Montreux sits on the edge of Lake Geneva and is the gateway to the Vaud Alps. Once a year the town is converted into a music lovers’ paradise with a huge jazz festival and Tralala Hotel is all about that celebration of music. Read on for our full Tralala Hotel review.
This post may contain sponsored content or affiliate links that help support the blog. All opinions are our own.
Tralala Hotel Location
Tralala Hotel is located up the hill from the lakeside and can be reached with a steep climb up some pretty backstreets or a more gradual main road that runs from behind the train station. Its about 10 minutes from the station and 15 from the lake. The high vantage point gives a nice view out towards the lake and hills beyond. Our room had a balcony and we loved the view!
Speaking of our room…
Our Room
We were staying on the second floor in a lovely bright room. Now I am not cool enough to know who the picture was outside our room but I still loved the art! Plenty of light came in from the big glass door and lit up the white walls. On the wall was a picture of yet more musicians and opposite, a mirror with a thick dark frame. It matched the dark entrance to the room and was a fab contrast to the clean white sheets of the bed. Each side of the bed had a lamp on which was good but I had to unplug mine to use the wall plug. We each had our own duvet, something we found all over Switzerland, and a big, square pillow. I don’t really like these super soft, larger pillows but they seemed to be everywhere so I just went with it.
In one corner was a small hanging rail (hidden behind the red curtain in the photo) which was high enough to try and straighten out one of my silly maxi dresses. In the other, we had a desk with a TV and a safe. We made use of the safe but ignored the TV in favour of my iPad when we enjoyed our room picnic dinner on the second night. We brought in a chair from the balcony so we could both sit and share the table.
The Bathroom
Our bathroom was compact but functional with plenty of towels and a decent hairdryer. There was a nice shower with both a rainfall head and a handheld smaller head. I particularly loved the toiletries we were provided with. The sweet tobacco scent was luscious and very unisex so great for everyone. I slathered myself in the body lotion and the rest was added to my washbag when we left.
Our Balcony
Outside we had the most lovely balcony. It was a real shame that the weather was a bit iffy for ost of our stay in Montreux because we would have loved to have sat out here for dinner. When we arrived on the Sunday afternoon, the cafe opposite had live music and it was wonderful to listen to the guitar and gaze down to the water. There was one plastic lounger-type chair and one regular chair so we would have had to swap for sunbathing but seeing as t was mostly raining, this wasn’t an issue.
Dining
The restaurant was giving serious French bistro vibes with red hues, warm wood and quirky decor. Looking around you will see some gorgeous old jazz posters and musical instruments galore. There was a raised stage in the corner with just enough room for a singer/songwriter or solo performer to give a great show. Downstairs, the toilets were labelled with more huge wall art and a trail across to the relevant doors. So cool!
A Welcome Drink
We were very hot and clammy from the uphill walk with our backpacks when we arrived at the reception. This made the offer of a welcome drink especially welcome. We head upstairs and dropped our bags before coming back down and asking shyly for an Aperol Spritz. Well, we thought the cheeky request might be too much but it was absolutely fine and we soon had two bright orange glasses of summer to sip. As we sat, another couple checked in and happily slurped down a glass of wine and a bottle of beer. What a lovely touch that you don’t often see in a city hotel.
Breakfast
When we originally went down to breakfast, it seemed like there wasn’t much for breakfast but it just wasn’t laid out in a long line. There was actually a great selection. It was a continental breakfast with perfectly buttery, flaky croissants as my star of the show. The fridge had some of the area’s famous cheeses and uber creamy yoghurts, if you love dairy, you will adore these yoghurts! There was one particular cheese that had a delicious pong but it wasn’t the soft cheese as you’d expect. I’m not sure what it was but I do know that it was delicious! The only hot offerings were a self-serve situation. You could pop some bread into a toaster or an egg into a little egg cooker thing. I was perfectly content with my cold selection so didn’t bother. On the bar was a fruit bowl, some delicious homemade cake and some whole fruits that we took with us for a snack later in the day. Drinks-wise you could have a coffee from a cappuccino machine or orange juice. So, orange juice and orange for the afternoon, that’s more vitamin C than I remember to have at home!
Final Thoughts for this Tralala Hotel Review
Montreux is often seen as a slightly dull town, which we refute. The Tralala Hotel with its exuberant decor and French-Swiss vibes must buck the trend because it was so cool. Our huge room, delicious breakfast and thoughtful welcome drink speak of a property which has bags of personality. It would most assuredly be our choice if we were to return, especially for the music festival!
Budapest is one of Europe’s most enigmatic cities. It has glorious architecture, a fascinating history which has seen it rule an empire and been ruled by others, and a tourism scene which runs the whole gamut of class. If you are planning a visit to Budapest, for a long weekend then you should check out our 3 day Budapest itinerary with a 72 hour Budapest Card.
This post may contain sponsored content or affiliate links that help support the blog. All opinions are our own.
Budapest
Budapest, the Pearl of the Danube, is a city of two halves, literally. The wide Danube River splits the city into Buda on one bank and Pest on the other. Budapest has a history that can be traced back to ancient Celtic and Roman times. It witnessed the rise and fall of empires, from the Magyars establishing the Hungarian Kingdom in the 9th century to the Habsburg Empire in the 16th.
The Budapest Card
First things first, get hold of a Budapest Card. These are wonderful value and provide free or discounted entrance to attractions all over the city. As well as this, it gives you free public transport across Budapest for the length of the card. For 3 days in Budapest, you’ll want to pick up a 72 hour Budapest Card. There are a couple of types:
72 Hour Budapest Card – This includes free public transport, free walking tours, free entry to St Lukacs Baths, free entry to 20 museums, discounted entry to lots more museums and discounts at restaurants, in some shops and for some tours.
72 Hour Budapest Card Plus – This includes everything above plus a free door to door transfer to and from the airport, a free river cruise, a free return on the Buda funicular and free entrance to the gorgeous Matthias Church in Buda.
