St Gallen isn’t just about its stunning abbey and vibrant old town; it also offers some fun ways for visitors to explore its local beer culture. Whether you’re a puzzle lover or a history buff, the city’s drinking tours give you a chance to enjoy Swiss beer while experiencing the town’s unique character. We’re particularly fond of the Escape Room St. Gallen “Beer Factory” for its playful twist on beer and bonding, and the St. Gallen: Public Tour “St. Gallen Beer History” for a deeper dive into the city’s brewing traditions. Both showcase different sides of St Gallen’s vibrant beer scene, making them perfect for different kinds of travelers.
In this guide, you’ll find two distinct types of drinking tours: one is an interactive escape room adventure centered around beer, and the other is a historic walking tour with beer tastings. Whether you want to challenge your wits or sip local brews amid cobblestone streets, these tours offer authentic and memorable ways to enjoy St Gallen.
Let’s explore these options in detail so you can choose the best experience for your visit.
1. Escape Room St. Gallen “Beer Factory”
At number 1 on our list, the Escape Room St. Gallen “Beer Factory” offers a playful twist on a typical beer outing. This classic live escape room involves breaking into a mock brewery to steal a secret recipe—think of it as an adventure that combines problem-solving with a love of beer. The entire experience lasts about 60 minutes, during which your group will face tricky puzzles set in a creatively themed room that looks like a real brewery, adding authenticity and fun.
This tour is perfect for friends traveling together or anyone who enjoys puzzles with a twist. The challenge isn’t just mental; it encourages team spirit and good humor. The setup makes it more than just a game—it’s a lively, interactive way to bond over shared laughs and a little friendly competition. Plus, kids under 16 get a discount of 10 CHF, making it family-friendly for those traveling with younger adventurers.
What makes this escape room stand out is its focus on collaborative problem-solving. You won’t leave with a new skill in brewing, but you’ll definitely leave with a story to tell. The experience is quick but memorable, making it a good choice for a short activity in the middle of your day.
Bottom line: If you enjoy puzzles, teamwork, and a bit of humor while indulging your love of beer culture, this escape room offers a fun, informal experience that’s well worth the price for a group of up to two people.
2. St. Gallen: Public Tour “St. Gallen Beer History”
Second on our list, the St. Gallen: Public Tour “St. Gallen Beer History” takes you on a 2.5-hour walk through the historic streets of St. Gallen’s center. This tour explores a 1200-year-old beer tradition, offering fascinating beery facts, funny stories, and a tasting of local brews. It’s ideal for those interested in more than just drinking—you get an insider’s look at how beer has shaped this region and how it’s still an important part of local life.
During the walk, you’ll visit significant landmarks in St. Gallen’s old town, learning about the city’s deep-rooted brewing history. The tour includes stops for beer tastings, giving you an authentic experience of local flavors—perfect for beer enthusiasts eager to try the regional brews. The guide shares engaging stories that make history come alive, making the experience both educational and entertaining.
What makes this tour particularly appealing is its blend of cultural history and beer tasting, making it more than just a drinking session. It’s suited for adults interested in history, local traditions, and tasting. The tour is well-rated for its immersive storytelling, and many visitors appreciate the opportunity to learn about St Gallen’s 1200-year-old brewing heritage.
Bottom line: If you want a leisurely, informative stroll through St Gallen’s historic streets with beer tasting included, this tour is a great choice. It offers good value for the 2.5 hours and provides a deeper understanding of the city’s long-standing beer traditions.
How to Choose Between These Drinking Tours
When selecting a drinking tour in St Gallen, think about your interests and how you want to spend your time. If you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy puzzles and interactive activities, the Beer Factory escape room is a lively, fun experience that fosters teamwork. For those who prefer a more relaxed, cultural exploration, the St. Gallen Beer History tour offers a deeper dive into the city’s brewing heritage with tastings along the way.
Budget-wise, the escape room is designed for small groups and is priced at $126 for up to two people, making it a good value for an hour of fun. The historic tour doesn’t specify a price here but typically offers a more comprehensive experience if you enjoy storytelling combined with tasting. Consider timing your tour to coincide with other sightseeing or local festivals for a richer experience.
Both tours cater to different interests—whether you want an interactive puzzle adventure or an educational beer journey—and are best booked in advance, especially during busy seasons.
Final Thoughts
St Gallen offers a compact yet lively beer scene that’s easy to explore through these engaging tours. For a quick and fun challenge, the beer-themed escape room provides a memorable activity, while the historic beer tour immerses you in the city’s long-standing brewing tradition. Both experiences are authentic and provide a different way to enjoy local culture.
If you’re traveling with friends or family and seeking a lively, interactive experience, go for the escape room. If you prefer a more relaxed, educational walk with tastings, the beer history tour will suit you best. Either way, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these fun, authentic experiences in St Gallen.
Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to raise a glass to your adventure—prost!
