Zurich Open-top Tour and Chocolate and Cheese Countryside

Discover Zurich and the Swiss Countryside: An In-Depth Look at the Open-Top Tour with Chocolate and Cheese

If you’re craving a day that combines iconic city sights with authentic Swiss flavors, this Zurich open-top tour complemented by visits to chocolarium and cheese factory might just suit your travel style. It promises a blend of sightseeing, culture, and of course, delicious treats, all wrapped into a nine-hour adventure.

What we like most? The opportunity to see Zurich from a panoramic open-top bus, offering fantastic views of the city’s parks, museums, and historic squares. Then, stepping into the Chocolarium and Appenzeller Schaukäserei adds a sensory dimension that elevates the experience.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is quite packed, with a lot of moving parts and some long bus rides, so it’s best suited for those who want a comprehensive day out rather than a relaxed, leisurely pace. Perfect for curious travelers eager to taste Switzerland’s famed chocolate and cheese while exploring its scenic countryside and lively city.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combining city sightseeing with countryside adventures
• Authentic Swiss experiences at chocolate and cheese factories
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned bus with live guides
• Time flexibility with free in-app cancellation, suitable for planning
• Visiting scenic spots like Lake Zurich, Appenzell village, and the Alps views
• Potential drawbacks include a busy schedule and some reports of confusion or lack of guidance

Analyzing the Tour: What’s Included and What’s Not

Starting from Zurich’s Central Bus Station, this tour covers everything from urban highlights to the rolling Swiss hills—an efficient way to see more with less hassle. The price point of $123 per person reflects a comprehensive day that packs city, countryside, and culinary delights into one.

While the tour covers many major sights, note that lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to bring some snacks or plan to grab a bite in Appenzell. Also, there’s no guide included beyond the driver, which means you’ll need to rely on your own guidebooks or the provided info for deeper context. This might be fine for some, but calls out for curious travelers who love self-guided exploration.

The transportation is in an air-conditioned bus, which is crucial for comfort, especially during longer stretches. The driver-guides speak English and offer a friendly, informative ride, but reviews indicate some travelers have felt they lacked detailed guidance or got confused about the logistics—so staying alert is advisable.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect at Each Stop

Start at Zurich Central Bus Station

This is the hub for the day’s adventure, where you’ll find the swisstours bus waiting. The most convenient starting point, it’s easy to locate, and most travelers will find it straightforward to hop on.

Zurich City Highlights: Museums and Lake Views

The bus tour kicks off with a drive past the Swiss National Museum and Rietberg Museum—both notable for their architecture and cultural significance. Expect to get a quick overview of their exteriors and learn a bit about Zurich’s history.

Next, you’ll cruise along Lake Zurich, enjoying lovely scenes of the water, swans, and lakeside parks. This is a relaxing moment to take photos and appreciate the city’s connection to its natural surroundings.

Scenic Drive to Appenzell and the Countryside

After about 80 minutes on the bus, you’ll leave Zurich behind for the scenic ride into the Appenzell canton. The views here are what make the long coach rides worth it—rolling hills, lush meadows, and distant Alps vistas.

Chocolarium Visit: Sweet Destination

The visit to the Maestrani’s Chocolarium lasts about 75 minutes. Here, you’ll discover the secrets of Swiss chocolate creation, see demonstrations, and taste a variety of chocolates. Many reviews mention enjoying the delicious samples, and the shop offers plenty of souvenirs to bring home.

A tip: some travelers noted that the visit was well-organized, but others felt uninformed about what to expect, so it’s best to arrive with an open mind and a sweet tooth.

Appenzeller Cheese Factory: Authentic Cheese Tasting

Next, around 45 minutes are allocated for the Appenzeller Schaukäserei. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about the traditional cheese-making process (without actual production happening during your visit), then taste several varieties of the famous cheese. It’s a real highlight for cheese lovers, and the tasting is often described as authentic and flavorful.

