Things to do in Saint Gallen

No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Canton of St. Gallen

Abbey of Saint Gall

The Abbey of Saint Gall is located in the heart of the old town of Saint Gallen in eastern Switzerland. Most of the existing complex was rebuilt in the mid-18th century, primarily in the Late Baroque style. The cathedral, the Abbey Library of Saint Gall, and the monks' archives together form a complete monastic precinct. The cathedral's two symmetrical towers have long been considered the city landmark of Saint Gallen. The Abbey Library of Saint Gall is the highlight of this complex. The lintel is inscribed with Greek text meaning "healing place of the soul." The hall houses approximately 160,000 books, including over 2,000 medieval manuscripts. The Irish and Carolingian manuscripts from the 8th–10th centuries are particularly precious. The hall even displays an ancient Egyptian mummy from over 2,000 years ago. The "Plan of Saint Gall," drawn around 820 AD, is also housed here. This parchment drawing depicts an idealized Benedictine monastery. The small wooden cherub carvings atop the glass display cases are also worth a close look. The cherubs on the astronomy bookcases are holding telescopes, hinting at the subject matter of the books inside. The interior of the cathedral is primarily white, accented with light green stucco decorations, creating a soft and bright atmosphere.

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Canton of St. Gallen

Abbey Library of Saint Gall

Abbey Library of Saint Gall is located in the monastic precinct of Saint Gallen in northeastern Switzerland. The collection here has remained largely intact since the 8th century and has been preserved to this day. It currently holds approximately 170,000 volumes, including over 2,000 manuscripts from the 8th to 15th centuries and a large number of parchment documents. The library, a Rococo hall built in the mid-18th century, features parquet floors, walls lined with carved wooden bookcases, and a frescoed ceiling. The entrance lintel is inscribed with a Greek phrase meaning pharmacy of the soul, comparing reading to nourishment for the spirit. Atop the glass display cases stand 20 cherub statues in various poses—some holding globes, others holding telescopes—hinting at the categories of books inside, like a code waiting to be deciphered. The library's treasures include the Plan of Saint Gall, drawn in the early 9th century, and an important manuscript of the German epic Nibelungenlied. An ancient Egyptian mummy is also on display here.

Santispark

Walter Zoo

Appenzeller Schaukäserei

Appenzeller Schaukäserei, located in the picturesque region of Appenzell in Switzerland, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the traditional art of cheese-making. This interactive cheese dairy is renowned for producing the famous Appenzeller cheese, known for its rich flavor and aromatic spices. At the Schaukäserei, guests can witness the entire cheese-making process, from the fresh milk delivery to the final aging stages. The facility provides informative guided tours that delve into the history and secrets behind the cheese's distinctive taste, including the mysterious herbal brine used in its production. Visitors can also enjoy a tasting session, where they can sample various types of Appenzeller cheese, each with its own unique character. The on-site restaurant serves delicious Swiss dishes, allowing guests to savor local culinary delights. Additionally, the Schaukäserei shop offers a range of regional products, perfect for taking home a piece of Swiss tradition. Whether you're a cheese enthusiast or simply curious about Swiss culture, Appenzeller Schaukäserei promises an unforgettable experience that combines education, taste, and tradition in the heart of Switzerland's stunning landscape.

Kybun Park

St. Gallen Cathedral

The cathedral was built in the 8th century and was originally the church of a Benedictine monastery. It is known for its distinctive architectural style and majestic spire, and is one of Switzerland's most important cultural heritage sites. The cathedral's architecture mainly combines Romanesque and Gothic elements, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship and aesthetics of medieval architecture.

Säntispark Rutschenwelt

Cooperative Olma Messen St.Gallen

Wildlife Park Peter and Paul