Two days in St Gallen — that’s plenty of time to see the main sights without it turning into a gruelling marathon. Group the sights by neighbourhood, allow for a bit of leeway in case of bad weather, and don’t plan an important tour straight after an overnight bus journey.
Check opening times, events, accessibility and tickets on the official tourism portal: these details change more often than the attractions themselves.
Day one: the historic centre
Start with the abbey complex and library, where there are specific rules regarding visiting and photography. Then take a stroll through the old town with its characteristic bay windows.
Day two: museums and other areas
On the second day, choose between the Textile Museum, the Drei Weieren quarter or a walk to the viewpoints. If it rains, the museum programme is a better option, but do check the opening days.
How to set a realistic pace
Plan one main paid attraction for half a day, and spend the rest of the time exploring the streets, the quays and making short stops. If a booking is required, factor in the journey time from your previous destination. After a long journey, it’s better to shorten your itinerary than to rush through unfamiliar areas.
Early or late arrival
Check in advance whether you can leave your luggage at your accommodation, and check the route from your exact drop-off point. Start your morning itinerary with open spaces rather than a museum with fixed opening hours. For evening arrivals, save your transport timetable and the hotel’s contact details offline.
Transport and navigation
Download an offline map and mark the bus station, your accommodation and your return departure point. The city centre is often convenient for walking, but a museum or hill further afield may require transport. Compare single and day tickets based on the current fares charged by the local operator.
Budget and meals
Set aside a separate budget for transport, one or two paid attractions and any unexpected travel costs. For lunch, head away from the most touristy square and check the menu before ordering. Water and a light snack will help you avoid having to change your route because of queues.
Preparing for a coach journey
Keep your ticket, passport, mobile phone and any necessary medication in your hand luggage. Allow plenty of time for your return journey: the name of the town is no substitute for the exact address and platform. Check out our tips on offline maps and preparing your mobile for a trip abroad.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a city tourist card?
It isn’t automatically good value. Only count the museums and trips you’ll actually have time for, and check the terms and conditions on the official website.
What should I do if it rains?
Keep one museum alternative in mind, but don’t cram all your visits into a single day: you’ll still need to get around the city between them.