Things To Do
in Altstätten
Altstätten is a charming town located in the Swiss canton of St. Gallen. It is known for its well-preserved historic old town, featuring traditional Swiss architecture and narrow cobblestone streets. The surrounding area offers beautiful views of the Swiss Alps and the Rhine River.
Altstätten is a popular destination for hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities.
- "Grüetzi" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please
- "Adieu" - Goodbye
- "Wie geht's?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $90 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $20 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the local market, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample fresh produce. Don't forget to grab a coffee from a nearby café to energize yourself.
Take a leisurely walk through the historic old town, admiring the charming architecture and quaint shops. Enjoy lunch at a traditional Swiss restaurant, indulging in local flavors.
Spend your evening at the Altstätten Valley, where you can unwind while watching the sunset. Consider dining at a rooftop restaurant for stunning views.
Head out early for a hike in the surrounding hills of Altstätten. Enjoy the fresh air as you traverse through beautiful landscapes and lush greenery.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at a scenic viewpoint along the trail. After lunch, continue your hike and discover hidden waterfalls and serene spots.
Return to the town for a relaxing dinner at a local bistro. Spend the evening strolling by the illuminated streets and perhaps enjoy a dessert from a patisserie.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic beauty with picturesque landscapes and views of the Swiss Alps.
- Rich cultural heritage and historical sites, including charming architecture.
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking.
- Strong sense of community and friendly locals.
- Proximity to larger cities like St. Gallen and the Rhine River for additional amenities.
- Higher cost of living compared to other regions in Switzerland.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger urban areas.
- Fewer job opportunities, especially in specialized fields.
- Cold winters with significant snowfall may not appeal to everyone.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
Best Activities in Altstätten
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails of the Appenzell region, offering stunning views of the Swiss Alps and lush green landscapes. Various difficulty levels are available.
Experience the breathtaking Rappenlochschlucht gorge, renowned for its picturesque scenery and walking paths that wind through the cliffs and waterfalls.
Take advantage of the numerous mountain biking trails around Altstätten, suitable for both beginners and experienced riders, with challenging routes and scenic views.
During the winter months, enjoy skiing or snowboarding at nearby ski resorts which offer a variety of slopes for all skill levels.
Join a local wine tasting tour in the nearby vineyards where you can learn about the wine-making process and sample delicious Swiss wines.
Experience the thrill of paragliding over the stunning Swiss landscape, offering a unique perspective of the beautiful countryside and mountains.
Enjoy peaceful nature walks in the surrounding areas and indulge in bird watching, as the region is home to a variety of local bird species.
Tours
Uncover the best of Altstätten with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Altstätten
Visit one of these nice places.
This scenic viewpoint offers panoramic views of the entire valley and the surrounding mountains, making it a perfect spot for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Perched above Altstätten, Chapf provides stunning vistas of Lake Constance and the Alps. The area features well-marked hiking trails and benches for relaxing while taking in the view.
The hilltop church gives visitors a chance to not only explore its beautiful architecture but also provides a lovely backdrop for photos with the town below.
The charming town square features historical buildings and lovely cobblestone streets, making it a great location for capturing the local culture and architecture.
The remnants of this historic castle offer a unique perspective on the town and surrounding landscapes, creating beautiful photo opportunities amid the historical backdrop.
Food in Altstätten
Altstätten Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Swiss Alpine macaroni dish, made with creamy cheese, often topped with roasted onions. A must-try to experience the true taste of the region. You can find excellent Alpermagronen at Gasthaus Alpenrösli.
Must-Try!
A classic Swiss dish made of grated and pan-fried potatoes, often served with various toppings such as cheese, bacon, or fried eggs. The best Rösti in Altstätten can be enjoyed at Restaurant Freihof.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Altstätten better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the Altstätten Market for an authentic experience where you can find an array of fresh local produce, cheeses, and baked goods. Don't miss the opportunity to try some of the traditional street foods like Bratwurst and Raclette.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone, a firm handshake combined with direct eye contact is common. It is polite to greet others with 'Grüezi' (hello in Swiss German), especially in formal situations. In addition, addressing people by their titles (Herr or Frau) followed by their last name shows respect.
