Altnau(Switzerland) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Altstätten, the standout boutique stay is Hotel Alte Schmiede, a meticulously restored 18th-century blacksmith’s forge transformed into a design-forward retreat. Its exposed stone walls, original wooden beams, and floor-to-ceiling windows offer panoramic views of the Rhine River and surrounding hills. Each room blends antique elements with modern comforts, including locally crafted furniture and smart lighting systems. The hotel also hosts seasonal culinary events featuring Toggenburg regional cuisine, such as rye bread with goat cheese and slow-cooked beef stew. Another gem is Gasthof zum Rössli, a family-run inn with over a century of history, known for its warm hospitality and traditional Swiss breakfasts. Both properties are centrally located, just steps from the Altstätten Castle and the town’s charming pedestrian zone.

The Old Town (Altstadt) is the prime district for lodging in Altstätten. Nestled along the Rhine River, it offers quiet cobblestone streets, well-preserved 19th-century architecture, and easy access to local cafés, artisan shops, and the weekly farmers’ market. Staying here means waking up to river sounds and enjoying a peaceful evening stroll under soft streetlights. The area is also strategically positioned near the SBB railway station, making it simple to travel to Zurich or St. Gallen within 30–45 minutes. Opt for a riverside guesthouse or boutique B&B for the most authentic experience, where you can savor morning coffee while watching sunlight dance on the water.

Altstätten hosts several distinctive cultural events. The annual Altstätten Music Festival takes place in summer at the Castle Garden, featuring classical, jazz, and folk performances by local and international artists. The Toggenburg Museum showcases regional heritage through exhibits on farming tools, traditional textiles, and vintage household items. Every Saturday, the Town Market brings together local farmers and artisans selling fresh dairy, homemade jam, and hand-carved wooden souvenirs. For architecture lovers, guided tours of the 17th-century Town Hall reveal original murals and oak-beamed interiors. These experiences provide deep insight into the heart of Eastern Switzerland’s rural traditions.

Try rye bread with goat cheese (Schwarzbrot mit Ziegenkäse), a staple at local tables, often served with pickled vegetables. Another highlight is cinnamon roll with apple sauce (Zimtschnecke mit Apfelmus) from the historic Bäckerei Hug, renowned for its flaky crust and rich filling. At Restaurant Zur Post, order the Swiss-style beef stew (Rösti mit Fleischsauce) made with pasture-raised beef and seasonal produce. For a true home-cooked meal, book a family dinner (Hausmannskost) hosted by a local household—expect dishes like smoked pork, mashed potatoes, and sauerkraut soup. All meals emphasize organic, regional ingredients, reflecting the values of Toggenburg’s sustainable food culture.

Absolutely. Altstätten is a family-friendly destination with numerous child-oriented attractions. The Rhine River Playground features sand pits, slides, and climbing structures, all set against scenic river views. The Altstätten Castle offers interactive storytelling tours for kids, complete with medieval costumes and treasure hunts. The Nature Discovery Trail (Naturlehrpfad) includes illustrated signs teaching children about native plants and wildlife. Weekly workshops—such as pottery, wood carving, and baking—are led by local artists. Most restaurants provide high chairs and kid-friendly menus, and hotels like Hotel Alte Schmiede offer playrooms and evening storytime. With low traffic and safe pathways, families can explore freely and relax in a tranquil setting.

Altstätten is easily reachable via public transit. It lies on the SBB rail line between Aarau and Basel, with direct trains from Zurich Airport (ZRH) taking just 30–45 minutes. The Altstätten Railway Station is located steps from the town center. Within the town, an extensive network of pedestrian and bike paths makes walking or cycling convenient. Electric bikes are available for rent along the Rhine Greenway, ideal for scenic rides. For drivers, the A1 motorway exit provides quick access, with multiple public parking lots nearby. Additionally, TGK buses connect Altstätten to nearby villages. International travelers can fly into Zurich Airport and take a train or shuttle service directly to the town.

The Rhine River is the centerpiece of Altstätten’s natural beauty, offering over 5 kilometers of eco-friendly walking trails perfect for all seasons. In spring, wildflowers bloom along the banks; summer invites kayaking and fishing; autumn paints the landscape gold; winter reveals frozen river formations. Behind the Castle, the forest path leads to ancient oak groves with birdwatching platforms and sightings of red squirrels and white-tailed eagles. For panoramic views, climb the Church Bell Tower, which overlooks the entire valley. The vineyards south of town are among the few still cultivating traditional grape varieties in Toggenburg, hosting harvest festivals where visitors can participate in wine-making. Together, these landscapes define Altstätten as a riverside haven of biodiversity.

Couples will love strolling the Rhine River Promenade at dusk, where soft lights reflect on the water and the air is filled with calm. Book a private suite at Hotel Alte Schmiede with a riverside balcony for a candlelit dinner under the stars. The Castle Garden Summer Concerts are particularly magical—live music performed under open skies with the river as a backdrop. For a personalized surprise, arrange a private guided tour through the old town, where local guides share tales of love and legend. Another intimate option: send a handwritten postcard at the historic post office, using vintage stamps, and have it mailed to a loved one far away—a heartfelt gesture that lingers long after the trip.

For authentic local crafts, visit the Market Square every Sunday, where vendors sell handmade wool scarves, carved wooden animals, and natural soap. Bäckerei Hug offers limited-edition bread and jam gift boxes—perfect for souvenirs. Atelier Klee specializes in unique ceramics and woven bags designed by regional artists, each piece one-of-a-kind. The Galerie Altstätten displays contemporary Swiss art, including paintings, prints, and sculptures, many of which can be customized. All shops accept cash and cards, and staff often speak German and English, sharing stories behind each creation. Shopping here isn’t just about buying—it’s about connecting with Toggenburg’s creative soul.

Altstätten shines throughout the year. In spring, join the Easter Egg Hunt, where children follow clues across the town to find chocolate prizes. Summer brings the Altstätten Music Festival, a three-week celebration with concerts in the Castle Garden, outdoor films, and a vibrant market. Autumn’s Harvest Festival (Erntedankfest) honors the season with parades, traditional dances, and displays of local crops. Winter transforms the town into a festive wonderland during the Christmas Market, where wooden huts sell mulled wine, gingerbread, and handmade ornaments under twinkling lights. In May, the Flower Festival (Blumenfest) decorates streets with hanging baskets and flower arrangements—guests receive seeds as keepsakes. These events ensure Altstätten remains lively and enchanting year-round.