From Zurich: Private St. Gallen and Appenzell Day Tour

Explore the captivating regions of St. Gallen and Appenzell on a private day tour from Zurich. Marvel at the stunning Rococo architecture and frescoes of the UNESCO-listed Abbey Library. Admire the impressive St. Gallen Cathedral, a masterpiece of 18th-century design. Wander through the charming, car-free streets of Appenzell, indulging in local specialties and discovering the renowned Appenzeller Bier. This tour promises a delightful blend of history, art, and Swiss cultural delights. Get ready to uncover the enchanting treasures that await.

Good To Know

• Visit the UNESCO-listed Abbey Library of St. Gallen and admire its Rococo-style architecture and ancient manuscripts.
• Explore the stunning St. Gallen Cathedral, a masterpiece of 18th-century Rococo design with intricate frescoes and stucco decorations.
• Enjoy scenic drives through the Swiss countryside, taking in the rolling hills, lush meadows, and picturesque mountain views.
• Enjoy the car-free old town of Appenzell, with its well-preserved cobblestone streets and traditional Swiss architecture.
• Discover the local culture and specialties, including a visit to the renowned Appenzeller Brewery for a guided exploration of beer-making traditions.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the UNESCO-Listed Abbey Library in St. Gallen

As visitors step inside the UNESCO-listed Abbey Library of St. Gallen, they’re transported to a bygone era.

This magnificent Rococo-style library, dating back to the 18th century, houses an impressive collection of over 170,000 volumes.

Visitors can marvel at the intricately carved ceilings, towering bookshelves, and stunning frescoes that adorn the walls.

The library’s highlights include the Psalter from 1220 and the Codex Sangallensis, a 9th-century Bible.

Wandering through the library’s halls, visitors can enjoy the rich history and cultural heritage of this remarkable Swiss institution.

Admiring the Rococo Splendor of St. Gallen Cathedral

After exploring the renowned Abbey Library, the tour continues to the magnificent St. Gallen Cathedral.

This 18th-century masterpiece boasts a stunning Rococo interior, with intricate stucco decorations, frescoed ceilings, and opulent gold leaf accents.

Visitors are captivated by the cathedral’s ornate altars, pulpit, and choir stalls, all meticulously crafted in the Rococo style.

The grand organ, with its impressive 6,800 pipes, fills the space with its majestic sounds.

Wandering through the cathedral, guests are immersed in the grandeur and artistic splendor that exemplifies the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Scenic Drives Through the Swiss Countryside

Leaving the historic city of St. Gallen, the tour embarks on a scenic drive through the Swiss countryside. The winding roads offer breathtaking vistas of rolling hills, lush meadows, and quaint villages.

Along the way, the guide points out:

• Charming farmhouses with traditional architecture

• Grazing cows and sheep dotting the pastoral landscape

• Babbling brooks and crystal-clear streams carving through the terrain

• Vibrant wildflowers and colorful alpine flora

• Majestic mountain peaks towering in the distance

These picturesque landscapes showcase the natural beauty and tranquility that epitomize the Swiss alpine region, setting the stage for the next stop on the tour – the charming town of Appenzell.

Wandering the Car-Free Old Town of Appenzell

Arriving in the picturesque town of Appenzell, the tour delves into its well-preserved car-free old town.

Visitors stroll down the charming cobblestone streets, admiring the traditional Swiss architecture adorned with vibrant flowers. The old town is a pedestrian’s delight, free from the noise and bustle of vehicles.

Locals go about their daily lives, adding to the authentic atmosphere. Quaint shops and cafes line the streets, enticing guests to explore and enjoy the town’s tranquil ambiance.

The car-free experience allows for a leisurely and immersive appreciation of Appenzell’s captivating historic character.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Visiting the Appenzeller Brewery (Optional)

While in Appenzell, visitors have the option to visit the renowned Appenzeller Brewery. This regional specialty offers a glimpse into the local beer-making traditions.

The tour includes:

• Guided exploration of the brewery’s history and production processes

• Sampling of the brewery’s signature brews, like the classic Appenzeller Bier

• Learning about the unique ingredients and techniques used to craft the beer

• Opportunity to purchase Appenzeller Bier and other souvenirs

• Insight into the role of beer in Appenzell’s cultural identity

The brewery visit provides an authentic cultural experience for those interested in Swiss traditions and local specialties.

Photo Stops in Vaduz and Bregenz

As the tour winds through the scenic Swiss countryside, it makes two picturesque stops – one in Vaduz, Liechtenstein, and the other in Bregenz, Austria.

In Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein, guests can admire the Vaduz Castle perched atop a hillside, with stunning views of the Rhine Valley.

The next stop is Bregenz, a lakeside city in Austria, where the tour pauses to capture photos of the spectacular alpine scenery.

With the iconic Lake Constance and the towering Pfänder mountain in the background, this photo opportunity provides a memorable conclusion to the day’s exploration of the region.

Discovering Swiss Culture and Local Specialties

What better way to take in Swiss culture than to savor the local specialties during this private tour?

Discover the flavors and traditions that define Swiss cuisine:

Discover the flavors and traditions that define Swiss cuisine, from cheese and beer to chocolate and local markets.

• Indulge in mouthwatering Swiss cheese, from the renowned Appenzeller to creamy Gruyère.

• Sip on crisp, refreshing Appenzeller beer, brewed with pure spring water and local hops.

• Enjoy a hearty Swiss lunch, perhaps featuring rösti (shredded potatoes) or bratwurst with sauerkraut.

• Delight in Swiss chocolate, renowned for its rich, smooth texture and exceptional quality.

• Explore the charming local markets and shops, where artisanal products and homemade delicacies abound.

Guided Tour Features and Inclusions

This private day tour from Zurich provides an expert local guide throughout the day, available in English, Dutch, and German.

The tour is a private group experience, allowing for a more personalized and immersive cultural journey. The inclusions cover private transportation from Zurich and back, admission to the Abbey Library in St. Gallen, and an optional visit to the Appenzeller Brewery.

Scenic drives through the Swiss countryside are also part of the experience, offering opportunities to admire the picturesque landscapes.

With these features, the tour provides a comprehensive and authentic Swiss cultural experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized. The private tour offers flexibility, allowing travelers to adjust the schedule and activities based on their interests and preferences throughout the day.

Is the Tour Accessible for Wheelchair Users?

The tour is generally accessible for wheelchair users, with the exception of some narrow cobblestone streets in Appenzell’s old town. The tour provider offers flexibility to accommodate special needs, so customers should discuss any accessibility requirements when booking.

Is There an Option to Add More Stops Along the Way?

Yes, the tour offers flexibility to add more stops along the way. Travelers can discuss customized itinerary options with the tour provider to include additional sights or experiences that align with their interests.

Can We Purchase Souvenirs During the Tour?

Yes, visitors can purchase souvenirs during the tour. The itinerary includes stops in charming towns like Appenzell, where local shops offer a variety of traditional Swiss crafts and specialty items for travelers to browse and buy.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour Participants?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. Participants of all ages are welcome to join the excursion and explore the historic sites and scenic landscapes at their own pace.

The Sum Up

This private day tour from Zurich offers a captivating blend of history, art, and Swiss culture. Explore the UNESCO-listed Abbey Library, admire the Rococo splendor of St. Gallen Cathedral, and wander the charming car-free streets of Appenzell, where you can sample local specialties. With scenic drives through the countryside and optional visits to the Appenzeller Brewery and other landmarks, it’s a delightful way to discover the enchanting regions of St. Gallen and Appenzell.

You can check if your dates are available here: