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

For first-time visitors, the historic town center of Uzwil is the ideal base, offering easy access to cultural landmarks like the Uzwil Castle and St. Gallen Abbey. Stay at Hotel Alpenhof, a charming lakeside hotel with panoramic views of Lake Zürich and the Appenzell Alps, blending traditional Swiss architecture with modern comfort. The hotel’s signature Appenzell cheese dinner provides an authentic taste of regional cuisine.

Alternatively, Hotel St. Gallen—located just steps from the UNESCO-listed abbey library—is perfect for culture lovers seeking a historic ambiance. Its elegant rooms feature original woodwork and fireplaces, evoking old-world charm. For those interested in nature, Alpenhof’s garden terrace offers serene views, while the nearby hiking trails into the Appenzell region provide unforgettable alpine experiences.

Yes, Uzwil offers several family-friendly hotels with excellent outdoor options. Hotel Alpenhof features a dedicated children’s play area and organizes weekly Swiss farm experience workshops, where kids can milk cows and make cheese—perfect for hands-on learning. The hotel’s garden leads directly to scenic nature trails ideal for family hikes.

Uzwil Castle Hotel boasts a spacious courtyard with a playground and hosts seasonal outdoor events like alfresco picnics and stargazing nights. Families can also explore the nearby Appenzell Nature Reserve, accessible via marked footpaths. All hotels provide free parking, kid-sized amenities, and menus tailored for young palates, ensuring a stress-free and enriching stay.

Hotel Alpenhof and Uzwil Castle Hotel both offer direct access to pristine nature trails. From Hotel Alpenhof, guests can step out onto private paths leading to the Appenzell Forest Trail, where deer and wildflowers thrive. Seasonal activities include kayaking on Lake Zürich and winter snowshoeing through pine forests.

Uzwil Castle Hotel sits within a protected woodland zone, surrounded by ancient oaks. Its on-site trail map includes guided walks to hidden waterfalls and birdwatching spots. The hotel also rents out hiking poles and provides eco-guides, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts seeking immersive wilderness experiences right outside their door.

Visitors to Uzwil can enjoy unique cultural experiences rooted in its heritage. The St. Gallen Abbey Library tour offers a glimpse into one of the world’s oldest collections, housing over 160,000 manuscripts—including the famed Gospels Codex. Each summer, the Appenzell Folk Festival celebrates traditional crafts like embroidery, wood carving, and folk music, with interactive workshops where guests can create woolen shawls or wooden toys.

The Uzwil Castle Museum hosts rotating exhibitions such as "Medieval Life Reconstructed," featuring life-size replicas of market stalls and artisan workshops. These immersive experiences provide deep insight into northeastern Switzerland’s rich cultural tapestry, blending history, artistry, and community tradition.

Tourists visiting Uzwil must try Appenzell cheese fondue at Hotel Alpenhof, made with locally sourced milk and served with dark rye bread. Another must-try is Uzwiler Spätzli Suppe—handcrafted egg noodles simmered in slow-cooked chicken broth, delivering a rich, comforting flavor.

For an authentic experience, book a farm-to-table dinner hosted by a local family. Dishes include smoked lamb, wild mushroom risotto, and homemade apple wine, all prepared using organic produce from the surrounding farms. Every meal emphasizes sustainability and regional authenticity, showcasing the heart of northeastern Swiss cuisine.

Yes, Uzwil is well-connected by public transport. The central train station offers frequent services to St. Gallen, Zürich, and St. Gallen Airport, with travel times ranging from 20 to 45 minutes. The town center is highly walkable, with key attractions like Uzwil Castle, St. Gallen Abbey, and the lake promenade within a 15-minute walk.

An extensive public bus network covers the entire municipality and extends into rural Appenzell regions, providing access to nature reserves and mountain trails. Most hotels offer free parking and EV charging stations, making it convenient for self-drive travelers. Overall, Uzwil’s efficient transit system ensures seamless access to urban and natural destinations.