Things To Do
in Gossau

Gossau is a charming municipality located in the canton of St. Gallen, Switzerland. Nestled in the picturesque Appenzellerland region, it is known for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lush greenery. The town boasts a rich history, with several historical landmarks and a vibrant local culture.

Gossau serves as a great base for exploring both urban and rural attractions in the area.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Gossau
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local farmer's market, where you can enjoy fresh produce and local specialties.

afternoon
:

Take a scenic walk through the nearby Appenzeller countryside, visiting the historic St. Gallen Abbey.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Swiss restaurant, experiencing local dishes and hospitality.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Hike up to the nearby mountain, Hörnli, to enjoy breathtaking views of the region.

afternoon
:

Explore the Gossau nature park, enjoying its walking trails and wildlife.

evening
:

Relax at a local café, sipping Swiss hot chocolate while reflecting on your day.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$25
Coffee$4
🚌Public Transport Ticket$3
🏨Hotel Night$150
🥖Loaf of Bread$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and local traditions.
  • Safe and clean environment.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Higher cost of living than some other regions.
  • Language barrier for non-German speakers.
  • "Grüezi" - Hello
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Bitte" - Please
  • "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me
  • "Auf Wiedersehen" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Gossau

Visit one of these nice places.

Gossau Abbey

A beautiful historical site with stunning architecture, perfect for capturing the essence of Gossau.

Hörnli Mountain Viewpoint

An ideal spot for panoramic views of the region, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Lake Gossau

A picturesque lake surrounded by nature, offering excellent opportunities for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Gossau

Gossau offers a delightful array of culinary experiences that reflect Swiss culture and tradition.

Gossau Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Rösti

A Swiss-style potato dish that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, often served with toppings such as cheese or eggs.

Must-Try!

Älplermagronen

A hearty Alpine pasta dish made with potatoes, macaroni, cheese, and cream, typically served with applesauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Gossau Farmer's Market

Held weekly, this market features local farmers showcasing fresh produce, cheeses, and baked goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Gossau experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold, with temperatures averaging around -2°C to 5°C, often accompanied by snow. Summers are warm, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Spring and autumn are mild, with comfortable temperatures and occasional rain.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is very important in Swiss culture; try to arrive at meetings and reservations promptly.

Quiet Hours

Respect quiet hours in residential areas, especially during the night and early morning.

Politeness

Use polite greetings and farewells, such as 'Grüezi' (hello) and 'Adieu' (goodbye) when interacting with locals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Gossau is considered a safe town, with low crime rates. However, standard safety precautions should be taken, such as securing personal belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Tipping in Gossau

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip is common.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to carry some Swiss Francs for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it perfect for outdoor activities and hiking.

Summer

Warm weather allows for hiking and outdoor festivals, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn

Enjoy cool weather and vibrant fall foliage, ideal for photography and exploring the countryside.

Winter

Cold temperatures bring a magical snow-covered landscape, perfect for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Gossau at Night

Gossau's nightlife is relatively low-key, with a few bars and pubs offering a cozy atmosphere for socializing. Local establishments often feature live music on weekends, and the crowd is generally friendly. For a more vibrant nightlife experience, nearby cities like St. Gallen provide a wider range of clubs and entertainment options.

Hiking in Gossau

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Säntis Trail

A challenging hike leading to the summit of Säntis, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Alps.

Gossauer Höhenweg

A scenic trail around Gossau that showcases the beautiful landscapes and provides a relaxed hiking experience.

Airports

How to reach Gossau by plane.

St. Gallen-Altenrhein Airport

Located approximately 30 km from Gossau, this airport serves both domestic and limited international flights, providing convenient access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Gossau is quite walkable, with many amenities located within a short distance. The town features well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian paths, making it easy to explore on foot. However, certain areas, particularly outside the town center, may require some walking uphill.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Gossau's population consists of Swiss nationals, with a strong sense of community and local culture.

Tourists

Visitors from various countries come to Gossau for its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is widely popular, with local clubs and community support for the sport.

Skiing

In winter, skiing is a favored activity, with nearby resorts catering to both recreational and competitive skiers.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Gossau is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation is well-developed, with frequent trains and buses connecting Gossau to surrounding cities and attractions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Gossau.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, it's recommended to ask about specific ingredients.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free meals are available in most places, but make sure to confirm with the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Gossau is of high quality, with access to local clinics and hospitals. Emergency services are available, and many healthcare providers speak English. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Switzerland

Read more in our Switzerland 2025 Travel Guide.

Switzerland Travel Guide