From Zurich: Chocolate and Cheese Tour in Appenzell

A Tasty Day Out: Zurich to Appenzell’s Chocolate and Cheese Tour

If you’re craving a day filled with sweet and savory delights, this Chocolate and Cheese Tour in Appenzell promises a well-curated Swiss experience. Offered by Keytours SA, it combines visits to the Chocolarium and the Appenzeller Schaukäserei, along with a quick stop in the picturesque town of Appenzell and a charming Swiss city, St. Gallen. For around $96 per person, you get about 6.5 hours of scenic travel, engaging tastings, and a glimpse into Switzerland’s culinary craftsmanship.

What I love about this tour is how smoothly it all comes together — the comfortable transportation, the knowledgeable guides who keep the trip lively and informative, and the chance to learn and taste in a relaxed setting. Two things stand out: first, the interactive chocolate exhibits that make the visit at Chocolarium feel like stepping into a Willy Wonka fantasy, and second, the genuine cheese samples at the Appenzeller factory — a real treat for anyone looking to understand what makes Swiss cheese so special.

One potential consideration is the seasonal timing. In winter, many shops and attractions in Appenzell are closed on Sundays, and some of the charm may be lost if you’re hoping for shopping and browsing. That said, the beautiful scenery and photo opportunities still shine, and the overall experience remains worthwhile.

Key points / Takeaways

• Comfortable Group Size: With just a handful of travelers, it feels personal and flexible.
• Seamless Transportation: The air-conditioned bus makes the long drives pleasant and easy.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Toni are praised for their friendliness, humor, and attentiveness.
• Inclusive Tickets: All entry fees for Chocolarium and the cheese factory are included, offering great value.
• Taste & Learn: Self-guided tours and tastings deepen your appreciation for Swiss chocolate and cheese.
• Charming Stops: The scenic Swiss town of Appenzell, and St. Gallen with its UNESCO-listed cathedral, add cultural depth.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting from Zurich Central Bus Station

The tour kicks off early at the Zurich Central Bus Station Sihlquai, which is conveniently accessible, especially if you’re staying in the city center. The coach ride, lasting about 80 minutes, offers a chance to relax and look out at the Swiss countryside as the landscape unfolds.

Chocolarium: A Playground for Chocolate Lovers

Your first major stop is the Maestrani’s Chocolarium. Here, the aroma of cocoa fills the air even before you step inside. The exhibits are interactive, making it fun whether you’re a chocolate fanatic or just curious about how Swiss chocolate is made. You’ll appreciate the self-guided tour, which includes tastings, giving you the chance to savor rich chocolates and learn about the process without feeling rushed.

Reviewers often highlight how this visit feels like a Willy Wonka experience, with one guest comparing it to a “real-life Willy Wonka.” Expect plenty of exhibits explaining the history and craft of Swiss chocolate, and don’t skip taking photos of the colorful displays. The free time allows you to explore at your own pace, and many find the quality of tastings to be a highlight.

Cheese Tasting at Appenzeller Schaukäserei

Next, it’s off to the Appenzeller Schaukäserei, where the focus is on traditional Swiss cheese-making techniques. While the tour does not include the actual process of cheese production, you’ll see skilled cheesemakers at work and sample the famous Appenzeller cheese, known for its bold flavor and herbal rinses. Guests often comment on the generous cheese samples and the fact that the experience is authentic rather than overly commercialized.

An important note from reviews: some visitors wished they could try fondue in Appenzell, but that’s not included in the tour. Still, the cheese samples alone are enough to give you a real taste of Swiss dairy craftsmanship.

Exploring Appenzell and St. Gallen

After the cheese stop, the tour takes you to Appenzell or St. Gallen, depending on the season. In non-winter months, you might have about 30 to 45 minutes to walk around, snap photos, and soak in the local charm. Keep in mind that shops in Appenzell tend to close on Sundays, but the village’s colorful facades and scenic streets are always a delight for photographers.

The visit to St. Gallen includes a walk to see its renowned cathedral—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—offering a taste of Swiss cultural heritage amid the picturesque streets. Many reviews mention how the views from these towns are simply stunning and worth the trip alone.

Returning to Zurich

The journey back takes about 80 minutes, giving you time to relax or swap stories about the day’s highlights. Guides like Toni are praised for their friendliness and humor, making the long drive feel shorter.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This tour is best suited for travelers who want an authentic Swiss experience without the hassle of planning multiple visits. It’s ideal if you’re a food lover eager to taste and learn, or if you want a comfortable day trip with scenic views and cultural stops. The inclusion of all tickets and tastings offers good value, especially for those who appreciate guided experiences that take care of logistics.

It’s also a good choice for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy small-group settings. If you’re curious about Swiss traditions, love chocolate and cheese, and want a taste of the countryside—all without breaking the bank—this tour delivers.

Keep in mind that Winter visitors should be aware of seasonal closures, but the scenic beauty and cozy villages still make for a memorable outing.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking around charming towns and factory sites.
• Bring your camera: The scenic towns and views are perfect for photos.
• Check the season: If visiting on a Sunday in Appenzell, shops may be closed, so don’t rely on shopping as part of your experience.
• Timing: Arrive early at the starting point to ensure a smooth kickoff.
• Cost vs. Value: At $96, you’re getting a full day of guided visits, tastings, and scenic travel, which is quite reasonable compared to doing it independently and paying for each attraction separately.

The Sum Up: Who Should Book This Tour?

This Chocolate and Cheese Tour from Zurich offers a delightful and hassle-free way to indulge in Swiss culinary treasures while exploring charming towns. It’s perfect for foodies, cultural explorers, or anyone wanting a memorable day trip with beautiful scenery. The included tastings, friendly guides, and seamless transportation make it a solid choice for those seeking a genuine taste of Switzerland without the stress of navigating public transport or language barriers.

While it’s not a comprehensive factory tour—cheese production is not included—the experience feels authentic, with plenty of opportunities to sample and learn. It’s a wonderful way to see beyond Zurich, get a glimpse of Swiss traditions, and enjoy some of the country’s most beloved flavors.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, roundtrip transportation by air-conditioned coach is included, making the long drives comfortable and stress-free.

How long is the tour overall?
The total duration is about 6.5 hours, with most of the time spent traveling, visiting attractions, and enjoying tastings.

Are tickets for the attractions included?
Yes, your ticket for the Chocolarium and the Appenzeller cheese factory is included, so you don’t need to worry about additional costs.

What is the starting point?
The tour departs from Zurich Central Bus Station Sihlquai, which is centrally located and easy to reach.

What can I expect at the Chocolarium?
You’ll find interactive exhibits explaining chocolate making, and you’ll get to taste various chocolates, making it a fun and informative stop.

Are there any seasonal considerations?
In winter, especially on Sundays, shops in Appenzell may be closed, and some attractions may be less lively, but scenic views remain stunning.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Absolutely—photography is encouraged, especially at the towns and scenic viewpoints.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the small-group size, engaging exhibits, and scenic stops make it a family-friendly option.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and a camera are recommended. Bring some cash if you want to buy souvenirs, though tastings are included.