Herisau

The capital of Appenzell Ausserrhoden, a vibrant town with a mix of tradition and modernity featuring excellent shopping, restaurants, and cultural institutions. It serves as the commercial and administrative hub of Outer Appenzell with good transit connections.

Things to do

• Textilmuseum (Textile Museum) — Explore the history of Appenzell's famous textile industry through exhibits of traditional fabrics, embroidery techniques, and industrial heritage.
• Herisau Old Town — Stroll through the charming medieval center with colorful painted buildings, local shops, and the atmospheric Marktplatz square.
• Säntis Cable Car Access — Take the nearby cable car from the outskirts up to Säntis mountain for panoramic Alpine views and hiking opportunities.
• Appenzell Showcase (Appenzeller Volkskunde Raum) — Visit this cultural space dedicated to traditional Appenzell customs, dress, and local crafts with interactive displays.
• Shopping District — Browse the pedestrian shopping streets for both international brands and local boutiques selling traditional Appenzell embroidery and crafts.
• Church of St. Laurentius — Admire this reformed church with its distinctive architecture and interior dating back several centuries in the heart of town.

Food to try

• Appenzell Käsespätzle — Soft egg noodles layered with melted Appenzell cheese and crispy onions, a rich and comforting regional specialty.
• Bratwurst and Appenzeller Wurst — Locally made pork sausages with distinct spice blends, served grilled at market stands and traditional restaurants.
• Appenzeller Mostbröckli — Thin slices of smoked beef or mutton cured in apple cider and spices, a delicate local delicacy to enjoy with bread.
• Birnbrot (Pear Bread) — A dense, spiced bread studded with dried pears and walnuts, traditionally baked for autumn and winter months.
• Appenzell Cheese Fondue — Melted Appenzeller cheese served in a communal pot with bread cubes, embodying local Alpine dairy tradition.

Local customs & good to know

• Traditional Appenzell Dress on Sundays — Locals still wear traditional embroidered costumes and ornate headdresses (Trachten) on Sundays and festival days—a living tradition unique to the region.
• Market Day Culture — Visit the Marktplatz on weekly market days when farmers and artisans sell local produce, cheese, and crafts in the traditional Swiss manner.
• Respect for Tradition — Appenzell maintains strong traditions of folk customs and regional pride, so showing interest in local heritage and attending festivals is appreciated by residents.
• Punctuality and Quiet Hours — Swiss culture values punctuality in appointments and respects quiet hours (typically after 10 PM on weekdays), so plan activities accordingly.