Things to Do in St. Gallen Switzerland: Abbey District Gems

Welcome to St. Gallen, a cozy, colorful gem that feels like stepping into a fairytale. Just a short hop from Lake Constance and an easy train ride from Zurich, this charming Swiss town knows how to win you over from the very first “Grüezi!” Wander its cobblestone streets, peek at the dreamy oriel windows, or soak up the timeless beauty of the Abbey Library, a true baroque masterpiece. From strolling up to the serene Drei Weieren ponds to tasting your way through quaint cafés, cozy restaurants, and nearby wineries in Switzerland, St Gallen is a place where history, culture, and a good glass of wine come together naturally. It’s one of those spots that makes you slow down, smile, and wonder why you didn’t visit sooner!

What are the best things to do in St Gallen Switzerland?

Explore the Abbey of Saint Gall

Smack in the heart of St. Gallen’s old town, the Abbey of Saint Gall makes you travel into a giant history book, but one you actually want to read. This place has been wowing visitors for over a thousand years, from its monks and scholars to today’s camera-toting travelers. It’s packed with Baroque beauty, secret corners, and a vibe that somehow makes even a quiet moment feel legendary. Come for the jaw-dropping architecture, stay for the “how on earth is this still here?” feeling.

Visit the Rococo Abbey Library

This is no ordinary library, it’s a Baroque wonderland of swirling ceilings, gilded details, and shelves packed with ancient books that have been whispering their secrets for centuries. From rare manuscripts to hand-written gems, every corner begs for a photo, every book is a treasure. It’s a magical spot where history, beauty, and a hint of mystery collide, making it an absolute must-see in St. Gallen.

Wander through Gallen’s old town

Wander down cobblestone streets like Spisergasse and Kugelgasse, where pastel facades and quirky bay windows wink down from centuries-old buildings. These ornate oriel windows, relics of the city’s booming textile era, give every corner its own character and charm. It’s the kind of place where you forget the map, slow down, and soak in the vibe, because getting lost here is half the fun!

Marvel at the impressive Baroque Cathedral

The Cathedral of St. Gallen is an absolute showstopper, rising above the Abbey District with its twin Baroque towers and dreamy façade. Step inside and you’re greeted by a ceiling adorned with colorful frescoes and elegant stucco that seem to glow in the light. It’s a spot that feels both grand and welcoming, perfect for a quiet moment or a quick photo.

Ride the historic Mühleggbahn

Hop aboard the Mühleggbahn for a quick and quirky ride that’s as fun as it is scenic! This tiny funicular whisks you from the Abbey District up to the dreamy Drei Weieren area in just a couple of minutes. It’s the best way to trade cobblestone streets for serene trails, leafy views, and a breath of fresh air, all right in the heart of St. Gallen!

Relax by the Drei Weieren

Perched above St. Gallen, the Drei Weieren are where city sights give way to dreamy lake and mountain views. It’s the spot where locals come to soak up the sun, take a dip in summer, or just relax with a picnic and a panorama that’s hard to beat. Definitely worth the climb, or the quick funicular ride, when you’re exploring St. Gallen!

Pause at the Red Square

St. Gallen’s Red Square is like stepping into a piece of urban art. Its bold, crimson floor and quirky seating transform an ordinary square into a fun, colorful spot where locals and visitors linger. It’s the city’s playful side on display, a perfect place to snap a photo, sip a coffee, or just soak in the lively vibe.

What are the best things to do around St. Gallen

Enjoy the vineyards in the Rhine Valley

Few minutes hop from St. Gallen, the Rheintal (Rhine Valley) is where Switzerland’s best‑kept wine secret is hiding. Think tiny family wineries, sun‑kissed vineyards, and winemakers so passionate they’ll happily pour you a glass and tell you all their secrets. Here, Pinot Noir and Müller‑Thurgau soak up the mild microclimate, making every sip feel like summer in a bottle. Hop in the car, soak up those postcard‑worthy views, and spend an afternoon tasting wines that deserve a spot in your carry‑on. It’s one of those “shh, don’t tell too many people” kind of spots, and one of the best ways to soak up the easy‑going charm of the St. Gallen area.

Wander at Appenzellerland’s rugged peaks

30‑minute train ride from St. Gallen, Appenzellerland welcomes you with rolling hills, timber‑framed farmhouses, and a laid‑back vibe that’s hard to beat. Hop a cable car to Ebenalp for sweeping Alpine views, or wander quiet trails where cowbells set the soundtrack. It’s the kind of place that makes you slow down, breathe a little deeper, and smile a lot more. And if you’re curious about the area’s heritage, the Appenzell Museum is packed with beautiful examples of traditional embroidery and craftsmanship that have shaped this corner of Switzerland for generations.

Explore Lake Constance and its beauty

Just about 20 minutes from St. Gallen by car, Lake Constance (or Bodensee) is like Switzerland’s summer playground, a giant lake shared with Germany and Austria. Hop a ferry from Romanshorn and glide across to the colorful harbor of Friedrichshafen, or grab a bike and cruise along the lake’s scenic promenade like a carefree local. The area is dotted with sun‑drenched vineyards that quietly prove Switzerland knows its wine game too. Feeling adventurous? Cross over to Germany’s tiny Reichenau Island and wander its UNESCO‑listed abbey, a holy mix of heritage, charm, and serious lake vibes

Visit the Baroque wonder of Einsiedeln Abbey

About 1.5 hours by train from St. Gallen, the Monastery of Einsiedeln shines as one of Switzerland’s most captivating holy sites. This Baroque beauty, wrapped in gold and plaster, feels like stepping into a piece of living art, a serene reminder of the area’s deep spiritual heritage, much like the Abbey of Saint Gall. After exploring its dreamy interior, wander down to nearby Lake Sihlsee for a quiet stroll, snap a few photos, or simply soak up the mountain air. It’s the kind of day trip that blends culture, nature, and a hint of Alpine magic, ideal for both soul seekers and snapshot chasers.

Soak up Alpine magic in Bad Ragaz

Just under an hour from St. Gallen, Bad Ragaz is where wellness and mountain charm come together like a perfect spa day. This picturesque resort town is famous for its thermal baths, a tradition that goes all the way back to the Middle Ages, making it an ideal spot for a soak after a day of exploring. Stroll its flower-lined streets, relax in its mineral-rich thermal waters, or hike the surrounding trails for sweeping views of the Alps. Bad Ragaz delivers that “just one more day” vibe every visitor craves.

More relaxation, more adventure? Discover all the best things to do in St. Gallen Switzerland and beyond!

Good to Know before visiting St. Gallen, Switzerland