Appenzell: Tradition and Charm in the Swiss Alps
Discover Appenzell: A charming Swiss village with colorful traditions, stunning Alpine scenery, and a rich cultural heritage.
Appenzell, the capital of Appenzell Innerrhoden, is a picturesque village nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, known for its colorful, ornate buildings, traditional culture, and stunning natural landscapes. This car-free village offers a delightful glimpse into Swiss heritage, with its painted facades, folk museums, and proximity to hiking trails in the Alpstein mountains.
A brief summary to Appenzell
- Appenzell, CH
- Visit website
Local tips
- Explore the car-free town center on foot to admire the painted facades and local shops.
- Visit the Appenzell Museum to learn about the region's history, folk art, and traditions.
- Take a hike in the Alpstein mountains and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Sample local culinary specialties such as Appenzeller cheese and Biberfladen.
- Attend the Landsgemeinde, the annual open-air vote, for a glimpse into Appenzell's unique democratic tradition.
Getting There
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Public Transport
Appenzell is well-connected by public transport. From Zurich, take a train to Gossau SG, then transfer to a local train to Appenzell. The total journey takes approximately 2 hours. A single ticket from Zurich to Appenzell costs around CHF 27-31. Within Appenzell, the PubliCar, a flexible on-demand bus service, operates in the area of Appenzell Innerrhoden. Bookings can be made via the PubliCar app or online. A surcharge of CHF 5.00 applies in addition to a valid public transport ticket. Appenzell Railways connects the main towns in the area.
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Walking
The village center of Appenzell is car-free and easily walkable. Most attractions are within a 5-minute walk from the center. Follow the signs to reach key locations such as the Landsgemeindeplatz, the Appenzell Museum, and the Parish Church of St. Mauritius.
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Taxi
Taxis are available in Appenzell, but they can be relatively expensive. A short taxi ride within the village costs approximately CHF 15-25. For example, a taxi from Appenzell to Stein costs CHF 45-55 and takes 10 minutes.
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Driving
If driving to Appenzell, be aware of parking restrictions in the village center. Several parking areas are available within a 5-minute walk of the center. Paid parking areas include Brauereiplatz (P1), Hallenbad (P2), Zielplatz (P3), and Neuhof (P4). Parking fees are CHF 1.00 per hour, with a maximum of CHF 8.00 per day. Free parking is available for short periods (up to 1 hour) in the "Blue Zones" with a parking disc. A vignette is required to drive on Swiss highways, costing CHF 40 for the calendar year.
Discover more about Appenzell
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Romantik Hotel Säntis
0.4 km
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and Swiss charm at Romantik Hotel Säntis in Appenzell, where stunning landscapes meet exceptional hospitality.
Bärenbrunnen
0.5 km
Experience the charm of Bärenbrunnen, a historic fountain that reflects the rich culture and beauty of Appenzell, Switzerland.
Appenzell 2024
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes at Appenzell 2024, a charming fairground in the heart of Switzerland.
Appenzeller Huus - Huus Bären
4.6 km
Experience authentic Swiss hospitality at Appenzeller Huus in Gonten, where comfort meets culinary excellence amidst breathtaking mountain views.
Hoher Hirschberg
4.9 km
Experience authentic Swiss cuisine at Hoher Hirschberg in Appenzell, where tradition meets breathtaking mountain views.
Stägestadt St. Gallen Falkenburgweg
9.7 km
Explore the enchanting Stägestadt St. Gallen Falkenburgweg, where nature and culture intertwine in a breathtaking Swiss setting filled with history and charm.
Gallusplatz
10.0 km
Discover the charm of Gallusplatz, a cultural gem in St. Gallen, Switzerland, surrounded by stunning architecture and vibrant public life.
Schreinerstrasse 1
10.1 km
Explore the stunning architectural beauty of Schreinerstrasse 1 in St. Gallen, a historic gem reflecting the city's rich cultural heritage.
St. Gallen Cathedral
10.1 km
Discover the stunning baroque architecture and cultural significance of St. Gallen Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Switzerland.
Charles' Gate
10.1 km
Explore the stunning Charles' Gate, a historical landmark in St. Gallen, Switzerland, showcasing magnificent Gothic architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Abbey of Saint Gall
10.1 km
Explore the Abbey of Saint Gall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing stunning architecture, a historic library, and rich monastic heritage in St. Gallen, Switzerland.
Broderbrunnen
10.2 km
Discover the enchanting Broderbrunnen in St. Gallen, a historical landmark that embodies the city's rich heritage and artistic charm.
Stadt St.Gallen, Rathaus
10.3 km
Explore the iconic Rathaus of St. Gallen, a historic gem showcasing stunning architecture and the essence of Swiss governance.
Vadian Denkmal
10.4 km
Discover the rich history of St. Gallen at Vadian Denkmal, a stunning monument celebrating the city's cultural heritage.