Exploring Appenzell Village: A Picture-Perfect Stop

The final stop is in the charming village of Appenzell, where you’ll have about an hour to wander. Expect colorful frescoed buildings, winding cobbled streets, and perhaps a visit to a cozy café.

Some reviews mention shops are closed on Sundays, so if your visit falls on a weekend, you might miss out on exploring the shops but will still be able to take lovely photos of the picturesque scenery.

Return to Zurich

After a final drive of about 75 minutes, you’ll head back to the starting point, completing a full but fulfilling day.

Authentic Insights from Visitors

While many appreciated the scenic beauty and foodie stops, some reviews highlight areas for improvement. One traveler expressed feeling confused about where to get off or how to navigate, which indicates the importance of staying attentive during the bus stops or asking questions. Another traveler loved the tour guide, noting they appreciated the friendly attitude, but some felt there was a lack of detailed commentary, which could leave you wanting more background information.

A less favorable review pointed out a frustrating experience when the bus was reportedly missing upon arrival, emphasizing the need to confirm details beforehand and arrive early to avoid missing parts of the tour.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Day

• Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll have free time in Appenzell and walking around the villages.
• Bring a camera—the views, colorful buildings, and scenic landscapes make for great photos.
• Check the weather—a clear day will offer the best experience, especially for photos and outdoor sightseeing.
• Arrive early at the starting point to avoid missing the bus or any last-minute changes.
• Plan for snacks or lunch—since food isn’t included, and you might want to explore local cafes in Appenzell.
• Be prepared for some long bus rides—about 80 minutes to and from Zurich, so if you’re prone to motion sickness, take precautions.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for those wanting a comprehensive day trip that mixes city sightseeing with authentic Swiss culinary experiences. It’s perfect if you enjoy guided or self-guided exploration, scenic vistas, and sampling local foods.

However, it may not suit travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a slow-paced, leisurely day, as the schedule is quite packed and involves a good amount of bus travel. Also, if you prefer an in-depth guided tour with detailed commentary, this might feel a bit lacking.

Final Thoughts

This Zurich open-top tour combined with chocolate and cheese tastings offers a delightful mix of urban charm and countryside beauty. The panoramic bus ride provides stunning views of Zurich’s highlights, while the visits to the Chocolarium and Appenzeller cheese factory add sensory delights that linger long after the day ends.

While some logistics may be confusing and the schedule tight, the experience is usually worth it for travelers eager to see a broad swath of Swiss culture, scenery, and gastronomy. The tour’s value hinges on your interest in food, scenic views, and efficient sightseeing—a well-rounded option for those with a sense of adventure and a love for Swiss flavors.

FAQ

How long is the bus ride between Zurich and Appenzell?
The bus ride lasts about 80 minutes each way, so you should be prepared for a total of roughly 2.5 hours of travel during the day.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or eat in Appenzell after the tastings.

Are there guided explanations during the tour?
The tour includes a driver-guide who speaks English. However, reviews suggest there’s limited commentary beyond the sightseeing narration, so you might want to do some prep or bring a guidebook.

Can I customize or choose my departure time?
Availability varies, so check the schedule when booking. The tour lasts about 9 hours, and starting times depend on the day.

What if I miss my bus or arrive late?
Some reviews indicate confusion about the meeting point, so arrive early and confirm details beforehand. The tour does not seem to accommodate late arrivals.

Are the shops open in Appenzell on Sundays?
No, shops in Appenzell are closed on Sundays, but you can still enjoy photos and stroll through the village.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, the activities are generally family-friendly, especially if your kids love chocolate and cheese. Just keep in mind the bus rides and walking.

Will I see the Swiss Alps?
You’ll get scenic views of the surrounding hills and distant Alps, especially from the countryside and village areas.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of the stops and transportation.

This tour is a good pick for travelers wanting a taste of Zurich’s highlights paired with authentic Swiss flavors, all in a day packed with sights, tastes, and stunning scenery.