Nestled in the picturesque countryside of eastern Switzerland, the city of St. Gallen is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its UNESCO World Heritage Abbey District, St. Gallen is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the region.
As you plan your trip to this charming Swiss city, you’ll find that there’s no shortage of exciting things to do. From exploring the colorful Old Town to relaxing at the serene Three Ponds, St. Gallen has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a day trip from Zurich or a longer stay, this historic city is sure to captivate you with its unique blend of tradition and modernity.
As you wander through the city, you’ll discover its rich textile heritage, savor local cuisine, and enjoy the perfect base it provides for exploring the surrounding countryside and Lake Constance region.
Discovering the Charm of St. Gallen
You’re about to uncover the hidden charm of St. Gallen, a city that seamlessly weaves together its historical past and contemporary appeal. Located in the heart of eastern Switzerland, St. Gallen is a treasure trove of cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Where is St. Gallen Located?
St. Gallen is strategically situated in a picturesque valley between Lake Constance and the Appenzell Alps. As the capital of the canton bearing the same name, it’s the eighth largest city in Switzerland and serves as an ideal base for exploring the surrounding region. You can easily get to St. Gallen, as it’s just an hour’s drive from Zurich airport, making it a convenient destination for international travelers.
Why Visit This Historic Swiss City
St. Gallen boasts a rich cultural heritage, dating back to the 7th century when Irish monk Gallus established a hermitage that eventually grew into the famous Abbey of St. Gall. The city’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, well-preserved medieval architecture, and renowned textile industry make it a compelling place to visit. By exploring St. Gallen, you’ll gain valuable information about the region’s history and culture, making your trip a memorable one.
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Abbey District
St. Gallen’s Abbey District is a treasure trove of cultural and historical significance, earning its place as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. This magnificent complex is home to more than just a monastery; it also features one of the oldest libraries in Switzerland, a grand Rococo hall, and the historic city cathedral. The Abbey District is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in history, architecture, and culture.
The Magnificent Abbey Cathedral
The Abbey Cathedral, also known as the Stiftskirche, is a stunning example of Baroque architecture, completed in 1767. Designed by renowned architect Peter Thumb, the cathedral boasts a pale grey facade and intricate decorative elements. Inside, you’ll be mesmerized by the ornate interior featuring a unique turquoise and brown color scheme, elaborate frescoes, sculptures, and stuccowork.
The Stunning Abbey Library – A Medieval Treasure
The Abbey Library, or Stiftsbibliothek, is considered one of the world’s most beautiful libraries, housing over 170,000 documents, many of which are over 1,000 years old. To protect the original fir wood floors, visitors must wear felt slippers while admiring the exquisite Rococo hall with its richly decorated ceiling frescoes and ornate woodwork. The library is a glimpse into medieval monastic life and the important role St. Gallen played in European cultural and religious history.
The Abbey District offers a unique experience, allowing visitors to explore the historic buildings, admire the stunning architecture, and discover the rich cultural heritage of St. Gallen. With its exceptional cultural and historical significance, the Abbey District is a truly unforgettable destination.
Wander Through the Historic Old Town
Wandering through St. Gallen’s Old Town is like taking a step back in time. This charming area is filled with cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings that date back several centuries, showcasing the wealth generated during the city’s prosperous textile trading era.
The Historic Old Town, or Altstadt, is a pedestrian-friendly area where you can explore at your leisure. One of the most distinctive features of this part of St. Gallen are the ornate oriel windows that adorn many buildings.
Admire the Colorful Oriel Windows
The oriel windows in St. Gallen’s Old Town are truly a sight to behold. These windows come in various shapes and designs, with some featuring intricate carvings, paintings, and decorative elements that tell stories about the building’s original owners.
As you walk through the Old Town, you’ll notice the unique characteristics of each building, reflecting the artistic sensibilities and wealth of the merchant class during the textile industry’s heyday.
Discover Hidden Architectural Gems
Beyond the main streets, the Old Town reveals hidden architectural gems, including secret courtyards, narrow alleyways, and historic guild houses that provide glimpses into the city‘s medieval past.
You can explore the Old Town either through a self-guided walk or by joining a guided tour with a local expert who can share fascinating stories and point out easily missed details, making your visit to this historic area even more enriching.
Visit the Striking Red Square (Stadtlounge)
As you explore St. Gallen, be sure to visit the Red Square, a contemporary art installation that has become one of the city’s most unique attractions. Located in the Bleicheli district, just a short walk from the Old Town, this outdoor lounge area is a must-see.
