Zurich Open Top Bus, Chocolate and Cheese Factory Tour Appenzell

Taking a day to explore Switzerland’s iconic flavors and sights sounds like a dream, but how effective is the combination of city sightseeing, food tours, and picturesque villages all in one trip? This tour promises just that — a mix of Zurich’s best landmarks, a tasty visit to a Swiss chocolate factory, a cheese-making experience in Appenzell, and a quick glimpse of St. Gallen. The idea of hopping on an open-top bus to see Zurich’s main sights, then diving into Switzerland’s culinary traditions, definitely catches the eye.

One thing that we really like about this tour is its balance of sightseeing and hands-on experiences. You get a panoramic overview of Zurich through a lively open-top bus, plus the chance to learn about Swiss chocolate and cheese directly from the sources. The scenic drive through the countryside adds an authentic touch many travelers love. On the flip side, some travelers might find the timing and logistics a bit tight, especially if you’re keen on spending more time at each stop.

This tour is best suited for travelers with a passion for Swiss culture, food, and scenic views who want a practical, all-in-one experience without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. If you’re okay with limited time at each site and enjoy guided group tours, this could be a fantastic way to spend a day in the Swiss countryside and city.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary mixes city sightseeing, culinary experiences, and scenic drives
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights, though some reviews suggest inconsistent commentary
• Good value for money considering the combination of bus tour, entrance fees, and tastings
• Timing can be tight; some stops, like the cheese factory, may close earlier or not operate fully on certain days
• Authentic experiences at the chocolate and cheese factories, with interactive exhibits and tastings
• Mixed reviews highlight that the overall experience depends heavily on guide quality and individual expectations

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Zurich City Tour in an Open-Top Bus

The tour begins with a one-hour city sightseeing ride in an eye-catching red open-top bus. It’s a lively way to get your bearings and see Zurich’s key landmarks. The bus route covers the central station (the largest railway station in Switzerland), the Urania Observatory (a beautifully historic site), and scenic views of Lake Zurich. You’ll pass iconic financial buildings like Credit Suisse and historical sites such as the Wensendonck and Rieter villas, which once belonged to affluent Zurich families and now house museums and restaurants.

The open-top aspect means you’ll get breathtaking views of Zurich’s skyline and the surrounding Alps if the weather allows. The guided audio commentary offers some context, though some reviews note that guides can be less engaging than expected, with one reviewer mentioning the guide spent more time talking to the bus driver than explaining the sights.

Transitioning to the Countryside

After the city tour, you’ll hop aboard a bus heading into the Swiss countryside. The drive lasts around 1 hour 20 minutes, giving you a change of scenery from urban Zurich to lush green landscapes dotted with farms and charming villages. This part of the journey is ideal for snapping photos and preparing for the food-focused portion of the day.

The Chocolarium Experience

Your first major stop is the Chocolarium, located in Flawil, about an hour and twenty minutes from Zurich. This is a “factory of happiness” where you’ll step inside Switzerland’s renowned chocolate world. Although the tour is described as self-guided, visitors can expect to see interactive exhibits that explore the history and craft of chocolate-making.

From the reviews, we learn that guests really enjoy the guided tastings and the visual displays. The experience is designed to be fun and sensory-rich, with the opportunity to taste some delicious Swiss chocolates. The factory, run by Munz and Minor, is a lovely break from the bus ride. One traveler said it was “interesting” and enjoyed the various flavors, while others appreciated the chance to learn about the process behind their favorite sweet treats.

Cheese-Making at Appenzeller Schaukäserei

Next, the journey continues to Appenzell, where the highlight is a visit to the Appenzeller Schaukäserei (cheese dairy). Here, the focus is on the traditional cheese-making process. Visitors witness artisans at work, see the cheese aging in cellars, and learn how the famous Appenzeller cheese develops its distinctive flavor.

According to reviews, the cheese factory is more of a museum-style experience rather than a live production tour, as the actual cheese-making takes several days. Visitors often note the aromas and sights of the aging cheese as a highlight, along with tastings at various stages of maturation. One reviewer mentioned that the factory was “more about showcasing the cheese” rather than observing actual production, but found the interactive exhibits satisfying.

Exploring Appenzell Village

After the cheese stop, free time in the village allows travelers to stroll through cobblestone streets, admire colorful frescoed houses, and soak up local charm. The town’s Landsgemeindeplatz (local assembly square) is a hub of tradition, and the surrounding Alps invite hiking or simply panoramic photos. This is a perfect spot to grab a coffee or Swiss pastry in one of the cozy cafes.

