Appenzell is a chocolate-box village set in the foothills of the Alpstein mountains. Stroll around the historic centre filled with brightly painted wooden houses and visit a museum dedicated to alpine folklore. The hiking is incredible, with trails winding through the mountains and immersing you in the postcard-perfect alpine landscapes.
Things to do in Appenzell
The Altstadt feels like stepping into a storybook. Stroll along streets lined with gingerbread-style houses painted in bright colours. Hand-painted shop signs and balconies overflowing with flowers add to the fairy-tale charm. Find some of the prettiest buildings clustered around Landsgemeindeplatz, the picturesque main square.
Learn about alpine culture and traditions at the Appenzeller Volkskunde Museum. The folklore museum offers a fascinating glimpse of life in rural Switzerland. The collection features everything from agricultural tools to traditional embroidery. Attend weaving workshops, cheesemaking demonstrations and other interactive events in the summer months.
Hiking trails and cable cars make it easy to explore the mountains surrounding Appenzell. Get lost in a patchwork of rolling green hills and wildflower-filled meadows. Santis Peak is one of the tallest in the region and treats you to panoramic views over the countryside. Ride the cable car to the summit or work up a sweat on the steep hiking trail. Hohe Kasten is another popular hike and features spectacular views over the Rhine valley. Winter snowfall transforms the countryside into prime cross-country skiing territory.
The tiny village of Werdenberg is one of the oldest settlements in Switzerland. It’s an easy day trip from Appenzell and features dozens of adorable timber houses set beneath a centuries-old castle. Get up to speed on local history at the museum and enjoy lunch at the bistro in the castle courtyard.
Getting around Appenzell
Appenzell is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. The Altstadt is car-free, with parking available on the outskirts of the village. The village is a one-hour drive from Zurich and two hours by train. Zurich Airport is a 1.5-hour drive away.