The Story Behind the Scarlet Outdoor Lounge
The Red Square, also known as Stadtlounge, was created by artist Pipilotti Rist to transform a corporate business area into Switzerland’s first public “city lounge.” The entire city block is covered in striking scarlet rubber granulate material, creating a surreal and immersive environment that contrasts dramatically with the historic architecture found elsewhere in the city.
Best Time to Experience This Unique Space
The best time to visit Red Square is either in the early evening when the lighting creates a magical ambiance or during weekday lunch hours when local office workers bring the space to life. At night, the square is illuminated by large, round boulder-like lights that create an otherworldly atmosphere.
| Time of Day | Experience |
|---|---|
| Early Evening | Magical ambiance with lighting |
| Weekday Lunch Hours | Lively atmosphere with local office workers |
| Night | Otherworldly atmosphere with boulder-like lights |
Relax at the Three Ponds (Drei Weieren)
Perched on a hill, the Drei Weieren offers breathtaking views of St. Gallen and beyond. This beloved recreational area is a must-visit destination for those seeking relaxation and a connection with nature.
How to Get There: Walking or Taking the Mühleggbahn Funicular
You can reach the Drei Weieren by taking a scenic walk from the city center, which takes around 30 minutes and passes by the historic 17th-century Capuchin convent. Alternatively, you can take the Mühleggbahn funicular, which whisks you up to the St. Georgen district in just 90 seconds for about CHF 2.40 per adult one way.
Swimming and Enjoying the Art Nouveau Bathhouses
The Drei Weieren is not just a visual treat; it’s also a great spot for swimming and relaxation. The ponds, originally created for water storage, have been used for bathing since the early 1700s. You can enjoy the historical Art Nouveau wooden bathhouses and the refreshing mountain air during the summer months.
Indulge in St. Gallen’s Food Specialties
Visitors to St. Gallen are in for a culinary treat, with the city’s unique ‘4 Bs’ being a highlight. The local cuisine is centered around Bratwurst, Bread (specifically Bürli), Beer, and Biber, with a fifth ‘B’ being the cozy “Beizlis” – traditional first-floor restaurants housed in historic buildings.
The Famous St. Gallen Bratwurst
The St. Gallen Bratwurst is a distinctive white sausage made with at least 50% veal, pork, and milk, turning golden brown when cooked. It’s traditionally eaten without mustard, as locals believe it masks the delicate flavor. This sausage has a rich history, dating back to the 15th century.
Local Bread, Beer, and Biber Treats
Bürli bread, a regional specialty, is often served with bratwurst. It’s characterized by its sourdough rolls with a crispy crust and soft center. St. Gallen has a long brewing tradition, with Brauerei Schützengarten, established in 1779, being Switzerland’s oldest brewery. Biber, or Biberli, are traditional honey-gingerbread cookies with an almond paste filling, popular during the Christmas season.
Best Restaurants to Try Authentic Local Cuisine
For an authentic dining experience, visit Restaurant Alpäglöggli on Schmiedgasse, known for local specialties like Chnöpfli. Alternatively, seek out one of the charming “Beizlis” where you can enjoy traditional Swiss cuisine in a historic setting. These restaurants offer a unique culinary experience that complements the city’s rich cultural heritage.
| Local Specialty | Description |
|---|---|
| Bratwurst | A white sausage made with veal, pork, and milk. |
| Bürli Bread | Sourdough rolls with a crispy crust and soft center. |
| Biber | Honey-gingerbread cookies with almond paste filling. |
Experience the Textile Heritage of St. Gallen
As you explore St. Gallen, you’ll discover a deep-rooted textile tradition that has shaped the city’s identity. St. Gallen was once known as the embroidery capital of the world, with its textile industry reaching its peak in the early 20th century.
The Textile Museum
The city’s Textile Museum, established in 1886, offers a fascinating journey through St. Gallen’s rich textile heritage. The museum displays exquisite examples of embroidery, lace, and fabric that made the region famous worldwide. You can learn about the history of textile production and its significance in St. Gallen.
Local Textiles and Embroidery
Visitors can shop for authentic St. Gallen textiles and embroidery at local boutiques and directly from manufacturers. Century-old textile houses like Forster Rohner, Bischoff, and Jakob Schlaepfer continue to produce high-quality textiles, supplying luxury fashion brands across Europe. The legacy of St. Gallen’s textile craftsmanship lives on through fashion house Akris, a family-owned brand that has grown from a small apron atelier to an internationally respected fashion maison.
Enjoy Seasonal Events and Festivities
One of the joys of visiting St. Gallen is experiencing the city’s seasonal events and festivities that happen throughout the year. The city transforms with the seasons, offering a unique experience for visitors at any time.
