From Zurich: Chocolate and Cheese Tour in Appenzell

Discover the delightful combination of Swiss chocolate and cheese on a tour from Zurich to the charming region of Appenzell. Explore interactive exhibits at the Maestrani’s Chocolarium, witness traditional cheese-making at the Appenzeller Schaukäserei, and stroll through the picturesque village of Appenzell. This 6.5-hour journey promises a delectable exploration of Switzerland’s finest flavors, all while traveling in comfort. Whether you’re a chocolate enthusiast or a cheese connoisseur, this tour offers an unforgettable taste of Appenzell’s culinary delights.

Key Points

• A 6.5-hour tour from Zurich exploring the Swiss town of Appenzell, including visits to a chocolate factory and a cheese-making facility.
• Includes roundtrip transportation by air-conditioned vehicle, entry tickets, and opportunities for culture and scenic photography.
• Offers a self-guided experience with the flexibility to explore local cuisine, with a 4.3 out of 5 overall rating based on 149 reviews.
• Tour may have seasonal adjustments, and shops in Appenzell are typically closed on Sundays, but the village remains open for exploration.
• Recommended to wear sturdy, weather-appropriate footwear and bring a camera to capture the Swiss scenery.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This Chocolate and Cheese Tour in Appenzell departs from Zurich and is priced from $89.65 per person.

The tour lasts 6.5 hours and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later.

The itinerary includes visits to the Chocolarium, the Appenzeller Schaukäserei cheese factory, and a photo stop in St. Gallen.

Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle and entry tickets are included, but food and drinks are not.

Seasonal adjustments may occur, and shops in Appenzell are closed on Sundays, offering photo opportunities instead.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins at the Zurich Central Bus Station Sihlquai, where participants board an air-conditioned vehicle for the 80-minute drive to the Maestranis Chocolarium.

The tour begins at the Zurich Central Bus Station Sihlquai, where participants board an air-conditioned vehicle for the 80-minute drive to the Maestranis Chocolarium.

Here, they’ll explore interactive exhibits, learn about the chocolate-making process, and enjoy tastings.

The next stop is the Appenzeller Schaukäserei, where they’ll witness the cheese-making process and sample the region’s renowned cheeses.

After, the group heads to the charming village of Appenzell for a 30-45 minute photo stop and visit to notable sites like the cathedral.

The tour highlights Swiss culture and heritage, immersing participants in the local experience.

Transportation and Amenities

Roundtrip transportation by air-conditioned vehicle is provided for the tour, ensuring a comfortable journey.

A driver is included to handle the driving so participants can sit back and enjoy the scenic views.

Tickets for the Chocolarium and Appenzeller Schaukäserei are also included, providing access to the interactive exhibits and cheese-making demonstrations.

While food and drinks aren’t provided, this allows guests to explore the local cuisine at their own pace.

The tour doesn’t include a guide during the activities, but the self-guided experiences allow travelers to enjoy the Swiss culture and heritage.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Travelers have generally been quite satisfied with the Chocolate and Cheese Tour in Appenzell, awarding it an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars based on 149 reviews. The tour’s guide and transportation received particularly high marks, scoring 4.6/5 and 4.7/5 respectively. While the value for money was still rated positively at 4.3/5, this was the lowest of the three categories. Traveler feedback highlighted the personal experience, knowledgeable host, and safe transportation as notable highlights of the tour.

| Rating | Score |

| — | — |

| Guide | 4.6/5 |

| Transportation | 4.7/5 |

| Value for Money | 4.3/5 |

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring the Chocolarium

One of the highlights of the Chocolate and Cheese Tour in Appenzell is the visit to the Maestrani’s Chocolarium.

This interactive chocolate factory offers a fascinating glimpse into the chocolate-making process.

Visitors can:

• Explore the history and production of Swiss chocolate through engaging exhibits

• Observe the intricate steps of chocolate crafting in an onsite factory

• Participate in a hands-on chocolate-making workshop to create their own delectable treats

• Indulge in tastings of Maestrani’s renowned chocolate varieties

The Chocolarium’s immersive experience allows travelers to fully appreciate the artistry and tradition behind Switzerland’s iconic confections.

Discovering Appenzeller Cheese

After their immersive experience at the Chocolarium, the tour continues to the Appenzeller Schaukäserei, a renowned cheese dairy. Visitors can witness the cheese-making process and sample the region’s famous Appenzeller cheese. The tour includes:

| Activity | Duration |

| — | — |

| Cheese-making demonstration | 30 minutes |

| Cheese tasting | 15 minutes |

| Exploring the dairy | 15 minutes |

Travelers gain insights into the artisanal techniques and local traditions that make Appenzeller cheese a beloved Swiss delicacy. This stop offers a well-rounded cultural experience, complementing the earlier chocolate exploration.

Visiting the Charming Village of Appenzell

The tour then proceeds to the charming village of Appenzell, where visitors can explore the unique Swiss heritage and culture.

Strolling through the quaint streets, travelers will encounter:

• Picturesque buildings adorned with colorful facades and flower-filled window boxes

• Artisanal shops selling traditional handicrafts, such as embroidered textiles and carved woodwork

• Centuries-old churches and town squares that showcase the region’s rich history

• Friendly locals eager to share their traditions and way of life

This scenic stop provides a glimpse into the authentic Swiss alpine lifestyle, complementing the culinary experiences earlier in the tour.

Seasonal Adjustments and Important Information

Notably, the tour’s itinerary may undergo seasonal adjustments due to potential shop closures in Appenzell during the winter months.

In this case, the schedule may be modified to provide alternative activities or photo opportunities. Visitors should also be aware that shops in Appenzell are typically closed on Sundays.

However, the picturesque village itself remains open for exploration and photography.

To ensure a comfortable experience, it’s recommended to wear sturdy, weather-appropriate footwear and bring a camera to capture the charming Swiss scenery.

These seasonal considerations will help travelers plan their tour accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gratuity Included in the Tour Price?

Gratuity is not included in the tour price. The price covers transportation, admission tickets, and activities, but any tips for the driver or guides during the tour must be provided separately by the participants.

Can I Purchase Additional Chocolate or Cheese on the Tour?

Yes, participants can purchase additional chocolate or cheese during the tour. The itinerary includes visits to the Chocolarium and Appenzeller Schaukäserei, where visitors can buy extra products beyond the tastings provided as part of the tour.

Is the Tour Suitable for Vegetarians or Those With Dietary Restrictions?

The tour may be suitable for vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions, as it includes tastings of both chocolate and cheese. However, customers should check with the tour operator in advance to confirm the specific options available.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions or requirements for the tour. It’s suitable for travelers of all ages, though young children may require additional supervision. Participants are expected to be able to board the transportation and participate in the activities.

Can I Extend My Stay in Appenzell After the Tour Ends?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Appenzell after the tour ends. The tour’s itinerary and transportation are focused on the scheduled activities, but participants are free to explore Appenzell further on their own time after the tour concludes.

Recap

This Chocolate and Cheese Tour in Appenzell from Zurich offers a delightful way to indulge in Switzerland’s finest flavors. Travelers can expect interactive exhibits, cheese-making demonstrations, and picturesque village views, all while traveling in comfort. Whether you’re a chocolate or cheese lover, this tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the culinary delights of the Appenzell region.

You can check if your dates are available here: