Train to Abbey Library & Scenic Appenzell: Culture, Cheese & Beer
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 2 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Train to Abbey Library & Scenic Appenzell: Culture, Cheese & Beer worth booking?
Train to Abbey Library & Scenic Appenzell: Culture, Cheese & Beer is a 8-hour experience in Zurich, Switzerland, from $648 per person. It scores 54 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 5/5 rating across 2 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 54 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (2)
- Duration
- 8 hours
- From
- $648 per person
Join me on an unforgettable journey by public transport through Eastern Switzerland. Your adventure begins in St. Gallen, visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Stiftsbezirk and the world-famous Abbey Library – a treasure of history and culture. From there, we glide up the hillside on a charming funicular, then continue by train into Appenzell’s rolling green hills. Along the way, we stop at a traditional cheese factory to see how the region’s world-renowned cheese is crafted – and taste it! In the afternoon, we stroll through Appenzell’s picture-perfect old town with its colorful painted houses. Highlights continue with a mountain railway and cogwheel train ride, offering spectacular views of the Alps and valleys. To round off the day Swiss-style, we enjoy a delightful meal aboard a train restaurant, combining local flavors with the magic of traveling on rails. This tour blends culture, tradition, and breathtaking landscapes – all accessible by public transport.
What you get
About this experience
Join me on an unforgettable journey by public transport through Eastern Switzerland. Your adventure begins in St. Gallen, visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Stiftsbezirk and the world-famous Abbey Library – a treasure of history and culture. From there, we glide up the hillside on a charming funicular, then continue by train into Appenzell’s rolling green hills. Along the way, we stop at a traditional cheese factory to see how the region’s world-renowned cheese is crafted – and taste it! In the afternoon, we stroll through Appenzell’s picture-perfect old town with its colorful painted houses. Highlights continue with a mountain railway and cogwheel train ride, offering spectacular views of the Alps and valleys. To round off the day Swiss-style, we enjoy a delightful meal aboard a train restaurant, combining local flavors with the magic of traveling on rails. This tour blends culture, tradition, and breathtaking landscapes – all accessible by public transport.
What's included
Included
- Public transportation (bus, subway, cable car, etc.)
- Admission fees
- Personal guide Dave: Swiss local, qualified geographer & teacher
- Cheese tasting
- Entrance fees
Not included
- Meals
- Lunch
- Dinner
What you'll see and do
St. Gallen
Travel through Switzerland’s charming apple-growing region on a scenic train ride from Zurich to St. Gallen. As the journey unfolds, the landscape opens into gentle hills lined with orchards and traditional villages — a picture of rural life in northeastern Switzerland. In spring, countless apple trees transform the countryside into a sea of white blossoms; in late summer and autumn, their branches hang heavy with ripe fruit.
60 minutes here
St. Gallen
⛪ Step inside the Cathedral – a masterpiece of baroque architecture with soaring ceilings, richly decorated stucco, and frescoes that leave visitors in awe. ️ Walk through history – the former Benedictine monastery, founded over 1,200 years ago, was once a major center of learning in Europe. Guests will learn how monks copied manuscripts, preserved knowledge, and shaped the culture of an entire region. Enjoy the peaceful courtyards and alleys – strolling through cobblestone paths surrounded by historical buildings, travelers experience the calm and timeless atmosphere of this sacred place.
90 minutes here
Abbey Library of St Gall
Enter the “Philosophers’ Hall” – a breathtaking baroque library filled with carved wood, frescoed ceilings, and shelves holding thousands of leather-bound books. The atmosphere feels like stepping into a fairytale. See priceless manuscripts – including medieval illuminated texts, early musical notations, and documents dating back to the 8th century, when the monastery was a center of knowledge in Europe. Learn the story of UNESCO heritage – discover how the Abbey of St. Gall became a hub of scholarship that preserved and spread knowledge across the continent, earning its place as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. ✨ Admire the famous mummy – the library’s small cabinet of curiosities also holds extraordinary pieces, including an Egyptian mummy, rare globes, and medieval artworks. ️ Feel history come alive – walking on creaking wooden floors under painted ceilings, visitors will experience the library as monks and scholars once did centuries ago.