Swiss culture places a high value on punctuality. Arriving on time for meetings and social gatherings is considered a sign of respect. Being late can be seen as disrespectful, so it's advisable to arrive a few minutes early.
When dining out or invited to someone’s home, it's customary to wait for the host to begin eating before starting your meal. Additionally, keeping your hands on the table (but not your elbows) while eating is considered polite. Saying 'En Guete' (enjoy your meal) before you start eating adds a respectful touch.
Safety
Tipping in Altstätten
Ensure a smooth experience
In Altstätten, Switzerland, tipping is generally not obligatory but is appreciated for good service. It is common to round up the bill in restaurants or leave small change. Tips typically range from 5% to 10% of the total bill, depending on the level of service received. In bars and cafes, leaving a small amount or rounding up the bill is typical as well.
Various payment methods are accepted in Altstätten. Cash is still widely used, especially in smaller establishments, but credit and debit cards are commonly accepted in restaurants, shops, and hotels. The Swiss Franc (CHF) is the official currency. Contactless payments and mobile payment options are increasingly popular and often available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Altstätten as the flowers bloom and the weather starts to warm up. Expect mild temperatures ranging from 8°C to 15°C. This season offers great opportunities for hiking and enjoying the lush greenery, as well as cultural events and local festivities.
Summer (June to August) sees warmer temperatures, often between 20°C and 27°C, making it perfect for outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and exploring nearby lakes. The town's festivals, such as local markets and outdoor concerts, also take place during this vibrant season.
Autumn (September to November) is a picturesque time in Altstätten, with the leaves changing colors. Expect cooler temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C. This season is ideal for wine lovers, as it coincides with the grape harvest, and there are numerous wine festivals to experience.
Winter (December to February) brings cold temperatures, typically between -2°C and 5°C. Expect snow in the surrounding mountains, making it a great time for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding nearby. The town is beautifully decorated for the holidays, and Christmas markets add to the charm.
Altstätten at Night
Hiking in Altstätten
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The Säntis is the highest mountain in the Alpstein massif of northeastern Switzerland and offers stunning views and various hiking trails suitable for different skill levels.
Wildhaus is a picturesque village that provides access to many hiking routes, including the trail to the Chäserrugg, which is renowned for its panoramic views.
The Appenzellerland region offers numerous well-marked hiking trails that traverse beautiful landscapes, quintessential Swiss villages, and rolling hills.
Pizol offers several hiking routes with breathtaking views, including trails that lead to the Pizol Lake and the Pizol summit, which is ideal for experienced hikers.
Located near Davos, Jakobshorn features a range of hiking paths with varying difficulties, making it a popular destination for both casual hikers and seasoned adventurers.
Tamins is surrounded by beautiful trails that provide both scenic views and opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the Rhine Valley.
Aiports
How to reach Altstätten by plane.
The largest international airport in Switzerland, located about 80 kilometers from Altstätten.
An international airport located about 90 kilometers from Altstätten, serving the tri-national area of France, Germany, and Switzerland.
A smaller international airport located about 20 kilometers from Altstätten, primarily serving regional flights.
Located approximately 120 kilometers from Altstätten, this airport serves various low-cost and charter airlines.
Located about 90 kilometers from Altstätten, this airport serves the German region of Lake Constance and offers a variety of international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Citizens of Switzerland, representing the majority of the population.
Residents from Germany, one of the largest foreign groups in the area.
A significant expatriate community from Italy.
A notable demographic group with historical migration ties.
Includes residents from various other European countries.
Includes immigrants from outside Europe, contributing to the diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Altstätten, with local clubs and a strong community following.
With its scenic landscapes and numerous trails, cycling is a favored sport among residents of Altstätten.
Athletics events, including running and track and field, are popular, particularly among schools and youth organizations.
Handball has a dedicated following in Altstätten, with clubs promoting the sport for all ages.
Volleyball is played both indoor and on the beach, with community teams participating in local leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Altstätten.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Altstätten offer delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes, especially those that focus on traditional Swiss cuisine. Café Ammann, Gasthaus Löwen, and Restaurant Freihof are known for their excellent vegetarian and vegan options.
Travelers with gluten sensitivity can find accommodating options in several eateries across Altstätten. It's advisable to inform the staff about your dietary needs, and they will be happy to assist you in finding suitable dishes.