Discovering the Best Things to Do in St. Gallen: A Tourist’s Journey

St. Gallen, a beautiful city in eastern Switzerland, truly surprised me with its mix of history, culture, and stunning natural landscapes. Tucked away near the border with Germany and Austria, St. Gallen is known for its UNESCO World Heritage sites, quaint old town, and proximity to the picturesque Appenzell region. If you’re looking for a destination that offers both peaceful charm and rich cultural experiences, St. Gallen is the perfect place. Here’s what I loved most about my visit to this enchanting Swiss city.

1. Exploring the Abbey of St. Gall and the Library

The first place I visited, and perhaps the most famous landmark in St. Gallen, is the **Abbey of St. Gall**. Walking through the gates of this UNESCO World Heritage site, I was immediately struck by the grandeur of the **Cathedral of St. Gallen**. The baroque architecture, with its twin towers, is breathtaking from the outside, and the interior is equally stunning with its ornate decorations, frescoes, and high vaulted ceilings.

But what really left me in awe was the **Abbey Library**. Known as one of the oldest and most beautiful libraries in the world, stepping inside felt like entering a magical world of knowledge and history. The grand hall is filled with thousands of ancient manuscripts, and the intricate wooden shelves and ceilings are true works of art. As a book lover, I couldn’t get enough of this place. You have to wear special slippers to walk around, which adds to the sense of walking through history. The library’s collection spans centuries, and I learned that some of the manuscripts date back to the 8th century!

2. Strolling Through the Old Town

After soaking up the history of the Abbey, I wandered through St. Gallen’s **Old Town**, which is full of charming streets and squares. The architecture here is a delightful mix of medieval, Renaissance, and baroque styles, with brightly painted buildings and detailed facades that make every corner worth exploring.

One of the things I loved most about the Old Town is the **Erker**—beautifully carved bay windows that adorn many of the old buildings. It’s a unique feature of St. Gallen, and I found myself pausing to admire them as I wandered through the cobblestone streets. The area is also filled with small shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a perfect spot to grab a coffee and people-watch while taking in the city’s relaxed vibe.

3. Visiting the Textile Museum

As I learned, St. Gallen has a rich history as a center of the textile industry, and the **Textile Museum** was a fascinating stop on my journey. The museum showcases the city’s legacy as a hub for textile production, particularly its world-renowned lace and embroidery. I was blown away by the intricate designs and the craftsmanship on display. The exhibits cover everything from historical fabrics to modern fashion, and I gained a new appreciation for St. Gallen’s global influence in the fashion world.

The museum also highlights the evolution of textile production techniques, and there were even interactive displays where I could see how some of the famous St. Gallen lace is made. For anyone interested in fashion, design, or history, the Textile Museum is a must-visit.

4. Hiking the Three Ponds (Drei Weieren)

One of the highlights of my trip was escaping to the **Three Ponds (Drei Weieren) **, a beautiful natural area located just a short walk from the city center. The ponds are situated on a hillside above St. Gallen, and the hike up offers some incredible views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

The ponds themselves are peaceful and scenic, with walking paths around them that are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike. It’s also a popular spot for swimming in the summer, though I visited in the fall and enjoyed the crisp air and autumn colors. The tranquility of the Three Ponds made it feel like I was miles away from the city, even though it’s so close.

5. Day Trip to Appenzell

One of the best things about visiting St. Gallen is its proximity to the stunning **Appenzell region**, and I couldn’t resist taking a day trip out into the Swiss countryside. The train ride to Appenzell was scenic, with rolling green hills, traditional Swiss villages, and towering mountains in the distance.

In Appenzell, I explored the quaint village with its traditional Swiss houses, colorful facades, and friendly locals. But the real adventure started when I headed to **Mount Säntis**, one of the highest peaks in the region. I took the cable car up to the top, where the views were absolutely breathtaking. From the summit, I could see not only the Swiss Alps but also parts of Austria and Germany. Hiking in the fresh mountain air and taking in the panoramic views made this day trip unforgettable.

6. Enjoying Local Swiss Cuisine

No trip to Switzerland is complete without indulging in some delicious Swiss food, and St. Gallen didn’t disappoint. One of the local specialties I tried was the **St. Gallen Bratwurst**, a famous sausage that’s traditionally served without mustard. I had mine at a local market, and it was juicy, flavorful, and perfectly grilled. I also couldn’t resist trying some **Appenzeller cheese**, which is produced in the nearby region and has a unique, strong flavor.

For dessert, I treated myself to some **Swiss chocolate** and pastries from one of the local bakeries. Whether I was dining in a cozy café or a traditional Swiss restaurant, the food in St. Gallen was consistently delicious.

7. Taking in the Views from the Rosenberg

To cap off my trip, I hiked up to the **Rosenberg**, a hill that offers fantastic views over St. Gallen and beyond. It’s a peaceful spot where you can see the entire city, the Abbey of St. Gall, and the rolling hills that surround it. It’s especially beautiful at sunset, with the golden light casting a glow over the city. It was the perfect way to end my visit to this enchanting city.

Conclusion

My time in St. Gallen was filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. From exploring the awe-inspiring Abbey Library to hiking in the serene hills, every moment in this charming Swiss city was special. St. Gallen’s mix of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich heritage makes it a fantastic destination for any traveler. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, St. Gallen has something to offer everyone.