Altstatten is a charming town in the Rhine Valley framed by the soaring Swiss Alps. A picturesque Old Town filled with half-timbered houses gives Altstatten a storybook feel. Venture into the mountains to discover rugged peaks, flower-strewn meadows and chocolate-box villages.
Things to do in Altstätten
Wander through the picturesque Old Town, where centuries-old buildings line narrow streets. Half-timbered houses with gable roofs and colourful window shutters add to the fairytale charm. Decorative signs invite you to visit cosy cafes, boutiques and bistros. St. Nicholas Church towers over the Old Town and features decorative stonework and a soaring spire.
Visit Appenzell, a car-free village framed by rolling hills and rugged peaks. Explore the postcard-perfect Old Town and dine in Landsgemeindeplatz, the picturesque village square. Dishes like “rosti” potato pancakes, melted “raclette” cheese and chocolate fondue offer an authentic taste of traditional Swiss mountain culture.
From challenging summit trails to family-friendly walks, it’s easy to immerse yourself in stunning landscapes in Altstatten. Whatever your route, expect breathtaking views of the Rhine Valley and Appenzell Alps. Winter transforms the area into a playground for skiing, snowshoeing and tobogganing.
Spend the day in Dornbirn, a lively city just across the Austrian border. Shop and dine in the bustling centre and visit the family-friendly Rolls-Royce Museum. The city is a gateway to the Rappenlochschlucht hiking area, where you can discover lush, forested canyons and tumbling waterfalls.
Getting around Altstätten
Altstatten is compact and easy to get around on foot. The town is in the Rhine Valley, a 30-minute drive from St Gallen and 1.5 hours from Zurich. Rent a car for the freedom to explore the St. Gallen Rhine Valley at your own pace. Trains run between Altstatten and Zurich in under two hours. Zurich Airport is a 1.5-hour drive away.