Mastering Switzerland: Transportation Tricks and Spot Picks
Updated: Dec 19, 2023
Embarking on a European escapade that feels straight out of a fairy tale? Switzerland should undoubtedly top your list for the next chapter in your adventure book. After experiencing it firsthand, I can attest to the well-deserved hype surrounding this enchanting country. Switzerland effortlessly weaves together the charm of the countryside, the vibrancy of the city, and a touch of that dreamy Disney magic.
For those seeking a blend of countryside allure and luxury indulgence, you've picked the perfect spot. Join me as I unveil my most cherished activities and sights, ranging from day adventures to blissful spa retreats, must-see historical monuments, exhilarating mountain escapades, and, perhaps most crucially, seamless transportation insights for navigating these picturesque landscapes. Trust me, the transportation aspect turned out to be the unsung hero of this entire journey!
TRANSPORTATION
Transportation – a topic I never thought would excite me, but after experiencing the perpetual work-in-progress that is transportation in Los Angeles, Switzerland felt like an indulgent escape. Navigating from city to city there was a breeze, and it dawned on me that a significant chunk of my stress back home stemmed from the perpetual dance with traffic or dealing with an insufficient transportation system.
For someone who endured the maze of LA's metro bus system during my early days in the city, trust me, Switzerland sets the gold standard for a proper and efficient transportation system. Allow me to share the details and spill all the secrets.
If it is your first time in Switzerland, I would suggest getting a Swiss pass. Having this swiss pass made our travels so effortless and easy. It’s also super efficient because you can just download the SBB Mobile app and add the pass to your wallet! I went on Swisstravelpass.com to purchase mine!
The Swiss travel pass covers all train, bus, and ferry rides. All unlimited depending on what type of pass you get. I got my Swiss pass for 6 days first class. Which costed me about $670. You can also opt for a regular economy pass, which would cost around $430. If our under 25 you even get a bigger discount when purchasing a swiss pass. Either way I really advise getting a Swiss pass! You don’t have to worry about paying for transportation once your on your trip. It’s worth the money if you like conveince and honestly made my trip so enjoyable.
If you're all about cruising in style and love the idea of driving your own car, check out SuperCar Sharing in Luzern – they're the real deal! I teamed up with these guys, and they've got some cool options. Whether you're thinking of owning, leasing, or just renting as a member, they've got you covered. Plus, their top-notch cars are scattered all around the world, so if you're planning an extended European road trip, this could be your ticket to rolling around in some serious style. Because, let's face it, who doesn't want to turn heads on the road?
PICKING YOUR LOCATION
Choosing your spot in Switzerland is like picking the HQ for your adventure, and let me tell you, their transportation game is smooth as butter. A 2-hour train ride feels more like a laid-back 10-minute cruise down the chill Pacific Coast Highway when there is no traffic – no kidding, no traffic nightmares here!
So, where to stay in Switzerland? Totally depends on your vibe. We set up camp in Luzern, and it was a total win! It's got everything – killer shopping, cute restaurants with killer views, spas to zen out, and enough history with monuments and castles to keep you curious.
If you're flying into Switzerland, chances are you'll touch down at Zurich International Airport. From there, hop on a train (seriously easy, trust me) – just a breezy 1-hour ride to Luzern. Quick tip: grab the SBB Mobile app for all your travel hacks. Opting for a train journey from a neighboring country is also a viable choice. In fact, we hopped on a train from Luzern directly to Lake Como! I'll delve deeper into that adventure in another blog post.
I had the pleasure of staying at the Grand Hotel National in Luzern. This place has been privately owned since 1870, and let me tell you, they've nailed the whole royal vibe.
When you walk in, it's like stepping into a palace – they treat you like absolute kings and queens. Plus, the location is gold – just a chill 10-minute walk from the main train station in Luzern, making it a breeze to hop on and off the train. And bonus, all the awesome restaurants and cool monuments are just a 5-10 minute walk away.
Now, if you're wondering where to hit up in Switzerland, I'd say Luzern, Interlaken, Grindelwald, and Zurich are your go-tos. We had a bunch of other spots on our radar, but hitting up these three cities over six days felt just right for our Swiss escapade.
Roll Call for Fun: Top Things to see in Luzern
We practically had the keys to the city – most of the spots we hit up were totally free to explore, living that no-cost adventure! The only exceptions? The spa and the chocolate factory, but hey, a little splurge for some pampering and sweet treats? Absolutely worth it!
Hotel Villa Honegg Spa: Treat yourself to some serious relaxation at the Hotel Villa Honegg Spa, where the views are as luxurious as the experience. You can get a day pass for the spa at around $185.
Castle Meggenhorn: Explore the historical charm of Castle Meggenhorn, immersing yourself in its rich heritage and picturesque surroundings.
Lion Monument: Witness the iconic Lion Monument, a powerful and poignant sculpture that commemorates Swiss Guards who lost their lives during the French Revolution.
Jesuit Church: Check out the Jesuit Church – it's this beautiful old church that adds a touch of elegance to the city's skyline.
Mount Pilatus: Get yourself up to Mount Pilatus for some seriously awesome views. You can take a cable car, a cogwheel railway, or mix it up and do both.
Lindt Chocolate Factory: And of course, swing by the Lindt Chocolate Factory. Because, well, who can resist Swiss chocolate goodness? A pass to the factory costs about $18USD.
