Things To Do
in Mels

Mels, Switzerland, is a picturesque village located in the canton of St. Gallen, nestled in the foothills of the Alps. Known for its stunning natural scenery and traditional Swiss architecture, Mels offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The village is surrounded by lush green hills and mountains, providing ample opportunities for hiking and skiing.

With its rich history and welcoming community, Mels is a charming destination that showcases the beauty of rural Switzerland.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Mels
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local bakery, where you can enjoy fresh Swiss pastries and coffee. Then, take a leisurely walk through the village to admire the traditional wooden chalets and the beautiful church.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Mels Castle, where you can explore its historic grounds and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Afterward, have lunch at a local restaurant offering traditional Swiss cuisine.

evening
:

Finish your day with a relaxing dinner at a cozy family-owned restaurant, followed by a stroll along the serene riverbank as the sun sets.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast, then head out for a guided hike in the nearby mountains, where you can experience breathtaking views and diverse wildlife.

afternoon
:

After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the scenic spots. In the afternoon, consider renting a bike to explore the surrounding countryside on two wheels.

evening
:

Return to Mels for dinner at a local pizzeria, followed by a visit to a local bar for drinks and live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$25
Coffee$4
🍕Pizza$15
🏨Hotel Night$100
🚍Public Transport Ticket$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities
  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Friendly and welcoming local community
  • Limited nightlife options for party-goers
  • Higher cost of living compared to other regions
  • Public transportation can be less frequent in rural areas
  • "Grüezi" - Hello
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Bitte" - Please
  • "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Mels

Visit one of these nice places.

Mels Castle

Capture stunning views of the castle and its gardens, along with panoramic landscapes of the Alps.

The Church of Mels

The beautiful architecture of this historic church makes for great photographs, especially at sunset.

Mountain Trails

The various hiking trails in the surrounding mountains provide breathtaking views of the valleys and peaks.

Culinary Guide

Food in Mels

Mels offers a delightful culinary experience with a blend of traditional Swiss flavors and local specialties. Visitors can savor hearty dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Mels Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fondue

A classic Swiss dish made with melted cheese, typically served with bread for dipping.

Must-Try!

Rösti

A Swiss potato dish that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, often served as a side or breakfast item.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mels Market

A lively local market held weekly, offering fresh produce, cheeses, and artisanal products.

Climate Guide

Weather

Mels experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold and snowy, with temperatures averaging between -2°C to 5°C (28°F to 41°F). Summers are warm, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities. Spring and autumn are mild, with occasional rain, providing a pleasant environment for hiking and sightseeing.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time for appointments and social gatherings is considered very important in Swiss culture.

Respect Personal Space

Swiss people value personal space; maintain a respectful distance during conversations.

Quiet in Public Spaces

Maintain a low volume in public transportation and restaurants to respect the tranquility of the local culture.

Safety Guide

Safety

Mels is generally a safe destination with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings. In outdoor areas, be cautious of weather conditions and follow marked trails while hiking.

Tipping in Mels

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory in Switzerland, but rounding up the bill or leaving a 5-10% tip is appreciated for good service.

Payment Methods

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

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, making it perfect for hiking and exploring the countryside.

Summer

Summer is warm and ideal for outdoor activities such as biking and swimming in local lakes.

Autumn

Autumn showcases vibrant foliage, and the mild weather is great for hiking and photography.

Winter

Winter transforms Mels into a snowy wonderland, perfect for skiing and cozying up in local cafes.

Nightlife Guide

Mels at Night

Mels offers a relaxed nightlife scene, primarily focused on cozy bars and small pubs where locals gather for drinks and conversation. While it lacks large clubs, the atmosphere is inviting, with live music events and occasional themed nights. The nightlife is family-friendly, with many venues welcoming all age groups, creating a community feel.

Hiking in Mels

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Churfirsten Mountain Trail

A scenic trail offering breathtaking views of the Churfirsten mountain range, suitable for intermediate hikers.

Uznach to Mels Trail

An easy hike linking Uznach and Mels, perfect for families and beginners, showcasing beautiful landscapes along the way.

Airports

How to reach Mels by plane.

St. Gallen-Altenrhein Airport

Located approximately 30 km from Mels, this small airport offers regional flights and is a convenient entry point for travelers to the area.

Getting Around

Walkability

Mels is a walkable village, with most amenities and attractions located within a short distance of each other. The streets are well-maintained, and there are pedestrian-friendly paths leading to popular sites, making it easy to explore on foot. For those wanting to venture further, hiking trails are easily accessible and provide a scenic way to experience the surrounding landscapes.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of residents are Swiss, with a strong sense of community and cultural pride.

Tourists

Mels attracts tourists primarily from Europe, interested in its natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Skiing

A popular winter sport in the nearby mountains, attracting both locals and tourists to the ski resorts.

Cycling

With numerous trails, cycling is a favored activity during the summer months, with events often organized for enthusiasts.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Mels is generally light, with the village being easily navigable by car and on foot. Public transportation is available, with buses connecting to larger towns and cities. During peak tourist seasons, be prepared for an increase in traffic, especially near popular hiking and skiing areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Mels.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Mels offer vegetarian options, particularly in pasta and salad dishes.

Gluten-Free Choices

Some eateries provide gluten-free alternatives, especially in baked goods and pasta.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Mels is of high quality, with access to local clinics and hospitals in nearby cities. Emergency services are efficient, and residents are generally covered by health insurance. Travelers should ensure they have appropriate travel insurance for any medical needs.

Discover Switzerland

Read more in our Switzerland 2025 Travel Guide.

Switzerland Travel Guide