

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

Feb 7, 2023 • 46min
10 top experiences to enjoy in Switzerland
In this episode, we are joined by Nick Taylor who is a member of our Switzerland Travel Planning Facebook group. Nick and his wife have been frequent visitors to Switzerland for many years and in this episode Nick share's his top 10 Swiss experiences with us. They include a variety of train rides, hikes and other experiences in destinations in all over Switzerland.Listen now to learn about:How Nick plans his journeys to SwitzerlandNick's top 10 recommended Swiss experiencesNick's favourite hiking trails in SwitzerlandHis favourite city in SwitzerlandFor further information and the full show notes from this episode, visit https://holidaystoswitzerland.com/episode65>> 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. ❤️

Jan 24, 2023 • 41min
Journey across Switzerland on the Glacier Express
In this episode, we are joined by Gabriele Aberle from Matterhorn Gotthard Railway. Gabi walks us through all the details travellers should know about the world-famous Glacier Express train journey. This journey features breathtaking panoramic views and is a bucket list trip for many visitors to Switzerland. Do you dream of riding aboard the Glacier Express? Listen now to learn about:The world famous Glacier Express train journeyWhy you should take the journeyThe main highlights along the routeWhat to expect on board the trainThe different classes available on the Glacier ExpressInformation about the train tickets and seat reservationsTravelling with young children.Taking luggage onboard the Glacier ExpressFor further information and the full show notes from this episode, visit https://holidaystoswitzerland.com/episode64>> 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. ❤️

Jan 10, 2023 • 18min
Tips for planning your 2023 trip to Switzerland
2023 promises to be the year many listeners will finally be able to visit (or revisit) Switzerland . To help you prepare for your Switzerland trip, in this episode of the podcast I share my tips for securing your preferred accommodation and transport, give you an update on the different Swiss transport passes for 2023 and some ideas to consider if you’d like to head to a quieter, less-known destination for a day or two.And make sure you keep listening to the end of this episode as I have some very exciting news about an exclusive bonus offer for the Holidays to Switzerland audience. Listen now to learn about:Any changes to the various Swiss rail passes for 2023The new GoldenPass ExpressSeat reservations on premium panoramic trainsWhy you should make your trip bookings earlyLess-known towns to consider visitingThe new cableway from Zermatt to Cervinia in ItalyA Holidays to Switzerland exclusive offerFor further information and the full show notes from this episode, visit https://holidaystoswitzerland.com/episode63>> 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 27, 2022 • 32min
Fun things to do in the Jungfrau Region with kids
In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Isabelle Rapisarda from Jungfrau Region Tourism. Isabelle tells us about the many fun activities that families can enjoy in the region. From mountain carts and scooter rides, to adventure playgrounds, summer toboggan rides and marble runs, there are plenty of fun things to do in the Jungfrau Region for kids.Listen now to learn about:Child-friendly activities in the Jungfrau RegionFamily-friendly excursions and hikesInteractive adventure playgroundsMarble RunsZip lines, mountain carts and scooter ridesGrindelwald Glacier spider webMini golf courses in Grindelwald and WengenFamily activities including a dwarf trail at HaslibergSkiing and sledding for all the familyFor further information and the full Show Notes from this episode, visit https://holidaystoswitzerland.com/episode62>> 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. ❤️

4 snips
Dec 13, 2022 • 26min
Swiss Train News and Updates for 2023
In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Andy Nef from the Swiss Travel System. Andy shares all the latest news and updates on the Swiss Travel System, including the brand new GoldenPass Express. He also provides an update on Swiss Travel Passes for 2023.Listen now to learn:Train timetable changesNight train servicesNews and information about the GoldenPass ExpressUpdates on the Chocolate Train and the Cheese TrainNews and updates on panoramic trainsUpdates on the Swiss Travel SystemSwiss Travel Pass prices for 2023News about the new world record for the longest passenger trainFor further information and the full Show Notes from this episode, visit https://holidaystoswitzerland.com/episode61>> Visit our shop for helpful Switzerland travel guides and resources.Connect with us:Website InstagramFacebook group Newsletter This podcast is sponsored by Switzerland Tourism. #inLOVEwithSWITZERLANDSupport the showIf you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