Around Tours
For a fun and informative way to see Budapest, check out Around’s Budapest Walking Tours. Their audio tours are flexible and packed with fascinating facts and great guidance that can be taken at your own pace, whenever it fits into your Budapest itinerary. We think the Buda Castle Tour is especially good as the area is huge and can feel a tad overwhelming. The Around Tour unlocks the secrets of its imposing walls. Plus, no live guides means you can stop for a bevvie, sit down for a rest or take in the view whenever you fancy, carrying on when you’re ready.
The Perfect 3 Day Budapest Itinerary
DAY ONE
Breakfast at the New York Cafe
Wake up early and make your way to Blaha Lujza tér metro station. Just steps from here is the most stunning cafe in Budapest, and quite possibly the whole of Europe; New York Cafe. This spot first opened in 1894 and from the stunning wrought iron entrance to the neo-renaissance balconies, frescoes and columns, it hasn’t changed. The place is visually stunning.
Now, the food here doesn’t come cheap. You are definitely paying for the ambience and surroundings. However, if you are savvy, getting a decent breakfast for €24 euros all in is possible. Splitting a three-tier Italian Breakfast gives you two or three pastries, a fruit salad, two thick slices of toast, butter and preserves, fresh pressed orange juice and coffee, tea or hot chocolate. Considering the orange juice is €10.50 and the cappuccino is €10, you’ll see what great value that offer is. (Cocktails are only €1-2 euros more than a coffee, so have at it).
After breakfast, you are welcome to wander around and see the balconies and white room up close. Don’t be shy, just take yourselves on a little walk. Later in the day, the queue is huge and these areas are cordoned off so breakfast is the best option.
Underground Railway Museum
Hop on the M2 line to Deák Ferenc tér and within the metro station, you will find the first of our fun little museum stops. As you are travelling on the metro, it is worth learning a little about it. Budapest has the second oldest underground railway network in Europe (after the London Underground). This small museum has lovely old carriages and discusses the history of the city and how it was intertwined with its metro transport.
From here, you are going to take the oldest line M1 Hősök tere. You will see what this line was like when it opened with beautifully renovated and preserved stations. They remind us of the NY subway but in miniature and wonderfully clean.
Marvel at Heroes Square
Heroes Square is a large open area, defined by the huge crescent of statues, the Millennium Monument. The 14 statues within the Millennuim Monument include Hungary’s rulers including King Stephen. Atop the large column is Angel Gabriel holding the crown of St. Stephen’s Crown, also known as the Crown of Hungary. At the bottom are the seven chieftains of the Magyars. These were the leaders of the seven tribes back in 896 AD. The square’s statues were constructed to commemorate 1000 years of Hungary (hence the Millennium moniker). Over its 120 year history, Heroes Square has been host to protests, celebrations and many, many tour groups.
Wonder at World Class Art at the Museums
On either side of Heroes Square, you will find two huge art museums. The Museum of Fine Arts is on the north west flank, with the Kunsthalle on the south east. With just 3 days in Budapest, we suggest just visiting one, and we believe the superior visit is the Museum of Fine Arts. Not only do they have beautiful pieces from across the globe, but the building itself is amazing. You will be asked to store bags in the lockers downstairs before heading into the museum so make sure your phone is charged up before you go, ensuring you don’t need to carry any extra bits in your hands. Don’t miss the Egyptian art between galleries full of wonderful old masters including Monet and Rodin.
Sample Some Spirits at the Palinka Museum
Palinka is the fire water that originated in the Carpathian Mountains. You will find it in Hungary, Romania, Slovakia and Czechia and in many different flavours. The thing they all share in common, however, is the throat-stripping strength of the liquor. (Can you tell I am a wimp?). There is a small museum dedicated to the drink in Budapest and you will get free entry with the Budapest Card. This includes a look around the two room exhibitions (guided or not) and a small glass of the clear drink. It’s a nice stop off on the way to the rest of your evening. The museum is downstairs at a bar so don’t get confused or put off, you are in the right place.
Spend a Night at the Opera
Budapest’s opera scene is top notch. The Hungarian State Opera House puts on world class opera and ballet almost every night of the year at a fraction of the cost you might be used to. If you are prepared to stand, you can get tickets for less than €5 which is unheard of in London, Paris or New York. You can even get a seat for £10 so let your culture vulture fly!
Alternatively, you can also take guided tours of the building in the daytime which are really interesting. This allows a glimpse of the sumptuous and scandalous smoking corridor and of course the gorgeous gold and red auditorium.
DAY TWO
Take a Dip in a Beautiful Bath
Budapest is built on a fault line and this has an abundance of natural hot water springs. Around these springs, beautiful public baths were created and now the city has some true beauties, the perfect place to ease your weary muscles and recuperate before another day of sightseeing.
As part of your Budapest Card, you are given free entry to the Lukács Thermal Bath and Swimming Pool. If you are focused on making the most of your card then head down there. However, we particularly love:
Széchenyi Thermal Bath – The gorgeous yellow baroque building of Széchenyi Thermal Bath is matched only by the opulent statues and neoclassical interiors. This bath was built in the early 1900s but feels like it comes from the 1700s. It’s a real delight.
Gellert Baths – Connected to the Gellert Hotel, the art nouveau Gellert Baths is a world away from Széchenyi despite being built in the same decade. It is a wonderful mix of early 20th century design (warm wood and white tiling) but still has some lovely classical flourishes. Little statues and fountains surprise visitors and in the main pool, every column is different.
Rudas Baths – The original Rudas baths have been here for almost 500 years but an expansion and refurbishment in 2014 has given it a huge selling point, a bath that looks out over the River Danube. if you don’t fancy a morning dip, check out its two other unique offerings. The baths are open from 22:00 – 04:00 for nighttime bathing and on Friday nights you can hire it exclusively for one hour at around £60 per person. (Perfect proposal time).
Funicular
Take your lovely relaxed body to the foot of Buda Hill, opposite Széchenyi Chain Bridge and grab a ticket for the cutest little funicular to the top of the hill. Sure you can walk but if you are saving money, it makes sense to catch it up rather than down. The funicular was opened in 1870 and still operates in the same way (although it has been rebuilt due to damage in WWII). It was actually the second funicular anywhere in Europe.
Buda Castle
Up the hill, you will find the large Buda Castle Quarter. It looks like a fine baroque town but there has been a fortress here since the 1200s. Most of what you can see dates from the mid-1700s.
Budapest History Museum / Castle Museum
The Budapest History Museum, also known as the Castle Museum, both houses a history museum about Budapest and is itself party to an intriguing history. The palace that it once was found itself stripped out and thoroughly communist-ified during their 40 year rule. Inside you can delve into the old foundations and chapels (all that remains of the original buildings) and trace the history of Hungary from ancient times to the modern day. The most interesting gallery is that dedicated to the story of Budapest which isn’t just told chronologically, but in a series of themed areas. The museum is included with the Budapest Card.
Fisherman’s Bastion & Matthias Church
If you have seen any social media featuring Budapest, you’ve seen Fisherman’s Bastion. This Neo-Romanesque fortification was built around the 1700s walls and has been lovingly preserved for over 100 years. Its fairytale towers and stone arches abound on Instagram (yes, I’m guilty of it too) but that is a far cry from the fishermen it is named under. It is said that it was guarded by fishermen that lived below it in Watertown. The panoramic views from here are magnificent, across the river Danube to the huge parliament and domes of the city. Here you will also find Matthias Church. As well as its gorgeous Gothic exterior, it has a rich interior full of carvings and artwork.
More Views from Magdalene Church Tower
Keep walking east for about ten minutes and you will come to the small but tall, Magdalene Church. (This is sometimes called Buda Tower). Climbing the tower is free with the Budapest Card and is the reason we recommend getting that funicular UP rather than down the hill. Climbing the 170s steps to the top gives some excellent views
Take the Funicular back down the hill and then catch tram 16, 178, 210 or 216 to Széchenyi István tér.
Sunset by The Danube
Take a Spin on the Ferris Wheel of Budapest
If you just can’t enough views, or just fancy a sit down with a twist, then hop on Budapest Óriáskereke in the middle of Elizabeth Square. A ticket is 3900 HUF but for 6600HUF you can bag priority boarding and a glass of sparkling wine. It is an eight minute ride, which is a good amount of time for a glass of bubbles!
Enjoy Beverages on a Boat at Pontoon Bar
There are a few boat bars n the Danube but Pontoon is the most famous. Here you will find big drinks (you will be served a double unless you specify otherwise), banging music, a cool crowd and a gorgeous view of the sun setting along the Danube.
DAY THREE
Discover Hungarian Delicacies on a Food Tour
If you are only in Budapest for three days then it is hard to try everything delicious the city has to offer. If you fancy giving it a good go then you will want to book onto a food tour. There are a few on offer but the best company in Budapest (and the first to offer food tours) has to be Taste Hungary. Their passionate guides are almost as obsessed with food as their founders. They offer plenty of tasting including whole wine flights but the Budapest Culinary & Wine Walk is the best overview and a lovely way to spend your third morning. Arrive hungry as you will easily get enough food for breakfast and lunch.
The group takes a wander through the Central Market with a few tasters en route. From here you are guided through some of the oldest streets in Budapest. Traditional liqueurs and lunch are provided but make sure you leave room for dessert as there are more stops after this. Some of the highlights are:
Langos – Hungarian pizza
BBQ lunch with lashings of goulash
Unicum
Cake…ah the cake
A Haunting History at The Holocaust Memorial Centre
This is not an easy visit but this dark period of time was so impactful on the city that it is an important one. There is a permanent exhibition that explains both the Nazi and homegrown fascist threat to the Jewish population in Hungary. It is very interactive so you can take a long time going really in-depth if you want. The institution is one of the only places in the world dedicated solely to Holocaust research so there are lots of first person accounts and it is the most affecting Holocaust exhibition we have seen.
Shoes on the Danube Bank
Hop on tram 23, 28 or 2 at Zsil Utca and enjoy the views along the river bank to Széchenyi István tér. Here, disembark for another little dose of dark history.
The Shoes on the Danube Bank is a simple but very poignant memorial. It marks the awful moment in WWII when thousands of Jews were shot along the banks of the Danube River. There are 60 pairs of shoes, symbolizing the shoes that the victims were forced to remove before being executed. The variety is probably the most harrowing aspect, with men’s shoes, women’s shoes and small children’s shoes represented.
Marvel at the Hungarian Parliament
Keep walking north and you will pass the huge and imposing Hungarian Parliament. This huge, exceedingly grand building smacks of empire, which is no surprise as it was one half of the Austro-Hungarian seat of power. It has a whopping 691 rooms inside its neo-gothic halls. It is possible to visit a few of these on a 45 minute visit, guided by an audioguide or a human one. You’ll catch a glimpse of the beautiful grand staircases and golden Dome Hall as well as the Chamber of Peers where the business of parliament still goes on.
Explore Margaret Island
Make your way to the halfway point of Margit Bridge and down to Margaret Island. This large park (2.5 km by 500m) is a fun place to relax or laugh yourselves silly on some sort of strange transport.
Rent Something Fun– Available for rent is a weird and wonderful variety of wheeled vehicles. Most of these, from regular bikes to quad cycles and covered tricycles are powered by pedalling but there are also electric golf buggies.
Enjoy the Japanese Garden – An unusual find in Budapest, this neat little garden was created in the 1970s and is a little slice of zen in the city.
Walk the Water Tower – Fancy climbing another tower for another view? Of course you do when it’s included with your Budapest Card! You’ll get super 360s views to both sides of the rver. This is only open in summer.
Take in a Show – Just next to the water tower is the seasonal outdoor theatre. There is a show here every night in summer most of which are musical performances.
Stop and Smell the Roses – There is a pretty rose garden with some beautifully fragrant blooms. It is fun running around and sticking your nose in the different varieties.
Take a Swim – On Margaret Island, you will find both another hot spring bath, Palatinus Baths and the Hajos Alfred Swimming Pool Complex. This has eight pools all dedicated to the sport of swimming, including diving pools, an Olympic size lap pool and somewhere for water polo too!
Grab a Drink – There are a few cool bars on Margaret Island but the coolest of all is Hippie Island. It’s relaxed seating, great music and bright colours scream summer.
Watch the Fountain – The music fountain may not be playing music all day but it still shoots water in the most hypnotic patterns. Catch it playing music once an hour for the proper show.
