Herisau
,Herisau is a charming town located in northeastern Switzerland in the canton of Appenzell Ausserrhoden. The town is known for its picturesque setting, with rolling hills and traditional Swiss architecture. Visitors can explore historic landmarks such as the Herisau Abbey and the Schloss Gulfhofen.
The town also offers outdoor activities such as hiking and biking in the surrounding countryside.
- "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: $4 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $50 - $100
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Herisau's Nature
morning
:Start your day with a hike in the beautiful nearby countryside. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the stunning views of the mountains.
afternoon
:Visit the local park for a leisurely picnic. The serene environment is perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature.
evening
:Dine at a cozy local restaurant savoring traditional Swiss cuisine. Unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures.
Discover Local History
morning
:Visit the Appenzell Museum to learn about the rich history of the region. Engage with exhibits that showcase the culture and heritage.
afternoon
:Take a walking tour of Herisau to see historical buildings and landmarks. The architecture will take you back in time.
evening
:Enjoy a classic Swiss fondue dinner at a traditional eatery. It's a fun way to end your day while enjoying a local dish.
Highlights
Good
- Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor recreational opportunities.
- Strong community feel and friendly residents.
- Access to high-quality education and healthcare facilities.
- Low crime rate and safe environment for families.
- Proximity to larger cities like St. Gallen and Appenzell for additional amenities.
Bad
- Higher cost of living compared to other regions.
- Public transportation options may be limited compared to larger urban areas.
- Possible language barrier for non-German speakers.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
- Less diversity in cultural activities and events compared to bigger cities.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking
Explore the beautiful trails around Herisau, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the nearby mountains.
Mountain Biking
Take advantage of the various mountain biking trails suitable for all skill levels, featuring stunning vistas and challenging terrain.
Picnicking
Enjoy a relaxing day outdoors with a picnic at one of the local parks or scenic spots in and around Herisau.
Bird Watching
Visit nearby nature reserves and parks to observe a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
Caving
Explore local caves and grottos, offering a unique adventure for those interested in spelunking and geological formations.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Wassberg
Offers panoramic views of Herisau and the surrounding area
Schwarzenbach Dam
Scenic spot with views of the dam and surrounding countryside
Herisau town center
Charming center with historic buildings and photogenic streets
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Appenzeller Cheese
A pungent and flavorful cheese, typically enjoyed with freshly baked bread. Visit the Appenzeller dairy in the region to witness the cheese-making process and savor the authentic taste.
Must-Try!
Rösti
A Swiss-style hash brown made from grated and fried potatoes. It's a beloved dish in Herisau and can be savored at local restaurants and cafes.
Bircher Muesli
A nutritious and delicious Swiss breakfast dish made from oats, nuts, and fresh fruits. This wholesome dish can be found in many cafes around Herisau.
Bratwurst
Juicy and flavorful grilled sausages are a staple in Swiss cuisine. Look for local sausage stands or visit traditional Swiss restaurants to savor authentic Bratwurst.
Bündnerfleisch
A specialty air-dried beef, often served thinly sliced. You can find this delicacy at local delis and restaurants.
Zopf
A braided bread, typically enjoyed on Sundays and special occasions. Find freshly baked Zopf at local bakeries and markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Herisau Farmers' Market
A vibrant market offering a wide array of fresh local produce, cheeses, meats, and artisanal goods. It's an excellent place to discover regional specialties and engage with local producers.
Street Food Festival
Occasionally, Herisau hosts street food festivals featuring an enticing variety of international and local street foods. Visitors can experience a fusion of flavors and enjoy culinary delights from around the world.
Christmas Market
During the holiday season, the Christmas market in Herisau offers an enchanting experience with an array of holiday treats, seasonal specialties, and traditional Swiss delights.
Food Trucks
Keep an eye out for food trucks scattered across Herisau, offering diverse cuisines and local specialties, perfect for grabbing a quick and flavorful bite while exploring the city.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Punctuality
Being on time is highly valued in Herisau and Switzerland in general. Arriving late to meetings or social gatherings can be considered disrespectful.
