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

In Sankt Gallen, the top choice for families is Steinbach Thermal Hotel, offering panoramic views of Lake Lucerne and featuring indoor-outdoor thermal pools, children’s play zones, and direct access to the Müren Cable Car. The hotel serves traditional Swiss-German breakfasts and offers guided hikes through the Reuss Valley Trail. Ideal for a peaceful yet enriching family getaway in the heart of the Alps.

The historic city center is ideal for first-time visitors, located just steps from St. Maternus Church and Old Town Square. This walkable district boasts charming local shops, authentic Swiss eateries, and easy access to public transport. From here, you can explore scenic trails along the Reuss River, take a lakeside ferry ride at sunset, or visit nearby cultural landmarks—perfect for travelers seeking authenticity and convenience.

Must-try experiences include visiting the Canton of St. Gallen Museum, showcasing intricate woodcarvings and Alpine pastoral traditions. Attend the annual Alpine Sheep Festival in summer to witness real herding practices, try making local cheese, and dress up in traditional attire. In the evening, enjoy a hearty Swiss sauerkraut pork stew at a cozy old-town tavern to immerse yourself in rural Swiss life.

The Reuss River Source Trail is a photographer’s dream, where misty mornings mirror snow-capped peaks and pine forests on glassy waters—perfect for long-exposure shots. Another prime location is the Bregenz Ridge Viewpoint, offering sweeping vistas of Lake Lucerne and the distant Bernina Range. Bring a tripod and polarizing filter to capture dramatic sunsets and layered mountain silhouettes.

Must-try dishes include Graubünden Cheese Fondue, made with locally produced Aelfenschnitze cheese, served with toasted bread. Don’t miss rye bread with honey butter, available at the Old Town Market. For a hands-on experience, join a farm lunch workshop to make Swiss Rösti and lemon cream cake, learning about regional culinary heritage firsthand.

Consider staying at Lac du Ciel Boutique Lodge, a secluded retreat on the western shore of Lake Lucerne. With only 30 rooms, each features floor-to-ceiling windows, private terraces, and Nordic-modern interiors blending with traditional timber architecture. The lodge offers free e-bike rentals and exclusive guided tours—ideal for solo explorers seeking tranquility and design-conscious comfort.

Winter highlights include skiing at Müren Ski Resort, enjoying well-groomed runs, and joining guided snowshoe treks through pristine alpine forests. Visit the Ice Lantern Festival to admire hand-carved ice sculptures lit by warm glow. Some hotels even offer ice kayaking on frozen lake sections—experience serene gliding under starlit skies.

Take a direct SBB train from Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Sankt Gallen Train Station, a convenient 80-minute journey with frequent departures. Book tickets in advance via the SBB app for student or group discounts. Upon arrival, rent an electric bike and follow the Reuss River Promenade into town—passing century-old wooden bridges and wildflower meadows—for a scenic, eco-friendly transfer.

Don’t miss St. Maternus Church, a 14th-century Gothic cathedral with stunning stained glass and carved altars. Also visit the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus), a red-brick structure with a pointed spire reflecting classic Central Swiss architecture. Guided tours reveal insights into the region’s autonomous history and canton assembly traditions.

Sankt Gallen’s nightlife is calm and intimate. Enjoy a local Swiss dark beer and live folk music at Altstadt Kneipe. Some hotels feature starlight bars with non-alcoholic cocktails and stargazing sessions. For a lively evening, join weekend lakeside bonfire gatherings—a warm, communal way to connect with fellow travelers under the Alpine sky.