Mar 17, 2025
160 Years of Bucher Travel Inc. – From Horse-Drawn Carriages to an International Travel Company
Dierikon, March 13, 2025: The foundation of Bucher Travel Inc. was laid in 1865. What began as a small horse-drawn carriage business has, over the past 160 years, grown into one of Switzerland’s leading travel and transport companies. This remarkable evolution reflects a rich history shaped by innovation, transformation, and a continuous commitment to quality and service.
Tourism holds great importance in Switzerland and shapes the country's traditions. With a 160-year history, Bucher Travel Inc. is one of Switzerland’s most renowned tourism companies. In its anniversary year 2025, Bucher Travel Inc. looks back with pride on its rich past while also embracing the future with confidence. Today, the company stands for tailor-made travel and transport solutions, seamlessly combining tradition and innovation.
"We extend our heartfelt thanks to all employees, partners, and customers who have been part of this journey. With passion and enthusiasm, we look forward to the next chapters of our story," says Mario Würsch, CEO of Bucher Travel Inc.
As one of Switzerland’s oldest travel and transportation companies, Bucher Travel Inc. offers first-class services, including customized travel experiences, limousine and coach transportation, and event management. With a strong commitment to quality and innovation, the company continues to uphold the highest standards, remaining a trusted partner for travelers from around the world.
A Pioneer in Transportation
By 1900, the transition from horse-drawn carriages to motorized vehicles marked the first major milestone in the company’s history. In 1932, Otto Rast took over the company’s leadership and, during the post-war boom, transformed it into a tourism pioneer. Under his direction, operational offices were established in Geneva, Zurich, Montreux, and Interlaken, offering travelers seamless transfers and excursions. After Otto Rast's passing in 1961, the company remained family-owned and was successfully managed by his wife and two sons until 1965, when his son Harald Urs Rast took over and led the company until 2001.
Milestones in Dierikon
In 1989, the opening of the company’s operations garage in Dierikon marked a significant step, laying the foundation for future growth. Bucher Travel Inc. remained a family business until 2001 when it was acquired by Mario Würsch and Werner Weber. With Mario Würsch’s leadership, a new era began, modernizing the company and positioning it for the future. The relocation to modern office facilities in Dierikon in 2011 and the introduction of a new corporate identity for the company’s 150th anniversary in 2015 are just a few examples of its continuous development. Since 2007, former hotelier Fredi Daumüller has played a key role in the strategic development of the company as a board member and co-owner.
Expansion in 2023 to Lucerne and Täsch/Zermatt
In 2023, Alphubel Limousine and Taxi Service in Täsch/Zermatt became part of Bucher Travel Inc., expanding the company’s limousine and shuttle service offerings. Additionally, Bucher Travel Inc.'s travel agency moved to its new location in Lucerne, where it now provides personalized and professional consultation for tailor-made global travel experiences.
