Things To Do
in Widnau

Widnau is a charming municipality located in the canton of St. Gallen, Switzerland, known for its picturesque landscapes and quaint village atmosphere. Nestled near the borders of Austria and Liechtenstein, it serves as a gateway for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. The town is characterized by its beautiful Swiss architecture, friendly locals, and proximity to both nature and urban amenities.

With a rich history and vibrant community, Widnau offers a unique blend of traditional Swiss culture and modern conveniences.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Widnau
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Widnau Church, a beautiful local landmark. Afterward, enjoy a hearty Swiss breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely walk along the Rhine River, where you can enjoy scenic views and perhaps spot some local wildlife. Visit the local market to explore regional products.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Swiss restaurant, followed by a stroll through the town to appreciate its serene ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Embark on a hiking trail in the nearby hills, taking in the fresh mountain air and stunning vistas.

afternoon
:

After hiking, visit a local winery for a tasting session of Swiss wines, accompanied by some local cheese.

evening
:

Wrap up your day at a cozy bar where you can enjoy live music and mingle with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$25
Coffee$4
🍔Fast Food Combo$12
🏨Hotel Night$120
🚌Public Transport Ticket$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities available year-round.
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Safe and clean environment for travelers.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Higher cost of living and dining.
  • Language barrier for non-German speakers.
  • "Grüezi" - Hello
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Bitte" - Please
  • "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me
  • "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?

Places to Visit in Widnau

Visit one of these nice places.

Rhine River Promenade

A scenic pathway along the Rhine River, offering stunning views of the water and surrounding landscapes.

Widnau Church

The church's unique architecture provides a beautiful backdrop for photos, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Local Vineyards

Capture the rolling hills covered with grapevines, particularly picturesque during the fall harvest season.

Culinary Guide

Food in Widnau

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

Widnau Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Rösti

A Swiss potato dish, similar to hash browns, often served as a side dish or breakfast item.

Must-Try!

Fondue

Melted cheese served with bread for dipping, a classic Swiss dish perfect for sharing.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Widnau Market

A vibrant local market held weekly, featuring fresh produce, artisanal products, and homemade treats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Widnau has a temperate climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold, with temperatures often falling below freezing and snowfall common. Summers are warm, with average temperatures around 20-25°C (68-77°F), ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is spread throughout the year, with slightly wetter months in spring and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued; lateness is often seen as disrespectful.

Greeting

A firm handshake and eye contact are important when greeting someone, and it is polite to greet everyone in a group.

Respect for Nature

Switzerland places high importance on environmental conservation; visitors should respect nature and public spaces.

Safety Guide

Safety

Widnau is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, like any destination, it is advised to stay alert, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it's wise to have travel insurance for added peace of mind.

Tipping in Widnau

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to round up the bill or leave a small tip (around 5-10%) in restaurants, but service is often included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but having some cash on hand 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 and outdoor festivals; perfect for hiking and exploring local markets.

Summer

Warm temperatures attract many visitors; enjoy outdoor activities like swimming and cycling.

Autumn

The foliage turns vibrant colors, ideal for photography and wine tasting in local vineyards.

Winter

Cold temperatures bring snow, making it a great time for skiing and winter sports in nearby mountains.

Nightlife Guide

Widnau at Night

Widnau's nightlife is relatively low-key but charming, with a variety of bars and small venues offering live music and entertainment. The local scene primarily revolves around cozy pubs where you can enjoy a drink with friends, as well as seasonal events like outdoor festivals and community gatherings that bring the town to life at night. For those looking for a more vibrant nightlife experience, nearby cities like St. Gallen offer more extensive options.

Hiking in Widnau

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Säntis Trail

A challenging hike that leads to the summit of Säntis, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Alps and surrounding landscapes.

Rheinfall Trail

A scenic hike along the Rhine River, leading to the famous Rhine Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in Europe.

Airports

How to reach Widnau by plane.

St. Gallen-Altenrhein Airport

Located about 20 kilometers from Widnau, this airport offers limited international flights and serves as a convenient gateway to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Widnau is a very walkable town, with most amenities, including shops, restaurants, and parks, easily accessible on foot. The streets are well-maintained, and pedestrian pathways are common, making it convenient for visitors to explore without needing a car. However, some hiking trails may require a short drive to reach their starting points.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Widnau is home to a diverse population, primarily Swiss nationals, with a rich blend of cultures due to its proximity to the borders.

Tourists

Visitors come from various backgrounds, attracted by the natural beauty and cultural offerings of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Widnau, with local clubs and community events frequently occurring.

Hiking

With access to beautiful trails, hiking is a cherished pastime for both locals and visitors.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Widnau is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or foot. Public transportation options include buses that connect Widnau to surrounding areas and cities, with regular schedules. Cycling is also popular, with designated bike paths contributing to a friendly environment for cyclists.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Widnau.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Widnau offer vegetarian meals, though it's advisable to check with staff for specific ingredients.

Gluten-Free Options

Some eateries can accommodate gluten-free diets, but always inquire about cross-contamination.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Widnau is of high quality, with several clinics and hospitals located nearby. In case of emergencies, hospitals in St. Gallen are equipped to handle a wide range of medical needs. It is recommended for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses during their stay.

Discover Switzerland

Read more in our Switzerland 2025 Travel Guide.

Switzerland Travel Guide