Holidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss Vacation

It may be the incredible scenery of mountains and lakes that has made visiting Switzerland a high priority for you but the country is also famous for its engineering prowess.  In fact, Switzerland is home to many examples of pioneering innovation and design - many of which are world firsts - that you may like to include in your Swiss vacation. In this episode, I share some of the incredible world-...

In this episode, Carolyn chats with Alan Ramsay from Schilthorn cableways to learn more about the new Schilthorn construction project that is currently underway.  Alan also discusses the various ways to reach the Schilthorn, what to do at the Schilthorn and the intermediate stations, and how you can enjoy a delicious brunch in the Piz Gloria revolving restaurant.  Listen now to learn about: Top th...

In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Hana Hurabova. With over a decade living and exploring Switzerland, Hana has become a true Swiss local. Her extensive knowledge on exploring Switzerland has attracted attention from other travellers looking for help with their travel planning.  Hana shares with us one of her favourite, largely undiscovered, parts of Switzerland, and tells us about her tailor m...

In this episode, Carolyn shares her top 10 Swiss travel tips for 2024. Whether you are a seasoned traveller or it’s your first time visiting Switzerland, these tips will help you to plan, book and experience your dream vacation in Switzerland. Listen now to learn about: Why you should consider travelling out of peak season When you should book your seat reservations and accommodation Why you shoul...

In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Seraina Engert, a Zurich local who loves exploring the city she calls home. Seraina shares her favourite things to do in Zurich including places to visit in Zurich that are mostly only visited by locals. You can expect to hear about fantastic views over Zurich, wonderful flea markets and interesting funky bars. Seraina also shares her tips on a variety of fest...

In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Andrea Caspani from Echo Rails and Trails.  Andrea chats about the company's signature 12 day Swiss Alps Grand Rail Tour, an all inclusive Switzerland vacation by train.  This Swiss guided tour includes visits to the most popular destinations, features beautiful panoramic train rides and breathtaking mountain excursions. It also includes visits to unique...

Are you yearning to explore the tranquil and enchanting villages of Switzerland? In this episode we are joined by Kevin Quattropani, the founder of the Most Beautiful Villages in Switzerland Association.  Kevin takes us on a journey through some of his favourite villages, offering a unique perspective on Switzerland beyond the bustling cities of Basel and Zurich. From the peaceful village of Giorn...

In this episode we welcome back regular guest, Andy Nef, who brings us up to date with changes to some of the Swiss rail products for 2024. Andy also shares some lesser-known scenic train and bus routes in Switzerland that you might like to consider including in your itinerary. Listen now to learn about: Price increases for rail travel and the Swiss Travel Pass in 2024 New experiences including th...

In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Simon Bosshart, Head of Markets East and member of the management board of Switzerland Tourism. Simon shares why everyone  travelling in Switzerland should travel responsibly and as sustainably as possible. He also shares what every traveller can do to make a difference in travelling responsibly and sustainably. Listen now to learn about: How to responsibly tr...

When it comes to choosing how to travel around Switzerland, renting a car or travelling by train are the two options you’ll likely consider.  These modes of transport are fantastic for folks who like to travel independently but for travellers who would rather not have to worry about driving or adhering to train timetables, a small group tour is a wonderful option. In this episode  Fabian Bryner jo...

Would you like to travel Switzerland by train? If you’re not a regular public transport user, the idea of hopping on and off trains in a foreign country and understanding how the public transport system works can be a bit intimidating.   Your fears will be put to rest in this episode as our guest,  Andy Nef from Swiss Travel System, shares all the info you need to know about travelling in Switzerl...

In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Mario Braide and Emilie Morard as they share details about the spectacular region of Valais. From breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities and charming villages, to natural and man-made attractions and traditional festivals. There’s something to suit the interest of every traveller visiting Valais. Listen now to learn about: The unique characteristics of Valais...

In this episode Carolyn is joined by Carrie Nicholes who recently returned from a family trip to Switzerland.  Although they only had five days to spend in Switzerland, Carrie was able to plan a trip that included visiting a variety of locations.  Carrie's Swiss vacation included activities that both the adults and children enjoyed,  creating wonderful experiences for the whole family.  Liste...