Take a Boat on the Danube
Sightseeing along the Danube is a really relaxing way to spend an hour or two. Budapest has an abundance of boat tours, some serve dinner, some provide traditional music and some get you a little bit tipsy. These bottomless sailings are a really fun sightseeing tour which is honestly, only loosely to do with the commentary that cuts into the music every so often. There were nibbles to buy but the most basic of these boat trips is generous with the bubbly! It is easy to
“>book through Viator.
Go Out Out at Budapest’s Ruin Bars
After a few drinks, you might want a few more and this is the perfect excuse to check out some of Budapest’s iconic ruin bars. In the early 2000s a group of friends decided to buy one of the abandoned warehouses in the Jewish district and see it reborn as a bar. Other people got in on the act and now Budapest’s ruin bars are the place to have a raucous night out. Some are still bare concrete, covered in graffiti, and others have been rather spruced up. Szimpla Kert is the most famous but can be a little overwhelming. Do a little research and see which suits you…or do a guided ruin bar crawl and find it along the way.
Bonus Time?
Two last spots that you could add to your 3 day Budapest itinerary if not everything suits you, you’ve whizzed through everything else or you have an extra morning…
Get Your Fill of Soviet Art at Memento Park
Budapest has a unique outdoor museum full of Soviet statues. Whereas many countries destroyed their communist art rather quickly after the block fell, Hungary decided to preserve theirs and set up Memento Park. It is a very cool collection of worker sculptures and important statesmen statues. on the other side of the driveway is a small museum all about Budapest’s position throughout communist rule. There is loads of information, all written on boards around a huge pair of Stalin’s boots….I’ll let them explain.
Mess About on the Children’s Railway
Now, this is one that we haven’t done yet and it is also out of town. Half an hour out of town, a rather unusual train is run. It is entirely controlled by children…apart from the actual driving. You will find ticket sellers, conductors and signallers. This is a fun hangover from the USSR(!?). The Soviets thought it was a great way to help teach youths that were interested in railway careers. This particular 7 mile line was built in 1948 and is still going strong. (I will be going next time we visit).
Final Thoughts for Your 3 Day Budapest Itinerary
Honestly, I think Budapest deserves a longer visit, but of course, I know that a long weekend or three days is as long as most of us have for city breaks. I will be back to see and do even more in this wonderful city. Catch an opera, take a train run by youths and spend a long day or two days lazing in the balmy waters of Budapest. In fact, I bet there is enough to create a second 3 day Budapest itinerary and doesn’t that sound like a fun challenge?
Interlaken is one of Switzerland’s most popular tourist destinations. Surrounded by some of the most famous and beautiful nature in the country, with great transport links, it is no wonder. There are plenty of hotels and hostels to choose from but in a country that is pretty hard on the backpacker’s wallet, how can you be sure you are staying somewhere that is affordable and nice? In 2023, we stayed at Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof and it very quickly became one of our favourite hostels. Read on for our full Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof review.
This post may contain sponsored content or affiliate links that help support the blog. All opinions are our own.
About Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof
Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof has been operating since 1998 so they have had a few years to nail the hostel formula. That is probably why they offer:
Free Wifi
Free breakfast (more on that later)
Bed linen as standard (although you will have to make your own bed in the dorms)
Free entry to a local swimming pool
Free lockers for everybody
Dorms, private rooms with shared bathrooms and privates with en suite bathrooms. (Everyone has hot showers)
The architecture of the Backpackers Villa Somnenehof may surprise you. It is definitely a hostel of two halves, with the old section actually around 200 years old and the shiny new block built in 2009 which is now where you’ll fine reception, the breakfast room and a few dorms. The old chalet was actually moved from its original home over by the famous Victoria Hotel and reconstructed perfectly. This means that you will find some gorgeous original mouldings and tiling on the old staircase.
The Location
Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof sits on the edge of a large green patch next to the town centre. nowhere is more than a fifteen minute walk, including most shops, restaurants, both Interlaken train stations and the boat launches. When you first arrive, you may be concerned about its proximity to the road and roundabout but we had no issues with traffic noise (there was barely any real traffic).
A Look Around Backpackers VIlla Sonnenhof
Our Room
Our room was a private double with a shared bathroom up on the top floor of the hostel. We had two windows that let in plenty of light and the white walls made it seem nice and bright too. With the sloped room, I was actually a little worried about the sunlight in the morning but the gravity-controlled curtain by my bed was really fun and worked beautifully.
We each had a large locker which would have easily fit both of our bags in. These were both denoted by letters that coordinated with our lettered towels. It’s a nice system. Considering that most of the 200 beds on offer are in dorms, they obviously know what they are doing. They also provided loads of plugs including a couple of standard European sockets for those that don’t realise Switzerland has its own plugs.
In the room, we also had a simple table and a wash basin. This is a nice touch when you have a shared bathroom, saving you the trek down the corridor just to brush your teeth or wash your face when you’re sleepy. Finally, my favourite thing in the whole room, a gorgeous little book hanging next to the sink. It had some lovely illustrations and quotes of the day.
The Bathrooms
We had a large toilet right next to our room which almost seemed almost private. It had a frosted glass door that head out onto the fire escape so I made a mental note to listen out for fire alarms as I used the bathroom. I wouldn’t want to get caught with my trousers around my ankles in an emergency! The bathroom was really clean as were all the other bathrooms we poked our head into around the hostel.
At the other end of the corridor were the showers, three cubicles for the floor and two more toilets. The showers were lovely and clean but it was a shame not to have some kind of basic soap/body wash in them. There was also another sink and a huge dressing table type set up with a giant mirror and a couple of hairdryers. One morning, a couple of girls who were staying in a large dorm were using the mirror to French braid their hair and do their outfit checks. More hostels need more mirrors and good hair dryers.
Reception
Reception wasn’t just a place to check in, but a hub for everything/ The staff were really knowledgeable, sharing all kinds of advice about the areas and what was possible. A computer screen on the reception itself was an updated timetable of local buses and over the big comfortable chairs, a huge screen showed the live webcams of the viewpoints around Interlaken. You could book all kinds of fun excursions through them including paragliding, hiking and canyoning.
