want to be prepared for the cold, but you also don't want to haul heavy suitcases onto Swiss trains or struggle through the streets.

The good news is that you can absolutely master packing light and...

Are you planning your first trip to Switzerland and not sure where to begin? This episode lays out a complete Switzerland itinerary designed for first-time travelers who want a scenic, meaningful trip without feeling rushed. From mountain peaks and lakeside towns to quiet villages and world-famous train rides, you’ll get a clear path to follow from arrival to departure.

James Wilson, founder of Swiss Tailor Made, joins me to walk through a one-week route that includes stops in Lucerne, Wengen, Lenk, and Montreux. You’ll hear exactly how to move between these destinations with ease using the...

Let’s dive into the final step of our Four Steps to Planning Your Swiss Vacation series. In this episode, we focus on the small details that help your trip feel organized from the moment you arrive. This is where your plans start to feel real, and all the pieces come together in a simple, calm way as you travel to Switzerland.

We look at the practical tasks that are easy to overlook when you are busy building your Swiss itinerary. This includes booking popular restaurants, arranging tickets for key attractions, and setting aside time to think th...

Booking the key parts of your Swiss vacation can be challenging, especially when you're trying to figure out what needs to be reserved early and what can wait. Knowing what to secure in advance helps the rest of the process feel more manageable. 

In this episode, which is Step 3 of our Four Steps to Planning Your Swiss Vacation series, we’re covering the bookings that create a strong foundation for your trip: accommodations, panoramic train reservations, and rail tickets and passes. You’ll also hear helpful Switzerland travel tips to make this stage of your trip easier to ma...

Planning the perfect trip to Switzerland can feel like a puzzle, especially when it comes to choosing where to go, how long to stay, and how to make it all fit together. 

In this episode, Step 2 of our Four Steps to Planning Your Swiss Vacation series, I’m guiding you through one of the most important steps: designing a Switzerland travel itinerary that lets you see more without overpacking your schedule.

We’ll cover how to narrow down the best places to visit in Switzerland without overloading your days or bouncing from town to town too q...

Welcome to Step One of the Four Steps to Planning Your Swiss Vacation series! Before you start filling your trip to Switzerland with scenic train rides and alpine views, let’s get your travel dates, flights, and insurance in place.

In this episode, I walk you through the very first steps of planning a trip to Switzerland, that will set the tone for your entire adventure. We’ll start by figuring out the best time to visit Switzerland, taking into account the different seasons, popular events in Switzerland, and what kind of weather in Switzerland to expect duri...

Planning a trip to Switzerland can feel exciting, but it can also feel like there’s a lot to think about all at once. If you’re planning a European trip and wondering where to start, I’m here to help you slow things down and get organized without the overwhelm.

In this episode, I share simple, practical travel planning tips to help you cover the basics, including passport validity requirements, what you need to know about Schengen area travel entry procedures, and how the upcoming ETIAS Authorization may affect your plans. These are the kinds of detail...

From iconic routes like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express to charming towns, winter boat rides, and festive markets, winter in Switzerland offers a travel experience that feels straight out of a postcard.

In this episode, I’m joined by Swiss rail expert Andy Nef to break down one of the most beautiful winter routes in the country, highlighting train travel in Switzerland at its best. We walk through a stunning Swiss itinerary inspired by the Grand Train Tour, including Lucerne, Interlaken, Zermatt, and St. Moritz, all easily explored with the Swiss Travel Pass.

You’ll l...

Want to see one of the largest waterfalls in Europe and add it to your Swiss itinerary? Rhine Falls is one of the most unforgettable stops as you travel Switzerland, and in this episode, I’ll show you how to make your visit smooth, scenic, and truly special.

With its breathtaking views and centuries-old Swiss castles, a Rhine Falls tour is an experience you won’t want to miss. I’ll share how to enjoy one of Switzerland’s most iconic natural sites and get the most from your visit. From marvelling at the incredible views to enjoying...