The Magical St. Gallen Christmas Market
If you visit St. Gallen between late November and early January, you can enjoy the St. Gallen Christmas Market. The market creates a magical atmosphere with wooden chalets selling handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats, and mulled wine throughout the Old Town. During this festive season, St. Gallen becomes known as the “City of 700 Stars” due to the 700 twinkling star-shaped lights illuminating the historic center.
Summer Festivals and Cultural Events
Summer in St. Gallen brings numerous festivals and open-air events, including the St. Gallen Festival featuring classical music performances in unique venues across the city. The city comes alive with cultural events, attracting people from across the region. You can enjoy theater performances at the Stadt Theater, art exhibitions at the Kunstmuseum St. Gallen, and various music festivals that bring the city’s public spaces to life.
| Event | Time of Year | Description |
|---|---|---|
| St. Gallen Christmas Market | Late November to Early January | Handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats, and mulled wine in the Old Town |
| St. Gallen Festival | Summer | Classical music performances in unique venues |
| OLMA Agricultural Fair | October | Celebration of Swiss farming traditions and regional products |
Take a Day Trip to Lake Constance (Bodensee)
A day trip to Lake Constance from St. Gallen is a must-do experience. Located just a short distance away, Lake Constance offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.
Visiting Rorschach and the Lake Shore
The charming town of Rorschach is just 20 minutes by car or 10 minutes by train from St. Gallen. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the lakefront promenade, take a dip in the swimming areas, or simply soak in the breathtaking views across Lake Constance to the German and Austrian shores.
Cruising on Lake Constance
For a relaxing experience, consider taking a cruise on Lake Constance. You can choose from various options, including short sightseeing trips or full-day excursions to destinations like the picturesque German town of Lindau, known for its iconic harbor entrance guarded by a lion statue and lighthouse.
Lake Constance is a special destination as it borders three countries: Switzerland, Germany, and Austria. This allows you to experience different cultures, cuisines, and architectural styles all in one day trip from St. Gallen.
Explore the Picturesque Appenzellerland
Appenzellerland, nestled near St. Gallen, offers a serene escape into Switzerland’s rural beauty. This picturesque region is characterized by its fertile landscapes, charming villages, and long-standing agricultural traditions.
Hiking Opportunities and Mountain Views
The area is a hiker’s paradise, with trails ranging from easy valley walks to challenging mountain routes. You can hike to the famous Mountain Inn Aescher-Wildkirchli, a traditional wooden chalet built into the rock face, offering spectacular views and local cuisine.
Experiencing Traditional Swiss Village Life
Appenzellerland villages maintain authentic Swiss traditions. You can experience rural life by visiting local cheese dairies, attending a cattle descent celebration, or sampling local specialties like Appenzeller Biber and herbal liqueurs.
Visit the Rhine Valley and Nearby Countries
Just a short drive from St. Gallen, the Rhine Valley beckons with its rolling vineyards, charming riverside towns, and rich cultural heritage. You can enjoy a day trip to this picturesque area, exploring its many attractions.
Wine Tasting in the Rhine Valley
The Rhine Valley is renowned for its wine-making heritage, with over 20 varieties of grapes cultivated in the region. You can enjoy wine tastings at local vineyards, sampling unique blends that reflect the distinctive terroir of the area. The vineyards are often perched above Lake Constance, offering breathtaking views.
Cross-Border Excursions to Austria and Liechtenstein
One of the unique advantages of St. Gallen’s location is the ease of making cross-border excursions to neighboring countries. You can visit Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein, and get a souvenir passport stamp. Explore Vaduz Castle and the Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein, or visit the Austrian Vorarlberg region for its distinctive wooden architecture and mountain scenery.
St. Gallen, Switzerland: Best Things to Do for Chocolate Lovers
For those with a sweet tooth, St. Gallen provides an array of chocolate-related activities that are not to be missed. The city and its surroundings offer a rich chocolate culture, from interactive factory tours to artisanal chocolate shops.
The Chocolarium at Flawil – A Sweet Experience
The Chocolarium, located in Flawil, is just a short distance from St. Gallen and offers an immersive chocolate experience at “The Chocolate Factory of Happiness.” Here, you can learn about chocolate production through interactive exhibits and a cinema presentation. The hands-on museum allows you to create your own Swiss chocolate bars, take guided tours of the production facilities, and enjoy plenty of tasting opportunities.
Where to Find the Best Chocolate in St. Gallen
In St. Gallen city, chocolate connoisseurs should visit Chocolaterie Kölbener for the best hot chocolate in town, as well as handmade pralines and truffles crafted with traditional Swiss techniques. Another must-visit is Praliné Scherrer, offering bespoke chocolates that are exceptional and served at fashion shows for the renowned St. Gallen-based fashion house Akris.
