Holidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss Vacation
Carolyn Schönafinger - Switzerland Vacation Planning Expert
Are you planning a vacation to Switzerland? On the Holidays to Switzerland travel podcast you'll get practical tips and advice from Swiss travel experts to help you plan your dream trip to Switzerland. Your host, Carolyn Schönafinger, the founder of HolidaysToSwitzerland.com and a Swiss travel expert, shares the best places to visit in Switzerland based on her experiences, along with all the Swiss travel tips she has gathered over 30 years and on dozens of visits, for planning a trip to Switzerland. Discover the best things to do in Switzerland, and learn essential information about train travel in Switzerland, food, language and so much more.You'll also hear from special guests who offer tips about the top destinations in Switzerland like Zurich, Grindelwald and Zermatt, as well as some off-the-beaten-path gems that only the locals know about. Don’t finalize your Switzerland travel plans until you’ve listened to this podcast. Tune in and let us help you plan the perfect Switzerland vacation. If a visit to Switzerland is part of your Europe travel plans, this is the only Switzerland travel guide you'll need!Make sure you subscribe so you don't miss an episode of the Holidays to Switzerland travel podcast. You can find full show notes, travel guides, resources and much more on our website >> https://holidaystoswitzerland.com
Episodes
Mentioned books
Apr 2, 2024 • 39min
Visiting Switzerland? Add these 5 stunning waterfalls to your Switzerland itinerary
Let's go in search of five of the most beautiful waterfalls in Switzerland! In this episode, our guest, Melinda Schoutens, joins us to tell us about some of her favourite Swiss waterfalls. Each of these breathtaking waterfalls in Switzerland are easily reached by public transport - or on foot if you enjoy a hike - and will be a highlight of your Switzerland vacation. Listen now to learn about:Rhine Falls near SchaffhausenTrümmelbach Falls near LauterbrunnenGiessbach Falls on Lake BrienzReichenbach Falls near MeiringenEngstligen Falls near AdelbodenHow to reach the featured waterfallsWhat steps you should take before your next Swiss hikeEssential equipment you should bring while hiking in SwitzerlandHow to find out the difficulty level of hikesFor further information and the full show notes from this episode, visit https://holidaystoswitzerland.com/episode95>> Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland trip discounts.Connect with us:WebsiteInstagramFacebook groupNewsletterSupport the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️
Mar 19, 2024 • 16min
World record experiences for your Switzerland 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-firsts and world record-holding sites that you can include in your Switzerland travel plans. You'll find them in some of the top destinations in Switzerland but also in some places you may not have heard of. Listen now to learn about:First revolving aerial cableway in the WorldWorld’s steepest cogwheel trainWorld steepest funicularWorld's longest suspension bridgeWorld's highest peak to peak suspension bridgeLongest railway tunnel in the World.World’s longest staircaseWorld's oldest wooden truss bridgeFor further information and the full show notes from this episode, visit https://holidaystoswitzerland.com/episode94>> Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland trip discounts.Connect with us:WebsiteInstagramFacebook groupNewsletterSupport the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️
Mar 5, 2024 • 31min
Visiting Schilthorn Piz Gloria for 360 degree views of the Swiss Skyline
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 things to do at the SchilthornBrunch at Piz Gloria revolving restaurant.The Schilthorn cable car project that is currently underwayVarious ways to reach the famous Mürren mountain villageHow long you should allow for your Schilthorn excursionWhy you should include a visit to the Schilthorn in your Switzerland vacationFor further information and the full show notes from this episode, visit https://holidaystoswitzerland.com/episode93>> Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland trip discounts.Connect with us:WebsiteInstagramFacebook groupNewsletterSupport the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️
Feb 20, 2024 • 28min
Uncovering the delights of the Emmental Valley
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 made itinerary planning service which allows her to help other travellers to explore Switzerland.Listen now to learn about:How Hana came to be living in SwitzerlandWhy Hana loves the Emmental ValleyThe unique characteristics of the Emmental ValleyTop things to do in the Emmental ValleyHow to get to the Emmental ValleyHana's itinerary planning serviceAn exclusive discount for our audienceFor further information and the full show notes from this episode, visit https://holidaystoswitzerland.com/episode92>> Take advantage of our exclusive Swiss travel discounts.Connect with us:WebsiteInstagramFacebook groupNewsletterSupport the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️
