Home Podcasts Holidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss Vacation
Holidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss Vacation

Holidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss Vacation

Carolyn Schönafinger - Switzerland Vacation Planning Expert 192 Episodes Aug 19, 2026

A travel podcast dedicated to helping listeners plan a vacation to Switzerland. Host Carolyn Schönafinger, a Swiss travel expert, shares practical tips and advice based on her 30 years of experience visiting the country. Episodes cover top destinations like Zurich, Grindelwald, and Zermatt, as well as hidden gems, train travel, food, and language. Special guests offer additional insights, making this a comprehensive guide for anyone planning a trip to Switzerland.

Episodes

Why Switzerland Captivates Visitors from Around the World
Why Switzerland Captivates Visitors from Around the World Aug 19, 2026 2012 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 e
Swiss Supermarket Tips Every First-Time Visitor Should Know
Swiss Supermarket Tips Every First-Time Visitor Should Know Aug 12, 2026 1336 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 chocolat
Discover Zurich | Two Day Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
Discover Zurich | Two Day Itinerary for First-Time Visitors Aug 5, 2026 1653 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, s
Autumn in Switzerland | Best Fall Travel Tips and Experiences
Autumn in Switzerland | Best Fall Travel Tips and Experiences Jul 29, 2026 2024 Discover why autumn is the best-kept secret for Switzerland travel. In this episode, my guest Oliver Weibel from Switzerland Tourism, shares essential tips for planning the perfect Switzerland fall itinerary.From scenic hikes in the Swiss Alps in autumn to watching a traditional alpine cow descent, we cover must-do seasonal experiences and share tips on savoring seasonal cuisine.We discuss seasona
How to Navigate Lucerne Train Station Like a Local
How to Navigate Lucerne Train Station Like a Local Jul 22, 2026 1669 If you're passing through Lucerne station for the first time, it's easy to feel a little overwhelmed. So we’re here to help!In this episode, Swiss rail expert Andy Nef takes us on a live, on-location tour of Luzern Bahnhof, as it’s known locally, pointing out everything from the scenic trains from Lucerne to the practical facilities most first-time visitors miss.Andy walks us through the
Tips for Dining Out in Switzerland: Reservations, Tipping, Etiquette, and Must-Try Swiss Dishes
Tips for Dining Out in Switzerland: Reservations, Tipping, Etiquette, and Must-Try Swiss Dishes Jul 15, 2026 2608 Dining out in Switzerland is one of the real highlights of any Swiss adventure, but for first-time travellers, it can also bring a few surprises - especially when it comes to Swiss dining etiquette. In this episode, I’m joined by local foodie Kristin Reinhard, to answer the most common questions about eating at Switzerland restaurants and to learn more about Swiss traditional foods like Fondue and
Planning Your Switzerland Trip: Find the Travel Style That Suits You Best
Planning Your Switzerland Trip: Find the Travel Style That Suits You Best Jul 8, 2026 1038 Planning a trip to Switzerland is exciting but it’s also easy to become overwhelmed by endless options. Should you go the DIY travel route for complete control, or lean on a Switzerland travel specialist for guidance and support? The first step is planning how to visit Switzerland in a way that truly suits your style, whether that’s with a small group tour of Switzerland, tailor-made support, or p
Basel in Two Days: Top Attractions, Local Eats, and Easy Day Trips
Basel in Two Days: Top Attractions, Local Eats, and Easy Day Trips Jul 1, 2026 2422 Wondering if Basel is worth visiting, or how best to spend two days in Basel before or after your Rhine River cruise? You’re not alone! Many travelers overlook Basel, but this charming Swiss city on the banks of the Rhine River is packed with history, culture, and surprises - making it well worth including in your Swiss itinerary.In this episode, I chat with Basel resident, Melinda Schoutens. Meli
Your Guide to the Glacier Express: Route, Tickets, Highlights and Essential Information for Travelers
Your Guide to the Glacier Express: Route, Tickets, Highlights and Essential Information for Travelers Jun 24, 2026 1297 If a panoramic train journey through Switzerland is on your bucket list, the legendary Glacier Express is a must. But questions abound: How do you get Glacier Express tickets? When should you book to ensure you secure seats - especially in the coveted Glacier Express Excellence Class? Is the eight-hour Glacier Express route between St. Moritz and Zermatt really worth it?In this episode, I chat wit
Discover Ticino - Where Swiss Alpine Charm Meets Italian Flair
Discover Ticino - Where Swiss Alpine Charm Meets Italian Flair Jun 17, 2026 1553 Dreaming of discovering a side of Switzerland where palm trees sway, gelato replaces fondue, and the mountains meet the Mediterranean? Then Ticino, Switzerland’s sunniest region, is calling your name!With so many amazing things to do in Ticino, planning your visit can feel both exciting and a little overwhelming. Should you wander the UNESCO-listed castles of Bellinzona, Switzerland’s castle capit
How the Berner Oberland Pass Can Save You Money in the Jungfrau Region and Beyond
How the Berner Oberland Pass Can Save You Money in the Jungfrau Region and Beyond Jun 10, 2026 1499 Planning your Switzerland vacation can feel overwhelming - especially when you’re faced with choices like the Berner Oberland Pass vs Swiss Travel Pass, or trying to decide which Switzerland travel pass is the best value for your trip.In this episode, I chat with Fabienne Harnisch, Manager of the Berner Oberland Pass, about all the essentials: What does the Berner Oberland Pass include? Is the Ber
7 Unforgettable Small Group Day Tours from Zurich You Won’t Want to Skip
7 Unforgettable Small Group Day Tours from Zurich You Won’t Want to Skip Jun 3, 2026 2054 If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland and want to make the most of your limited time in Zurich without feeling overwhelmed with logistics, a small group tour could be your answer.In this episode, I’m joined by Catharina De Sa from Swiss Epic Tours to learn more about their guided small group day tours from Zurich. We chat through the full range of Zurich day trips they offer, including memorabl

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