Eastern Switzerland Travel Guide

Looking for a travel guide for Eastern Switzerland? Look no further! Discover the best places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and more in this comprehensive guide.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Eastern Switzerland

Located in Central Europe, Eastern Switzerland is a region of Switzerland well-known for its stunning scenery, outdoor activities, rich history, and cultural attractions. Whether you’re interested in exploring quaint medieval towns, hiking in the Swiss Alps, or tasting local specialties, Eastern Switzerland offers something for everyone.

Introduction to Eastern Switzerland

Eastern Switzerland, also known as Ostschweiz in German, is one of the seven regions of Switzerland. It is comprised of six cantons, including St. Gallen, Thurgau, Appenzell Ausserrhoden, Appenzell Innerrhoden, Glarus, and Schaffhausen. The region is easily accessible by both public transportation and car, making it an ideal destination for visitors who want to explore the beauty of Switzerland beyond the cities.

List of Places to Visit in Eastern Switzerland

Eastern Switzerland is filled with stunning landscapes, charming towns, and fascinating cultural attractions. Here are some of the top destinations to add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. St. Gallen Abbey: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, St. Gallen Abbey is a Benedictine monastery that dates back to the 8th century. The library, which houses over 170,000 books and manuscripts, is particularly impressive.

  2. Appenzell Folklore Museum: This museum showcases the traditions and customs of the Appenzell region through exhibits of costumes, embroidery, and crafts.

  3. Kulturama Museum of Mankind: This fascinating museum in Zurich explores the diversity of human culture through exhibits on art, music, religion, and more.

Natural Attractions of Eastern Switzerland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Rhine Falls: Located near Schaffhausen, the Rhine Falls is Europe’s largest waterfall and a popular day trip destination.

  2. Toggenburg: This region offers incredible hiking opportunities with its rolling hills and alpine meadows. The cable car ride to Chäserrugg is not to be missed.

  3. Lake Constance: This large lake, also known as Bodensee, borders Germany, Austria, and Switzerland and offers stunning views and plenty of water activities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eastern Switzerland

Eastern Switzerland is a hiker’s paradise, with countless trails to explore. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in the region:

  1. Appenzell Alpine Panorama Trail: This eight-day hike takes you through the beautiful Appenzell region, with stunning views of the Alps and plenty of opportunities to sample local cheese.

  2. Lake Constance Cycling Route: This 273km bike route takes you around the entire lake, with plenty of beautiful scenery and charming towns to explore along the way.

  3. Chur to Arosa Hike: This moderate hike takes you through the Swiss Alps, with plenty of breathtaking views of mountain peaks, glacial lakes, and pristine forests.

Best Things to Do in Eastern Switzerland: Activities and Tours

  1. Cheese Tasting in Appenzell: Appenzell is known for its delicious cheese, and there are plenty of opportunities to sample local varieties at cheesemakers and farms throughout the region.

  2. St. Gallen Textile Trail: This self-guided tour takes you through the history of textile manufacturing in St. Gallen, with stops at weaving mills, embroidery shops, and museums.

  3. Wine Tasting in Thurgau: Thurgau is one of the top wine-growing regions in Switzerland, with over 40 wineries producing exquisite wines. Visitors can take tours and tastings at many of these vineyards.

Week-Long Itinerary for Eastern Switzerland

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Eastern Switzerland, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your trip:

Day 1: Explore St. Gallen Abbey and the Old Town

Day 2: Take a day trip to Rhine Falls and Schaffhausen

Day 3-4: Hiking in Toggenburg, with a cable car ride to Chäserrugg

Day 5: Visit the Appenzell Folklore Museum and do a cheese tasting

Day 6: Take a wine tour in Thurgau

Day 7: Visit Lake Constance and explore the charming town of Stein am Rhein

Food and Drink Scene of Eastern Switzerland

Swiss cuisine is world-renowned, and Eastern Switzerland is no exception. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Älplermagronen: This is a hearty dish of Swiss macaroni and cheese with potatoes and onions.

  2. Rösti: This is a Swiss dish made with grated potatoes, typically served as a side dish.

  3. Bratwurst: Eastern Switzerland is known for its delicious sausages, which are often served with mustard and bread.

Local Beverages

  1. Appenzeller Beer: This beer is brewed in the Appenzell region using traditional methods and is known for its distinctive hoppy flavor.

  2. Thurgau Wine: Thurgau produces several excellent white wines, including Pinot Gris and Müller-Thurgau.

  3. Schaffhauser Chriesi: This liqueur is made from local cherries and is often served as a digestif.

Where to Stay in Eastern Switzerland: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Eastern Switzerland offers a wide variety of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to quaint guesthouses. Here are some top recommendations:

  1. Einstein St. Gallen: This historic hotel in the heart of St. Gallen offers luxurious rooms and excellent dining options.

  2. Hotel Walhalla: Located in the charming town of St. Gallen, Hotel Walhalla is a cozy and affordable option for budget-minded travelers.

