Nestled in northeast Switzerland, this city boasts narrow streets lined with ancient churches and townhouses. Visitors can enjoy local cheese and apple cider while exploring art galleries.
Sankt Gallen, in northeastern Switzerland, is known for its rich history and cultural significance. You can visit the Abbey of Saint Gall with its world-class library of medieval manuscripts, walk through the car-free Old Town with its decorated bay windows, or enjoy the city's museums. The University of St. Gallen adds a youthful energy to the city. When you need a break from urban life, the nearby Appenzell Alps offer hiking opportunities.
The Abbey of Saint Gall
The Abbey of Saint Gall is the city's main landmark. This Benedictine monastery, established in the 8th century, became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983. In the Abbey Library, you'll find over 170,000 books and manuscripts, including some of Europe's oldest. The library's Rococo-style hall features a painted ceiling and carved wooden shelves. Next to the library stands a Baroque cathedral with twin towers and detailed interior decorations.
Old Town
In Sankt Gallen's Old Town, you can walk along car-free streets lined with medieval and Renaissance buildings. Look up to spot over 100 oriel windows - decorative bay windows that project from building facades. These elaborate structures reflect the city's past wealth from textile production. As you explore the narrow lanes, you'll come across cafes, small shops, and historical sites like the 16th-century Waaghaus (Weigh House) and the Marketplatz with its fountain featuring Sankt Gallen's patron saint.
Museums
Several museums in Sankt Gallen highlight the city's history and art. At the Textile Museum, you can learn about Sankt Gallen's role in the global textile industry and see examples of embroideries and laces. The Kunstmuseum St. Gallen displays art from the late Middle Ages to today. For natural history, visit the recently updated Naturmuseum, which has interactive exhibits about local plants and animals.
Local Food and Drink
Try Sankt Gallen's signature dish, the "OLMA Bratwurst," a veal sausage typically served without mustard. You can buy it from street stands or eat it in traditional restaurants. To learn about the city's brewing history, visit the Schützengarten brewery, the oldest in Switzerland. You can take a tour of their beer museum and taste their products.
University of St. Gallen
Founded in 1898, the University of St. Gallen is known as one of Europe's top business schools. Its presence brings many young, international students to the city. The university organizes events like the St. Gallen Symposium, which gathers global leaders in economics and politics.
Nearby Nature
For a quick escape from the city, head to the Drei Weieren (Three Ponds) area above Sankt Gallen. Here, you can swim in summer or ice skate in winter while looking out over the city and Lake Constance. If you want to go hiking, the Appenzell Alps are close by. You'll find trails for different skill levels, from easy walks to challenging climbs up the Säntis peak.
Transportation
Sankt Gallen is small enough to explore on foot. The city also has a reliable public bus system. If you want to visit other areas, the main train station connects Sankt Gallen to major Swiss cities and neighboring countries. If you're driving, the A1 motorway provides easy access to the city.
