Zurich Open Top Bus, Chocolate and Cheese Factory Tour Appenzell

Traveling through Switzerland often means balancing stunning scenery with indulgent culinary experiences. This tour promises a smooth blend of both, combining Zurich city sights, Swiss chocolate, and traditional cheese. While it’s marketed as an all-in-one day trip, the experience offers plenty of moments to savor, along with some bumps worth noting.

What we like:

• The open-top bus provides a fun, scenic way to get an overview of Zurich’s landmarks.
• The visit to the Chocolarium introduces you to Swiss chocolate craftsmanship in a lively, interactive setting.
• The Appenzeller cheese experience offers a close-up look at cheese-making traditions, with tastings that satisfy even the most serious cheese lovers.

One thing to consider:
The tour’s timing can feel rushed, especially if some attractions are closed or not operating at full capacity, which some reviewers mention. Plus, the overall value might seem limited if you’re expecting to see actual cheese or chocolate production, as many workshops are more museum-like.

Who is this best suited for?
If you love quick-paced sightseeing combined with sweet and savory tastings, this tour hits the mark. It’s great for those who want a taste of Zurich’s city life, Swiss culinary delights, and charming villages—all in one day.

Good To Know

• Balanced mix of city sightseeing, chocolate, and cheese experiences
• Comfortable transportation with air conditioning and a small group size
• Limited time at each stop can feel rushed, especially in peak seasons
• Authentic Swiss cheese and chocolate tastings are included
• Guidance by knowledgeable, engaging guides (per some reviews)
• Value for money depends on your expectations for hands-on experiences versus museum-style visits

Exploring Zurich with an Open Top Bus

The tour kicks off with a one-hour city tour aboard a bright red open top bus, giving a lively, panoramic introduction to Zurich’s core. This segment is perfect for snapping photos of iconic spots like the Zurich main station, the Urania Observatory, and Lake Zurich. The guide’s commentary, when engaging, can really enrich this experience—though some reviews note that guides vary in how much information they share.

The bus also passes by significant sites such as Credit Suisse’s historic building, the Wesendonck villas, and the FIFA headquarters—not your average sightseeing list. Expect a casual, relaxed vibe, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the fresh air and city views. The 60-minute ride is a good way to orient yourself before heading to the countryside.

Tip: Keep your camera handy, especially when crossing the lake or passing by the old villas. The timing is just right—early enough to enjoy the scenery without feeling hurried.

From Zurich to the Chocolarium: Scenic Drive and Sweet Anticipation

After the city tour, you’ll hop back on the bus for about 1 hour and 20 minutes of scenic countryside driving toward the Toggenburg region, where the Chocolarium awaits. The ride is pleasant and gives a glimpse of the Swiss landscape—rolling hills, quaint farms, and lush greenery.

At the Chocolarium, known as the “Factory of Happiness,” you’ll experience a guided tour (or self-guided, depending on the day) focusing on Swiss chocolate craftsmanship. Visitors can learn about everything from bean to bar, with interactive exhibits and tastings. Reviewers mention that the chocolate tastings are a highlight, especially when savoring the textures and flavors of premium Swiss chocolates.

One guest shared that the guide was engaging and made the experience memorable, describing it as a delightful overview of chocolate history and production. The admission is free, but the value lies in the experience and tasting. Expect to spend about an hour here, walking through the exhibits and sampling chocolates.

Note: Since the tour is designed to be fun and educational, it’s suited for all ages, though it might appeal most to those with a sweet tooth or curiosity about chocolate making.

Cheese, Charm, and Culture in Appenzell

Next, the group travels about 30 minutes to Appenzell, a village renowned for its colorful buildings and traditional Swiss charm. Here, the Appenzeller Schaukäserei offers a close-up look at cheese-making. Visitors can observe cheese artisans at work, explore the process, and taste cheese at various stages of aging.

According to reviews, the cheese factory is more museum-like than a working dairy—many of the production facilities are closed or not operational on the day of the visit. The focus is on interactive exhibits and tastings, allowing visitors to appreciate the flavors and techniques that make Appenzeller cheese unique.

One reviewer noted: “You might find the experience more about the exhibition and sampling rather than actual cheese production,” which is typical of many cheese factories in Switzerland now, due to hygiene protocols and safety. Still, the flavor profiles of the cheese are well explained and enjoyable.

After the cheese stop, you’ll have some free time in Appenzell, strolling cobblestone streets, admiring frescoed buildings, and visiting local cafes. The village offers excellent photo opportunities and a chance to soak in Swiss tradition.

The Return to Zurich: Scenic Drive and Final Impressions

Following your time in Appenzell, the tour heads back to Zurich, a 1-hour drive that allows for a relaxed reflection on the day’s highlights. The total duration of the tour, around 8 to 9 hours, means you’ll need to keep an eye on the clock, especially if some attractions are busier or shorter than expected.

The return journey offers more scenic views—this time of Switzerland’s lush countryside—and a chance to unwind after a busy day of tasting, sightseeing, and traveling.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

From the reviews, it’s clear that some travelers appreciated guides like Thanasis, who made the day engaging and memorable. Others, however, found the tour too rushed or felt that the experience was more about visuals and tastings than in-depth understanding.

The cheese and chocolate attractions are designed for enjoyment rather than production viewing. Many visitors liked the interactive exhibits and the tastings, which add value, but those expecting to see actual cheese or chocolate manufacturing might be disappointed.

The small group size (max 27 travelers) helps keep things personal, but it also means that timing can feel tight, especially during peak seasons or if attractions are closed.

Practical Details and Recommendations

• The price of $125.66 per person includes bus transportation, city tour, and factory visits, which makes it a fair deal for a full-day experience, especially considering the included tastings.
• The tour duration of 8-9 hours is quite full, so comfortable shoes and a camera are musts.
• Lunch isn’t included, so plan to grab a snack or eat beforehand, especially since some stops might only have limited options.
• The meeting point at Zurich Bus Station makes it easy to access via public transportation.
• Guides can vary in their engagement levels, so don’t hesitate to ask questions during the stops.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This day trip is ideal if you’re after a broad overview of Zurich, combined with delicious Swiss treats—perfect for curious travelers eager to combine sightseeing with tasting. The open-top bus makes city exploration fun, and the visits to the Chocolarium and Appenzeller cheese provide a taste of Swiss culinary craftsmanship.

However, if you’re looking for an immersive experience—such as seeing actual cheese or chocolate production—this may not meet those expectations. The timing can feel a little rushed, but the small group size and engaging guides help ensure a friendly atmosphere.

This tour offers good value for those who want a well-rounded day with scenic views, cultural insights, and tasty samples. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors who want a quick but charming Swiss experience.

FAQs

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and factory visits.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to eat during free time.

Are the factory visits interactive?
Yes, both the Chocolarium and Appenzeller cheese factory feature exhibits and tastings, although actual production might not be visible.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the bus is air-conditioned and designed for small groups, making for a relaxed travel experience.

Can I take children on this tour?
Most travelers can participate, but note that guides don’t provide baby seats; you’ll need to bring your own if required.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
While most stops are accessible, some cobblestone streets and walking in the villages might pose challenges.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 27 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Are the views during the drive scenic?
Absolutely, especially on the way to and from Appenzell, with picturesque Swiss countryside scenery.

Will guides share detailed information?
Guide enthusiasm and knowledge vary; some reviews mention that guides could improve on sharing insights during sightseeing.

This tour offers a cheerful mix of sightseeing, tasting, and cultural exploration—perfect for those wanting a snapshot of Switzerland’s charming spots and culinary delights, all packed into one day.