In this episode Carolyn shares with us the tools and resources she uses to plan her Swiss itinerary and how to decide which places to visit. She also shares some classic itineraries for first time travellers to Switzerland and tells us the three main ways to book you trip. Listen now to learn about: Step by step guide on how Carolyn plans her Swiss itinerary Things to avoid and how to make your tr...

In this episode we are joined by Claudia Wyss from Zermatt Cableways.  Claudia shares with us all the details about the new Matterhorn Alpine Crossing, the recently opened cableway connection between Zermatt in Switzerland and Cervinia in Italy.  Listen now to learn about: Everything about the new Matterhorn Alpine cable car crossing What the trip from Zermatt to Cervinia involves Highlights of tr...

Fall (autumn) is an underrated but perfect season to visit Switzerland. Join us as, together with Simon Bosshart from Switzerland Tourism, we explore the many reasons to visit Switzerland in fall.   We discuss the weather, the festivals and events that take place and why fall is the ideal time of year to visit Switzerland.   Listen now to learn about: Why fall is the perfect season to visit Switze...

Our guest in this episode is Amanda Wee from Best of Switzerland Tours.  Amanda tells us about the most popular day and multi-day tours that are available from Zurich. Popular tours include mountain excursions and tours that visit picturesque rural areas of Switzerland. Listen now to learn about: The most popular mountain day trips Other tours that are available Group sizes Single day and multi da...

In this episode, Carolyn shares 8 fantastic new experiences she has enjoyed on her recent visit to Switzerland. Over the course of nearly a month, Carolyn explored vast areas of Switzerland. From mountain peaks near Lucerne to breathtaking lake trips in Brienz, she had the most wonderful trip to date.  Listen now to learn about: Tamina Therme, a popular Thermal Spa and Wellness Centre Rail journey...

In this episode, our guest Dominique Horne from Brienz Rothorn Railways tells us all about Switzerland's only daily steam train, the Brienz Rothorn train. Dominique shares the history of the steam railway and tells us why visitors to the Berner Oberland should consider including a ride on the train in their itinerary. She also has some handy tips to help travellers plan their perfect day out...

In this episode, we are joined by Daniela Gugliotta Bagaian from Lugano Region Tourism. Daniela tells us all about the fantastic Lugano Region and all the things you should experience while you are there. Located in the southern part of Switzerland and right next to the Italian border, Lugano shares a lot of Italian culture, making it a unique destination for a variety of travellers.  Listen now t...

In this episode, we are joined by Melinda Schoutens, an avid hiker and the author of the Fresh Air Kids Switzerland book series that inspires readers to connect with nature.  Melinda has lots of great tips and practical advice for anyone planning to enjoy a hike in Switzerland.  She tells us what we need to do to prepare for a hike and shares with us four of her favourite hikes in Switzerland that...

In this episode, we are joined by Camille Härdi from Rhaetian Railways, operators of the premium panoramic train known as the Bernina Express.  The Bernina Express is one of the great train journeys of the world and it connects Chur and St. Moritz in Switzerland with Tirano in Italy. Camille has lots of great info to share with us including the highlights of the ride, what to expect onboard the Be...

In this episode, we are joined by Renato Julier from Interlaken Tourism.  Renato tells us about all the wonderful things to do in the Interlaken Holiday Region, including its beautiful lakes, Lake Brienz and Lake Thun. Listen now to learn about: Why Interlaken attracts so many tourists Things to see and do around Lake Brienz and Lake Thun Hidden gems around Lake Brienz The perfect way to spend a d...

In this episode, we are  joined by Nicole Riede who recently went on a trip to Switzerland with her family of four during winter. Nicole shares lots of great tips about  what to expect while travelling during the winter season.  She also shares her family's itinerary and the highlights from their trip.  After listening to this episode, you'll be adding a winter trip to Switzerland to you...

In this episode,  Carolyn is joined by Manuela Blapp, a market manager representing Mt. Pilatus to travellers around the world. Manuela chats about all the highlights of visiting Mt. Pilatus and the various ways you can reach the summit of the 'Dragon Mountain'. She also shares lots of helpful information to help make your trip to Mt. Pilatus an unforgettable one. Listen now to learn: Wh...