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Holidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationExpert Tips for Planning Your Dream Swiss VacationAre 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...2025-07-1652 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationZurich’s Hidden Gem! How to Explore the Schanzengraben Like a LocalMost 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...2025-07-0918 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationPlanning a Trip to Switzerland? Don’t Miss These Top Things to Do in ChurMost 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...2025-07-0227 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationTop Tips For Visiting Mt. Titlis, SwitzerlandIf 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 a...2025-06-2540 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationYour Essential Guide to the Womens' EURO 2025 in SwitzerlandAre 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 Eu...2025-06-1825 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationExploring Zurich Main Station: Tips for Easy Swiss Train TravelIf 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 stati...2025-06-1128 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationSwitzerland Rail Passes vs Point-to-Point Tickets: Which Should You Buy?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 ma...2025-06-0435 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationZurich Tours With a Twist: Hidden Hikes, Swiss Chocolate & the Circular EconomyWhat 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...2025-05-2849 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationThe Grand Tour of Switzerland: The Ultimate Switzerland Road TripIf 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...2025-05-2134 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationHow to Explore the Swiss Alps with Ease: Guided and Self-Guided Hiking in Switzerland with Epic Alpine ViewsHiking 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...2025-05-1432 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationWhere to Stay in the Jungfrau Region: Grindelwald vs Lauterbrunnen and Other Villages ComparedAre 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. Yo...2025-05-0741 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationWhat to See and Do in Lucerne, Switzerland (including a Hidden Gem!)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...2025-04-3036 min
Wander Your WayTravel to Switzerland with Carolyn Schönafinger of Holidays to SwitzerlandSoaring peaks? Check.Gorgeous valleys? Check.Charming towns and villages? Check.Stunning lakes? Check.Delicious food? Check.Travel to Switzerland is on many of our bucket lists.And it is as magnificent in person as it is in the photos. So let's learn more about this amazing country from Switzerland enthusiast, Carolyn Schönafinger.Carolyn is the founder of Holidays to Switzerland, a website that has loads of information for those wanting to plan a trip to this beautiful country.And s...2025-04-291h 01Holidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationHow to Experience the World’s Steepest Cable Car in Switzerland, Plus the Skyline Walk and Piz Gloria When You Visit the SchilthornMost 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 the...2025-04-2335 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationHow To Visit Mt. Pilatus From Lucerne (And What To Do There)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 tha...2025-04-1639 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationSwitzerland with Kids: The Best Family-Friendly Attractions and ActivitiesIf 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.2025-04-0936 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationEverything You Need To Know About the GoldenPass Express, A Breathtaking Swiss Panoramic Train RideIf 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 t...2025-04-0228 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationSwitzerland on a Budget Tips: How to Save on Transportation, Food, Accommodation and ExperiencesIf 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...2025-03-2632 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationAletsch Arena: Why You Need to Visit This Hidden Gem in SwitzerlandSwitzerland 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 vie...2025-03-1952 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss Vacation3 Outstanding Hotels in Switzerland to Include in Your ItineraryLooking 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...2025-03-1224 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationBest Ways To Pay In Switzerland: Cash, Credit Card Or Debit Card?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...2025-03-0511 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationMust-Try Lake Lucerne Cruises for an Unforgettable Swiss GetawayIf you're dreaming of visiting Switzerland and wondering about the best way to explore Lake Lucerne, this episode’s for you! I’m chatting with Sabine Föhn from the Lake Lucerne Navigation Company about everything you need to know for an unforgettable lake cruise experience. We’ll talk about different types of cruises, whether you want a short boat ride, a historical paddle steamer experience, or something fancy like a sunset dinner cruise. Plus, I’ll tell you how the Swiss Travel Pass can make your trip even easier and...2025-02-2627 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationPlanning a Trip to the Jungfrau Region? Best Time to Visit, Top Activities & Travel HacksDreaming of visiting Switzerland? The Jungfrau Region is one of the most breathtaking places in the Swiss Alps.In this episode, I chat with Kelly Joss from Jungfrau Region Tourism about everything you need to know before visiting this stunning Swiss destination. From charming villages like Grindelwald and Mürren to iconic mountain peaks like Jungfraujoch and Schilthorn, we cover must-see spots, the best activities for every season, and insider tips to help you make the most of your visit.Wondering where to stay in Jungfrau region? How to g...2025-02-1923 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationWinter In Switzerland: Highlights And Tips From My Recent Swiss VacationPlanning to travel to Switzerland in winter? Join me in this episode as I share my highlights and observations from my recent winter trip to Switzerland.Whether visiting the Christmas markets in Switzerland, sledding or skiing, or enjoying scenic winter train rides is top of your itinerary wish-list, you’ll get plenty of helpful advice.I share my thoughts on the Montreux Christmas market (widely regarded as one of the best Christmas markets in Switzerland), visiting the beautiful cities of Zurich, Lucerne and Basel during winter, and why sledding is...2025-02-1222 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationShould you rent a car in Switzerland? Pros, cons & essential tipsThinking about renting a car in Switzerland? While Switzerland’s train system is world-class, there are times when a rental car might be the