My Ultimate Guide to Appenzell: Top 12 Wonderful Things to Do

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For me, Appenzell looks like someone took every Swiss fairytale and turned it into reality. From watching traditional cheese making at the Schaukäserei (trying SO hard not to eat all the samples) to hiking through actual Alpine meadows with Mount Säntis towering above, this place had me pinching myself to make sure it was real.

The things to do in Appenzell are just magical. Whether you’re tasting local beer at Brauerei Locher or wandering past those adorable painted buildings in town, this tiny slice of Switzerland feels like stepping into a storybook. Trust me, skip the big cities…let me show you why this little Alpine wonderland completely stole my heart.

My Ultimate Appenzell Itinerary at a Glance

Planning your first visit to Appenzell? Here’s your quick-hit list to help you soak in the best of this fairytale Swiss village…whether you’re into jaw-dropping hikes, storybook streets, or cheese straight from the source.

• Best Panoramic Viewpoint: Ebenalp Mountain
• Cutest Town Stroll: Appenzell Town Center
• Most Scenic Meal: Aescher Cliff Restaurant
• Top Alpine Lake Experience: Lake Seealpsee
• Most Iconic Hike: Shäfler Ridge Hike
• Best Cheese Experience: Appenzeller Schaukäserei
• Top Cultural Gem: Appenzell Museum
• Coolest Natural Wonder: Wildkirchli Caves
• Best Traditional Festival: Alpabzug in Appenzell
• Prettiest Valley Vibes: Seealpsee Valley
• Top Scenic Train Ride: Appenzeller Bahnen
• Hidden Gem District: Schwende District

Here’s how I’d do it: spend two nights in town to explore the museum, cheese dairy, and local cafés, then use Wasserauen as your launchpad for mountain adventures like Ebenalp and Seealpsee. Trust me, you’ll feel like you walked into a living postcard.

1. Ebenalp Mountain

Ebenalp Mountain is a dream for nature lovers, offering sweeping views and unforgettable alpine adventures. Whether you’re taking the cable car from Wasserauen or hiking up through wildflower-strewn trails, reaching the summit feels like stepping into a postcard. At 1,640 meters, the mountain provides breathtaking vistas of the Alpstein region, with rugged cliffs and rolling green hills stretching as far as the eye can see.

One of the coolest stops here is Berggasthaus Ebenalp, a mountaintop inn serving hearty Swiss meals—perfect after a hike. Nearby, the Wildkirchli Caves add a touch of history, home to a centuries-old hermit chapel and prehistoric artifacts. I took the cable car up and couldn’t stop snapping photos—the views were unreal. Whether you’re up for a challenging hike or just want to soak in the scenery, Ebenalp Mountain is an experience you won’t forget.

2. Appenzell Town Center

Appenzell’s town center feels like a storybook village, with vibrant, hand-painted buildings, flower-adorned balconies, and cobblestone streets. The pedestrian-friendly square, Landsgemeindeplatz, is a focal point where locals once gathered for open-air voting, a tradition still honored today. As you stroll through the boutique shops and bakeries, you’ll find Swiss handicrafts, handmade chocolates, and locally produced Appenzeller cheese. Every corner of the town bursts with charm, from intricately designed signs to wooden carvings decorating storefronts.

I stopped at Café-Hotel Appenzell for a slice of Appenzeller Biber, a spiced gingerbread filled with honey and nuts, and watched the town’s leisurely pace unfold. Nearby, a cheesemonger offered samples of aged Appenzeller cheese, known for its herbal brine and bold flavors. Whether browsing shops, sipping coffee on a terrace, or admiring the town’s artistry, the colorful streets of Appenzell’s historic center make it a must-visit for any traveler.

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3. Aescher Cliff Restaurant

Perched dramatically against a sheer rock face, Aescher Cliff Restaurant is one of Switzerland’s most breathtaking dining spots. Part of Berggasthaus Aescher, a historic mountain inn, this legendary eatery draws travelers for both its traditional Swiss fare and jaw-dropping location. The journey begins with a cable car ride up Ebenalp, followed by a scenic 20-minute hike past Wildkirchli Caves and a centuries-old rock chapel. As you approach, the inn and restaurant appear impossibly nestled against the cliffs.

