Things To Do
in Appenzell
Appenzell is a picturesque Swiss village in the heart of the Appenzell Alps, known for its well preserved cultural traditions. The surrounding landscape features rolling pastures, timber framed houses, and dramatic Alpine scenery. Visitors come for cheese, hiking, and folklore, all within a compact village that feels timeless.
The area blends rural charm with easy access to dramatic peaks and clear mountain air.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the charming streets of Appenzell, where traditional Swiss architecture blends seamlessly with modern amenities. Visit local shops specializing in artisanal cheese and crafts, taking in the vibrant atmosphere. Don’t forget to grab breakfast from a local bakery, enjoying freshly baked pastries and a rich cup of Swiss chocolate.
After lunch, embark on a hike along the scenic trails surrounding the village, taking in stunning views of the rolling hills and picturesque landscapes. Stop by the Appenzell Museum to learn about the region's history and culture, and appreciate the art of local craftsmanship. As the day winds down, visit a cozy café to relax and enjoy local beers or refreshing herbal teas.
As the sun sets, dinner at a local restaurant is a must, where you can relish traditional Swiss dishes, such as fondue or raclette. Spend the evening strolling through the illuminated village, soaking in the tranquility and charm of the Swiss Alps. If you’re lucky, you might catch a local music event or folk dance, enriching your cultural experience.
Take an early cable car ride to Ebenalp, a stunning mountain peak that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Once at the top, fuel up with a hearty mountain breakfast at the Berggasthaus. Get ready to explore the famous Wildkirchli caves and admire the natural beauty of the area.
The afternoon can be spent hiking on well-marked trails, allowing you to immerse yourself in the stunning alpine scenery. Capture stunning photographs, especially of the iconic Äscher Restaurant perched on a cliff. Take a gentle walk back down or opt for the exhilarating descent by via ferrata, if you’re feeling adventurous.
Return to Appenzell in the evening, enjoying the breathtaking sunset views along the way. Treat yourself to a relaxing dinner at a local trattoria, savoring hearty mountain cuisine. Cap off your day by enjoying the serene sounds and sights of nature, perhaps with a nightcap in hand.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🧀Cheese tasting | $8-20 |
| 🚆Local train ticket | $2-6 |
| 🏨Mid range hotel per night | $120-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning Alpine scenery
- Rich cheese culture and folklore
- Very safe and clean
- Efficient public transport
- Limited nightlife in a small village
- Higher prices by Swiss standards
- "Grüezi" - Hello
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me
Places to Visit in Appenzell
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful alpine facades and the central market square make for iconic Swiss village photography.
Mountain scenery with dramatic rock formations and a historic chapel overlook.
Mirror like alpine lake framed by rugged peaks, perfect for landscape shots.
Panoramic viewpoints of the surrounding Alps from higher trails and cable car landings.
Food in Appenzell
Appenzell Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cheese dumplings or noodles served with melted Appenzeller cheese and onions.
Must-Try!
Crispy potato cake often topped with cheese, eggs or local ham.
Cured beef slices usually enjoyed with bread and pickles.
Aged cheese with a distinctive aroma and strong flavor, often tasted with bread or in fondue.
A refreshing mix of oats, fruit and yogurt, commonly found for breakfast.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market in town with local cheeses, breads, fresh produce and regional snacks.
Small stalls and dairies offering tastings of Appenzeller and other local cheeses.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be punctual for appointments; greet with a friendly Gruezi or hello and a handshake in formal settings.
Show respect for local customs and dress modestly when visiting churches or heritage sites.
Maintain a calm demeanor in public spaces and during meals; avoid loud conversations in tranquil areas.
Safety
Tipping in Appenzell
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is generous but not required. Rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common.
Cash in CHF and cards are widely accepted. Contactless payments are common in shops and restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming meadows; carry light layers and plan gentle hikes as trails dry out.
Pleasant temperatures ideal for hiking and outdoor dining; expect fresh air and longer daylight hours.
Golden scenery and harvest markets; cooler evenings and a chance of early snowfall at higher elevations.
Snow on higher trails; some activities may shift to indoor cultural experiences and cozy eateries.
Appenzell at Night
Hiking in Appenzell
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic hike starting near Ebenalp with a cable car option and a stunning alpine lake.
Panoramic ascent to Säntis peak with sweeping multi-country views.
Easy to moderate hike with a revolving deck and long distance vistas.
Airports
How to reach Appenzell by plane.
Major international gateway; about 1.5-2 hours by train or car to Appenzell.
Regional airport serving nearby Lake Constance towns; about 1-2 hours by train to Appenzell.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Population concentrated in Appenzell Innerrhoden and nearby villages; strong local traditions and family oriented.
Steady influx in summer and autumn for hiking, cheese culture and folklore.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Extensive alpine trails including Ebenalp to Seealpsee and Säntis region.
Winter sports on snow reliable higher elevations.
Scenic routes through valleys with varying levels of challenge.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Appenzell.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Swiss dishes can be adapted. Request cheese heavy dishes without meat and explore vegetable sides.