From Zurich: Rapperswil, Einsiedeln, Lindt Home of Chocolate

Traveling from Zurich to experience the scenic beauty, history, and of course, chocolate of Switzerland sounds like a dream, right? This particular tour, offered by Best of Switzerland Tours, promises a well-rounded day exploring some of the most picturesque and meaningful spots in the Canton Zurich area. From medieval castles to pilgrimage sites and iconic chocolate tasting, it packs a lot into roughly 9 hours.

What we love about this experience is how it balances cultural sights with delicious indulgence. The stops at Rapperswil’s fairy-tale castle and the Black Madonna in Einsiedeln give you a real taste of local history and spirituality, while the Lindt Home of Chocolate satisfies your sweet tooth with interactive exhibits and tastings. Plus, the cozy drive along Lake Zurich makes the whole day feel relaxed and scenic rather than rushed.

Of course, no tour is perfect — one thing to keep in mind is that it’s a full day, so it requires a fair bit of moving around and some walking, especially at the sites. It’s not ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those needing a more leisurely pace. But if you’re comfortable with a busy schedule and love a mix of sightseeing and food, this tour hits the mark.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate rich local culture, scenic views, and indulgent treats. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers who want a streamlined way to see and taste some of Switzerland’s highlights will find plenty of value here.

Key Points

• Scenic Drive & Picturesque Towns: You’ll love the drive along Lake Zurich and wandering through Rapperswil’s floral streets.
• Historical Sites: Rapperswil Castle and Einsiedeln monastery offer a glimpse into Switzerland’s medieval and spiritual heritage.
• Expert Guides & Stories: The guides are knowledgeable and passionate, making the experience more engaging.
• Chocolate & Cheese Delights: Tastings at Lindt and Milchmanufaktur make the day irresistible for sweet tooths and cheese lovers alike.
• Comfort & Convenience: Transportation is in a comfortable coach, and the tour includes all major highlights.
• Limited Flexibility: The itinerary is fixed, so if you’re after a very relaxed, unstructured day, this might feel a bit tight.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary — Breaking It Down

Starting Point: The tour begins at the Zurich Sihlquai Bus Station near Zurich HB, a convenient central location. You’ll want to arrive 15 minutes early with your ID and voucher ready, which is a good habit for any organized group tour.

Rapperswil — The City of Roses

After a scenic drive along Lake Zurich, you arrive in Rapperswil, known locally as the City of Roses. We think this town is a bit of a Swiss fairy-tale. The streets are charming, filled with flower shops, quaint cafes, and blooming rose gardens that make for great photos. This is where you’ll stroll the old town, soaking in the medieval vibe, before heading up to Rapperswil Castle.

The castle is perched on a hill offering sweeping views of the lake and surrounding landscape. It’s a real highlight, especially for history buffs or anyone who appreciates panoramic vistas. You’ll get some time to wander the grounds and take photos before enjoying a leisurely lunch—most likely at your own expense, so bring some Swiss francs or a card.

Einsiedeln — A Pilgrimage Destination

Next, the tour takes you to Einsiedeln, home to Switzerland’s most renowned pilgrimage site, the Benedictine monastery. This grand Baroque structure is impressive from the outside, but the real star is the Black Madonna housed inside the chapel.

The monastery is not just a religious site but also an architectural marvel, with four lovely inner courtyards. Visitors often mention how the Black Madonna is a treasured 15th-century artwork that adds an extra layer of history and reverence to the visit. You’ll have a short time to explore the grounds and appreciate this sacred space.

Milchmanufaktur — Cheese & Local Flavors

A treat for the senses, the Milchmanufaktur offers a behind-the-scenes look at milk production. You’ll start with a welcome drink and then enjoy a guided tour explaining how Swiss dairy products are made. The highlight? An indulgent cheese tasting session that lets you sample some of the best local flavors.

The shop also features homemade delicacies and high-quality cheeses worth browsing for souvenirs. This stop is especially appealing if you’re a cheese enthusiast or eager to understand Swiss dairy craftsmanship.