I grabbed a seat on the wooden terrace, where the Alpstein mountains stretched endlessly before me. Their crispy Rösti, topped with melted Appenzeller cheese, was the perfect post-hike reward. Inside, the cozy inn features rustic wooden beams, vintage photos, and warm candlelight, offering a place for travelers to stay overnight. Whether you’re here for the food, the views, or an overnight stay in the historic inn, Aescher Cliff Restaurant is an unforgettable experience.

4. Lake Seealpsee

Nestled in the heart of the Alpstein mountains, Lake Seealpsee is an alpine paradise with emerald waters, grassy meadows, and jagged peaks towering above. The steep, one-hour hike from Wasserauen is a bit of a workout, but the scenery along the way—Swiss farmhouses, grazing cows, and mountain views—makes it worth every step. The well-marked path winds through rolling pastures, where you’ll hear cowbells echoing through the valley.

I brought a picnic and found a perfect spot by the water, watching hikers cool off in the refreshing lake while others rented rowboats to glide across its mirror-like surface. Berggasthaus Seealpsee serves fresh fish straight from the lake alongside hearty Swiss specialties. After lunch, I wandered along the shoreline, taking in reflections of the Alpstein range on the water. Whether you’re hiking, swimming, or simply soaking in the scenery, Lake Seealpsee is an Appenzell must-see and an unforgettable escape into nature.

5. Shäfler Ridge Hike

For a jaw-dropping adventure, the Shäfler Ridge Hike delivers breathtaking panoramas and heart-pounding trails. The journey begins with a cable car ride to Ebenalp, followed by a steep but rewarding hike along the ridge. The narrow pathway winds past towering cliffs and deep valleys, offering some of the best alpine views in Switzerland. The final stretch to Berggasthaus Shäfler feels like walking along the spine of the Alps—one side drops into lush valleys, the other reveals the rugged peaks of the Alpstein.

I tackled this hike early in the morning, catching the sunrise casting golden light over the mountains. It was challenging, but every step was worth it. At the top, I took a well-earned break at the mountain hut, sipping a hot coffee while admiring endless layers of peaks. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just chasing epic views, Shäfler Ridge is a must-do in Appenzell. 

6. Appenzeller Schaukäserei

If you love cheese, visiting Appenzeller Schaukäserei is a must. This interactive cheese dairy gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how the famous Appenzeller cheese is made. The process, perfected over 700 years, remains a mystery—the exact herb-infused brine used for aging is a well-guarded secret. As you walk through the observation windows, you’ll see cheesemakers carefully stirring massive vats of curds, then shaping and stacking the golden wheels.

I couldn’t resist the tasting room, where I sampled different varieties, from mild and creamy to extra-aged and intensely flavorful. The shop sells exclusive Appenzeller cheese only found here, perfect for taking home. If you want a hands-on experience, sign up for a cheesemaking workshop to create your own mini wheel. For food lovers, Schaukäserei is one of the most unique stops in Appenzell—just don’t leave without a slice of this legendary Swiss cheese!

7. Appenzell Museum

Nestled in the heart of Appenzell Town, the Appenzell Museum is a treasure trove of history, culture, and quirky traditions. Housed in a beautiful 16th-century building, this small but fascinating museum showcases colorful Appenzeller folk art, traditional embroidered clothing, and antique farming tools. The highlight? A deep dive into Appenzell’s famous open-air voting system, where residents still gather in the town square to cast votes by raising their hands.

One exhibit that caught my eye displayed hand-carved wooden masks used in local festivals, each with its own unique expression. I also got to listen to traditional Swiss yodeling recordings and learn about the fascinating history behind the Appenzeller dialect. If you love immersing yourself in local traditions, this museum is worth a visit. It’s a perfect stop between exploring the charming streets of Appenzell Town!

8. Wildkirchli Caves

For an adventure that blends history, nature, and a touch of mystery, the Wildkirchli Caves are a must-see. Located high in the Alpstein mountains, these prehistoric caves once sheltered Stone Age hunters more than 40,000 years ago. Today, you can explore the rocky caverns and learn about early human life in the region. A short hike from Ebenalp station leads to the caves, passing through dramatic rock formations and winding cliffside paths.

