Things To Do
in Buchs
Buchs is a picturesque Swiss town on the Rhine, offering quick access to the Werdenberg countryside and the Lake Constance region. It blends traditional Swiss architecture with a modern, commuter-friendly vibe, boosted by its proximity to Liechtenstein and Austria. The town serves as a convenient gateway for day trips to the Rhine Valley, the Alps, and Bodensee, all within easy reach by train or bus.
Visitors can expect a calm, scenic atmosphere with efficient public services and friendly locals.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the charming old town of Buchs, where you can admire well-preserved medieval architecture. Stroll along the picturesque streets, stopping by the iconic St. Nikolaus Church to marvel at its stunning stained glass windows. Don’t forget to grab a cup of Swiss hot chocolate from a local café as you soak in the morning atmosphere.
After a delightful lunch at a traditional Swiss restaurant, explore the local shops and boutiques that showcase handmade crafts and regional delicacies. Visit the nearby Buchserberg, where you can take a leisurely hike and enjoy breathtaking views of the Rhine Valley. Take your time to relax at one of the scenic viewpoints, capturing the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
As the day winds down, enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant known for its fondue, a classic Swiss dish. Spend your evening walking along the Rhine River, where the soft glow of the streetlights reflects off the water, creating a magical ambiance. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a local bar, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Buchs.
Start your day early with a hearty breakfast before heading to the nearby Appenzell region for a day of hiking. The lush green trails and stunning mountain scenery will invigorate your spirit as you traverse the well-marked paths. Be sure to pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the breathtaking alpine backdrop.
Continue your hike through the beautiful landscape, where you may encounter local wildlife and picturesque wildflowers. Stop for an outdoor lunch at one of the scenic picnic spots, savoring the fresh mountain air and stunning views. In the afternoon, challenge yourself with a more strenuous hike to reach a summit, where the panoramic views will be your reward.
Return to Buchs in the evening, tired but exhilarated from your day in the mountains. Relax with a refreshing drink at a local bar, sharing stories of your adventure with fellow hikers. For dinner, enjoy a selection of local dishes at a restaurant that reflects the flavors of the region.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee/latte | $4-7 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment (city center, per month) | $1,500-2,500 |
| 🚆1-month public transit pass | $70-120 |
| 🛒Groceries for two per month | $400-800 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Lake Constance and the Rhine for day trips
- Gateway to Werdenberg and the Rhine Valley
- Calm, scenic Swiss town with good rail links
- Limited nightlife on-site
- Smaller town with fewer big-city amenities
- High prices typical of Switzerland
- "Guten Tag" - Hello / Good day
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Buchs
Visit one of these nice places.
Serene riverbank with reflections, small bridges, and tree-lined paths ideal for daytime and golden hour photography.
Medieval castle perched above the Rhine valley offering dramatic viewing angles and sunset silhouettes.
Historic streets and hillside vistas that capture alpine-to-rhine transitions.
Food in Buchs
Buchs Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Originating from nearby St. Gallen; oats, grated apples, milk or yogurt, often served with fruit.
Must-Try!
Crispy grated potatoes, served plain or with toppings like egg, cheese, or vegetables.
Melted cheese served with bread for a shareable, cozy meal—especially popular in colder months.
Traditional Swiss sausage; commonly found in markets and on menus in eastern Switzerland.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and regional specialties.
Markets in nearby St. Gallen and Feldkirch provide Swiss and Austrian snacks and regional products.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Valuing punctuality; be on time for appointments and trains.
Greet with a handshake; use formal Sie language with strangers until invited to use first names.
Respect quiet hours in residential areas; avoid loud behavior in public spaces late at night.
Safety
Tipping in Buchs
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash in CHF remains common in smaller shops; contactless payments are widespread.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming gardens; layer clothing is helpful as temperatures can shift.
Warm days, longer daylight hours; occasional thunderstorms; great for outdoor dining and river walks.
Colorful foliage and harvest markets; cooler evenings require light jackets.
Cold with potential snow; cozy indoor spots are abundant and nearby Alpine areas offer day trips.
Buchs at Night
Hiking in Buchs
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Hiking path around Werdenberg Castle with viewpoints over the Rhine valley.
Long-distance route along the Rhine suitable for hiking and cycling, connecting scenic towns and villages.
Airports
How to reach Buchs by plane.
Closest regional airport on Lake Constance; serves domestic and some European destinations; typically a short transfer to Buchs.
Switzerland's largest international hub; extensive connections; about 1.5-2 hours by rail from Buchs.
Nearby German airport near Lake Constance; convenient for selected routes; good rail links to Swiss towns.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Swiss commuters, families, and cross-border workers from Austria and Liechtenstein; predominantly German-speaking with a welcoming, multilingual character.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in clubs and local teams; opportunities to watch a match or join amateur groups.
Extensive networks along the Rhine and into the Alpine foothills; suitable for all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Buchs.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many cheese and vegetable-forward options; ask staff for meat-free adaptations or substitutions.