Holidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss Vacation

Carolyn Schönafinger - Switzerland Vacation Planning Expert
undefined
Oct 7, 2026 • 21min

10 Things to Know Before Traveling by Train in Switzerland

Travelling by train in Switzerland is one of the easiest ways to explore the country – but if it’s your first visit, you probably have plenty of questions. In this episode, I share the essential things to know about Swiss train travel, from using the SBB app and finding your platform to understanding tickets, rail passes and those surprisingly short connection times. I also cover seat reservations, luggage, train frequency, and what happens if you miss a connection. Plus, find out why there’s no single ‘best’ Swiss rail pass and why navigating Switzerland’s fully integrated public transport system is much easier than it might seem when you’re planning your trip from home. This episode will help you feel prepared and confident about traveling aboard Swiss trains.Happy travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode207⛷️ Get 5% off your MyMountains ski trip📖 Free Switzerland Travel Planning Kit & Guide - Get your copy here✅ Browse the exclusive travel discounts offered by our trusted travel partners🎙️ Tell us what you love about the podcast or ask a question by leaving a voice messageThis podcast is proudly sponsored by Switzerland Tourism and MyMountains. Mention the promo code HTSWISS when booking with MyMountains and get 5% off your tripWhere to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:•On our website•Subscribe to our newsletter•On our YouTube channelWork with Us - Contact us for brand partnerships and business inquiries.Support the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️
undefined
Sep 30, 2026 • 28min

Winter in Lucerne: Christmas Markets, Light Festivals, and Must-Do Activities

Is Lucerne worth visiting in winter? Absolutely! In this episode, Meret Geissbühler from the Lake Lucerne Navigation Company shares why this beautiful lakeside city is a wonderful winter destination.Discover what to expect from the winter weather, how to get around and what’s open, plus some of the seasonal events that bring the city to life, including Christmas markets, the Lucerne Light Festival and Lucerne Carnival. We also explore winter cruises on Lake Lucerne, mountain excursions to Rigi, Pilatus and Titlis, and the lesser-known Klewenalp.You’ll also get suggestions for indoor activities, including the Swiss Museum of Transport, Glacier Garden and visits to Aeschbach Chocolatier and Max Chocolatier.Tune in for plenty of inspiration for your visit to Lucerne in winter.Happy travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode206⛷️ Get 5% off your MyMountains ski trip📖 Free Switzerland Travel Planning Kit & Guide - Get your copy here✅ Browse the exclusive travel discounts offered by our trusted travel partners🎙️ Tell us what you love about the podcast or ask a question by leaving a voice messageThis podcast is proudly sponsored by Switzerland Tourism and MyMountains. Mention the promo code HTSWISS when booking with MyMountains and get 5% off your tripWhere to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:•On our website•Subscribe to our newsletter•On our YouTube channelWork with Us - Contact us for brand partnerships and business inquiries.Support the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️
undefined
Sep 23, 2026 • 21min

7 Overlooked Scenic Train Journeys in Switzerland You Won't Want to Miss

Switzerland’s famous panoramic trains may get most of the attention, but there are plenty of other scenic rail journeys worth adding to your itinerary. In this episode, discover seven lesser-known scenic Swiss rail journeys that showcase a different side of Switzerland, from the rolling landscapes of the Voralpen Express and Alpenrhein Express routes to the dramatic journey from Lauterbrunnen to Wengen.We also travel aboard the Luzern Engelberg Express, wind through the countryside from Herisau to Appenzell, cross spectacular valleys on the Centovalli Railway and explore the scenic Davos to Filisur route in historic carriages.Along the way, you’ll discover what makes each journey special and why these lesser-known scenic trains in Switzerland are worth considering when planning your trip.Happy travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode205⛷️ Get 5% off your MyMountains ski trip📖 Free Switzerland Travel Planning Kit & Guide - Get your copy here✅ Browse the exclusive travel discounts offered by our trusted travel partners🎙️ Tell us what you love about the podcast or ask a question by leaving a voice messageThis podcast is proudly sponsored by Switzerland Tourism and MyMountains. Mention the promo code HTSWISS when booking with MyMountains and get 5% off your tripWhere to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:•On our website•Subscribe to our newsletter•On our YouTube channelWork with Us - Contact us for brand partnerships and business inquiries.Support the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️
undefined
Sep 16, 2026 • 37min

Discover Leukerbad: Switzerland’s Alpine Spa Village

Tucked away in the canton of Valais, Leukerbad is a spectacular Alpine village best known for its natural thermal waters. In this episode, Ryan Maxwell from Leukerbad Tourism shares the best things to do in Leukerbad, from soaking in the Leukerbad thermal baths – including Walliser Alpentherme Leukerbad and Therme 51 – to hiking, skiing and exploring the Gemmi Pass and Torrenthorn. We also visit the nearby villages Albinen, Varen and Inden and discover why this beautiful corner of Valais is worth adding to your Switzerland itinerary.Happy travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode204⛷️ Get 5% off your MyMountains ski trip📖 Free Switzerland Travel Planning Kit & Guide - Get your copy here✅ Browse the exclusive travel discounts offered by our trusted travel partners🎙️ Tell us what you love about the podcast or ask a question by leaving a voice messageThis podcast is proudly sponsored by Switzerland Tourism and MyMountains. Mention the promo code HTSWISS when booking with MyMountains and get 5% off your tripWhere to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:•On our website•Subscribe to our newsletter•On our YouTube channelWork with Us - Contact us for brand partnerships and business inquiries.Support the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️
undefined
Sep 9, 2026 • 30min

Skiing in Switzerland: Practical Tips for an Unforgettable Ski Vacation

Dreaming of skiing in Switzerland? In this episode, our guest Andrea Caspani from MyMountains, shares what makes Swiss Alps skiing so special and why travellers from around the world choose ski vacations in Europe. If you're wondering where to ski in Switzerland, Andrea explains how to choose the right resort for your ability, what makes European ski resorts different, and what non-skiers can enjoy.We also discuss when to book skiing holidays in Switzerland and how all-inclusive ski packages to Switzerland, Italy and France take the stress out of planning.Plus, Holidays to Switzerland also receive an exclusive 5% discount on MyMountains trips. Simply mention the promo code HTSWISS when making your enquiry or booking to qualify.Happy travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 203⛷️ Get 5% off your MyMountains ski trip📖 Free Switzerland Travel Planning Kit & Guide - Get your copy here✅ Browse the exclusive travel discounts offered by our trusted travel partners🎙️ Tell us what you love about the podcast or ask a question by leaving a voice messageThis podcast is proudly sponsored by Switzerland Tourism and MyMountains. Mention the promo code HTSWISS when booking with MyMountains and get 5% off your tripWhere to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:•On our website•Subscribe to our newsletter•On our YouTube channelWork with Us - Contact us for brand partnerships and business inquiries.Support the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️
undefined
Sep 2, 2026 • 23min

The Ultimate 2-Day Zermatt Itinerary: Mountain Excursions, Hikes, and Local Eats

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 or great food, you'll find plenty of ideas and inspiration for an unforgettable two days in Zermatt in this episode.Happy travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 202📖 Free Switzerland Travel Planning Kit & Guide - Get your copy here✅ Browse the exclusive travel discounts offered by our trusted travel partners🎙️ Tell us what you love about the podcast or ask a question by leaving a voice messageThis podcast is proudly sponsored by Switzerland Tourism and MyMountains. Mention the promo code HTSWISS when booking with MyMountains and get 5% off your trip.Where to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:•On our website•Subscribe to our newsletter•On our YouTube channelWork with Us - Contact us for brand partnerships and business inquiries.Support the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️
undefined
Aug 26, 2026 • 44min

Jungfrau Region Mountain Excursions | How to Choose the One That's Right For You

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,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 201📖 Free Switzerland Travel Planning Kit & Guide - Get your copy here✅ Browse the exclusive travel discounts offered by our trusted travel partners🎙️ Tell us what you love about the podcast or ask a question by leaving a voice messageThis podcast is proudly sponsored by Switzerland Tourism and Echo Rails. Mention the promo code HTSWISS when booking with Echo Rails and get 5% off your tour.Where to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:•On our website•Subscribe to our newsletter•On our YouTube channelWork with Us - Contact us for brand partnerships and business inquiries.Support the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️
undefined
Aug 19, 2026 • 34min

Why Switzerland Captivates Visitors from Around the World

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.Whether you're dreaming of your first Swiss vacation or already planning your next visit, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical travel tips.Happy travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 200📖 Free Switzerland Travel Planning Kit & Guide - Get your copy here✅ Browse the exclusive travel discounts offered by our trusted travel partners🎙️ Tell us what you love about the podcast or ask a question by leaving a voice messageThis podcast is proudly sponsored by Switzerland Tourism and Echo Rails. Mention the promo code HTSWISS when booking with Echo Rails and get 5% off your tour.Where to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:•On our website•Subscribe to our newsletter•On our YouTube channelWork with Us - Contact us for brand partnerships and business inquiries.Support the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️
undefined
Aug 12, 2026 • 22min

Swiss Supermarket Tips Every First-Time Visitor Should Know

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👉 Show notes - Episode 199📖 Free Switzerland Travel Planning Kit & Guide - Get your copy here✅ Browse the exclusive travel discounts offered by our trusted travel partners🎙️ Tell us what you love about the podcast or ask a question by leaving a voice messageThis podcast is proudly sponsored by Switzerland Tourism and Echo Rails. Mention the promo code HTSWISS when booking with Echo Rails and get 5% off your tour.Where to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:•On our website•Subscribe to our newsletter•On our YouTube channelWork with Us - Contact us for brand partnerships and business inquiries.Support the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️
undefined
Aug 5, 2026 • 28min

Discover Zurich | Two Day Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

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 you're wondering what to do in Zurich for 2 days, tune in for all of Laura’s Zurich travel tips.Happy travels,Carolyn👉 Show notes - Episode 198📖 Free Switzerland Travel Planning Kit & Guide - Get your copy here✅ Browse the exclusive travel discounts offered by our trusted travel partners🎙️ Tell us what you love about the podcast or ask a question by leaving a voice messageThis podcast is proudly sponsored by Switzerland Tourism and Echo Rails. Mention the promo code HTSWISS when booking with Echo Rails and get 5% off your tour.Where to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:•On our website•Subscribe to our newsletter•On our YouTube channelWork with Us - Contact us for brand partnerships and business inquiries.Support the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

The AI-powered Podcast Player

Save insights by tapping your headphones, chat with episodes, discover the best highlights - and more!
App store bannerPlay store banner
Get the app