Stepping inside, I found the atmosphere cool and eerie, with soft lighting illuminating the rough stone walls. The small chapel built into the rock adds to the mystique, once home to hermits seeking solitude in the mountains. The caves also connect to Berggasthaus Aescher, making it a great stop before or after a meal. Whether you’re into history or just love unique natural wonders, Wildkirchli is an unforgettable part of Appenzell.

9. Alpabzug in Appenzell

If you’re visiting Appenzell in early autumn, don’t miss Alpabzug, a centuries-old tradition celebrating the return of cows from alpine pastures. Farmers, dressed in colorful embroidered outfits, lead their flower-crowned cows through town, their bells echoing through the streets. It’s a vibrant mix of music, culture, and Swiss heritage, making it one of the most iconic events in Appenzell.

I stumbled upon this festival by accident and was completely mesmerized. The air buzzed with excitement, filled with the scent of grilled sausages and fresh mountain cheese from local stalls. Yodelers and alphorn players performed, while artisans showcased handmade wooden crafts and traditional textiles. The energy, the music, and the joyful community spirit made it feel like I had stepped into a living postcard of Swiss tradition. If you’re in Appenzell in September, Alpabzug is a must-see!

10. Seealpsee Valley

A visit to Seealpsee Valley feels like stepping into a Swiss fairy tale. Nestled within the Alpstein range, this lush valley leads to the stunning Seealpsee Lake, surrounded by rolling green meadows, dense forests, and towering peaks. The best way to experience it? A scenic 1.5-hour hike from Wasserauen, passing wooden bridges, grazing cows, and traditional Swiss farmhouses.

I arrived in the late afternoon, just in time to see the sunset reflect off the glassy waters—an image I’ll never forget. The valley is a paradise for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking peace and quiet. At the lake, you can rent a rowboat, enjoy a lakeside picnic, or grab a meal at Berggasthaus Seealpsee, which serves hearty alpine dishes. If you love serene landscapes and alpine adventures, Seealpsee Valley is Appenzell at its most magical.

11. Appenzeller Bahnen

Train lovers, this one’s for you! The Appenzeller Bahnen is more than just a mode of transport—it’s a rolling postcard through Switzerland’s most scenic landscapes. This charming narrow-gauge railway winds through rolling green hills, quaint villages, and snow-capped mountains, offering breathtaking views of the Appenzell countryside. Each stop reveals a different side of Swiss rural beauty, making it a journey worth savoring.

I hopped on the train in St. Gallen and watched as the city faded into sprawling pastures and lush valleys. The ride is smooth, scenic, and packed with Instagram-worthy moments. The best part? The windows are huge, perfect for capturing postcard-perfect shots of the countryside. For the full experience, stop at Appenzell Town, wander its storybook streets, then continue to Wasserauen for a hike. Whether you’re a railway enthusiast or just love scenic journeys, this train ride is a must in Appenzell.

12. Schwende District

For a quieter, more authentic side of Appenzell, head to Schwende District. This charming area is a blend of rolling pastures, quaint villages, and stunning mountain backdrops. Unlike the bustling town center, Schwende offers a slower, more traditional Swiss experience, where wooden farmhouses with flower-filled balconies dot the landscape. The tranquil vibe and fresh alpine air make it an ideal escape for nature lovers and photographers alike.

I spent a morning here, walking along meandering country roads, breathing in crisp mountain air, and watching locals tend to their livestock. The calmness, fresh air, and postcard-worthy views made it a highlight of my trip. A stop at a local café for a slice of Appenzeller cheese pie rounded out the experience perfectly. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, a scenic countryside walk, or just a glimpse into traditional Swiss life, Schwende is Appenzell’s hidden gem worth exploring.

FAQs about the Best Things to Do in Appenzell

Looking for more ideas on what to see and do in Appenzell? Here are some popular questions (and answers) I get that will help you plan your trip to Appenzell:

What’s the best time to visit Appenzell?

The ideal time to visit Appenzell depends on what you’re looking to do. For hiking and outdoor activities, late spring through early autumn is perfect. If you’re a fan of winter sports, December to February won’t disappoint.