  3. Romantik Hotel Säntis: This charming hotel is located in the Appenzell region and offers stunning views of the Alps.

What to Buy in Eastern Switzerland: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Eastern Switzerland is known for its traditional crafts and unique souvenirs. Here are some top products to bring home:

  1. Embroidered Cloth: Switzerland is known for its intricate embroidery, and you can find beautiful examples in shops throughout the Appenzell region.

  2. Swiss Chocolate: No trip to Switzerland is complete without indulging in some of the country’s famous chocolate. There are several excellent chocolatiers in Eastern Switzerland, including Läderach.

  3. Cowbells: You can find decorative cowbells in many souvenir shops throughout Eastern Switzerland, which make charming and unique souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Eastern Switzerland

Switzerland has a rich cultural heritage, and Eastern Switzerland preserves many of these traditions. Here are a few customs to be aware of:

  1. Greeting Customs: It’s common to greet people with a handshake in Switzerland. In more formal situations, it’s polite to address someone by their title and last name.

  2. Language: German is the primary language spoken in Eastern Switzerland, but many people also speak English.

  3. Tipping: It’s customary to round up to the nearest franc when tipping in Switzerland, although this is less common in more casual establishments.

Best Time to Visit Eastern Switzerland

Eastern Switzerland can be enjoyed year-round, although the best time to visit depends on your interests. If you’re planning to hike or explore the outdoors, late spring and early fall (May-June or September-October) offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds. If you prefer winter sports, December-February is the busiest time for skiing and snowboarding.

Do’s and Don’ts of Eastern Switzerland

Here are some helpful guidelines to follow during your visit to Eastern Switzerland:

Do:

  1. Respect local customs: Switzerland has a strong sense of tradition and it’s important to respect local customs, such as removing your shoes in homes or living spaces.

  2. Take public transportation: Switzerland has one of the most efficient and reliable public transportation systems in the world. Taking a train or bus is a great way to see the country and reduce your carbon footprint.

  3. Try local food and drink: Swiss cuisine is delicious and there are many regional specialties to try. Be sure to sample local wines, cheeses, and chocolates during your visit.

Don’t:

  1. Be late: Punctuality is highly valued in Switzerland. Be sure to arrive on time for meetings, tours, and other events.

  2. Swim in unsanctioned areas: Switzerland has strict sanitation regulations, and swimming and bathing is only allowed in designated areas.

  3. Be too loud or boisterous: Swiss culture is generally more reserved than other European countries, so it’s important to keep your voice down in public and avoid disruptive behavior.

Safety and Health

Switzerland is known for its high safety standards and excellent healthcare system. Here are some tips to stay safe and healthy during your visit:

Safety in Eastern Switzerland

  1. Switzerland is generally a safe country, but it’s always a good idea to take basic safety precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended and avoiding dark, unfamiliar areas at night.

  2. In case of emergency, call 112 for police, ambulance, or fire.

Health in Eastern Switzerland

  1. Switzerland has excellent medical facilities, but they can be expensive. Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance before your trip.

  2. Tap water is safe to drink in Switzerland, and it’s generally not necessary to buy bottled water.

Getting to Eastern Switzerland: Transportation Options and Logistics

Switzerland is well-connected by public transportation, including trains, buses, and boats. Here are some of the most convenient options for getting to Eastern Switzerland:

Airports Near Eastern Switzerland

  1. Zurich Airport: This is the largest airport in Switzerland and is located just outside Zurich.

  2. St. Gallen-Altenrhein Airport: This smaller airport is located in Eastern Switzerland, near the Austrian border.

Bus Stations Near Eastern Switzerland

  1. St. Gallen Bus Station: This busy bus station connects St. Gallen with the surrounding region.

  2. Schaffhausen Bus Station: This bus station serves the town of Schaffhausen and provides connections to nearby cities and villages.

Other Options

  1. Trains: Switzerland has an extensive network of trains, and it’s often the most convenient way to get around.

  2. Car Rental: Renting a car is also a popular option, but keep in mind that parking can be limited and expensive in some areas.

How to Get Around in Eastern Switzerland

Eastern Switzerland is best explored on foot or by public transportation. Trains, buses, and boats are all excellent options for getting around the region, and there are plenty of bike paths and hiking trails to explore.

Where to Go Next from Eastern Switzerland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Switzerland is filled with incredible destinations, and there are several nearby places to explore after your visit to Eastern Switzerland. Here are some top recommendations:

  1. Zurich: Switzerland’s largest city is just a short train ride from Eastern Switzerland and offers plenty of cultural attractions and a bustling nightlife.

  2. Bern: The capital of Switzerland, Bern is known for its historic Old Town and impressive government buildings.

  3. Davos: This popular ski resort town is located in the Swiss Alps and offers skiing and snowboarding year-round.

Conclusion

Eastern Switzerland is a region of Switzerland filled with natural beauty, fascinating history, and delicious cuisine. From hiking in the Swiss Alps to exploring charming medieval towns, there’s something for everyone in this incredible destination. So start planning your trip to Eastern Switzerland today and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Glarus Thrust Fault at Piz Segnes Glarus Thrust Fault at Piz Segnes


    Glarus
    Rapperswil
    Saint Gallen
    Sargans