Thinking about a day trip that lets you soak up some of Switzerland’s best scenery and culture without feeling rushed? This private tour from Zurich to St. Gallen and Appenzell might just be what you’re after. It’s designed for those who want a personalized experience—think flexible schedule, beautiful photo moments, and a deep dive into local life.
What stood out for us in reviews is how much travelers appreciated the professional photos capturing their trip and the intimate, private nature of the experience. On the flip side, some might find the 5-hour span a bit tight if they want to linger longer at each spot. But overall, this tour looks perfect for anyone craving a tailored taste of Eastern Switzerland, especially if you’d like a guide to highlight the hidden charms.
If you’re someone who values personalized service, beautiful scenery, and cultural insights, this could be just the right fit. It’s also a good choice if you want to combine sightseeing with some local tasting, especially cheese.
Key Points
- Personalized Experience: Private tour with flexible pacing and tailored stops.
- Cultural Highlights: Visit UNESCO-listed Abbey Library of St. Gallen and explore Appenzell’s colorful streets.
- Photo & Video: Unlimited professional photos and drone footage, perfect for capturing memories.
- Local Flavors: Enjoy light snacks and cheese tasting, adding a tasty local touch.
- Convenient & Comfortable: Hotel pickup included, private transportation, and wheelchair accessible.
- Time-Efficient: 5-hour tour covering major sights at a relaxed pace.
Why Choose This Tour?
This experience offers a nicely balanced mix of cultural, scenic, and culinary highlights. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see key sights but also value the ease of a private, stress-free day. You’ll get a dedicated guide who can adapt the itinerary based on your interests—whether that’s focusing on the library, wandering the streets of Appenzell, or snapping countless photos.
The inclusion of unlimited professional photos and drone videos is a real bonus. It means you’ll leave with high-quality images and footage to remember your Swiss adventure, not just blurry snapshots. Plus, light snacks keep the energy up without turning the trip into a full meal, which works well if you plan to explore or snack on local cheese later.
Planning more time in St Gallen? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Itinerary Breakdown
Pickup & Initial Views
Your day starts with a pickup at your Zurich hotel — a big plus for those who dislike schlepping to meeting points. The ride to St. Gallen offers a chance to relax and enjoy the changing scenery. We loved the way this setup keeps the experience intimate and tailored from the outset.
St. Gallen and the Abbey Library
Your first stop is the Abbey Library of St. Gallen, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its ornate wooden interiors and centuries of manuscripts. This isn’t just about admiring the books — it’s stepping into a space that has inspired visitors for generations. As one reviewer put it, “The library is breathtaking,” with many mentioning the beautifully preserved manuscripts and detailed woodwork.
The guide will likely give you a quick history, but the real reward is wandering freely and soaking in the atmosphere. The library’s ornate decor makes for fantastic photos, especially if you’re into architecture or history.
More Great Tours NearbyStrolling in Appenzell
Next, you’ll head to Appenzell, a village famous for its vibrant houses and Swiss charm. Walking through its narrow streets, you’ll see traditional architecture, local crafts, and colorful facades that seem straight out of a postcard. Many visitors appreciate the relaxed pace here, perfect for browsing shops and sampling local specialties.
If you choose, you can try Appenzeller cheese—a highlight for cheese lovers—or explore local crafts. The guide can tailor the experience, whether you want to focus on photo stops, local culture, or just soaking in the atmosphere.
Cheese Tasting & Local Flavors
A visit to the Appenzeller Cheese Factory is included, where you can sample fresh cheese and learn about the production process. This makes for a tasty break and offers a taste of authentic Swiss cheese culture. Reviewers often mention how friendly and knowledgeable the staff are, making the tasting both informative and delicious.
Wrap-Up & Return
After the cheese tasting, you’ll relax in your private vehicle for the return to Zurich. The full experience wraps up in about five hours, giving you enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling hurried.
Experience Quality and Practicalities
This tour scores highly on flexibility and comfort. You’re picked up at your hotel, transported in a private vehicle, and guided by a local who knows the ins and outs of the region. The tour is wheelchair accessible and stroller friendly, making it suitable for a variety of travelers.
The cost might seem steep compared to a group tour, but the private aspect and inclusion of photos mean you’re paying for a personalized, hassle-free day. Many reviews mention how the guide’s adaptability and local insights made the trip special.
Timing-wise, it’s well-paced for a day trip, allowing stops at each major highlight while leaving room for spontaneous moments. Some travelers found the experience highly rewarding, especially those who enjoy photography and cultural discovery.
The Value of Personal Photos and Drone Video
One of the most praised aspects is the unlimited professional photos and drone footage. For many, this elevates the tour from just sightseeing to creating a lasting memory bank. Being able to capture sweeping landscapes, beautiful architecture, and candid moments makes this a standout feature.
Imagine leaving with high-quality images that truly reflect your experience—no need to worry about snapping the perfect shot yourself. This added touch makes the tour feel extra special, especially if you’re into photography or want stunning visuals for social media.
Final Thoughts
This private tour from Zurich to St. Gallen and Appenzell offers a well-rounded snapshot of Swiss culture, scenery, and craftsmanship. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer a relaxed, personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide. The inclusion of unlimited photos and drone videos makes it ideal for creating memory keepsakes.
While the 5-hour duration might limit the depth of exploration, it’s perfect if you want a taste of the region without overcommitting. The flexibility and comfort of private transport, along with the chance to sample local cheese and enjoy beautiful scenery, make this tour a compelling choice.
For anyone wanting a curated, photo-rich day in Switzerland—especially those who enjoy cultural sights and picturesque towns—this tour hits many marks. Just remember to have comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as you’ll be walking and exploring outdoors.
Zurich: St. Gallen & Appenzell Private Tour with Photos
FAQ
How long is the tour?
It lasts about 5 hours, which is enough to see the main highlights without feeling rushed.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, your guide will pick you up right at your hotel in Zurich. Be ready 10 minutes early for a smooth start.
Can I bring a stroller or wheelchair?
Yes, the tour is stroller and wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a variety of travelers.
What’s included in the price?
Private transportation, a local guide, unlimited professional photos and drone videos, light snacks, and cheese tasting.
Are there any meals included?
No full meals, but light local snacks and cheese tasting are part of the experience.
Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the accessibility suggests it can be suitable for children comfortable with walking and outdoor activities.
Can the itinerary be customized?
Yes, the guide can adapt the pace and focus based on your interests, given this is a private tour.
Is there a dress code?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, especially if you’ll be walking outdoors.
What languages are available?
The tour is conducted in English and German.
How do I book and pay?
You can reserve now with the option to pay later—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
This tour offers an appealing mix of Swiss tradition, stunning views, and personalized service. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and culturally enriching day with plenty of photo opportunities, it’s worth considering. Just be prepared for a bit of walking and the typical Swiss weather—whatever it may bring.
You can check availability for your dates here:
