Things To Do
in Buchs

Buchs is a charming town located in the Canton of St. Gallen, Switzerland, near the border with Liechtenstein. Nestled in the picturesque Rhine Valley, it serves as a gateway to stunning natural landscapes and outdoor adventures. The town is known for its historical architecture, vibrant community, and easy access to the surrounding mountains.

With its mild climate and welcoming atmosphere, Buchs is an ideal destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Buchs
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, followed by a visit to the Buchs Castle, where you can explore the history and enjoy panoramic views of the area.

afternoon
:

Take a stroll through the quaint streets, visiting local shops, and grab lunch at a traditional Swiss restaurant. Afterward, head to the nearby Rhine River for a scenic walk along the waterfront.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant specializing in regional cuisine, followed by a nightcap at a local bar or pub.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the nearby Rätikon mountains, where you can experience breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps.

afternoon
:

Visit the local museum to learn about the cultural heritage of Buchs. Afterwards, enjoy lunch at a food market showcasing local delicacies.

evening
:

Dine at an upscale restaurant offering a modern twist on Swiss cuisine, and consider catching a performance at the local theater.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Mid-range Restaurant$25
Coffee$4
🍕Pizza Slice$6
🚌Public Transport Ticket$3
🍺Local Beer$6

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Easy access to nearby attractions and cities.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Higher cost of living than some other regions.
  • Transportation options may be limited in remote areas.
  • "Grüezi" - Hello
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Bitte" - Please
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the restroom?

Places to Visit in Buchs

Visit one of these nice places.

Buchs Castle

Capturing the majestic views from Buchs Castle offers a stunning backdrop of the Rhine Valley and the surrounding mountains.

Rhine River Promenade

The promenade along the Rhine River is perfect for sunset photography, with reflections of the sky on the water.

St. Peter and Paul Church

The beautiful architecture of this church, combined with the surrounding landscape, makes for striking photographs.

Culinary Guide

Food in Buchs

Buchs offers a delightful culinary experience that combines traditional Swiss dishes with local flavors. Visitors can indulge in hearty meals and pastries that reflect the region's agricultural heritage.

Buchs Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Älplermagronen

A creamy pasta dish made with potatoes, cheese, and onions, often served with apple sauce.

Must-Try!

Rösti

A Swiss-style potato pancake that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, often enjoyed as a side dish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Buchs Market

A weekly market where locals sell fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and baked goods, providing a taste of local life.

Climate Guide

Weather

Buchs experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold, averaging between -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F), while summers are warm, averaging 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, with summer months seeing more precipitation. The spring and autumn months are generally mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Swiss people value punctuality highly; being on time is considered a sign of respect.

Greetings

A firm handshake is the common way to greet someone, and addressing people with their titles is appreciated.

Quiet in Public Spaces

Maintaining a low volume in public spaces, especially on public transport, is an important cultural norm.

Safety Guide

Safety

Buchs is considered a safe town with low crime rates. However, standard safety precautions should be observed, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and English is generally understood by local authorities.

Tipping in Buchs

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory in Switzerland; however, rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it is advisable to carry some Swiss Francs for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and hiking.

Summer

Summer offers warm temperatures perfect for swimming in nearby lakes and enjoying outdoor festivals.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful fall foliage, and it’s a great time for wine tasting in the region.

Winter

Winter transforms Buchs into a snowy wonderland, perfect for skiing and enjoying cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Buchs at Night

Buchs has a modest nightlife scene, featuring several bars and pubs where locals gather for drinks and conversation. While it may not be as vibrant as larger Swiss cities, there are occasional live music events and cultural performances. For a more lively experience, nearby cities like St. Gallen offer a wider array of nightlife options including clubs and late-night eateries.

Hiking in Buchs

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Buchs to Liechtenstein

A scenic trail that leads from Buchs into Liechtenstein, offering beautiful views of the Rhine and surrounding landscapes.

Rätikon Mountain Trails

A network of trails in the Rätikon range, suitable for both casual hikers and seasoned trekkers, featuring stunning alpine scenery.

Airports

How to reach Buchs by plane.

St. Gallen-Altenrhein Airport

Located about 20 kilometers from Buchs, this airport offers flights to several European destinations and is easily accessible by public transport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Buchs is a walkable town with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian paths. Most attractions, shops, and restaurants are within a short walking distance, making it convenient for visitors to explore on foot. However, some areas might require short distances to be covered with public transport or a bike for a more extensive visit.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Buchs' residents are Swiss, with a mix of families and young professionals contributing to a vibrant community.

International Visitors

Buchs attracts tourists from various countries, particularly those interested in outdoor activities and Swiss culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is one of the most popular sports in Buchs, with local clubs engaging the community and hosting matches.

Skiing

With nearby ski resorts, skiing attracts both locals and tourists during the winter months, offering a range of slopes for all skill levels.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Buchs is generally light, and the town is easily navigable by car or bike. Public transportation including trains and buses connects Buchs to neighboring towns and cities, allowing for efficient travel without the need for a car. However, during peak hours, minor congestion can occur near the town center.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Buchs.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, and local markets provide fresh produce for self-catering.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are increasingly available, especially in larger restaurants and hotels.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Buchs is of high quality, with several clinics and a hospital providing comprehensive medical services. Pharmacies are also available for over-the-counter medications. In case of emergencies, the healthcare system is efficient, and visitors can access medical care with their travel insurance.

Discover Switzerland

Read more in our Switzerland 2025 Travel Guide.

Switzerland Travel Guide