90 minutes here · Admission included
Ride a historic funicular – this short but steep railway connects the lower city near the train station with the Mühlegg district above. It’s a fun and unique way to experience St. Gallen’s terrain. Enjoy panoramic views – as the car climbs, travelers can admire rooftops, the spires of the cathedral, and the surrounding hillsides dotted with charming houses. ️ Step into local life – locals use the funicular daily, so guests get a glimpse of everyday St. Gallen life, from students commuting to residents running errands. Reach walking trails and scenic spots – at the top, travelers can explore quiet streets, parks, and trails with views over the city and the Swiss countryside beyond. ✨ A quick, picturesque experience – the ride itself is brief but memorable, giving visitors a taste of Swiss engineering and a perfect photo opportunity.
20 minutes here · Admission included
Appenzeller Schaukaserei
Watch cheese being made live – from fresh Alpine milk to the famous spicy Appenzeller cheese. Guests can look over the cheesemaker’s shoulder as huge copper vats are stirred, curds are pressed, and wheels of cheese are salted and matured. Learn about the mysterious mixture of the secret herb brine that gives Appenzeller cheese its unmistakable flavor. The recipe is centuries old and still a closely guarded secret. ️ Taste different cheese varieties – from mild to extra-spicy, travelers can enjoy a tasting plate or even a hearty fondue, surrounded by authentic Appenzell hospitality. Step into tradition – interactive exhibits, films, and old tools explain how cheese has been made in the region for over 700 years. The rustic wooden buildings and the scent of fresh cheese create a truly authentic Alpine atmosphere. Enjoy the village and landscape – Stein lies in the rolling green hills of Appenzell, with views of farms, pastures, and the Säntis mountain in the distance.
80 minutes here
Appenzell
️Stroll through the colorful old town – narrow streets lined with vividly painted houses, adorned with intricate frescoes, tell the story of Appenzell’s rich history and unique culture. ️ Discover local crafts and specialties – from handmade cheese and wooden toys to traditional textiles, travelers can browse shops and markets that celebrate regional traditions. ️ Taste Appenzeller cheese and delicacies – the town is the heart of the famous Appenzeller cheese region, offering tastings, cheese shops, and cozy cafes where visitors can enjoy local flavors. Immerse in local traditions – depending on the season, travelers might hear folk music, see traditional costumes, or witness local festivals that bring the town’s heritage to life. Explore the surrounding landscapes – Appenzell is surrounded by rolling hills, lush meadows, and scenic walking trails, offering breathtaking views of the Alpstein mountains.
100 minutes here
Visit the Brauerei Locher in Appenzell, home of the renowned Appenzeller beer. This independent brewery is known for its creativity, brewing not only traditional lagers but also beers infused with alpine herbs, whiskies, and even soft drinks made with mountain spring water. On site, you can discover how age-old brewing tradition meets modern innovation, and learn why this brewery is a point of pride for the Appenzell region. Those who wish may take part in a tasting to sample different flavors, while others can simply enjoy the cultural insights and the welcoming atmosphere. Surrounded by rolling hills and alpine charm, Brauerei Locher offers a glimpse into both the flavors and traditions of eastern Switzerland.
20 minutes here · Admission included
Ride a classic cogwheel railway – this charming mountain train descends steadily through rolling hills, giving travelers a sense of traditional Swiss engineering in action. Enjoy panoramic countryside views – winding past green meadows, forests, and small villages, guests can take in the peaceful beauty of the Appenzell region from a unique perspective. ️ Pass through quaint villages – stops along the route allow glimpses of timbered houses, local farms, and the everyday life of the region’s residents. Capture memorable moments – the combination of steep inclines, scenic curves, and Alpine vistas provides perfect photo opportunities throughout the ride.
20 minutes here · Admission not included
Optional: To round off the day Swiss-style, we enjoy a delightful meal aboard a train restaurant, combining local flavors with the magic of traveling on rails. This tour blends culture, tradition, and breathtaking landscapes – all accessible by public transport.
110 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Zurich
Zurich HB mainstation: Official Meeting Point Look for the official Meeting Point sign — four arrows pointing toward a central circle — inside the main hall of the train station on the main floor. You can’t miss it; there’s a huge clock mounted right above it.