Garden
Behind the hostel building, away from the road was a lovely, lush lawn. It is really nice to have some green space when surrounded by the gorgeous green hills. Sadly, it was a little too wet during our time in Interlaken to fully enjoy it but when we first arrived, we saw some people hanging out on the patio reading and enjoying the view. I would have loved to have had a picnic dinner out here so we must come back in the heat of summer!
Dining – Breakfast
Breakfast is served in the back of reception with some people sitting in the big chairs and other using the little dining room behind the buffet. It was a cold, continental selection with some lovely, creamy yogurt and three different kinds of cereal. There was delicious bread that was nice enough to just have as was or to stick in the toaster. Thick toast with butter and a cup of decent cappuccino machine coffee was a great start to a chilly day.
The Kitchen
In a country as expensive as Switzerland, there is a high probability that you will be preparing a meal or two yourself. Luckily, the kitchens in Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof are new and exceedingly well equipped. You’ll find hobs. ovens and microwaves…something for every level of cookery skill. The fridges adhere to the standard rules of, “label your food and only eat things with your name on unless they are in the Free Food fridge”. During our stay, there was a large group of young Koreans and when we cAsually wandered into the kitchen we were blown away. Everyone was cooking feasts and two hours later, the place was spotless once again. It was an impressive show of just how this kitchen scan be used. I sheepishly stuck our quiche in the microwave to warm it up. There is plenty of seating too with lots in the main kitchen, some in the cute sauna-style room and then lots more in the room with the ping pong table.
A Few More Rooms
More Outdoor Space – As well as the garden, there is a cute roof terrace that connects the two buildings of the hostel. This would be another excellent spot to catch some rays or have an al fresco dinner but it was really raining when we checked it out.
Meeting Room – On the first floor is a lovely room that can be used for reading, working or holding meetings. It has a lovely wooden fireplace wall and huge windows that look out across the green to central interlaken.
Kid’s Room – There was a little playroom that we found. Inside was a comfy sofa and lots of toys to play with.
Laundry Room – The hostel has washing machines that you can use 24 hours a day.
Ski Room – We visited in spring and so we didn’t need this particular room but it is great to see that they are catering for all year.
The Hidden Games – In the laundry room you will find a table football set up and in the second dining room is the ping pong (table tennis). Being as going out drinking is expensive, its cool that you can grab a reasonably priced drink from reception or a supermarket and then come down here and chill out.
Final Thoughts on Our Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof Review
This is a wonderfully run hostel with friendly and informative staff and full of thoughtful touches for visitors. It would make an excellent base for anyone travelling to Interlaken that is on a budget whether they are travelling solo, as a couple, a family or a big group. We hope to be back one day!
Zürich is an expensive city, there are no two ways about it. Money flows through like the pretty river water that cuts through the city. You might think there is nowhere to stay on a budget but there is a new accommodation option that sits somewhere between a hostel and a boutique hotel. Its superb location, stylish decor and reasonable price tag might be a game changer. Read on for our Pop up Hostel Krone Zürich review.
This post may contain sponsored content or affiliate links that help support the blog. All opinions are our own.
We arrived a bit later than planned and reception is only open during certain hours of the day. We emailed the hotel and they set up a self check in for us. So we received an email with a lockbox code. We popped in the code and grabbed our room key. It was really easy. We used the little lift to take us up the two floors to ours. I know, it was lazy but we had walked the long way from the station by mistake and spent 30 minutes trying to find our Too Good to Go location…all whilst wearing our backpacks. We dumped our bags and then ate our delicious dinner. (More about the dining room later).
The Location
Krone Zürich has an excellent location. It’s just two minutes from the heart of the old town and fifteen minutes from the lake. You are also just fifteen minutes from the main train station (or you can hop on the tram that is right outside). Located right on the riverside, if you have a room overlooking the road, you’ll also have a wonderful view of the Limmat. In the sun, it glitters beautifully at the bottom of the hill.
Our Room
We had a lovely large room at the front of the property. I was very surprised by the size , expecting the property to have much smaller rooms. There was a wardrobe built into one wall with room for both of our bags and a few shelves for extra bits. Next to this was a big sink with “that IKEA mirror” that I’ve listed after for years. It was backed by a gorgeous golden feature wall and J was instantly obsessed. Opposite was a standing full length mirror so outfit checks were a go!
There was a writing desk with a wooden chair, but also a big bucket chair to relax in. On the desk were two coffee pods that you could take downstairs to pop in the coffee machine. There was also a sign about getting a free coffee just around the corner at a coffee shop. We asked reception about this as we couldn’t find the spot on Google Maps. It seems it’s actually a brand of coffee and lots of places serve it but we didn’t fancy trying to convince someone to give us a free coffee if they didn’t know about it so I stuck to the pods.
The bed was really big with two nice thick duvets. Yes, it was May but no one had told the weather that! We each had a big pillow but they were the European kind that are swuare and very squishy. These are not my favourite and so I used my travel pillow as well. On each side was a lamp on a bedside table and I had a weird but very useful multi plug on mine. If you are bringing plug adaptors then you probably only be able to use two of the three slots so near that in mind.
We also had a towel and a pair of slippers each which was a nice touch as the bathrooms were outside of the room.
The Bathrooms
The bathrooms are shared. We had a toilet just outside the room and one further around the corridor on the same floor. They were kept immaculately clean throughout our stay.
The four showers for our floor were all in one spot towards the back of the building. They were also very clean but one was missing a curtain so it was out of action in my book.
All of the bathrooms and our room’s sink have gorgeous products from a local brand called Foeders. Apparently they really took off during the pandemic and I can tell why. They smell gorgeous, especially the black palm.
Dining
There is a small kitchen on the first floor, next to reception. It has a kettle and microwave so great for noodles and packet rice but not if you want to make a proper dinner. There was no hob or oven. However, there are a few tables and then a more comfortable seating section for chilling out. There is a big communal fridge where hostel rules apply. Label your food and don’t take anything that has a label belonging to someone else.
Overlooking the river was an area that seemed to be a bar but was never open during our two night stay. When it was raining, we walked back to the hotel to eat our packed lunch in the dry and we took a table in here. A few other people seemed to be doing the same.