better option for your trip. In this episode, I’ll walk you through the benefits of driving in Switzerland, when it makes sense to rent a car, and the important things you need to know before hitting the road.Is renting a car cheaper than train travel? What are the best scenic drives in Switzerland? Do you need a special licens...2025-02-0529 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationEssential Tips For Planning A Memorable Swiss Mountain ExcursionAre you planning a Swiss vacation and wondering which mountains in Switzerland to visit? There are so many fabulous Swiss mountain excursions on offer it can be hard to decide which of the mountains in Switzerland to choose.In this week’s episode, I share some essential tips for travelling in Switzerland for anyone planning a mountain excursion. You’ll learn important information about the timetables for mountain railways and gondolas in Switzerland, what you should pack for a day trip to the Swiss Alps, where to check the live weather condi...2025-01-2915 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationVisiting Gruyères: A Guide to Switzerland’s Most Charming Medieval TownLooking for the perfect mix of history, food, and stunning scenery in Switzerland?Gruyères, a picturesque medieval town in La Gruyère region, has it all! Famous for its Gruyère cheese and Swiss chocolate, this charming region offers unforgettable attractions like the 13th-century castle, Château de Gruyères, La Maison Cailler chocolate factory, La Maison du Gruyère cheese factory and Alpine landscapes that will take your breath away. In this episode, I’m joined by Marta and Romaine from La Gruyère To...2025-01-2226 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss Vacation4 Must-Have Apps When You Visit SwitzerlandWondering what are the most popular apps in Switzerland for tourists? In this episode, I share four handy Switzerland apps that you’ll want to download before you travel to Switzerland.I discuss why the SBB Mobile app is essential for every visitor - even those who are renting a car, and why the MeteoSwiss app is my preferred Switzerland weather app.You’ll also learn about two other apps that will be useful for your Swiss travels.These apps will be your perfect trav...2025-01-1511 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationWhat to know before your first trip to SwitzerlandAre you planning your first trip to Switzerland and feeling overwhelmed? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! In this episode, I’m joined by Swiss expert Kathrin Spinnler to unpack everything you need to know to make your Swiss vacation smooth and unforgettable. We’ll explore the history of Switzerland, the four official languages, and what makes this country so unique, including why its country code is "CH."You’ll learn practical tips for navigating public transport, adjusting to Swiss shopping hours, and even hand...2025-01-0835 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationDon’t Forget to Add These 7 Essential Items to Your Switzerland Packing List!Wondering what to pack for Switzerland? In this episode I share seven items that are always in my suitcase when I travel to Switzerland.My list of essential things to pack for Switzerland includes a few items that you may not have considered but will be very useful.Join me to learn why I always pack a travel plug adapter for Switzerland, what I use to keep track of my luggage, and the clothing items that I believe are must-haves for every Swiss vacation....2025-01-0113 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationTop 10 Travel Tips For Switzerland For 2025 (and beyond)Planning a trip to Switzerland in 2025? In this episode, I'm sharing my top 10 essential Switzerland travel tips to help you make the most of your Swiss adventure. From booking strategies for the busy FIFA Women's Euro 2025 season to insider advice on avoiding tourist crowds, I'll walk you through everything you need to know.You'll learn why securing accommodations early is crucial, when to splurge on first-class train tickets, and how to book those popular Swiss panoramic train journeys like the Glacier Express. I'll also reveal some hidden gems beyond t...2024-12-2522 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationWondering What To Do In Lucerne? These Cargo E-Bike Adventures And Swiss Alps Tours Are A Must!Looking for unique ways to explore Lucerne? In this episode, I chat with Roberto Riccardi about an innovative way to discover Swiss hidden gems - cargo e-bike tours! Based in Lucerne, Roberto's company Loop Tours offers a sustainable and enjoyable way to explore beyond the typical tourist spots in both Lucerne and Interlaken.Wondering about Switzerland travel planning? Roberto also shares insights about the private Switzerland tours he offers and how he helps overwhelmed travelers create the perfect Switzerland itinerary. Whether you're interested in Lucerne activities, Swiss Alps tours o...2024-12-1138 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationIs the Swiss Travel Pass Worth It? 11 Reasons Travelers Love ItSwitzerland is full of stunning landscapes, iconic trains, and must-see destinations, but figuring out how to get around can be overwhelming. The Swiss Travel Pass is a popular option for travelers, but is the Swiss Travel Pass worth it? In this episode, I chat with Swiss public transport expert Andy Nef about the many Swiss Travel Pass benefits and why it’s a must-have for exploring Switzerland. From unlimited travel on trains, buses and boats, to free entry into over 500 museums and attractions, this all-in-one ticket makes traveling stress-free and flexible. We also dive into the incredible pan...2024-11-2726 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationTop Things to Do in Montreux Riviera: Famous Attractions, Hidden Gems and Epic ViewsIf you’re dreaming of an unforgettable Swiss getaway, look no further than the Montreux Riviera.In this episode, I chat with Martina Fuhrer from Montreux Riviera Tourism to uncover what makes this Swiss gem so special. Nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva, Montreux is known for its stunning views, rich culture, and unique attractions. Martina gives her tips for what to do in Montreux, from visiting the medieval Chillon Castle and walking the colorful Lakeside Promenade, to finding hidden spots like the charming Montreux Old Town and Cha...2024-11-1325 minHolidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss VacationEverything you need to know about the Berner Oberland Pass in 2025!Traveling through Switzerland is made easier with the Berner Oberland Pass, and today’s episode is all about making the most of it.I’m joined by Jana Amacher, who manages the Berner Oberland Pass. She updates us on the new features for 2025, including the extension of the pass’s availability throughout the year. Jana explains the added benefits, such as free travel on two scenic trains—the Luzern-Interlaken Express and the GoldenPass Express.We also talk about some changes in the discounts for other excursions and what these changes...2024-10-3019 min