Eastern Switzerland’s cosmopolitan hub between Lake Constance and the Appenzell region boasts a charming, vehicle-free old town. The city is famous for its colourfully painted bay windows. The Abbey District, with its cathedral and library, is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The first highlight can be found in the centre of the old town of St.Gallen, and is the city’s emblematic landmark: the Abbey District with its baroque cathedral. Along with its library and monastery archives, it was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites in 1983. Just one ticket allows you to visit the Abbey library, the vaulted cellar and the exhibition area. The cosy Klosterbistro or the Chocolaterie Kölbener on Klosterplatz are inviting spots to take a short break. Or you can sit outside in the sun on the spacious Klosterwiese – the monastery green – and enjoy a picnic, as many locals do in summer. If you like, you can buy a SMALLNIK picnic basket at the tourist office, which can be found right by the Abbey District. 

From the vibrant old town, it takes less than five minutes by bike to reach the next highlights: The Art and Culture Museum. Its two historic buildings are located in the middle of the idyllic city park, an inviting place for a restful break after having feasted on a spot of art and culture. Sitting under the beautiful shady trees, this is the perfect spot to reflect on your many impressions of the two museums. The Art Museum is known for its engaging temporary exhibitions of contemporary and modern art, while the Culture Museum immerses you in history, archaeology and ethnology. 

A relaxed train ride: If you like, you can hop on the Mühleggbähnli train together with your bikes and ride up to the Three Ponds, the city’s green oasis, in comfort. Getting off at the railway station, you can cycle along Bitzistrasse to the Three Ponds in five minutes. You might want to take a walk – with or without bikes – to the Dreilindenweg and enjoy the wonderful view of St.Gallen from there, enchanted by this picturesque spot high above the city. 

- Or with your own muscle power: If you have enough energy left, tackle the last few metres under your own steam and cycle up to the Three Ponds. The route from the old town via Falkenburg is especially pretty. Finally, from up here you can enjoy a wonderful panorama over the whole city as far as Lake Constance, glistening light blue in the distance. 

The last of the sun’s rays shine on your face and your gaze wanders over the vibrant city into the tranquil expanse.