Best Things to Do In Sankt Gallen
Embark on a journey of cultural enlightenment and visual splendour through the historic city of Sankt Gallen with our curated audio tours.
Sankt Gallen: St. Laurenzen Church
What is it?
A prominent church in the city center known for its striking architecture.
Why you should go?
The St. Laurenzen Church stands as a beacon of historical significance and architectural beauty in Sankt Gallen. Visitors can immerse themselves in the peaceful ambiance of its intricate interior through an audio guide which narrates the church's role in the religious and social life of the city. With its grand organ and stained glass windows, it showcases a blend of gothic and neoclassical styles, ranking it highly on the list of what to do in Sankt Gallen for art and history enthusiasts.
Sankt Gallen: Kunst Halle Sankt Gallen
What is it?
A vibrant center for contemporary art, hosting cutting-edge exhibitions and installations.
Why you should go?
The Kunst Halle Sankt Gallen provides a platform for innovative artistic expressions, compelling visitors to reflect on modern societal themes. It is one of the places to visit in Sankt Gallen to discover thought-provoking works by emerging and established artists. The changing exhibitions ensure that each visit is distinct, offering new insights and experiences to art aficionados. Its dynamic atmosphere makes it one of the exciting Sankt Gallen activities for culturally curious minds.
Sankt Gallen: Sankt Gallen Botanical Garden
What is it?
An enchanting botanical garden with a diverse collection of flora from various climates.
Why you should go?
Boasting an array of exotic and native plants, the Sankt Gallen Botanical Garden is a verdant sanctuary where nature lovers can indulge in the wonders of botany. Audio tours provide fascinating insights into the plant species and their ecosystems, making this one of the most educational and best things to do in Sankt Gallen. It’s an ideal spot for relaxation, nature walks, and photography, providing a peaceful escape from the urban hustle.
Sankt Gallen: Roter Platz
What is it?
A vibrant public square known for its distinctive red pavement and contemporary art.
Why you should go?
Roter Platz, or the Red Square, brings a splash of color and artistic flair to the cityscape of Sankt Gallen. This unconventional urban space often hosts performances and community events, and its unique design by Swiss artist Pipilotti Rist has become an iconic city landmark. Whether you're capturing its quirky atmosphere through a lens or enjoying the social buzz, it's undoubtedly one of the fun things to do in Sankt Gallen.
Sankt Gallen: Drei Weieren
What is it?
A picturesque area with scenic bathing ponds and relaxing recreation spots.
Why you should go?
Also known as the Three Ponds, Drei Weieren is a locale that promises tranquility and leisure in an idyllic setting. As part of Sankt Gallen excursions, visitors can engage in swimming, sunbathing, and hiking around the ponds, all while enjoying the stunning views of the city below. The area's historical significance as a public bathing spot adds a layer of cultural context to the visit, making it an enriching experience not to be missed.
Sankt Gallen: Abbey of Saint Gall
What is it?
An 8th-century abbey featuring a baroque cathedral and a renowned historical library.
Why you should go?
This architectural masterpiece enthralls visitors with its breathtaking frescoes and stucco designs. Being a pinnacle of things to do in Sankt Gallen, it offers a unique glimpse into the monastic life of yore. The library, one of the best places to visit in Sankt Gallen, houses a priceless collection of medieval texts, making it a haven for history buffs and literary enthusiasts alike. It is an experience that entwines spiritual, cultural, and intellectual discovery.
Sankt Gallen: Old Town
What is it?
The historic heart of the city with picturesque streets and quaint squares.
Why you should go?
A visit to the Old Town is indisputably among the best things to do in Sankt Gallen. As you wander through the cobblestone avenues, the audio guide will transport you back in time with stories of ancient guilds and legendary locals. From ornate bay windows to frescoed facades, each corner tells a story, making it one of the most immersive Sankt Gallen activities for history lovers and photographers seeking the spirit of the city.
Sankt Gallen: Textile Museum
What is it?
A museum dedicated to the region's rich textile industry and artistry.
Why you should go?
Engage with the legacy of Sankt Gallen's textile prowess, one of the defining things to see in Sankt Gallen. The museum presents an intricate collection of fabrics, garments, and lacework that narrates the economic and social history threaded into the city’s development. Its interactive displays and special exhibitions offer a perfect mixture of education and entertainment for visitors of all ages, making it a highlight among Sankt Gallen excursions.
Sankt Gallen: Stadtpark
What is it?
A tranquil urban park offering lush greenery and peaceful walking paths.
Why you should go?
For those wondering what to do in Sankt Gallen to unwind, Stadtpark is an oasis of calm. Ideal for leisurely walks, picnics, and listening to the melodic birdsong, the park's well-manicured lawns and blooming flower beds provide a refreshing contrast to the bustling cityscape. Engaging with nature here stands out as one of the top fun things to do in Sankt Gallen for both locals and visitors seeking a serene retreat.
Sankt Gallen: Three Ponds
What is it?
An idyllic natural area with three water bodies and panoramic city views.
Why you should go?
Among the Sankt Gallen tours, an excursion to the Three Ponds offers an escape into the city's verdant outskirts. This natural haven enchants with its still waters and rich biodiversity, ideal for photography and outdoor activities. The tranquil environment coupled with striking vistas of Sankt Gallen make it a top destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. It's a genuine treasure for visitors aiming to experience the natural beauty surrounding the city.
TOP-5 tours in Sankt Gallen for first time visitors
- Explore the renowned Abbey of Saint Gall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with an audio tour that delves into its impressive library and baroque architecture, making it one of the essential things to see in Sankt Gallen.
- Dive into the local culture with a stroll through the old town, where the audio guide illuminates hidden gems and recounts tales behind ancient facades, a quintessential what to see in Sankt Gallen experience.
- Experience the Textile Museum's audio journey, highlighting a tradition integral to the region, which stands out among Sankt Gallen activities for its rich industrial heritage.
- Take a relaxing audio-guided walk in the Stadtpark, a serene haven in the city. Learn about the park's history and its role in the list of fun things to do in Sankt Gallen.
- Conclude with an excursion to the Three Ponds, offering panoramic views and cultural insights, making it one of the best Sankt Gallen tours for nature enthusiasts seeking tranquility.
Fun things to do in Sankt Gallen with kids
Embarking on a Sankt Gallen tour with younger adventurers? This city boasts an array of attractions sure to captivate the hearts of children. Engage them with the wonders of the universe at the Sankt Gallen Planetarium, where stars and galaxies come alive with impressive shows that are both educational and magical. For a breath of fresh air and play in the lush outdoors, the city's Walter Zoo immerses families in wildlife encounters and live performances, ranking high as a fun activity in Sankt Gallen. Don't miss the city's charming toy museum, Spielzeugmuseum, which reveals the playful history of toys through the ages and provides an interactive experience that sparks joy and curiosity in children and parents alike. These spots not only satisfy the quest for family-friendly things to do in Sankt Gallen but also create lasting memories while learning and exploring together.
Things to do in Sankt Gallen with family
Sankt Gallen unfolds as an exceptional destination for a family escapade, offering an array of activities that span from cultural to outdoor adventures. Begin with the Peter und Paul Wildlife Park, a serene spot where wild deer and boars roam. It's an ideal place for a family picnic and one of those Sankt Gallen activities where everyone can connect with nature and fascinating wildlife. For a touch of history, step into the enchanting world of the St. Gallen Cathedral, featuring audio tours that capture the imaginations of both young and old with stories woven into the fabric of this historic structure. Lastly, the city's Mühleggbahn, a quaint funicular, takes you on a scenic ride up to the Drei Weieren area – a recreational paradise with public pools and playgrounds set against panoramic vistas, ensuring entertaining things to do in Sankt Gallen for the entire family.
Free things to do in Sankt Gallen
Discover Sankt Gallen without spending a franc with activities rich in culture and natural beauty. Wander through the old city's cobblestoned streets, and marvel at the numerous bay windows, which are both an architectural wonder and a photographer's delight, making it one of the most engaging places to visit in Sankt Gallen for no cost. The city's green heart, Stadtpark, is a picturesque venue for leisure walks, bird watching, and soaking in the tranquility amidst lush flora—a perfect addition to any list of free things to do in Sankt Gallen. Meanwhile, history aficionados can delve into the fascinating past of the region with a self-guided tour of the city's historical murals and statues that dot the public areas, offering both education and entertainment. These attractions provide a wealth of experiences that prove exploring Sankt Gallen activities need not come with a price tag.
Cheap things to do in Sankt Gallen
Those seeking budget-friendly experiences will find Sankt Gallen a treasure trove of affordable attractions. Immerse in the city's vibrant history with a visit to the St. Gallen Cathedral, where for a small donation, visitors can enjoy the majestic beauty of this baroque masterpiece. It's an opportunity laden with spiritual and aesthetic moments, making it top the list of what to do in Sankt Gallen. For a modest fee, step in time at the Historical and Ethnological Museum, where diverse collections bring to life the rich cultural tapestry of the region. This is an ideal pick among Sankt Gallen activities for history buffs keen on learning without spending much. Lastly, indulge in the city's picturesque natural surroundings with a hike up to the Freudenberg Castle ruins. The journey and the ruins themselves are free, offering panoramic views and a slice of history at no cost, thus rounding up the best things to do in Sankt Gallen on a budget.
Things to do in Sankt Gallen for couples
Sankt Gallen offers a romantic backdrop for couples seeking to create memorable moments. Stroll hand in hand through the idyllic paths of the Stadtpark, where vibrant flowers and lush greenery provide the perfect setting for a tranquil escape. For culture-loving pairs, a visit to the Abbey District, with its stunning Abbey Library boasting intricate woodwork and ancient manuscripts, is undeniably one of the best activities in Sankt Gallen, offering a peaceful yet intellectually stimulating atmosphere. As evening approaches, couples can climb up to the hill of the Three Ponds, where the twinkling city lights and starry skies craft a picturesque panorama. This serene spot is a prime choice among things to do in Sankt Gallen for an atmospheric end to a day of exploration. Each of these attractions presents an opportunity for couples to discover the charm of Sankt Gallen while enjoying each other's company.
Things to do in Sankt Gallen at night
As dusk settles over Sankt Gallen, the city reveals a vibrant nocturnal charm. Start the evening at the Textilmuseum's late-night openings, where fashion and history seamlessly blend, offering a unique cultural experience among the things to do in Sankt Gallen at night. For a taste of local nightlife, visit the eclectic bars and pubs in the Old Town, providing an intimate setting for fine drinks and lively conversation—a perfect activity for night owls and social butterflies alike. Lastly, no nocturnal tour of Sankt Gallen is complete without admiring the lit-up architectural wonders like the Cathedral, a sight that adds a serene splendor to the cityscape after dark. This iconic monument, bathed in soft lights, stands as a beacon, enhancing the magic of Sankt Gallen tours for those who relish the city's heritage under the cloak of night.