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 40 minutes before departure.
Ends at
Zurich HB mainstation: Official Meeting Point Look for the official Meeting Point sign — four arrows pointing toward a central circle — inside the main hall of the train station on the main floor. You can’t miss it; there’s a huge clock mounted right above it.
Options you can book
Including all Tickets
One Payment - All Covered: Select this option for the convenience of having your train tickets arranged and added to your trip (including booking fee). Pickup included
Excluding Train Tickets
Self-purchase required: For Swiss Travel Pass holders or if you prefer to buy your own tickets fee-free at SBB: CHF 65 (19<16y). I’m happy to help. Pickup included
8 adults excluding tickets
Requires self-purchase: For Swiss Travel Pass holders or if you prefer to buy your own tickets fee-free at SBB: CHF 65 (19<16y). I’m happy to help. Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- ar, de, en, it, fr
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
- Group size
- Up to 8 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Swiss D Tours
Know before you go
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
Traveler reviews
2 verified traveler reviews for Train to Abbey Library & Scenic Appenzell: Culture, Cheese & Beer. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Great experience great pace very flexible guide
Easy pace very flexible, guide went beyond expectations to work with us even kept going later than planned to make sure we got to see and do everything we planned
via Viator
Amazing tour
Our trip to St. Gallen and Appenzell was great. The tour guide Dave went above and beyond from the start to finish of the tour. I highly recommend this tour.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your lovely review! It has been a pleasure spending the day with you and showing you around!
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 8 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
- Price range
- $648 to $1,097
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 1
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Who runs this experience
Operated by Swiss D Tours, who run 4 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 50.2.
See everything Swiss D Tours runsWhy this scores 54
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Train to Abbey Library & Scenic Appenzell: Culture, Cheese & Beer: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Zurich.
How much does Train to Abbey Library & Scenic Appenzell: Culture, Cheese & Beer cost?
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Prices start at $648 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Zurich usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Train to Abbey Library & Scenic Appenzell: Culture, Cheese & Beer take?
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Plan for about 8 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Zurich is not rushed.
Is Train to Abbey Library & Scenic Appenzell: Culture, Cheese & Beer worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 54 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 2 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Zurich, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Train to Abbey Library & Scenic Appenzell: Culture, Cheese & Beer?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Train to Abbey Library & Scenic Appenzell: Culture, Cheese & Beer suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Train to Abbey Library & Scenic Appenzell: Culture, Cheese & Beer?
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Around 1 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Zurich can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Zurich and add a light layer if any part of the 8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Train to Abbey Library & Scenic Appenzell: Culture, Cheese & Beer start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Zurich within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Zurich?
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On Outty we rank every Zurich experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Zurich Food Tour with 10 Local Delicacies, Cheeses & Chocolates, Private, excellent guided tour of Zurich (from CHF 21/pers.), Zurich Historic District Guided 2-Hour Walking Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Zurich?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Zurich?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Train to Abbey Library & Scenic Appenzell: Culture, Cheese & Beer?
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Included: Public transportation (bus, subway, cable car, etc.); Admission fees; Personal guide Dave: Swiss local, qualified geographer & teacher; Cheese tasting; and Entrance fees. Not included: Meals; Lunch; and Dinner. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Train to Abbey Library & Scenic Appenzell: Culture, Cheese & Beer include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 4 listed pickup locations in and around Zurich. Be ready about 40 minutes before the start time.
What languages is Train to Abbey Library & Scenic Appenzell: Culture, Cheese & Beer offered in?
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It is offered in Arabic, German, English, Italian and French. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Train to Abbey Library & Scenic Appenzell: Culture, Cheese & Beer?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Train to Abbey Library & Scenic Appenzell: Culture, Cheese & Beer wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Train to Abbey Library & Scenic Appenzell: Culture, Cheese & Beer if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Zurich. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What booking options are available for Train to Abbey Library & Scenic Appenzell: Culture, Cheese & Beer?
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There are 3 options to choose from, including Including all Tickets, Excluding Train Tickets, 8 adults excluding tickets. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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