You can sample a wide variety of chocolate creations and purchase unique souvenirs at the Chocolarium’s on-site café and shop. Whether you’re a chocolate aficionado or just looking for a sweet treat, St. Gallen’s chocolate scene has something for everyone.
Getting to and Around St. Gallen
Getting to St. Gallen is a breeze, thanks to its excellent transportation links. The city is well-connected to major Swiss cities and international destinations, making it easy to plan your trip.
Transportation Options from Major Swiss Cities
You can reach St. Gallen from major Swiss cities like Zurich, Lucerne, and Basel with ease. The train journey from Zurich takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, while driving takes around 1 hour. The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) provides frequent and reliable train services to St. Gallen’s main train station.
For international travelers, Zurich Airport is the most convenient access point, with direct train connections to St. Gallen running hourly.
| City | Travel Time by Train | Travel Time by Car |
|---|---|---|
| Zurich | 1 hour 15 minutes | 1 hour |
| Lucerne | 1 hour 30 minutes | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Basel | 2 hours | 2 hours |
Navigating St. Gallen by Public Transport
Once you arrive in St. Gallen, you can easily get around the city using the efficient public bus network operated by VBSG (Verkehrsbetriebe St. Gallen). The buses run frequently throughout the day, covering the entire city and surrounding areas.
The Mühleggbahn funicular provides a quick and scenic connection between the city center and the St. Georgen district, saving you a steep uphill walk.
Where to Stay in St. Gallen
Whether you’re looking for luxury or something more affordable, St. Gallen has a wide range of accommodations. You can choose from top-rated hotels that offer comfortable rooms, fine dining, and excellent amenities.
Luxury Accommodations
For a luxurious stay, consider Hotel Einstein St. Gallen, located in the heart of the city. This four-star property features elegant rooms, a fine dining restaurant, a casual bistro, and a comprehensive spa with an indoor pool and steam bath.
Mid-Range Hotels
If you’re looking for a mid-range option, Hotel Santispark is a great choice. It offers unique chocolate-themed rooms, Swiss and Italian restaurants, and extensive spa facilities, including a wave pool and hot tub.
Budget-Friendly Options
For budget-conscious travelers, B&B Hotel St. Gallen is a great option, offering bright and colorful rooms, including family rooms that can sleep up to four people, just five minutes from the train station.
Perfect One-Day Itinerary for St. Gallen
Make the most of your day in St. Gallen with our expertly curated itinerary. Start your morning by sipping a great blend at a local coffee shop. St. Gallen is home to one of the oldest coffee bean roasteries in Switzerland, making it a must-visit for caffeine fans.
Morning: Abbey District and Old Town
Begin your day by touring the UNESCO World Heritage Abbey District. Allow at least two hours to explore the Baroque cathedral and the magnificent Abbey Library, featuring ancient handwritten documents and a stunning Rococo hall. Afterward, wander through the historic Old Town and admire its colorful oriel windows.
Afternoon: Red Square and Three Ponds
In the afternoon, head to the striking Red Square (Stadtlounge), the city’s vibrant outdoor lounge. Take a leisurely walk up to the Three Ponds area via the Capuchin convent, the Mühleggbahn funicular station, and Mühlebach gorge. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and Lake Constance, and consider a refreshing swim in the historic bathing ponds during summer.
Evening: Local Cuisine and Nightlife
For lunch, be sure to try the local Olma sausage at a traditional “beizli” (first-floor restaurant), served with a locally baked bürli bread roll. End your day with a local beer tasting at Schützengarten, Switzerland’s oldest brewery, or sample wines from the vineyards above Lake Constance. Savor the flavors of St. Gallen and make the most of your day in this charming city.
Conclusion: Why St. Gallen Should Be on Your Swiss Itinerary
Discover the charm of St. Gallen, a city that seamlessly blends traditional Swiss culture with contemporary attractions and breathtaking natural scenery. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, St. Gallen offers a diverse range of activities to enjoy in this compact, easily navigable city.
The city’s UNESCO World Heritage Abbey District, with its magnificent cathedral and the breathtaking Abbey Library, is a major draw. With many things to do in St. Gallen, from exploring the historic town to taking a day trip to nearby attractions, you’ll find that this city is an ideal base for your Swiss adventure.
In conclusion, St. Gallen is a must-visit destination that promises an unforgettable experience. So, start planning your trip to this charming Swiss town and discover why more people are falling in love with it.
