Rapperswil Travel Guide

A detailed guide to Rapperswil including places to visit, things to do, where to stay, local culture, safety tips, getting there and more.


Introduction to Rapperswil

Located in Eastern Switzerland, Rapperswil is a medieval town that fascinates visitors from all over the world with its stunning architecture, breathtaking scenery and rich history. Known for its picturesque lakeside location, Rapperswil is a popular destination for both leisure and business travellers.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take a closer look at what Rapperswil has to offer. From hiking to museums, from local dishes to accommodations, this guide will provide you with detailed information to help you plan and enjoy your trip to Rapperswil.

List of Places to Visit in Rapperswil

Rapperswil boasts a variety of tourist attractions for all tastes and interests. In this section, we will list the top places to visit according to their categories.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

For those interested in history and culture, Rapperswil has a variety of museums and historical places to explore:

  • Schloss Rapperswil: This 13th-century castle is a stunning landmark in Rapperswil. It currently serves as a museum and houses several exhibitions showcasing the town’s history.
  • Stadtmuseum: This museum exhibits the town’s rich history, from its pre-medieval origins to modern times.
  • Polenmuseum: This museum is dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage of the Poles in Switzerland.
  • Frauenbad: A former bathhouse, now serves as a cultural centre that hosts events and exhibitions.

Natural Attractions of Rapperswil: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Rapperswil is surrounded by stunning nature, from the tranquil waters of Lake Zurich to the majestic mountains in the background. Here are some natural attractions to add to your itinerary:

  • Lido Rapperswil: A lakeside beach where you can swim, sunbathe and enjoy a barbecue.
  • Knies Kinderzoo: A family-friendly attraction with animal shows, petting zoo, and playgrounds.
  • Hermitage: A spacious park with hiking trails that offer scenic views of Lake Zurich and the Swiss Alps.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Rapperswil

Rapperswil offers an extensive network of hiking and biking trails that cater to all levels of fitness. The trails meander through the town’s picturesque landscapes and offer scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

  • Rapperswil-Zürichsee Panorama Trail: This trail covers 7.2 kilometres and takes you on a scenic tour of the town’s main attractions.
  • Lützelsee Loop: This trail takes you on a 10.8-kilometre loop around the Lützelsee lake, a beautiful spot to relax and enjoy nature.
  • Etzel-Panoramaweg: This trail is perfect for experienced hikers as it features steep inclines and offers stunning panoramic views of Lake Zurich and the surrounding mountains.

Best Things to Do in Rapperswil: Activities and Tours

Rapperswil offers visitors a variety of activities and tours to explore:

  • Boat Tour on Lake Zurich: A relaxing way to see the scenic beauty of Lake Zurich.
  • Segway Tour: A fun and exciting way to explore the town’s main attractions.
  • Wine Tasting: Visit local wineries and sample the region’s finest wines.

Week-Long Itinerary for Rapperswil

To make the most of your time in Rapperswil, we have put together a week-long itinerary:

Day 1 Visit Schloss Rapperswil and stroll in the old town
Day 2 Take a boat tour around Lake Zurich
Day 3 Explore the hiking trails around the Hermitage
Day 4 Visit the Stadtmuseum and Polenmuseum
Day 5 Discover the local wildlife at Knies Kinderzoo
Day 6 Try a Segway Tour of the town’s main attractions
Day 7 Visit local wineries and try some of Switzerland’s best wines

Food and Drink Scene of Rapperswil

Foodies will certainly enjoy their stay in Rapperswil. The town offers a variety of local dishes and beverages to tantalize your taste buds.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Zürcher Geschnetzeltes: A traditional Swiss dish consisting of sliced veal in a creamy sauce.
  • Rösti: A fried potato dish that is popular throughout Switzerland.
  • Zopf: A Swiss bread made from butter and milk, typically enjoyed for breakfast or brunch.

Local Beverages

  • Zurichsee Riesling-Sylvaner: A locally produced white wine that pairs well with local dishes.
  • Kirsch: A cherry brandy that is popular throughout Switzerland.

Where to Stay in Rapperswil: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Rapperswil offers a variety of accommodations suited for all budgets and tastes.

  • Hotel Jakob: A charming hotel located in the old town and within walking distance of the main attractions.
  • Youth Hostel Richterswil: A budget-friendly option with access to Lake Zurich.
  • Boutique Hotel Schwan: A stylish and elegant hotel located in the heart of the town.

What to Buy in Rapperswil: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Chocolate: Switzerland is famous for its chocolate, and Rapperswil has several chocolate shops where you can purchase locally made sweets.
  • Knives: Rapperswil is a great place to find traditional Swiss pocket knives.
  • Textiles: Switzerland is known for its high-quality textiles, and Rapperswil has several boutiques selling locally made clothes.

Local Culture and Customs of Rapperswil

  • Switzerland has four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh.
  • Tipping is not expected in Switzerland, as service charges are already included in the bill.
  • When meeting someone, it is customary to shake hands with everyone in the group.

Best Time to Visit Rapperswil

The best time to visit Rapperswil is between May and September when the weather is warmer, and the days are longer. The town hosts several festivals during this time, such as the Rose Festival in June and the Blues Festival in July.

Do’s and Don’ts of Rapperswil

Do:

  • Dress appropriately, as Swiss people value neatness and cleanliness.
  • Observe the town’s recycling and littering policies.
  • Respect the local culture and customs.

Don’t:

  • Don’t make noise after 10 pm, as Swiss people value peace and quiet.
  • Don’t smoke in public places, as it is prohibited by law.
  • Don’t be late, as punctuality is highly valued in Switzerland.

Safety and Health

Safety in Rapperswil

Switzerland is a safe destination and Rapperswil is no exception. However, it is always important to exercise caution and take necessary precautions.

Health in Rapperswil

Switzerland has a world-class healthcare system, and there are hospitals and clinics throughout the country. Visitors are advised to purchase travel insurance before arriving in the country.

Getting to Rapperswil: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Rapperswil

The nearest airports to Rapperswil are:

  • Zürich Airport: Located around 45 km from Rapperswil, it is the largest airport in Switzerland.
  • St. Gallen–Altenrhein Airport: A smaller airport located 70 km from Rapperswil, offering flights from regional destinations.

Bus Stations Near Rapperswil

Rapperswil has a well-developed local bus network, and there are several regional bus stations near the town:

  • Zürich Sihlquai Bus Terminal: This is the main bus terminal in Zürich, with regular connections to Rapperswil.
  • St. Gallen Bus Terminal: A regional bus terminal offering connections throughout Eastern Switzerland.

Other Options

  • Train: The Swiss rail system is one of the most comprehensive and efficient in the world. Rapperswil has a train station that connects it to other parts of Switzerland.
  • Car: Rapperswil is accessible by car, with several major highways connecting it to other parts of Switzerland.

How to Get Around in Rapperswil

Rapperswil is a compact town, and most of the attractions are within walking distance of each other. Buses and trains are also available if you need to travel further. Bicycles can be rented from a variety of locations in the town.

Where to Go Next from Rapperswil: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have extra time to explore the region, here are some nearby destinations worth visiting:

  • Zurich: The largest city in Switzerland, located just 30 km from Rapperswil.
  • Lucerne: A charming town known for its picturesque architecture, located 100 km from Rapperswil.
  • St. Gallen: A historic town known for its Baroque architecture, located 70 km from Rapperswil.

Conclusion

Rapperswil is a beautiful town with something to offer for everyone. From vibrant cultural and outdoor attractions to great food and drink scene, Rapperswil is a perfect destination to experience Switzerland’s rich culture and stunning natural beauty. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan and enjoy your trip to Rapperswil with ease and confidence.