Things To Do
in Wil
Wil is a small, friendly town in the canton of St. Gallen, set along the Thur River and framed by rolling hills. It serves as a convenient gateway to the Toggenburg and Appenzell regions, offering a charming mix of medieval streets and modern amenities. The town is walkable and relaxed, making it easy to enjoy local cafés, markets, and scenic viewpoints.
From Wil, you can easily reach alpine trails, lakes, and valley panoramas for day trips and outdoor adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the local farmer's market, where fresh produce and artisan goods await. Engage in conversations with friendly vendors to learn more about Swiss traditions and delicacies. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of Wil, admiring the well-preserved historical architecture.
Dedicate your afternoon to exploring the Wil Castle, a striking landmark that offers a glimpse into the region's history. Take a guided tour and enjoy the exquisite views from the castle’s terrace. Conclude your afternoon with a leisurely walk in the surrounding park, soaking up the sun and beautiful landscapes.
As night falls, dine at a local Swiss restaurant and savor traditional dishes like fondue or rösti. Enjoy the cozy atmosphere while mingling with locals and other travelers. After dinner, take a peaceful evening stroll along the riverbanks, listening to the gentle sound of the water.
Begin your morning with a hike in the nearby Jura Mountains, where breathtaking views and fresh air rejuvenate your spirit. The trails offer varying difficulty levels, catering to both beginners and seasoned hikers. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst nature's splendor.
In the afternoon, try your hand at mountain biking along designated trails or, for a more relaxed pace, explore the picturesque landscape on horseback. For those interested in culture, consider visiting a nearby vineyard to learn about Swiss winemaking. Participate in a tasting session to indulge in local flavors.
End your adventurous day at a rustic mountain lodge, where hearty comfort food awaits you. Revel in the warm ambiance, sharing stories with fellow travelers around a crackling fire. The starry night sky is the perfect backdrop for making memories.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧀Appenzeller cheese (100g) | $4-6 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $4-6 |
| 🍽️Main course at mid-range restaurant | $18-28 |
| 🍷Glass of wine | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town center with easy access to nature
- Excellent rail and road connectivity for day trips
- High quality of life and safety; great cheese and local cuisine
- Scenic landscapes and a gateway to Toggenburg and Alpstein
- Limited nightlife and larger-scale attractions compared to bigger cities
- Some services and shops close earlier on Sundays
- Seasonal weather can affect mountain access in winter
- "Grüezi" - Hello
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please / You're welcome
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Wil
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic riverside path with reflections and tranquil water views, ideal for sunrise or golden-hour photography.
Colorful facades, arcades, and the town hall provide classic Swiss urban photography backdrops.
Elevated viewpoints near the old town offer rooftops and steeples framed against the surrounding hills.
A short climb or bus ride leads to a vantage point with panoramic views of the town and valley.
Food in Wil
Wil Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A regional sausage often enjoyed grilled with mustard and bread; look for it at traditional sausage stands and in town bistros.
Must-Try!
A sharp, aromatic cheese used on cheese boards or in fondue; pair with crusty bread and pickles at local eateries.
Crispy potato rösti topped with a fried egg—appealing for breakfast or a hearty lunch.
Creamy mountain macaroni with potatoes and cheese; a comforting Swiss classic available in mountain-adjacent restaurants.
A traditional, refreshing oats-and-nut breakfast often served with fruit—great at cafes and hotels.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekly market in the town square offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and regional specialties; a great place to sample local textures and flavors.
Seasonal stalls around the town with street-food options and artisanal snacks; ideal for a quick bite while exploring Wil.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite Grüezi (Hello) and maintain a friendly, respectful demeanor. Use Sie (formal) with strangers and elders unless invited to use du (informal).
Be punctual for appointments and keep to orderly queues; Swiss culture values efficiency and courtesy.
Keep noise to a reasonable level in public spaces and respect quiet hours in residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Wil
Ensure a smooth experience
In Switzerland, service charges are usually included in the bill. Rounding up or leaving a modest 5–10% tip for good service is common but not required.
Credit/debit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash (Swiss francs) is still common in smaller shops and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming flora; do not miss early-morning mists over the valley and the first green shoots after winter.
Long, bright days with pleasant temperatures; occasional showers—great for outdoor dining, lakeside strolls, and hilltop viewpoints.
Crips air and colorful foliage; harvest season brings markets with regional cheeses and fruit. Layered clothing is advisable.
Cold and potentially snowy; nearby Toggenburg and Alpstein offer skiing, snowshoeing, and cozy chalets.
Wil at Night
Hiking in Wil
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Ridge hike with sweeping views over the Rhine Valley; accessible from Toggenburg routes and offers a dramatic alpine perspective.
A classic lakeside hike to Seealpsee near Wasserauen, featuring alpine scenery and cascades.
Challenging alpine ascent (or a via-cable-car option) with 360-degree summit views across the area.
Airports
How to reach Wil by plane.
Switzerland’s largest international hub; about a 1.5–2 hour train journey from Wil with frequent connections.
Regional airport serving the area; convenient for certain European flights and reachable by train/bus transfer.
Nearby airport on Lake Constance in Germany; about 1.5–2 hours by rail and road from Wil.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Wil, attracted by safe neighborhoods, good schools, and easy access to nature.
Residents who travel to St. Gallen or other nearby towns for work, thanks to reliable public transport.
A diverse mix due to proximity to larger urban centers and universities in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely enjoyed in the surrounding Toggenburg and Alpstein regions, with varied trails for all levels.
Road and mountain biking routes through the valley and into the hills around Wil.
Nearby winter resorts in Appenzell and the Alpstein offer seasonal skiing and snowshoeing.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Wil.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in Wil. Look for cheese-based dishes, veggie rosti, salads, and pasta; most restaurants can adapt menus on request.