Polite Greetings
When meeting someone, a firm handshake and maintaining eye contact are common. It is customary to greet with 'Grüezi' (hello) in Swiss German.
Personal Space
Respecting personal space is important. Swiss people generally prefer a moderate distance during conversations and may feel uncomfortable with close physical proximity.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Herisau, Switzerland, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated in the service industry. It is common to round up the bill in restaurants or to leave coins as a sign of gratitude for good service. A 5-10% tip is typically sufficient.
Payment
Payments in Herisau can be made through various methods including cash (Swiss Francs), credit/debit cards, and mobile payments. Many establishments prefer cashless transactions. Additionally, payment in restaurants is usually settled at the end of the meal, with some places allowing for direct card payments at the table.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
In spring, Herisau starts to come alive with blooming flowers and lush greenery. The weather is getting warmer, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking.
Summer
Summer in Herisau is vibrant and bustling with festivals, outdoor concerts, and plenty of sunshine. It's a great time to explore the rolling hills and indulge in outdoor sports like swimming and paragliding.
Autumn
Autumn brings stunning fall foliage to Herisau, creating a picturesque landscape. The weather is mild, making it a pleasant time for scenic drives, wine tasting, and enjoying traditional seasonal cuisine.
Winter
Winter in Herisau is a wonderland with snow-covered landscapes and a cozy atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, as well as festive Christmas markets and warm Swiss chocolate.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Jakobsweg Herisau
A scenic hiking trail that follows the historic Jakobsweg pilgrimage route, offering stunning views of the countryside around Herisau.
Grosser Buechberg
A prominent hiking area featuring various trails that lead to panoramic views of the Appenzell region and surrounding mountains.
Ebene Reute
A family-friendly hiking trail that is accessible and leads to beautiful landscapes, perfect for a leisurely day out.
St. Gallen - Appenzell Trail
Part of the long-distance hiking route between St. Gallen and Appenzell, offering diverse landscapes and local flora along the way.
Schwarzenbach
A trail that leads through lush forests and serene meadows, providing a peaceful hiking experience near Herisau.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Herisau by plane.
Zürich Airport (ZRH)
The largest international airport in Switzerland, located about 88 km from Herisau.
EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (BSL/MLH)
An international airport located around 112 km from Herisau, serving the borders of Switzerland, France, and Germany.
St. Gallen-Altenrhein Airport (ACH)
A regional airport located approximately 39 km from Herisau, offering some international flights.
Friedrichshafen Airport (FDH)
Located about 78 km from Herisau, this airport in Germany serves international and regional flights.
Memmingen Airport (FMM)
Approximately 136 km from Herisau, this airport offers various low-cost international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Swiss nationals
The majority demographic group in Herisau, comprising citizens of Switzerland.
Residents of other European countries
Includes individuals from various European nations, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
Non-European residents
Comprises individuals from countries outside Europe, including those from Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
Elderly population
Senior citizens, representing a significant portion of the demographic profile in Herisau.
Youth and children
Includes the younger population, comprising school-aged children and teenagers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football is one of the most popular sports in Herisau, with several local clubs and a strong community following.
Handball
Handball has a solid presence in Herisau, with clubs competing in local leagues and a passionate fan base.
Volleyball
Volleyball is played recreationally and competitively in Herisau, with various teams participating in regional competitions.
Athletics
Athletics activities are popular among the youth in Herisau, with events and training programs organized throughout the year.
Tennis
Tennis is enjoyed by many residents, with several courts available and local tournaments attracting players of all levels.
Cycling
Cycling is a favored sport due to the scenic routes around Herisau, making it popular for both leisure and competitive cycling.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian
Herisau caters well to vegetarians, with a range of dining establishments offering creative and delicious vegetarian options, including traditional and contemporary dishes.
Vegan
While vegan options are not as ubiquitous as vegetarian choices, many restaurants and cafes in Herisau do provide distinctive and flavorful vegan dishes, ensuring a diverse culinary experience.
Gluten-free
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find accommodating options at various eateries in Herisau, including dedicated gluten-free menus and knowledgeable staff who can assist in choosing suitable dishes.