Feb 6, 2024 • 21min
Top Swiss travel tips for 2024 (and beyond)
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 seasonWhen you should book your seat reservations and accommodationWhy you should consider buying a travel pass in advanceWhere to check operating dates for cable cars and mountain railwaysThe benefits of wandering off the well-trodden pathWhy you should incorporate time for flexibility in your itineraryThe importance of purchasing travel insuranceWhy you should use Holiday to Switzerland resources.For further information and the full show notes from this episode, visit https://holidaystoswitzerland.com/episode91>> Take advantage of our exclusive Swiss travel discounts.Connect with us:WebsiteInstagramFacebook groupNewsletterSupport the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️
Jan 23, 2024 • 42min
Things to do in Zurich beyond the tourist trail
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 festivals held in Zurich and much more.Listen now to learn about:Zurich’s very own mountain, UetlibergFun things to do and places to visit in District 5Zurich’s Urban Surf and Prime TowerThe special funicular in Zurich, called PolybahnBest places to enjoy spectacular viewsZurich's flea markets and festivalsEverything you need to know about Zurich’s Christmas MarketsFor further information and the full show notes from this episode, visit https://holidaystoswitzerland.com/episode90>> Take advantage of our exclusive Swiss travel discounts.Connect with us:WebsiteInstagramFacebook groupNewsletterSupport the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️
Jan 9, 2024 • 28min
Discovering rails, trails and hidden gems on a Switzerland Alps vacation
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 lesser-known destinations and attractions that are key highlights of the trip.This incredible tour is guided by local tour guides to help you experience Switzerland to the fullest.Listen now to learn about:An overview of the 12-day Swiss Alps Grand Rail TourThe benefits of joining Echo's escorted train tours of SwitzerlandKey highlights and inclusions of the Swiss Alps Grand Rail TourTour operation datesAn exclusive discount offer for the Holidays to Switzerland audienceOur guest: Andrea Caspani from Echo Rails and TrailsShow notes: Episode 89Get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:On our websiteSubscribe to our newsletterJoin our private Facebook group>> Take our advantage of our exclusive Swiss travel discounts.Support the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️
Dec 26, 2023 • 43min
Switzerland’s Hidden Charms: Exploring Enchanting Villages
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 Giornico to the picturesque town of La Neuveville, we uncover hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations that make the perfect addition to your itinerary on your next visit to Switzerland.Listen now to learn about:The Most Beautiful Villages in Switzerland association7 enchanting member villages that are close to major Swiss towns and citiesWhat to see and do in the villagesHow to reach the villages by public transportWhere to get more information about the villagesFor further information and the full show notes from this episode, visit https://holidaystoswitzerland.com/episode88>> Visit our shop for helpful Switzerland travel guides and resources.Connect with us:WebsiteInstagramFacebook groupNewsletterThis podcast is sponsored by Switzerland Tourism. #ineedswitzerlandSupport the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️
Dec 12, 2023 • 39min
Scenic Swiss train routes to discover in 2024
Andy Nef, representing the Swiss Travel System, shares exciting updates for 2024. He discusses upcoming price hikes and the value of the Swiss Travel Pass. Listeners will discover exclusive new experiences like the NostalChic Class train to Gornergrat and additional services on the Glacier and Bernina Express. Andy highlights lesser-known scenic train and bus routes, including the picturesque Palm Express and the historic Gotthard route, ensuring travelers can immerse themselves in Switzerland's stunning landscapes.
Nov 28, 2023 • 40min
How to travel sustainably in Switzerland
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 travel in Switzerland.What Swisstanable means.Ways to travel sustainably.Consciousness of not travelling responsibly and sustainably.For further information and the full show notes from this episode, visit https://holidaystoswitzerland.com/episode86>> Visit our shop for helpful Switzerland travel guides and resources.Connect with us:WebsiteInstagramFacebook groupNewsletterThis podcast is sponsored by Switzerland Tourism. #ineedswitzerlandSupport the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️
