Tonhalle St. Gallen: A Symphony of Art Nouveau and Music
Experience world-class music and stunning Art Nouveau architecture at the Tonhalle St. Gallen, a cultural gem in the heart of St. Gallen.
The Tonhalle St. Gallen, located on Museumstrasse 25, stands as a beacon of culture in St. Gallen, Switzerland. This architectural jewel, built between 1906 and 1909, is celebrated as the most beautiful concert hall in the Lake Constance region. Its design showcases the Art Nouveau style with Baroque attributes, featuring a revolutionary reinforced concrete frame by Robert Maillart. The Tonhalle has a rich history, hosting renowned guest orchestras and conductors like Arthur Nikisch, Richard Strauss, and Arturo Toscanini in its early years. Othmar Schoeck served as the conductor of symphony concerts from 1917 to 1944, further establishing the hall's musical legacy. The building has served various purposes throughout its existence, including as a temporary military hospital during World War I. A significant renovation in the early 1990s enlarged the stage and improved facilities, reopening in May 1993. The concert hall offers several spaces, including the Grosser Saal 1+2, which seats 891, and the Kleiner Saal, which seats 173. The Intermezzo, located on the ground floor, is suitable for smaller events. The Tonhalle is not only a concert venue but also a center for conferences and banquets, offering in-house catering from the Restaurant Concerto. It is conveniently located near the city center and other attractions, making it an ideal stop for visitors exploring St. Gallen. Accessibility is a priority, with barrier-free access via Cityparking Brühltor and elevators to the foyer and hall. The hall also provides wheelchair spaces and an accessible restroom. For those with hearing impairments, an infrared hearing system is available.
Local tips
- Book tickets in advance, especially for popular performances, to secure the best seats.
- Arrive early to explore the venue's beautiful architecture and enjoy a pre-show drink.
- Check the concert schedule online for special events or guest performances.
- Combine your visit with a stroll around St. Gallen's Old Town, rich in history and charm.
A brief summary to Tonhalle St. Gallen
- Museumstrasse 25, St Gallen, 9000, CH
- +41712420606
- Visit website
Getting There
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Walking
From the St. Gallen train station, walk east along Bahnhofstrasse for approximately 900 meters. Turn left onto Museumstrasse and walk for another 200 meters. The Tonhalle St. Gallen will be on your right at Museumstrasse 25.
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Public Transport
From St. Gallen train station, take VBSG bus routes 5 or 9 to the 'St. Gallen, Kunstmuseum' stop. From there, walk west on Museumstrasse for about 50 meters to reach the Tonhalle. A single fare for a short trip is around CHF 2.30-3.00.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available at the St. Gallen train station. A short taxi ride to Tonhalle St. Gallen will cost approximately CHF 15-25, depending on traffic and time of day.
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Parking
The closest parking to Tonhalle St. Gallen is Cityparking Brühltor at Torstrasse 12. From the parking garage, there is a direct underground access to Tonhalle. Parking rates are CHF 2.00 for the first hour and CHF 1.00 per 30 minutes thereafter during the day (7:00-24:00). Evening rates (24:00-7:00) are CHF 1.20 for the first hour and CHF 0.60 per 30 minutes thereafter. A day pass (24 hours) costs CHF 25.00.
