Things To Do
in Arbon
Arbon is a historic town perched on the southern shores of Lake Constance in northeastern Switzerland. Its well-preserved old town, castle ruins, and scenic lakeside promenade give it a charming, maritime atmosphere. The town serves as a calm gateway to the Bodensee region with easy rail and road access to Romanshorn, Kreuzlingen, and St. Gallen.
Visitors come for lakeside strolls, cultural heritage, and a relaxed pace along the water.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the beautiful town of Arbon, situated on the shores of Lake Constance. Take in the fresh air and picturesque views as you check into your hotel. Get acclimated by taking a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade.
After settling in, indulge in a traditional Swiss lunch at a local restaurant, tasting the delicious regional specialties. Explore the charming old town and visit the historic Castle of Arbon, where you can learn about the town's rich history. Don't forget to take some photos of the stunning architecture.
As the sun sets over the lake, enjoy a relaxing dinner at a lakeside restaurant, where you can savor the catch of the day. Experience the local nightlife by exploring quaint bars and cafes in the area. Conclude your evening with a serene walk along the shore, feeling the gentle breeze.
Start your day with a visit to the local museum to immerse yourself in the culture and history of Arbon. The exhibits will provide you with a deeper understanding of the town's significance throughout the centuries. Afterwards, enjoy a coffee at a nearby café, soaking in the atmosphere.
Participate in a guided walking tour of the town, where you’ll discover hidden gems and learn fascinating stories about the historical sites. Stop for lunch at a nearby bistro that offers local dishes made from fresh ingredients. Enjoy the vibrant ambiance as you interact with fellow travelers.
Attend an art or music performance at a local venue to experience the vibrant cultural scene in Arbon. Enjoy a pre-show dinner at a cozy restaurant, sampling seasonal ingredients in Swiss cuisine. Post-performance, take a peaceful stroll near the lakeshore, reflecting on the day's experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee | $4-6 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $20-35 |
| 🧀Local cheese or groceries | $8-15 |
| 🚆Public transit day pass | $10-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming lakeside town with historic core
- Easy access to Lake Constance and Alps views
- Relaxed pace and safety
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Smaller selection of international dining options
- Can be crowded with day-trippers in peak season
- "Grüezi" - Hello (Swiss German)
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Ich hätte gern..." - I would like...
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Vielen Dank" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Arbon
Visit one of these nice places.
Medieval townscape with castle ruins and timber-framed houses along the market square.
Wide waterfront views with boats, sunrise reflections, and mountain backdrops.
Historic church with surrounding stone streets and quaint corners ideal for street photography.
Colorful piers, swimmers, and the lakeside bathhouse making for vibrant action shots.
Food in Arbon
Arbon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Delicate, locally caught Felchen prepared baked or lightly fried, often served with potatoes and greens.
Must-Try!
Golden, crispy potato rösti, commonly served with regional toppings like cheese or eggs.
Classic Swiss cheese dishes enjoyed in cozy taverns, especially in cooler months.
Traditional Swiss breakfast made with rolled oats, yogurt, apples, and nuts.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market where you can sample local cheeses, bread, produce, and ready-to-eat treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Grüezi or Hallo; shake hands when meeting, especially with new acquaintances.
Be punctual for appointments and reservations; Swiss value timeliness.
Keep noise down in residential areas and on public transport; dispose of trash properly.
Respect personal space; wait your turn in queues; do not cut in line.
Safety
Tipping in Arbon
Ensure a smooth experience
No mandatory service charge; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common practice.
Cash (CHF) and cards (Visa, MasterCard, contactless) are widely accepted; some smaller shops prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming fruit trees; bring a light jacket and be ready for showers.
Warm days on the lake; perfect for swimming, boat trips, and outdoor dining; occasional thunderstorms.
Pleasant temperatures, fall colors along the shoreline; carry a light layer and plan indoor activities for shorter days.
Cold with possible snow; some lakeside paths may be icy; enjoy cozy cafes and nearby valley hikes.
Arbon at Night
Hiking in Arbon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy lakeside trail around the Arbonersee offering tranquil coastal views.
Short to intermediate hikes with alpine scenery near the region.
Airports
How to reach Arbon by plane.
Nearest regional airport near St. Gallen; quick access to Arbon by road or rail.
Major international hub; about 1.5-2 hours by rail from Arbon.
Nearby German airport serving regional routes; convenient via train or road from Arbon.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly German-speaking Swiss residents with a mix of commuters from nearby cantons.
Tourists and day-trippers drawn by the lake and nature.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular water sport with rental boats and sailing clubs around the lake.
Flat to gentle routes with lake views that suit all levels.
Active water sports common in summer; beaches and clubs nearby.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Arbon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Swiss menus include vegetarian options; ask for adaptions like veggie fondue or mushroom dishes, and specify dairy-free needs when ordering.