Advertise on podcast: Holidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast - Plan Your Swiss Vacation

When planning a trip to Switzerland, most international visitors overlook the Engadin region in the country’s east.  And that’s a shame. In this episode, together with Laura Benz from Engadin Tourism, I uncover what makes the beautiful Engadin valley a must-see destination for your next Swiss vacation. We explore the region’s stunning highlights - from the 4,000-metre high Piz Bernina and the Swiss National Park, to picturesque villages like Sils Maria, Pontresina, Silvaplana, and Zuoz. We discuss things to do in Engadin year-round, including mountain excursions to Muottas Muragl and Diavolezza, traditions like Chalandamarz, delicious local specialities, and the benefits of the Engadin Card for easy, free local travel. Tune in to discover why Engadin Switzerland’s lakes, culture, and scenery are worth much more than a quick stop on your Glacier or Bernina Express journey.  Happy travels, Carolyn 👉 Show notes - Episode209 ⛷️ 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 message This 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 channel Work with Us - Contact us for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Support the show If you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

Planning a trip to Switzerland in winter? In this episode, Swiss local Hana Hurabova shares practical advice to help you make the most of a winter visit.  We discuss where and when you’re most likely to find snow in Switzerland, the best destinations to visit, transport options and what to pack.  Hana also shares some of her favourite Swiss Christmas markets and winter festivals, plus plenty of things to do in winter in Switzerland beyond skiing - from winter walks and sledding to mountain excursions and thermal baths.  If you’re considering a trip to Switzerland in winter, this episode is packed with helpful tips and inspiration for your Swiss vacation. Happy travels, Carolyn 👉 Show notes - Episode208 ⛷️ 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 message This 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 channel Work with Us - Contact us for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Support the show If you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

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 message This 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 channel Work with Us - Contact us for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Support the show If you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

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 message This 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 channel Work with Us - Contact us for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Support the show If you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

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 message This 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 channel Work with Us - Contact us for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Support the show If you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

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 message This 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 channel Work with Us - Contact us for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Support the show If you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

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 message This 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 channel Work with Us - Contact us for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Support the show If you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

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 message This 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 channel Work with Us - Contact us for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Support the show If you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

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 message This 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 channel Work with Us - Contact us for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Support the show If you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

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 message This 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 channel Work with Us - Contact us for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Support the show If you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

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 message This 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 channel Work with Us - Contact us for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Support the show If you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

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 message This 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 channel Work with Us - Contact us for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Support the show If you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

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 seasonal closures, what weather conditions to expect in Switzerland in autumn, and which activities to seek out. If you love the idea of attending a Swiss wine festival in the picturesque Lavaux vineyards, fancy soaking in a thermal spa, or exploring authentic mountain villages without the summer crowds, tune in now and get inspired to plan your unforgettable autumn trip to Switzerland! Happy travels, Carolyn 👉 Show notes - Episode 197 📖 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 message This 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 channel Work with Us - Contact us for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Support the show If you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

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 platforms, showing where to catch trains like the Luzern Interlaken Express and Voralpen Express, and how luggage storage at Lucerne train station works, from selecting a locker to paying contactless.  He shows us where to find the Lucerne train station shops (including a Sunday-open supermarket), the Lucerne Tourist Information centre, and the ticket and luggage counters at Lucerne main train station.  You’ll also discover just how close the Luzern bus station is to the station entrance, and how easy it is to connect to one of the historic Lake Lucerne steamboats. Whether you're catching trains, storing bags, or connecting to a bus or boat, this episode will help you navigate Lucerne station with confidence. Happy travels, Carolyn 👉 Show notes - Episode 196 📖 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 message This 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 channel Work with Us - Contact us for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Support the show If you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

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 Raclette. Kristin shares practical tips about meal times, dinner reservations in Switzerland, ordering tap water, and the frequently asked question: “Is tipping expected in Switzerland?” There are also suggestions for what to eat in Switzerland on a budget, how to enjoy the popular tradition of a Swiss brunch, and Kristin tells us about her new Swiss Food Map which features over 200 authentic, local-approved eateries you won’t find on most tourist lists. Tune in for essential tips to help you dine out in Switzerland with confidence. Happy travels, Carolyn 👉 Show notes - Episode 195 📖 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 message This 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 channel Work with Us - Contact us for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Support the show If you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️