Are you planning your first trip to Switzerland and wondering how to make the most of your visit? This episode is packed with expert advice and insider tips just for you!

In this unique episode, in which we celebrate five years of the Holidays to Switzerland podcast, I switch roles and become the guest. In my chat with Lynne Niemann from the Wander Your Way podcast, I share my personal journey of falling in love with Switzerland and why I keep returning again and again.

Lynne and I discuss my recommended 7-day Switzerland itinerary for first-time visitors, my favourite places to visit - both famous Swiss destinations and some lesser known beauties - and why I love travelling by train in Switzerland.

I’ve also got some money saving tips and practical advice that will be super helpful if you are visiting Switzerland for the first time. We also discuss the best time to visit Switzerland and how to include authentic Swiss experiences in your trip.

Tune in now and let me help make planning your Switzerland vacation as smooth as Swiss chocolate!

Safe travels,

Carolyn

👉 Show notes - Episode 143

📖 Free Switzerland Trip Planning Starter Kit and Guide - Get your copy here

🎟️ Learn more about Swiss rail passes here

🎙️ Tell us what you love about the podcast or ask a question by leaving a voice message

Where to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:

•On our website

•Subscribe to our newsletter

•Join our private Facebook group

•On our YouTube channel

🇨🇭 Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland travel discounts.

Support the show

If you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

Most travelers to Zurich head straight for the Old Town, Bahnhofstrasse, or maybe the Lindt Home of Chocolate, but have you ever heard of the Schanzengraben?

In this episode, I’m joined by Evelyne Jeannerat from Zurich Tourism to uncover one of the city’s most surprising hidden gems: the Schanzengraben, a quiet waterway just steps from the heart of Zurich. Whether you explore it on foot or by stand-up paddleboard, this peaceful spot offers a whole new way to experience the city.

Evelyne shares why this former 17th-century defense moat is now one of her favorite places to unwind. You’ll hear about the best parts of the Schanzengraben promenade, from shady benches and historic bridges to the iconic Männerbad and nearby botanical garden.

You’ll also get insider tips on how to explore Zurich like a local, like renting a stand up paddleboard, grabbing a picnic lunch to enjoy by the water, or catching a sunset cocktail at Rimini Bar.

We also talk about the unique Zurich lifestyle: a perfect blend of city nature, culture, and laid-back charm. From early-morning swims to outdoor dining, you’ll see how easy it is to slow down and soak it all in.

Whether you're visiting for a weekend or adding Zurich to your Switzerland itinerary, this episode will inspire you to step off the tourist trail and discover one of the most relaxing walks in the city.

Hit play now and get ready to see Zurich from a whole new perspective!

Safe travels,

Carolyn

👉 Show notes - Episode 142

🇨🇭 Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland trip discounts

📖 Free guide 21 useful things to know before you visit Switzerland - Get your copy here

🎙️ Tell us what you love about the podcast by leaving a voice message

Where to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:

•On our website

•Subscribe to our newsletter

•Join our private Facebook group

Support the show

If you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️

Most travelers to Switzerland have heard of Zurich, Lucerne, and Interlaken, but have you ever considered stopping in Chur?

In this episode, I’m joined by Lara Schäffeler, Marketing Manager at Chur Tourism, to uncover everything you didn't know you needed to know about Chur, Switzerland, officially the oldest city in Switzerland! With over 13,000 years of history and stunning mountain views, Chur is far more than just a stop on the Glacier Express or Bernina Express routes.

Lara shares her local expertise and passion for this charming gem in Graubünden, a region known for its natural beauty and cultural richness. From its well-preserved Old Town to vibrant street art and active adventures, you’ll quickly see why Chur attractions deserve a place on your Swiss itinerary.

You’ll discover the fascinating history of Chur, the oldest city in Switzerland, and explore the best things to do in Chur, from urban golf and cathedral visits to spontaneous alphorn concerts. You'll get insider tips on what to do in Chur, Switzerland year-round, including how to reach the scenic Brambrüesch mountain right from the city center.

We also share why Chur, Switzerland is the perfect base for day trips to Lenzerheide, Surselva, Flims Laax, and the storybook Heididorf. Plus, find out what to eat with local favorites like Capuns, Maluns, and Churer Fleischtorte, how the Chur guest card helps you save, and what it’s like to ride the Bernina or Glacier Express from this underrated Swiss gem.

Whether you're planning a Swiss vacation or just love uncovering hidden gems, this episode will inspire you to slow down, stay a little longer, and discover the real heart of Chur, Switzerland.

Hit play now and start planning your perfect Swiss escape!

Safe travels,

Carolyn

👉 Show notes - Episode 141

🇨🇭 Take advantage of our exclusive Switzerland trip discounts

📖 Free guide 21 useful things to know before you visit Switzerland - Get your copy here

🎙️ Tell us what you love about the podcast by leaving a voice message

Where to get more Swiss travel tips and inspiration:

•On our website

•Subscribe to our newsletter

•Join our private Facebook group

Support the show

If you enjoy this podcast, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favourite podcast app. ❤️