Things To Do
in Rapperswil-Jona

Rapperswil-Jona, located on the shores of Lake Zurich, is a picturesque town known for its charming old town, beautiful lake views, and historical landmarks. It boasts a vibrant mix of nature and culture, making it a perfect destination for both relaxation and exploration. The town is home to the famous wooden bridge connecting Rapperswil and Hurden, as well as a stunning rose garden overlooking the lake.

With its rich history and scenic landscapes, Rapperswil-Jona offers visitors a unique Swiss experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Historical Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Rapperswil Castle, where you can explore its museum and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the Old Town, admiring the medieval architecture, and stop by the Rose Garden to see over 15,000 rose bushes.

evening
:

Enjoy a dinner at a lakeside restaurant, savoring local Swiss cuisine while watching the sunset over Lake Zurich.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Leisure
morning
:

Take a leisurely walk along the lakeshore promenade, breathing in the fresh air and taking in the views of the Alps in the distance.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market to sample Swiss cheeses and chocolates, then rent a bike to explore the surrounding countryside.

evening
:

Conclude your visit with a cozy evening at a local pub, enjoying Swiss beer and live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$25
Coffee$4
🍷Glass of wine$8
🏨Hotel per night$150
🚌Public transport ticket$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful lakeside views
  • Rich history and culture
  • Variety of outdoor activities
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Higher cost of living
  • Public transport may be less frequent in off-peak hours
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Bitte" - Please
  • "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
  • "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me
  • "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?

Places to Visit in Rapperswil-Jona

Visit one of these nice places.

Rapperswil Castle

Capture stunning views of the castle against the backdrop of Lake Zurich, especially during golden hour.

Rose Garden

A vibrant array of flowers with the lake and mountains in the background, making it a perfect spot for colorful shots.

Wooden Bridge

The iconic wooden bridge connecting Rapperswil and Hurden offers picturesque views and great photo opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Rapperswil-Jona

Rapperswil-Jona offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing traditional Swiss flavors and local delicacies that are a must-try for any visitor.

Rapperswil-Jona Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Rösti

A crispy potato dish often served with toppings like cheese or eggs.

Must-Try!

Zürcher Geschnetzeltes

Thinly sliced veal in a creamy white wine sauce, typically served with Rösti.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Rapperswil Farmers Market

Held weekly, this market features fresh local produce, cheeses, and artisanal products.

Climate Guide

Weather

Rapperswil-Jona has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm, with temperatures averaging around 25°C (77°F). Winters (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures dropping to around 0°C (32°F) and occasional snowfall. Spring and autumn are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued in Swiss culture; always aim to arrive promptly for meetings or meals.

Greetings

Use a firm handshake and maintain eye contact when greeting someone; it shows respect.

Personal Space

Respect personal space; maintain a comfortable distance during conversations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Rapperswil-Jona is generally a safe destination, with low crime rates. However, standard safety precautions should be taken, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Tipping in Rapperswil-Jona

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

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

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring gardens.

Summer

Warm temperatures invite swimming and boating on the lake, with many outdoor festivals and events.

Autumn

Enjoy stunning fall foliage, ideal for hiking and photography, with cooler temperatures.

Winter

Expect cold weather with potential snowfall, perfect for cozy indoor activities and holiday markets.

Nightlife Guide

Rapperswil-Jona at Night

Rapperswil-Jona offers a relaxed nightlife scene with cozy bars and pubs. While not as vibrant as larger cities, you can find live music venues and local events that provide a great atmosphere. The lakeside promenade is also a lovely spot for evening strolls, with some establishments offering outdoor seating for a more scenic experience.

Hiking in Rapperswil-Jona

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Ufenau Island Trail

A scenic trail that offers stunning views of Lake Zurich and the surrounding landscapes, accessible by boat.

Pfäffikersee Circuit

A circular trail around Lake Pfäffikon, featuring beautiful nature and opportunities for birdwatching.

Airports

How to reach Rapperswil-Jona by plane.

Zürich Airport (ZRH)

Located about 45 km from Rapperswil-Jona, this international airport offers connections to major cities worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Rapperswil-Jona is highly walkable, with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian pathways connecting major attractions. The town's compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, especially the charming Old Town and lakeside promenade.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families live in Rapperswil-Jona, attracted by its quality of life and access to outdoor activities.

Retirees

The area is also popular among retirees who enjoy the peaceful environment and scenic views.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in the region, with local clubs and community events that attract many fans.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey enjoys a strong following, especially during the winter months, with local teams competing in regional leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Rapperswil-Jona is typically manageable, with good connectivity to surrounding areas. Public transportation includes trains and buses, making it easy to travel to nearby cities such as Zurich. During peak hours, however, expect some congestion on main roads.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Rapperswil-Jona.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, including salads and pasta dishes.

Gluten-Free

While Swiss cuisine is often bread-based, there are gluten-free alternatives available at most establishments.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Rapperswil-Jona is excellent, with access to various clinics and hospitals. Emergency services are readily available, and most medical staff speak English. Travelers should ensure they have adequate travel insurance.

Discover Switzerland

Read more in our Switzerland 2025 Travel Guide.

Switzerland Travel Guide