Things To Do
in Appenzell
Appenzell is a picturesque region in eastern Switzerland known for its stunning landscapes, traditional architecture, and charming villages. The area is famous for its dairy products, particularly its Appenzeller cheese, which is made using age-old recipes and methods. Visitors can also explore the scenic hiking trails in the region, offering breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps.
Appenzell is also known for its unique customs and traditions, such as the ceremonial cattle drives that take place in the summer.
- "Grüetzi" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please
- "Adieu" - Goodbye
- "Wie geht's?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $20 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a scenic hike to the Ebenalp. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Alpstein mountain range.
Visit the Appenzell Museum to learn about the region's history and culture. Stroll through the charming streets and enjoy local shops.
Dine at a cozy restaurant serving traditional Swiss dishes. Take a leisurely walk under the stars to soak in the serenity.
Take a guided tour around the beautiful Appenzellerland. Enjoy the lush landscapes and peaceful atmosphere.
Have a picnic at Lake Seealpsee surrounded by majestic mountains. Spend some time swimming or relaxing by the water.
Return to Appenzell and try local cheese at a cheese cellar. End your day with a relaxing evening at a local café.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic landscapes with beautiful mountains and rolling hills
- Rich cultural heritage, including traditional Swiss customs and festivals
- Low crime rates and a safe environment for residents and tourists
- Strong community spirit with a focus on local governance and democracy
- Access to outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and cycling
- Culinary delights, including local cheeses and regional specialties
- Higher cost of living compared to other regions in Switzerland
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors
- Bureaucratic processes that can be slow and complicated
- Isolation from major urban centers may limit access to amenities
- Weather can be variable, with long winters and short summers
- Tourism can lead to overcrowding during peak seasons
Best Activities in Appenzell
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes of the Alpstein region with marked hiking trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints, alpine lakes, and challenging peaks.
Experience thrilling mountain biking trails in Appenzell, suitable for beginners and advanced riders, offering scenic routes through lush valleys and hills.
For the adventurous, paragliding offers a unique way to take in the region's stunning landscapes from above, with several local operators providing tandem flights.
Enjoy a relaxing day at Appenzell Lake, where you can swim, paddle, or picnic while surrounded by picturesque mountain views.
Join guided hiking tours that combine nature and local culture, exploring the traditional Appenzell lifestyle, farms, and artisAnal craft.
In the winter months, engage in skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in the nearby ski resorts, offering a variety of runs and beautiful snowy landscapes.
Tours
Uncover the best of Appenzell with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Appenzell
Visit one of these nice places.
The main railway station in Appenzell offers charming views of the surrounding mountains and picturesque village architecture, making it a great starting point for photography.
Kronberg is a mountain that can be reached via a scenic cable car ride. The summit provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Alps and the Appenzell region, ideal for landscape photography.
The colorful buildings and traditional Swiss architecture in the village center are perfect for capturing the essence of Appenzell, especially during festivals or market days.
A viewpoint located just above the village, Ebenezer offers a stunning backdrop of rolling hills and the iconic mountains, perfect for sunset and nature photography.
This area provides beautiful views of the alp meadows and is ideal for photographing wildflowers and local wildlife in their natural habitat.
A major peak in the region, Säntis offers dramatic views and is accessible by a cable car. The summit provides one of the best vantage points for capturing the stunning Swiss landscape.
This historic thermal bath area features beautiful gardens and unique architecture, providing ample opportunities for relaxing and picturesque photos.
Food in Appenzell
Appenzell Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A satisfying dish featuring macaroni, potatoes, cheese, cream, and onions, often topped with crispy fried onions. Best enjoyed at Gasthaus zur Traube or Gasthaus Bären.
Must-Try!
A pungent and flavorsome cheese with a distinct herbal spiciness, usually paired with crusty bread and enjoyed at dairy farms such as Schaukäserei Stein or in local restaurants like Restaurant Krone.
A traditional Swiss dish made from grated and fried potatoes, often served as a side or mixed with other ingredients. Sample authentic Rösti at Restaurant Rössli or Restaurant Freudenberg.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Appenzell better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market showcasing a variety of locally produced cheeses, meats, breads, and fresh seasonal produce. Keep an eye out for vendors selling homemade sausages, artisanal bread, and mountain honey.
An annual event celebrating street food culture, offering a diverse range of global and local culinary delights. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in Swiss raclette, aromatic crepes, and crispy fritters.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Appenzell has a rich cultural heritage, including its unique customs and traditions. It is important to show respect for local traditions, such as participating in or observing local festivals, and acknowledging local dress codes during such events.