How do I get around Appenzell?

The Appenzeller Bahnen railway is a convenient and scenic way to explore the region. Buses and taxis are also available, but honestly, some of the best places in Appenzell are best discovered on foot.

How much time do you need in Appenzell?

The amount of time you’ll want to spend in Appenzell really depends on what you’re looking to get out of your visit. Here are some general guidelines:

• Day Trip: If you’re short on time, a day trip from a nearby city like Zurich or St. Gallen can give you a taste of Appenzell’s charm. You can explore the town, visit a museum, and perhaps take a short hike.
• Weekend Getaway: A 2-3 day trip allows you to delve deeper into the local culture and landscapes. You’ll have time for multiple hikes, a thorough exploration of the town, and perhaps a visit to a local cheese dairy to see Appenzeller cheese being made.
• Extended Stay: If you have more time, a stay of 4-5 days or even a week would allow you to fully experience what the region has to offer, including more challenging hikes, visits to neighboring villages, and a deeper immersion into the local culture.

So, whether you’re an avid hiker, a culture enthusiast, or just looking to relax in a beautiful setting, Appenzell offers enough variety to fill any length of stay.

Is Appenzell family-friendly?

Absolutely, Appenzell is family-friendly with its welcoming atmosphere and diverse activities. Kids will enjoy the Alpabzug festival, exploring the Swiss countryside, and visiting local farms. Trails, museums, and interactive experiences cater to all ages. The region’s charm and safety make it an ideal destination for a family vacation.

What is Appenzell Switzerland known for?

Appenzell, Switzerland is best known for its idyllic landscapes, traditional Swiss culture, and artisanal cheese. Nestled in the Alpstein mountain range, it’s a haven for hikers and nature lovers. The region is famous for Appenzeller cheese, a key ingredient in Swiss cuisine. Appenzell is also known for its well-preserved customs and colorful, ornately decorated buildings, making it a window into traditional Swiss life.

What should I pack when going to Appenzell?

Pack comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing (layers for temperature changes), rain gear, a camera, Swiss power adapter, any necessary medications, and a small backpack for outings. Don’t forget essentials like your passport, travel insurance, and credit cards. Pack light to make room for local souvenirs and treasures.

Is Appenzell worth visiting?

Absolutely, Appenzell is a Swiss gem that’s worth every moment spent there. It’s a harmonious blend of stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural traditions. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a history buff, Appenzell offers a unique experience that’s both refreshing and deeply authentic. Here’s why it’s worth visiting Appenzell for any traveler:

• Picturesque Landscape: Nestled between rolling hills and lush meadows, Appenzell offers some of Switzerland’s most beautiful landscapes. It’s a hiker’s paradise with well-marked trails that offer panoramic views of the surrounding Alps.
• Traditional Swiss Culture: Appenzell is one of the best places to experience traditional Swiss culture, including yodeling, cheese-making, and the colorful buildings that the region is famous for.
• Unique Governance: The region still practices a form of direct democracy that dates back to the Middle Ages. If you’re lucky enough to visit during the Landsgemeinde, you can witness locals gathering in the square to vote by raising their hands.
• Art and Museums: The town is home to the Museum Appenzell, which offers insights into the local history, art, and culture. The region is also known for its hand-embroidery, which you can learn about at the Appenzeller Volkskunde-Museum.
• Local Cuisine: Don’t leave without trying Appenzeller cheese, which is produced in the region and is a key ingredient in many local dishes. The area also has charming restaurants where you can enjoy traditional Swiss meals.
• Accessibility: Despite its somewhat remote location, Appenzell is easily accessible by train and makes for a perfect day trip or weekend getaway from larger Swiss cities like Zurich or St. Gallen.
• Outdoor Activities: Beyond hiking, the region offers a range of outdoor activities like mountain biking and paragliding for those looking to add an adrenaline rush to their scenic escape.

Why should I visit Appenzell?

Visit Appenzell for its breathtaking Alpine scenery, rich cultural heritage, and charming small-town vibe. Whether you’re hiking through the Alpstein range or exploring traditional Swiss architecture, Appenzell offers a unique blend of natural beauty and authentic experiences that make it a must-visit destination for any traveler.