Switzerland Crown Jewel-July, 2025
I wanted to share some thoughts on this adventure. The previous comprehensive posts were very helpful and especially the many pictures like Mike Henderson and others do. This was our first time in Switzerland. There was a heat wave at the time, so it was hotter than usual.
Overall this was one of our favorite trips. Kristof did a great job as our TD. We had a new coach and there were 23 of us. We did receive an advance communication and we received a very detailed itinerary upon arrival. Switzerland is very expensive, so be prepared. The date of our trip we stayed at all of the listed hotels (eg. no variations like some dates). We found the hotels to be excellent and the locations just right for our touring. The service at all of the hotels was excellent as well. We do wish we stayed a minimum of two nights in each hotel due to the packing and unpacking (one night in St. Moritz).
The included meals overall were very good. It does get a little confusing which meals are included, which ones include alcohol and places you have to make your own reservations. Thanks to the previous detailed posters so we could make some reservations.. The breakfasts were open seating and buffets. They were plentiful and most had a small menu as well for eggs, french toast, etc. I believe there were four dinners where a sheet was passed around the bus so you could choose a time and eating companions as the TD had to make reservations in advance. Other included meals you entered the restaurant together and sat with whom you wanted. There was always bottled water available on the coach. Also in Switzerland there are public fountains in many cities and you can refill your bottles with safe, cold clean water.
It is such a beautiful country with so much to see. My wife's favorite day was Jungfrau and the Ice Palace. This was frankly my biggest concern of the trip (was I going to fall there (I didn't)). We had a nice reception in a private room with drinks and a lite bite). Wear shoes with good tread. As mentioned by others they don't allow metal studs. Around 95% of the Ice Palace has a strong rope to hold as you are walking through. In the few situations there weren't the local guides assisted if necessary. This was a very enjoyable experience.
We had excellent weather with the only rain the last two days. We had great views of the Matterhorn. This is a fast paced tour with luggage ready to go by 7:30 am or earlier. Mens jackets were not required. Our TD labeled our meals as "Casual" or "Smart Casual". We had a few jackets for the opening dinner, but none on our very casual farewell dinner.
I would be pleased to answer any questions as I know this is not nearly as comprehensive as other reviews.
Comments
It’s a great review
Very nice review.
We visited Jungfraujoch on our first river cruise… couldn’t see a thing at the summit because of the swirling snow but had a great time nonetheless. Thanks for sharing your experience.
What luggage is appropriate for the Crown Jewel trip? Someone mentioned a full size airline checked bag and a carry on roller suitcase.
When we went, we each took a checked bag and a carry-on (small roller suitecase). We were traveling business so I don't know if that would be a problem if you were traveling economy.
Tauck often requires you to put your suitcase out early, so having a carry on is nice. You can keep what you need to prepare for the day in that. Then, you take it to the bus and they put it in the storage compartment under the bus. If you need something out of your carry on, ask the driver to allow you to access your carry on next time the bus stops.
That is what Tauck suggests for almost every tour….one medium sized suitcase each plus either a carry on roller bag or backpack. The wheeled roller carry-on however will not fit in the overheads on the buses so they will have to go under the bus with no access while traveling.
We have always used backpacks instead, giving us two free hands plus we can walk much faster through airports when necessary and we can get them on the bus with all last minute morning items when you have to have your suitcase ready for a move hotel day at some ungodly hour.
David_Rindom - Tauck allows one (1) suitcase per person not exceeding fifty (50) pounds and with dimensions (length x width x height) not exceeding 62”. These restrictions are located on their website for your tour and will also be in your final documents.
Each individual is also allowed a personal item for touring—camera bag, purse, small backpack, et al. These items must be small enough to fit in the very small overhead bin on the bus. Tauck will handle your suitcase for you but you are responsible for taking your other items to the bus each morning.
For illustration, my husband and I each have small/medium sized luggage (25”) and I also have a tote which I handle. We have never exceeded thirty-four pounds each for a two-week or more trip.
You, of course, should also check your airline’s policies to ensure compliance.