In Appenzell, like much of Switzerland, polite greetings are essential. Always greet people with 'Grüezi' (Hello) when you enter shops or small establishments. Use formal titles when addressing elders or in formal settings.
People in Appenzell value tranquility and consideration for others' privacy. When in public places, maintain a low volume in conversations, especially in residential areas, to respect the local community's preference for a peaceful environment.
Safety
Tipping in Appenzell
Ensure a smooth experience
In Appenzell, Switzerland, tipping is not mandatory but is often appreciated. It is common practice to round up the bill to the nearest whole number in restaurants, or to leave small change as a token of appreciation for good service. In more upscale establishments, a tip of around 5-10% may be given, although service charges are typically included in the bill.
Payments in Appenzell are usually made in Swiss Francs (CHF). Many establishments accept credit and debit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller shops or markets. Digital payment options like mobile wallets are also becoming more popular, but the traditional methods remain widely used among locals.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) in Appenzell is a beautiful time to visit as the snow begins to melt and wildflowers bloom. The temperatures start to rise, making it ideal for hiking and exploring the picturesque landscapes. Expect mild weather with occasional rain.
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Appenzell, featuring warm temperatures and long days perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and festivals. The lush green meadows are beautiful, and the weather is generally pleasant, though occasional thunderstorms can occur.
Autumn (September to November) showcases stunning fall foliage and is a great time for hiking and experiencing local harvest festivals. Temperatures start to cool down, and the crowds thin out after the summer peak, offering a more tranquil atmosphere.
Winter (December to February) transforms Appenzell into a snowy wonderland, ideal for skiing, snowshoeing, and winter festivities. Expect cold temperatures and beautiful snowy landscapes. The charming town becomes festive with Christmas markets and seasonal events.
Appenzell at Night
Hiking in Appenzell
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning mountain offering a range of hiking trails with panoramic views of the Alps and beautiful lakes.
A popular hiking destination with a cable car, leading to various trails that provide breathtaking views of the Appenzell region.
The highest peak in the Alpstein massif, known for its challenging hikes and unforgettable vistas at the summit.
A unique hiking area featuring trails that pass through fascinating caves and rustic chapels with scenic mountain views.
A beautiful hiking location accessible via cable car, offering routes that lead to stunning viewpoints and the famous Aescher mountain restaurant.
A scenic hiking trail that connects various highlights of the Appenzell region, showcasing traditional Swiss landscapes and culture.
Aiports
How to reach Appenzell by plane.
The largest international airport in Switzerland, located about 90 km from Appenzell. It serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights.
An international airport located approximately 120 km from Appenzell, serving the tri-national metropolitan area of Basel in Switzerland, France, and Germany.
Located around 270 km from Appenzell, Geneva Airport is a major international airport in Switzerland, known for its significant role in global diplomacy and business.
Situated about 30 km from Appenzell, this airport connects the region with various European destinations. It provides both scheduled and charter flights.
Located approximately 70 km from Appenzell, in Germany, this airport serves international and domestic flights and is close to Lake Constance.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population, consisting primarily of native Swiss individuals who form the core demographic of Appenzell.
A sizable group of non-Swiss residents, including individuals from various European countries and other regions who have settled in Appenzell.
A growing demographic in Appenzell, reflective of broader trends in Switzerland toward an aging population.
Includes students and young professionals, typically contributing to the local economy and community activities.
Typically comprises the younger demographic engaged in local schools and family-oriented activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Hiking is one of the most popular activities in Appenzell, with its stunning landscapes and well-marked trails in the stunning nearby mountains.
The region offers numerous trails for mountain biking enthusiasts, attracting both locals and tourists seeking adventure.
During the winter season, skiing and snowboarding are popular in the nearby skiing areas, offering various slopes for all skill levels.
A unique and culturally significant sport, Swiss wrestling is a traditional pastime in Appenzell, with events often held during local festivals.
Golfing is also enjoyed in the region, with scenic courses that take advantage of Appenzell's beautiful landscape.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Appenzell.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While the traditional cuisine leans towards meat and dairy, many restaurants in Appenzell offer vegetarian and vegan adaptations of classic dishes. Look for innovative takes on Rösti, fresh salads, and vegan cheese platters at Café Schäfler or Restaurant Mohren.
Visitors with gluten intolerances can savor gluten-free variations of local fare at eateries like Restaurant Schlössli or Restaurant Traube, where dishes like gluten-free Älplermagronen and celiac-friendly cheese platters are available.