deciding to go to Switzerland over Christmas week we would like to incorporate a train ride while there. Leaving Michigan arriving in Zurich. Dates are flexible originally planning for five nights beginning around December 23 and returning on the 29th.
Especially wanting to incorporate a scenic train ride. Unsure where to begin what train, hotel recommendations and what not to miss in the short time we’re there. Suggestions greatly appreciated.
This year or next year? If this year, you'll need to get rooms ASAP and it might be a struggle to find any.
Tell us more: do you like mountains, cities, museums, skiing, shopping, snow hikes, etc., would help us guide you.
Moderate budget. This year.
Not a skier or hiker. Want to do a scenic train ride, take in the mountain view’s. Be close to the city and public transportation, shopping. What not to miss relating to historic sites and/or
day trip suggestions.
hey hey sandracarroll32
WOW that's in a month, short time. many places/things booked up for almost a year. what is a moderate budget (switzerland is very expensive and especially during holiday, many wanting what you want)
have you looked at booking.com, how many people, are you locked into zurich flight? good luck & happy travels. dress warm
aloha
Well, considering the name of this site, the most obvious place to start would be to buy Rick's book ASAP and study it carefully. He has plenty of ideas.
You'll also need to delve into the complicated world of the travel pass vs the half price card. Plenty of sites discuss that.
And you need to find out if the country shuts down for the holidays or if it's business as usual.
do you intend to stay in Zurich and takee trips from there, or will you go an hour to Luzern and use that for your base?
Be prepared for sticker shock - Christmas and very late and Switzerland is very expensive to start with.
Have you looked at the various scenic trains and do you think you have a favourite?
Your profile says that your husband stays home but you use "we" in the question. Is it you and a travelling companion? Mobility issues?
It sounds like you know how to travel - we just need to help you pull this together.
Are your flights purchased, you say you are flexible but it sounds like fixed dates.
One way to approach this is to stay in a less touristy, but still nice location. You can stay in Thun, for example. Booking still shows there are still rooms available starting at under 200 CHF a night for two people. This, by the way, is the usual amount that my husband and I pay when we stay in a hotel in Switzerland. It is only when you go the most popular tourist towns and cities that you need to pay more.
Regarding your dates, keep in mind that shops and things will close early on Dec. 24th (4:00pm) and remain closed through the 25th and 26th, as well as Sunday 28th.
Many restaurants will be open and I would recommend making reservations for the 24th/25th.
Smaller stores in or near train stations will be open and provide a limited selection of groceries or ready made sandwiches, etc.
Trains and busses run as usual, as do mountain lifts.
