Things To Do
in Gossau

Picturesque street scenes with traditional Swiss architecture and seasonal decorations—great for close-up urban photography.

Calm river views with reflections, walking paths, and nearby meadows—best in golden hour or after rain for rich colors.

Panoramic rural landscapes with farmhouses and hay fields—excellent for sunrise and wide-angle shots.

Distant mountain backdrops visible from higher vantage points around Gossau; dramatic in clear weather or with low clouds.

A mild, finely spiced pork sausage traditionally paired with bread; find it at butcher shops, market stalls and local restaurants.

Must-Try!

A pungent, tangy alpine cheese used in cooking or enjoyed on a board; available at local cheese shops and farmers' markets.

Crispy grated-potato cake often served with fried eggs, smoked meat or cheese—common on lunch menus in casual restaurants.

Air-dried, spiced beef typical of eastern Switzerland, sliced thin as a cold cut—sold in deli counters and regional specialty shops.

A small local market (check schedule) with fresh fruit, vegetables, cheeses and baked goods—good for tasting seasonal produce and buying picnic items.

Pop-up stalls and village fairs in the region sell smoked meats, cheeses and sweet pastries; ideal for sampling regional specialties.

Being on time is important for appointments, tours and public transport—plan to arrive a few minutes early.

Respect quiet hours (often late evening and Sundays) in residential areas—keep noise low and follow recycling rules.

Use polite greetings (Grüezi) and a firm handshake in formal situations; Swiss people value courtesy and personal space.

Littering is frowned upon; follow recycling and composting guidelines. Stick to marked trails in nature reserves.

Service charges are often included in Swiss bills; rounding up or leaving 5–10% for exceptional service is appreciated but not obligatory. In cafés and for small purchases, leaving small change is common.

Card (EC Maestro/V-Pay, Visa, Mastercard) is widely accepted; many places prefer chip-and-PIN. Cash (Swiss franc) is still handy for small markets or rural vendors. Contactless payments and mobile wallets are increasingly supported.

Mild temperatures, blooming meadows and fewer tourists; ideal for hiking lower-elevation trails and attending local markets—pack a light rain jacket for unpredictable showers.

Warm, pleasant weather with long daylight hours perfect for hiking, cycling and outdoor dining; popular spots can be busier on weekends—sunscreen and layers recommended.

Crisp air and colorful foliage make countryside walks scenic; harvest events and cheese festivals may occur—temperatures cool quickly in the evenings.

Cold with occasional snow; nearby higher-altitude areas offer skiing and winter walks while Gossau itself is quieter—dress warmly and be prepared for shorter daylight.

Gentle to moderate hikes with panoramic views over the Rhine Valley and Appenzell region; family-friendly routes and alpine pastures.

More challenging mountain routes leading to Säntis peak with dramatic rock formations and wide vistas—suitable for experienced hikers and accessible by car or public transport to trailheads.

Scenic ridge paths and forested valleys offering quieter trails, traditional villages and seasonal alpine huts.

Easier, rolling routes across farmland and orchards ideal for leisurely day hikes and cycling close to Gossau.

Gossau has many family households attracted by schools, safety and green spaces.

Residents working in St. Gallen, Zurich or nearby industrial centers who commute by car or train.

A noticeable segment of older residents who appreciate the town’s quiet and services.

Local entrepreneurs and agricultural families contribute to markets and regional produce.

Local clubs and youth teams are popular; matches and community involvement are common.

Followed enthusiastically across eastern Switzerland, with regional clubs and arenas in nearby towns and cities.

Very popular given the extensive lowland and alpine trails—many locals pursue weekend hikes year-round.

Day trips to nearby ski resorts are common in winter for downhill and cross-country skiing.