More Great Tours Nearby

Kilchberg — Lindt’s Chocolate Wonderland

No Swiss experience is complete without a visit to Lindt’s Home of Chocolate. This architecturally striking building, designed by Swiss architects Christ & Gantenbein, is a feast for the eyes even before you step inside. The world’s tallest free-standing chocolate fountain is a showstopper and a perfect photo opportunity.

Once inside, you’ll enjoy an interactive, audio-guided tour of the museum, which offers insights into how chocolate is made, from bean to bar. You’ll also get unlimited tastings, making this a highlight for any sweet lover.

Before leaving, you should definitely check out the Lindt Café and the world’s largest Lindt Chocolate Shop, where you can pick up gifts or treats to bring home. The overall value here is quite good, especially considering the variety of experiences and tastings included.

Back to Zurich

After a full day of exploring, tasting, and enjoying views, the bus heads back to Zurich, arriving at the starting point. The entire experience is guided by a professional, English-speaking guide or driver-guide, making logistics smooth and informative.

The Experience — What It Feels Like

From the reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this tour quite enjoyable and value-packed. One reviewer called their guide “outstanding” and expressed joy at the knowledge and passion brought to the day. Others appreciated the opportunity to see iconic sights without the hassle of planning transport or tickets.

The pace of the day is busy but manageable, with enough time at each stop to soak in the atmosphere and take photos. The stops at Rapperswil and Einsiedeln offer a good balance of sightseeing and cultural insight, while the visits to Milchmanufaktur and Lindt satisfy both curiosity and cravings.

This tour is especially praised for great guides, stunning views, and delicious food experiences. The cheese and chocolate tastings are seen as a highlight, adding a sensory dimension that makes the day memorable.

However, some note that the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or anyone who prefers a more relaxed, less structured day. The schedule is fairly tight, and you’ll be on your feet quite a bit.

Price & Value — Is It Worth It?

While the exact cost isn’t provided here, considering the inclusions—guided visits, tastings, transportation—this tour offers solid value for those wanting a comprehensive Swiss day trip. The costs cover transportation, guided commentary, and the key attractions, so you’re paying for convenience and curated experiences rather than just transportation.

If you’re someone who loves combining sightseeing with tasting local specialties, you’ll find this tour particularly good value. The Lindt visit alone could be pricey if purchased separately, and the guided commentary enriches the experience beyond just visiting the sites.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a structured, informative day exploring some of Zurich’s nearby highlights. It’s ideal if you appreciate history, culture, scenic views, and sweet treats all rolled into one. The guided format means less stress about logistics, making it perfect for visitors unfamiliar with the area or those who prefer a more relaxed, yet engaging experience.

It’s especially good if you’re interested in Swiss traditions, architecture, and culinary delights. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy guided trips and tasting experiences will find plenty to love here.

Final Thoughts

The From Zurich: Rapperswil, Einsiedeln, Lindt Home of Chocolate tour balances scenic beauty, cultural richness, and indulgent treats into a full day that’s manageable and fun. The stops are thoughtfully chosen, offering a mix of medieval charm, spiritual significance, and chocolate bliss.

While it’s a busy day that might feel quick-paced for some, the guide’s knowledge, the stunning scenery, and the delicious tastings make it a worthwhile experience. For those wanting a taste of Swiss tradition without the hassle of planning, this tour delivers a well-rounded snapshot of the region.

If you’re someone who appreciates a good story, beautiful views, and a little sweetness on the side, this could be just the trip you’re looking for.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, all transportation in a comfortable coach is included, making the day smooth and hassle-free.

Are meals included?
No, additional meals and drinks are not included, but you’ll have opportunities to purchase food at stops, especially at Rapperswil and Lindt.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically advertised as family-friendly, older children who enjoy sightseeing and chocolate could enjoy it. However, it’s not suitable for guests with mobility issues or those using walking aids.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, with start times varying depending on the day and availability.

Do I need to prepare anything?
Bring your passport or ID, and it’s a good idea to have some Swiss francs or a card for any extra purchases or meals.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if needed.

With this tour, the combination of scenic drives, historical sights, and sweet indulgence makes for a satisfying Swiss day out. Whether you’re after stunning views, cultural insights, or just a good excuse to enjoy Swiss chocolate, it’s worth considering for your Zurich trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: