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

In Steinau, recommend staying at Hotel Alpenblick, a family-oriented hotel nestled in the scenic Thurgau countryside near the Steinau River. The spacious family rooms feature modern amenities and panoramic views of the Alpine valley. The hotel offers a kids' playroom, outdoor garden, and daily breakfast buffet with local organic produce. Guests can easily walk to the village market and historic town center, while nearby hiking and biking trails provide outdoor adventures. Perfect for families seeking comfort, nature, and authentic Swiss charm.

The historic town center of Steinau is the ideal area for lodging. Located just steps from the St. Martin Church and Town Hall, it offers easy access to shops, restaurants, and public transit. This quiet, safe neighborhood is perfect for exploring local life. Stay at Gasthof Rössli, a beautifully restored 19th-century inn with original wooden carvings and modern comforts. Its central location provides quick access to Lake Zurich (30 minutes by car) and scenic trails, making it an excellent base for both relaxation and discovery.

Don’t miss the annual Alpabzug (Alpine Cattle Drive) festival in summer, a cherished tradition showcasing local pastoral life. Watch herds of cattle led by farmers in traditional attire descending from high pastures through the old town square, accompanied by folk music and dance. Visit the local wool craft workshop for guided tours and hands-on weaving sessions. For nature lovers, join a guided Aare River kayaking tour to discover hidden waterfalls and pristine ecosystems in the surrounding forested valleys.

The most photogenic spots in Steinau include St. Martin Church, with its striking Gothic spire and pink stone façade, especially stunning at golden hour. The Steinau River Pathway is another favorite—lined with cherry trees and oaks, it’s perfect for springtime photos. For panoramic shots, head to Eilbacher Berg hill, where you can capture sweeping views of the Thurgau plain and distant Alps. Sunset here creates dramatic lighting, making it a must-visit for photographers seeking natural beauty and serenity.

Yes, Hotel Berggasthof Krummhörn offers a truly romantic stay. This boutique mountain lodge features private terrace suites with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Aare Valley. Each room includes a fireplace and premium bedding. Enjoy a couples’ dinner with local wine and artisanal chocolate, or unwind in the outdoor hot tub under the stars. Every couple receives a hand-written love note and fresh wildflowers. Ideal for honeymooners or anniversary getaways seeking intimacy and breathtaking scenery.

Yes, Steinau is well-connected despite being a small town. The Steinau Train Station links directly to Zurich Hauptbahnhof, with frequent services taking just 30 minutes. Multiple bus lines connect to other towns like Frauenfeld and Chur. Electric bike rentals are widely available at stations throughout town, ideal for exploring the Aare River or Bregenz Forest. Car travelers will appreciate the large parking lot outside the town and quick access to the A1 motorway (15-minute drive).

Try authentic Swiss regional dishes such as cheese fondue and sauerkraut pork schnitzel, made with fresh local ingredients. Dine at Gasthaus Alte Mühle, a century-old restaurant housed in a former mill, known for its wood-fired stews and house-made bread. Don’t miss Mehlbeerenwasser, a traditional berry-and-malt drink, served with desserts like nut cake (Nussstollen). Seasonal events include the Farmer’s Table Dinner, where guests experience farm-to-table dining with stories from local producers.

Spend 2 to 3 days to fully enjoy Steinau. Day one: explore the church, town square, and craft market. Day two: hike along the Aare River Trail or attend the Alpabzug festival. Day three: visit the Bregenz Forest or relax by the river. For deeper immersion, extend to 4 days to include a wool workshop or overnight stay in a mountain hut. Even a one-day trip works well for visiting key attractions and tasting local food.

Hostel Alpenblick is the top choice for backpackers in Steinau. Located near the old town entrance, it offers dorm rooms and private beds with shared kitchen, laundry, and free Wi-Fi. The minimalist design uses recycled wood, and the common lounge hosts regular city walking tours and language exchange events. Weekends feature themed dinners at low cost. Just a 5-minute walk from the train station and main eateries, it’s ideal for budget travelers who don’t want to compromise on location or community.

Steinau transforms dramatically each season: in spring, cherry blossoms bloom along the Steinau River, and meadows fill with wildflowers; summer brings lush greenery and lively alpine cattle drives; autumn paints the hillsides red and gold, especially at Eilbacher Berg; winter turns the town into a snowy paradise, with Christmas markets glowing at night and warm drinks like mulled wine and roasted chestnuts. No matter the time of year, the charm of rural Switzerland shines through.