Nov 29, 2022 • 32min
Christmas in Switzerland: Cookies and Customs
In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Andie Pilot, a pastry chef, food writer and cookbook author. While being Canadian-Swiss she is still very rooted in Swiss traditions and culture from baking traditional Swiss cookies to enjoying wonderful Swiss advent season traditions.Listen now to learn:Swiss Christmas traditions and customsHow and when the Swiss celebrate Christmas What can you expect at Switzerland's Christmas MarketsThe four main Christmas cookies you'll find in Switzerland, plus two other delicious varietiesAndie's favourite Swiss Christmas cookieAndie's Swiss cook books and where to buy themFor further information and the full Show Notes from this episode, visit https://holidaystoswitzerland.com/episode60>> Visit our shop for helpful Switzerland travel guides and resources. Connect with us:WebsiteInstagramFacebook group This 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. ❤️

4 snips
Nov 15, 2022 • 44min
The many advantages of taking a private tour in Switzerland
In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Catharina De Sa who is the founder and owner of a Swiss Epic Tours, a company that offers private tours for travellers from around the world. Catharina can design tailored made private tours to fit all your needs, from single day to multi-day tours. The private tours offered by Swiss Epic Tours are ideal for travellers who want to relax and see Switzerland at their own pace, and for travellers who are finding planning their itinerary difficult or those that simply don't have the time to plan their trip.Listen now to learn:Why should you choose private tripsAre private trips right for youHow flexible these trips can beWhat kind of transport is available with private tripsWhat special request Catharina can organise for your tripHow to book your trips with Swiss Epic ToursBonus offer exclusively for Holidays to Switzerland podcast listenersFor further information and the full Show Notes from this episode, visit https://holidaystoswitzerland.com/episode59 >> Visit our shop for helpful Switzerland travel guides and resources.Connect with us:WebsiteInstagramFacebook groupThis 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. ❤️

Nov 1, 2022 • 32min
Engelberg and Mt. Titlis - Home of glacier adventures and incredible views
In this episode, Carolyn is joined by Peter Niederberger who has lived most of his life in a majestic Swiss town called Engelberg. Peter fell in love with his beautiful surroundings at a young age and he joins us today to tell us about the many things to see and do in Engelberg and its home mountain, Mt. Titlis. If you'd love to explore the beauty of central Switzerland's mountains, glaciers and lakes, Engelberg is the ideal destination to visit.Listen now to learn:Things to do at Engelberg and Mt. TitlisHow to get to there and prepare for your tripHow long to allow for an excursion to Mt. TitlisWhy should you visit Mount TitlisOperating dates of Mt. Titlis cablewayUseful tips for planning a visit to Mt. TitlisBest spots for skiing and secret tips from PeterFor further information and the full Show Notes from this episode, visit https://holidaystoswitzerland.com/episode58 >> Visit our shop for helpful Switzerland travel guides and resources.Connect with us:Website InstagramFacebook groupThis 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. ❤️

Oct 18, 2022 • 57min
Things to Do in Lucerne: The City, The Lake, The Mountains
Join Carolyn and Celine Deplazes as they discuss the history of Lucerne city, local monuments and interesting museums. Explore breathtaking excursions to Mount Pilatus, Mount Rigi and Mount Titlis, as well as beautiful boat trips on Lake Lucerne. Discover fun family activities such as Mirror Maze, Fox Trails, and Max Chocolatier Experience. Learn about Lucerne's local specialty, Lucerne Puff Pastry, and don't miss out on Lucerne's Light Festival and Christmas Markets.

Oct 4, 2022 • 30min
Jungfraujoch or Schilthorn - Which mountain should you visit?
Two of the best mountain excursions in the Jungfrau Region are Jungfraujoch and Schilthorn. Both will leave you with lasting memories from your visit but if you only have the time or the funds to visit one, how do you choose?In this episode you'll learn what each excursion entails so you can choose the one that's right for you.Listen to discover:How to get to each mountain summitThings to see and do at the summit and intermediate stationsHow long to allow for your excursionExcursion pricesDates of operationand moreFor further information about visiting Jungfraujoch and Schilthorn, and the full Show Notes from this episode, visit https://holidaystoswitzerland.com/episode56>> Visit our shop for helpful Switzerland travel guides and resource including Carolyn's Jungfrau Region Travel Guide.Connect with us:Website | Newsletter | Facebook group | InstagramThis 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. ❤️