St. Gallen

Sankt Gallen

The capital and largest city of the canton, famous for its stunning Baroque cathedral and UNESCO-listed Abbey library with its distinctive rococo hall. The old town features charming medieval streets, ornate bay windows, and a rich textile heritage that shaped the region's prosperity.

Things to do

• St. Gallen Cathedral — Explore this stunning Baroque cathedral with its ornate interior, twin towers, and intricate stucco decorations that dominate the city skyline.
• Abbey Library (Stiftsbibliothek) — Visit the UNESCO-listed rococo reading hall featuring the famous 'Enlightenment Angel' ceiling fresco and thousands of medieval manuscripts in an extraordinarily preserved baroque room.
• Old Town (Altstadt) Walk — Stroll through charming medieval streets lined with ornate bay windows (Erker), Renaissance facades, and historic guild houses that reflect the city's textile wealth.
• Textile Museum (Textilmuseum) — Discover the region's rich embroidery and fabric heritage through exhibits showcasing St. Gallen's global reputation for fine textiles and lace.
• Drei Weieren Lakes — Enjoy a scenic walk or picnic at these three small lakes just outside the city center, perfect for relaxing away from the urban bustle.
• Botanical Garden (Botanischer Garten) — Wander through themed gardens featuring alpine plants, medicinal herbs, and exotic species in a peaceful setting near the city center.

Food to try

• St. Galler Bratwurst — Sample this regional specialty sausage, traditionally made with pork and herbs, often served with fresh bread and mustard at local markets or restaurants.
• Appenzeller Cheese — Taste the aromatic hard cheese from the neighboring Appenzell region, known for its distinctive spiced flavor and creamy texture, often enjoyed with apple wine.
• Rösti — Try this Swiss classic of crispy hash brown potato cake, frequently served with cheese, bacon, or as a side dish throughout the city.
• Mostbröckli — Savor this local dried apple specialty, a traditional treat made from thinly sliced apples dried in the autumn sun, reflecting the region's fruit heritage.
• Apfelwein (Apple Wine) — Experience this tangy, lightly fermented apple cider that pairs perfectly with hearty local dishes and is a beloved regional beverage.

Local customs & good to know

• Shop at Markets Early — Visit the weekly farmers' markets (especially Wednesday and Saturday mornings) early for the best selection of local produce, cheese, and regional specialties before they sell out.
• Respect Cathedral Hours — The cathedral and Abbey Library have specific opening hours and may close during services; plan visits accordingly and dress respectfully when entering religious spaces.
• Learn Textile Heritage — Understanding St. Gallen's historical importance as a European textile and embroidery center adds context to the old town's architecture and the city's pride in this heritage.