Final Thoughts on Pop Up Hostel Krone Zürich
I wasn’t sure what to expect from Pop Up Hostel Krone Zürich and to be honest, I am still a little perplexed…but pleased. I would say that it is definitely a hostel. It has the kitchenette and shared bathrooms meaning it’s not what most people would think of as a hotel. However, our lovely big room with its fabulous view is definitely a cut above your standard hostel. It is an excellent option for budget travellers that want a bit more privacy and a bit more space than you will find elsewhere in the city.
The train line that runs between Montreux and Interlaken is one of the most popular tourist routes in Switzerland. There have been some lovely trains that travel between these two spots but, until very recently, travellers have had to change trains at Zweisimmen. However, there is a new kid in town with a rather neat party trick, allowing you to travel in comfort the whole way. Plus, it is one of the most comfortable train rides in the world! Read on for our full GoldenPass Express Prestige Class review.
This post may contain sponsored content or affiliate links that help support the blog. All opinions are our own.
Tickets
Our journey was booked by MOB but if we wanted to use our 1st class Interrail passes, we would have had to pay CHF20 for the seat reservations and then CHF15 for the Prestige supplement. That’s just £35 for the extra exclusivity and comfort. This is quite the bargain in my opinion.
You can book your reservation ahead of the two-month ticket sales so get straight on that as soon as you decide to take the train, especially if you are coming in high season. You can pick your perfect seats and then grab the ticket if you need one when those bookings open. Not many people know this so you will beat the rush.
Boarding at Montreux
We thought we were arriving at the station nice and early, turning up 20 minutes in advance. However, we quickly realised that everyone else had already boarded! We dropped our bags inside the train and then took a few quick snaps of the gorgeous blue and gold exterior. After making a couple of reels and laughing at the name of the carraige (Shania Train) we settled into our lovely, comfortable Prestige Class seats.
The GoldenPass Express Prestige Class Carriage
Prestige Class was a small section at the back of the train, separated from first class by a couple of steps and an opaque glass partition. I believe this is the front of the train when it travels in the other direction as there is a driver’s cab in there too. The elevated section gives a wonderful view of the landscape as it has a higher vantage. Above the big, wide windows was a panorama window to see up to the sky. In the UK, this wouldn’t be worth it, but when you are passing through glorious valleys with mountains, it is such a treat for everyone to see the top!
The Seats
The creamy beige leather seats feel very luxurious and as we settled in we got very excited about all of the options they offered. There were buttons galore and the seats were very adjustable, giving everyone the most comfortable ride from individual to individual. On the controls, we could change the footrest, lumbar support or recline. We fiddled with buttons, giggling with delight. It will never get old to sit in a seat as it whirs to life and pokes you in the back. Oh, and it is also heated for those winter journeys. In the armrests were our little tray tables and between our chairs we each had a AC plug and a USB plug too.
The perfectly adjusted seat with its super comfortable cushioning and giant headrest was so delilously comfortable. I was tempted to curl up and have a nap but just didn’t want to miss the view.
There are several videos on social media that make it look like you can swivel the seats so you can stare straight out of the window. However, this is not actually the case. The chairs can be swung around but only lock in when facing forwards or backwards.
Petit Déjeuner
Very soon after we departed, the person in charge of our carriage came to check who had ordered breakfast. It was just us and one other couple and we all had a basket presented to us. along with a coffee. The croissant was great but we were rather full from our hotel breakfast (bad planning on our part) so we saved one for later. I was impressed at how nice the coffee was too, expecting instant but it seemed pressed.
The View
The most important thing of our GoldenPass Express Prestige Class review is the spectacular views! Great vistas are afforded to travellers on the hill that winds its way up from Montreux. The sparkling lake backed by green hills has everybody glued to the windows and, as the train makes several turns, both sides get a great view. Through a tunnel and you emerge in a green valley with snow-capped mountains above. It is Swiss perfection. (Mind you, if the clouds decide to smother them, you won’t need them quite so much).
This is the Vaud Alps and the train winds around the hills before the scenery levels out. It then begins to pass through the villages and along the rivers of Bernese Oberland. It really doesn’t get old and the last section runs along Lake Thun, one of the two linked by Interlaken. If you’re more organised than us, you can spot Gstaad Palace as you turn out of town after the station. We were so busy discussing our lunch that we totally forgot to snap it.
Déjeuner
Very soon after breakfast was taken away, we were given our lunch! We had a planchette of cheese, cured meats, some pretzel-style bread and a lovely glass of wine. We were already pretty full but everything was so tasty that we just kept eating. The wine was a quintessential Swiss white that paired with the cheese perfectly. The lovely lady looking after us said that it would be ideal if we could finish by the next stop. We tried our best but couldn’t drink all of the wine in time. She took away the slates and then we were surprised to see her on the platform at the next stop as we chugged away and left her behind.
The Change
Now, one of the things we were most looking forward to was the magical track change. It is the big GoldenPass Express party trick, meaning that in theory, we could travel all the way to Interlaken. This means you keep your super comfy seat, leave your luggage untouched and not have to face the Swiss weather. The wheels slowly change to fit the next section of track which has a different gauge to the section between Montreux and Interlaken. That’s a change from 1000 to 1435 mm in seconds without stopping. Its a world first and still truly fascinating.
However, due to issues on the track, we had to change to another train. We all scrambled to find new seats, with first class rather less plush than the Prestige Class we’d left behind. It all made sense. That was why we had to finish all of our food so quickly; the new train didn’t have such provisions. It was a real disappointment as we were really looking forward to experiencing the bogies adjusting but it sounded like there was an issue with the track.
Arriving in Interlaken
We were so happy to see the sunshine when we disembarked at Interlaken Ost. Everyone spilled out from the station and our hostel was just a ten-minute walk. The blue sky, pretty flowers and hills rising up around Interlaken made it the perfect welcome.
Final Thoughts for Our GoldenPass Express Prestige Class Review
Having tried all three trains that run along this line, we both agreed that the GoldenPass Express was the most comfortable and Prestige Class felt so luxurious. The cabin’s 9 seats were full but it still felt exclusive. Let’s face it, sipping a crisp white wine as the world slips by will always be a winner! In a country that does train travel so very well, and with some of the world’s most iconic routes, this is a crowning jewel in the Swiss train crown.
Montreux is a pretty town that rises above the eastern end of Lake Geneva. It offers a relaxed and enjoyable spot to visit in Switzerland as a spot on its own merit as well as a great jumping off point to explore the cheese and wine hubs nearby by Lavaux and Gruyères. If you are planning a visit here are 10 things to do in Montreux.
This post may contain sponsored content or affiliate links that help support the blog. All opinions are our own.
1.) Go Back in Time at Chateau de Chillon
On the water’s edge, just outside of town, sits the Chateau Chillon. This is a genuine medieval castle dating from the 12th century. The original name literally means castle on the rock so you know the view has to be good!
Inside you will find glimpses of the ancient dungeons, medieval framework (who doesn’t love a garderobe room) and more modern touches. The castle is used for special dinners, parties and wedding receptions and you might be lucky to catch a room set for dinner.
On entry, you can pick up a map to help you find your way around along the numbered trail. The final stop on the self guided tour is the tower so save some puff. The view from up here fantastic and there is an interesting room full of armour and weapons in the way up to let you catch your breath.
2.) Place a Bet at Casino Barrière de Montreux
Montreux has had a casino since the 1880s and it has always been a great spot for both a flutter on the tales and to see excellent music. It has played host to orchestras, world class bands and it used to be the main spot for the Montreux Jazz Festival. The casino was rebuilt after a huge fire in 1971. It was this disaster that inspired Deep Purple to write “Smoke on the Water”. The fire was started by flare guns used in a concert…see, it is really full of music history.
In terms of gambling, you’ll find plenty of table games like blackjack and roulette along with slot machines galore. If you love to take on The House then you will have a lovely time.
3.) Take a Swim in Lake Geneva
In the summer months, the water of Lake Geneva makes a refreshing place to take a dip. You will find a nice spot next to the Marche Couvert (covered market). It is a large, round swimming platform which has a couple of ladders into the lake. However, there isn’t a lot of room to sunbathe or relax with friends. For a roomier alternative, head around the lake to Vevey for easier access. You will be astonished by the clear water and the cute little fish darting through the lake.
4.) Fort de Chillon
Fort de Chillon was built into the hill behind Chateau de Chillon during the second world war. It housed a barrage of guns and antitank armaments. These days it houses a really fun museum, all based around the life of a soldier. Visitors can explore interactive challenges, complete problem solving puzzles and play fantastic VR games. You will learn about the defensive strategy of Switzerland, something that was luckily, never challenged during the fort’s active years.
5.) Freddie Mercury Statue
Standing proud on the edge of the lake is a 3m tall bronze statue of Freddie Mercury created by Czech-born sculptor Irena Sedlecka. It was unveiled in 1996, five years after the star’s death. All day, a steady stream of tourists are to be found striking the same famous pose made iconic at the 1986 Wembley concert. Freddy Mercury lived and worked in Montreux for many years and if you want to learn a bit more about it then you need to visit….
6.) Queen – The Studio Experience
To learn more about Queen’s connection to Montreux, and the life of Freddie Mercury, head to the Queen – The Studio Experience. This free museum has some amazing Queen memorabilia including stage costumes, family photos and handwritten lyrics from their song writing sessions. Queen recorded albums at Mountain Studios, their Montreux studio, including Freddie’s very last work. Although this is not the original location of the studio, it does hold a faithful reconstruction in which you can play at producing a track. Rumour has it, the actual studio is still hidden away somewhere in the casino but it is impossible to reach. You can imagine them performing songs for recording n on the large gambling floor though.
7.) Enjoy a Wine Tasting
Just a short train ride from Montreux are hundreds of small, family owned wineries. It is this boutique vineyard set up that mean most of Switzerland’s wine stays within the country. You can visit a couple of the wineries nearby when it’s warm but to get a wonderful overview of the wine produced, take the short train ride around to Lavaux Vinorama. Here there are over a hundred wineries represented and there are loads to try by the glass. You can also opt for one of their tastings, some of which like the Aromatic Whites tasting are rather unique. Its a very casual atmosphere so there is no worry that someone will discover you if your aren’t a connoisseur.
8.) Take a Train Trip
I know, I shouldn’t be telling you to leave the town but there are some really special trains that start and end in Montreux. You can hop on one and ride it up to the next station, changing to another to come back. Both of these trains run on the same tracks, affording stunning views as they climb the hill away from the lake, performing three switchbacks. Everyone gets a great view! Both of these trains can be booked on the MOB website and are included on the Interrail, Eurail and Swiss Travel Passes.
The Golden Pass panorama has huge windows and, as an added bonus, small windows that face the sky. This may seem gimmicky but when the mountains stretch above you, you will understand why this is so special. If you are sitting in first class, you can pay a supplement and sit at the very front of the train, with just a huge windscreen in front of you. The driver is in the little bubble above you as you enjoy the sight of the rails slipping beneath the train.
The Belle Epoque
This 1930s style train is pulled by a normal locomotive but the interiors are just beautiful. The rich turquoise upholstery and honey-coloured wood are kept in tip top condition and evoke a more romantic age of train travel. The Belle Epoque goes twice a day so when booking your tickets, be sure to check out the operator when you are booking. (09:50 and 14:50 at the time of writing).
9.) Montreux Jazz Festival
Every year, Montreux bursts into life with the Montreux Jaxx Festival. This world famous celebration began in 1967 and these days, doesn’t just celebrate jazz but music from across the spectrum. The main festival now takes place in a huge convention centre but the music spills out across Montreux. Switzerland can be a pricy spot so you’ll be pleased to find out that there are plenty of free events during the festival. Plus, there are acts you’ll have actually heard of; Nina Simone, David Bowie, Marvin Gaye, Elotin John and of course, Queen.
10.) Take a Stroll Along the Promenade
Stretching from the northern end of Montreux, all the way to Chateau de Chillon, the lakeside promenade is a pleasant, pedestrianised place for a stroll. Along the way, the gentle lap of the waves and the perfume of the summer flowers is truly relaxing. The whole walk is 6km long and should take about 1.5 hours.
