Appenzell

The charming capital of Appenzell Innerrhoden, famous for its colorful medieval old town with traditional painted wooden houses and narrow cobblestone streets. It's the cultural heart of the region and essential for experiencing authentic Appenzell traditions, including local crafts, museums, and folk heritage.

Things to do

• Appenzell Museum — Explore the region's cultural heritage through exhibits on traditional costumes, crafts, and local history housed in a beautiful historic building.
• Wandering the Old Town — Stroll through narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorfully painted wooden houses and ornate Renaissance facades that define the medieval character.
• St. Paul's Abbey Church — Visit this stunning baroque church with its ornate interior decoration and impressive dome, central to the town's spiritual and architectural identity.
• Säntis Mountain Excursion — Take the cable car or hike to nearby Säntis peak for panoramic views of six countries and experience the alpine landscape surrounding the region.
• Local Craft Workshops — Visit artisan studios and workshops to watch traditional embroidery, woodcarving, and other local crafts being created by hand.
• Appenzell Folklore Museum — Discover authentic peasant interiors, traditional costumes, and exhibits dedicated to the distinctive Appenzell folk culture and customs.

Food to try

• Appenzeller Käsespätzle — Soft egg noodles layered with melted Appenzeller cheese and crispy fried onions, a hearty local specialty served in traditional restaurants.
• Appenzeller Cheese — Sample the region's famous semi-hard cheese with its distinctive herbs and spices, available fresh at local markets and cheese shops.
• Bratwurst and Leberwurst — Try the local sausage specialties, traditionally prepared and often served with Appenzeller mustard and fresh bread at market stalls and restaurants.
• Appenzeller Birnbrot — A dense, dark bread loaf studded with dried pears, walnuts, and spices that represents authentic Appenzell baking tradition.
• Mostbröckli — Thinly sliced and dried pork meat, a traditional air-dried delicacy that's been part of Appenzell cuisine for centuries.

Local customs & good to know

• Traditional Festival Dress — Locals proudly wear embroidered traditional costumes (Trachten) during festivals and celebrations, reflecting deep cultural pride in regional identity.
• Appenzeller Alpstein Procession — During Whitsuntide, attend the famous traditional procession featuring yodeling, bell-ringing, and colorful ceremonial dress unique to the region.
• Yodeling and Folk Music — Listen for traditional yodeling (Appenzeller Jodler) performed at local venues and festivals, an integral part of the region's cultural expression.
• Respect for Tradition — Appenzell maintains strong conservative values and traditions; dress modestly, speak respectfully about local customs, and participate thoughtfully in cultural events.