St. Gallen Stop

On the way back to Zurich, the tour makes a brief stop in St. Gallen, a city renowned for its UNESCO-listed Abbey Library and beautiful cathedral. Visitors have about 30-45 minutes to walk around, take photos, and appreciate the historic architecture. Some reviews appreciated this as a cultural bonus, though others might find the limited time a bit rushed.

Return to Zurich

The day ends with a 1.5-hour bus ride back to Zurich. Many travelers feel the timing is tight, especially if they want to explore more deeply at each stop. However, the overall experience is designed to deliver a taste of Swiss culture, scenery, and cuisine in one day.

Practical Insights and Value

While this tour offers a lot for the price — including transportation, guided visits, and tastings — it’s important to note some shortcomings highlighted in reviews. For example, timing issues mean you might not see the cheese-making in action, as many shops close earlier in the season, and some attractions are more museum-like than working factories.

The group size, which caps at 27 travelers, tends to ensure a more intimate experience, but the quality of the guide can vary. Some reviewers, like one who felt the guide was more focused on chatting with the bus driver, suggest that the overall value hinges on the guide’s engagement.

The cost of $125.66 per person is reasonable considering you get city sightseeing, entrance to two major attractions, and tastings. For those passionate about Swiss food and scenic drives, the experience offers a well-rounded introduction. However, if you’re after a deep dive into the production process, you might find the stops a bit superficial, especially if the factories are not operational that day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a snapshot of Zurich and Swiss culture in a single day. It’s perfect if you’re interested in Swiss chocolate and cheese, scenic drives, and a quick stroll through a traditional village. It works well for travelers who enjoy guided tours and don’t mind some time constraints.

However, those seeking a comprehensive, in-depth look at Swiss food production or wishing to spend more time in each location might find this tour somewhat rushed. It’s also suitable for travelers with limited mobility, as most of the attractions are accessible by bus and short walks.

Final Thoughts

This tour balances the visual with the edible, offering a practical way to experience Zurich’s highlights and indulge in Swiss culinary delights. The city bus tour provides a quick overview of Zurich’s main sights, while the visits to the Chocolarium and Appenzeller cheese dairy bring Swiss tradition into focus with tastings and interactive exhibits.

The scenic countryside drive adds a touch of authenticity, and the brief stop in St. Gallen adds a cultural layer to the day. For travelers who prioritize value and variety over exhaustive exploration, this tour makes a compelling choice, especially if guided by an engaging, knowledgeable guide.

That said, keep expectations realistic regarding time at each stop and the possibility of seasonal closures or limited factory demonstrations. It’s a fun, flavorful, and scenic day but not a deep dive into Swiss production secrets.

FAQs

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. Travelers should plan to bring snacks or grab a quick bite during free time.

How long is the city bus tour in Zurich?
It lasts approximately 1 hour, covering major landmarks like Zurich station, the Urania Observatory, Lake Zurich, and the historic villas.

What can I expect at the Chocolarium?
You’ll find interactive exhibits showcasing chocolate history and craftsmanship, with tastings of Swiss chocolate. It’s mostly self-guided but enjoyable.

How much time is allocated for each stop?
The city tour is about an hour, the chocolate factory 1 hour, the cheese experience around 1.5 hours, and the stop in St. Gallen lasts about 30-45 minutes. The drive between stops varies but totals around 3 hours.

Are the attractions open year-round?
Most attractions are open, but some shops and facilities may close earlier or have seasonal hours, affecting the experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children typically enjoy the chocolate and cheese tastings, though the overall pace might be better suited for older kids and adults.

How accessible is the tour?
The tour is mostly on a comfortable air-conditioned bus, and stops are short, making it manageable for most travelers with moderate mobility.

What if I want a more in-depth experience?
Consider booking separate tours for the city, chocolate, or cheese if you desire more detailed, behind-the-scenes insights or longer visits.

This tour offers a practical, varied glimpse into Zurich and Swiss culinary delights, perfect for those looking for an easy, fun, and reasonably priced day trip. It’s best suited for food lovers, first-time visitors, and those wanting a taste of Swiss culture without breaking the bank. While it may not satisfy travelers craving in-depth factory tours or extensive exploration, it delivers a well-rounded snapshot of what makes Switzerland special — its scenery, its traditions, and of course, its chocolate and cheese.