Final Thoughts
I have read elsewhere that Montreux is sleepy or even boring but it seems that you get out as much as you put in. Who wouldn’t enjoy a meander around a lake or sipping wine in the sun? We only had two days and it didn’t feel like enough! I can see us returning for the festival in the future or just to relax with a view across the glassy surface of the lake, dvine.
Venice is is known as the city of love but did you know that it ialso an awesome place to visit as a flashpacker? It is possible to find budget food, budget Aperol Spritz and even budget accommodation if you know where to look. On my Interrail trip through Europe, I stayed for two nights at the A&O Venice Mestre. Read on for my full A&O Venice Mestre review.
This post may contain sponsored content or affiliate links that help support the blog. All opinions are our own.
A&O Venice Mestre is located on the mainland of Italy rather than the islands. It is about 8 minutes walk from the Venice Mestre station making it very convenient for those arriving by train and those heading into Venice proper. The train takes 11 minutes to reach Saint Lucia.
My top tip is to stay on the side of the road of the train station as you walk towards the hostel or you will get a bit stuck and have to go round the long way. (Yes, I learned that the hard way whilst it was raining and I was carrying a backpack).
A Look Around A&O Venice Mestre
Ground Floor Facilities
The lobby of A&O Venice Mestre is large and full of facilities. As you walk in, you will see the reception desk in front of you, full of friendly and knowledgeable staff, If there is a long queue, you are too tired to fancy a chat or everyone has disappeared there were six or seven check-in machines. Here, you pop in your booking details and it will pop out your room key.
To the left is a tour desk which I didn’t see many people using but I guess everyone in were savvy travellers. I bet they get more business from families and traditional tourists. At the end of the room, past a series of seating options is a long, large table which had plenty of people on laptops tapping away. Wifi is fast and free so it is a good spot for nomadic working. Then, behind them were a couple of vending machines. One had loads of snacks and other, all kinds of items that you might need, sanitiser, condoms, shampoo and Sprite.
Around to the right is the bar which does a reasonably priced selection of boozy treats, ice cream and snackettes. Their Aperol Spritz was pretty good and much cheaper than those in town. They have a spinning wheel on which you can try your luck. You might end up getting a drink from a friend, or buying a round for everyone else. There is a large table with tall chairs and plenty of plugs doe working over a pint. A little further over you will find the karaoke area. I walked through one evening, expecting to see an empty and slightly forlorn spot but there were around ten people having a proper giggle here. Finally, tucked in the corner is the kids’ area with puzzles, books and toys. This hostel is for everyone!
Laundry Room & Lockers
Through a door, you will find a big bank of chargeable luggage lockers. These are very handy if you want to maximise your last day in Venice. You can pop your luggage in here, go into the city and then rush back to grab the bag in time for your flight/night train.
A little further around the corridor is the kitchen (more on this in the dining section) and a laundry room. I used the washing machine which was really easy and affordable. You didn’t have to buy separate detergent, get powder everywhere or gamble on where to put the soap as it was all automatic. The dryers were broken during my visit but luckily, my private room meant I could just hang everything around my room to dry.
My Room
I was lucky enough to have a private room all to myself, number 204. It was a nice, large room with loads of storage room. I had a little hanging rail (so handy for my wet washing), three large cubbies (my backpack and day pack both fit in one easily) and even a shoe rack with full length mirror. The window let in some light but on a gloomy day, not all that much.
It was unseasonably chilly during my mid-May visit so I was thrilled to see that I had control over my heating…I definitely thought I would be using the AC to cool off but hey ho.
My Bed
The double bed was two singles pushed together and set in the European way (with two duvets). This was perfectly fine for me as a solo gal, and would have been OK for Mr Fluskey too. However, it is worth bearing in mind if you wouldn’t like this arrangement with a partner.
My Bathroom
The bathroom was very reasonably sized, as evidenced by the fact there was room for a bidet. Would you believe, this is the only hostel I have ever been in with a bidet?! The shower was fine but a little tight. I very much appreciated the towel rack which was an exceedingly handy spot for my freshly laundered undies. The soap and body wash provided were quite plain (not particularly scented) and I had seen the same products in a few hostels during the trip. I was happy to see a hairdryer provided in the bathroom. It is more hotely than hostelly in some aspects. THIS is flashpacking!
Dining
Breakfast
Breakfast was taken with a token. There was a big buffet with several stations dotted around the room. There was lots of bread, sliced meats and cheese galore and fresh fruit. Plenty of people were pocketing apples and oranges for lunch…I did too obviously. Then there were a couple of kinds of yoghurt, several cereals, warm eggs and cold salad. You could have a three course meal, an excellent start to the day. The drinks selection was very good with lots of tea, two cappuccino machines and a funky juice dispenser with four fruit juice, still and sparkling water.
Was I obsessed with the little pancake machine that churned out the cutest little fluffy pancakes automatically? You bet I was! I got a seat near it so I didn’t miss a single dollop of batter or the gentle plop of each pancake on the plate. It was mesmerising.
The Kitchen
The kitchen seemed quite small for the size of the hostel if I am honest. When I arrived on day one, there were only two hobs and not an awful lot of pots, pans and cutlery. There was a kettle and big fridge but no oven or microwave. On day two, a refurbishment took place and they added two more hob set ups. Still, it was quite disappointing…I guess everyone eats out in Venice (which makes sense).
Like the classy girl I am, when I checked in I was seriously hungry so I made instant ramen noodles on the hob. Just as I was serving up this highly nutritious dish, someone else came into the kitchen. I could have died of shame. Here’s me in one of the best foodie countries in the world and I am scoffing a knockoff packet of Super Noodles. I should be ashamed.
Final Thoughts about A&O Venice Mestre
A&O Venice Mestre is a very well-run hostel which really offers budget travellers in Venice a hub. The evening activities mean you really can buy a bottle of bubbly for cheap and have a fun time with like-minded travellers…a rarity in so many hostels these days. Transactions with the staff were always quick and smiley. Everything was user-friendly around the hostel so I could just get on with making lunch and doing laundry without bugging anyone else. I would say that if you are on a budget, travelling solo or with a group of friends then this is an excellent option but it is not the place to come for a romantic weekend with a partner. Overall, it is a brilliant place to stay for a fun trip to Venice.
Rosie xx
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