Vadian Monument
10.4 km
Explore the Vadian Monument in St. Gallen, a significant sculpture honoring the city's humanist legacy amidst vibrant local culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Pfeff ond Lischt Weeg
0.3 km
Explore the Pfeff ond Lischt Weeg in Appenzell, a scenic hiking trail showcasing the beauty of Switzerland's landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Skulptur in Appenzell
0.3 km
Explore Skulptur in Appenzell, a captivating outdoor art installation blending creativity with stunning Swiss landscapes for a unique cultural experience.
Reformierte Kirche Appenzell
0.3 km
Explore the stunning Reformierte Kirche Appenzell, a cultural gem reflecting Switzerland's Reformed heritage amidst the beauty of Appenzell.
Appenzellerland Tourismus AI
0.4 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Appenzellerland, Switzerland, a perfect destination for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Appenzell Zentrum
0.4 km
Experience the enchanting blend of culture, tradition, and stunning landscapes in the heart of Appenzell Zentrum, Switzerland.
Alpabfahrten Appenzell
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant traditions and breathtaking beauty of Alpabfahrten in the heart of Appenzell, Switzerland.
Rathaus
0.5 km
Explore the Rathaus of Appenzell, a historic landmark rich in culture, stunning architecture, and the spirit of Swiss democracy.
Museum Appenzell
0.5 km
Explore the captivating history and rich cultural heritage of Appenzell at the Museum Appenzell, a must-visit local history museum.
Pfarrkirche St. Mauritius
0.5 km
Explore the enchanting Pfarrkirche St. Mauritius in Appenzell, a stunning Catholic church rich in history and architectural beauty.
Artefakt, Kunstwerk von Roman Signer
0.6 km
Explore the captivating Artefakt by Roman Signer in Appenzell, where contemporary art meets stunning natural beauty.
Haus Salesis
0.6 km
Explore Haus Salesis, a beautifully preserved historical landmark in Appenzell, Switzerland, showcasing rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture.
Kloster Appenzell
0.6 km
Explore the historic Kloster Appenzell, a stunning Swiss castle that reveals the beauty of Baroque architecture and the charm of Appenzell.
Brauerei Locher AG
0.6 km
Experience the rich brewing heritage of Appenzell at Brauerei Locher AG, where every sip tells a story of Swiss craftsmanship and tradition.
Kunstmuseum in Appenzell
0.8 km
Discover the rich world of Swiss art and culture at the Kunstmuseum in Appenzell, a unique blend of history and modernity.
Kunsthalle Ziegelhütte
1.0 km
Explore contemporary art at Kunsthalle Ziegelhütte in Appenzell, where creativity meets Swiss charm in an inspiring museum experience.
Essential places to dine
Pizzeria Ristorante Terra Rossa
0.0 km
Experience the true taste of Italy at Pizzeria Ristorante Terra Rossa in Appenzell – where delicious food meets warm hospitality.
Migros-Restaurant - Appenzell
0.0 km
Experience delightful buffet dining at Migros-Restaurant in Appenzell - where affordability meets flavor in a cozy atmosphere.
Linde
0.4 km
Experience authentic Swiss cuisine at Linde in Appenzell - where tradition meets taste in every bite.
Restaurant AZADI im Appenzell
0.4 km
Experience the best of Swiss cuisine at Restaurant AZADI in Appenzell - where tradition meets contemporary dining.
Sonne Appenzell
0.4 km
Experience authentic Swiss cuisine at Sonne Appenzell - where tradition meets flavor in a stunning alpine setting.
Restaurant Marktplatz Appenzell
0.4 km
Discover the flavors of Switzerland at Restaurant Marktplatz in Appenzell – where tradition meets taste.
Café-Hotel Appenzell
0.4 km
Experience authentic Swiss cuisine at Café-Hotel Appenzell, where local flavors meet warm hospitality in the heart of picturesque Appenzell.
Restaurant Café Flade
0.4 km
Experience authentic Swiss cuisine at Restaurant Café Flade in Appenzell - where local flavors meet cozy ambiance.
Gasthaus Hof
0.4 km
Discover Swiss charm at Gasthaus Hof - where cozy accommodations meet exquisite European dining in scenic Appenzell.
Gass 17
0.5 km
Discover authentic Swiss cuisine at Gass 17 in Appenzell – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Rössli
0.5 km
Experience authentic Swiss flavors at Rössli in Appenzell – where tradition meets culinary delight.
Hecht Appenzell
0.5 km
Experience authentic Swiss hospitality at Hecht Appenzell, where comfort meets exquisite cuisine in the heart of the Alps.
Adlerhotel
0.6 km
Experience unparalleled Swiss hospitality at Adlerhotel in Appenzell—your gateway to stunning nature and rich culture.
Little Italy Appenzell
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Appenzell at Little Italy – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Alpstein
0.6 km
Discover authentic Swiss cuisine at Alpstein in Appenzell - where tradition meets breathtaking mountain views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
SCOPUS trendstyle
0.1 km
Explore SCOPUS Trendstyle in Appenzell for unique clothing that reflects local culture and contemporary fashion trends.
ZIEL
0.1 km
Explore ZIEL, a charming clothing shop in Appenzell offering unique styles that reflect Swiss culture and craftsmanship.
LANDI Appenzell AG
0.2 km
Explore LANDI Appenzell AG, a charming garden center offering an array of plants, gardening supplies, and Swiss-made goods in the heart of Appenzell.
Kids Store
0.2 km
Explore stylish and comfortable children's clothing at Kids Store in Appenzell, a must-visit for fashion-forward families.
Auslese Barbara
0.3 km
Explore the charming Auslese Barbara gift shop in Appenzell for unique Swiss souvenirs, local crafts, and authentic treasures to remember your visit.
Goldener Modehaus
0.4 km
Discover the elegance of Goldener Modehaus, a premier clothing shop in Appenzell offering stunning dresses and formal wear for every occasion.
Sutter Käse AG
0.4 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Swiss cheese at Sutter Käse AG in Appenzell, where tradition meets taste in every delightful bite.
aaliechtli AG
0.4 km
Discover the allure of nature's gems at aaliechtli AG, a rock shop and jewelry designer in Appenzell offering unique handcrafted treasures.
Streule AG
0.4 km
Discover the charm of Appenzell at Streule AG, a delightful gift shop offering unique home goods and Swiss souvenirs that embody local craftsmanship.
Engel Welt
0.4 km
Discover the charm of Swiss craftsmanship at Engel Welt, a unique shop in Appenzell offering authentic local products and artisanal treasures.
Margreiter AG
0.5 km
Explore Margreiter AG in Appenzell for authentic Swiss fashion and a unique shopping experience that showcases local craftsmanship.
Chocolat Manufacture Appenzell
0.5 km
Discover the sweet essence of Appenzell at Chocolat Manufacture, where artisanal chocolate delights await every visitor.
Bäckerei und Wirtschaft Drei Könige
0.5 km
Experience the authentic taste of Swiss traditions at Bäckerei und Wirtschaft Drei Könige, Appenzell's beloved bakery and eatery.
Säntis Fashion - the spirit of blue jeans
0.5 km
Explore Säntis Fashion in Appenzell, where stylish blue jeans meet quality children's clothing amidst a charming Swiss backdrop.
Pottery & Gallery "zur Hofersäge"
0.5 km
Explore the artistry of handcrafted ceramics and unique gifts at Pottery & Gallery zur Hofersäge in beautiful Appenzell, Switzerland.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Appenzeller Bier
0.0 km
Discover the charm of Appenzeller Bier, a unique bar in Appenzell offering exceptional local brews in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
s'plätzli
0.6 km
Experience the rich flavors of Appenzell at s'plätzli, a charming restaurant offering authentic Swiss cuisine in a cozy setting.
PUB Appenzell
0.7 km
Discover PUB Appenzell, the heart of Irish pub culture in the charming town of Appenzell, Switzerland, where good times and great company await.
Hotel B&B Stossplatz
0.8 km
Experience the charm of Appenzell at Hotel B&B Stossplatz, where comfort meets Swiss culinary delights in a picturesque setting.
waive | bar und events
0.8 km
Discover Waive in Appenzell: A lively bar offering unique events, local drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere for all visitors.
Gin 27
0.8 km
Experience the finest selection of gins in a warm, inviting atmosphere at Gin 27, Appenzell's premier bar destination.
Zistli Stenegg
2.5 km
Experience the charm of Zistli Stenegg, a cozy bar in Appenzell, offering exceptional drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Stau Gais
4.5 km
Discover the warm ambiance and local flavors at Stau Gais, the perfect bar to unwind and connect in Gais, Switzerland.
Einstein Bar
9.9 km
Visit Einstein Bar in St. Gallen for a unique blend of pub and lounge vibes, offering a diverse drink selection and a vibrant atmosphere.
Baracca Bar
9.9 km
Discover Baracca Bar in St. Gallen for a vibrant atmosphere, delicious drinks, and a perfect blend of local culture and nightlife.
Magnum Wine Bar
10.2 km
Explore Magnum Wine Bar in St. Gallen, where exquisite wines meet a cozy atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
The good wave
10.3 km
Discover the vibrant ambiance of The Good Wave, St. Gallen's premier bar offering an exquisite range of drinks and a cozy atmosphere.
LE FUMOIR BAR & LOUNGE
10.3 km
Experience the sophisticated nightlife at Le Fumoir Bar & Lounge in St. Gallen, where exquisite cocktails and a chic ambiance await.
O'Five Pub
10.3 km
Discover the lively O'Five Pub in St. Gallen, where delicious drinks and hearty meals meet a vibrant social atmosphere.
Süd Bar
10.3 km
Discover the charm of Süd Bar in St. Gallen, a cozy bar and café perfect for relaxation and enjoying local flavors.
