St Gallen is a city that combines medieval charm with a surprisingly rich tapestry of stories, especially when it comes to the role women have played or the long brewing traditions that have persisted for centuries. What makes St Gallen particularly engaging for history lovers is its blend of personal stories and cultural heritage, all set against a beautifully preserved cityscape. Among the many ways to explore, we especially like the Women who made history tour because it sheds light on the often-overlooked contributions of women in shaping the city’s identity. And for those with a taste for local tradition, the St. Gallen Beer History tour offers a flavorful deep dive into the city’s 1200-year-old brewing legacy. Both tours are a fantastic way to experience St Gallen’s layers of history firsthand.
In this list, you’ll find two distinct types of historical tours — one focused on women’s stories and their hidden traces in the city, and the other celebrating St Gallen’s ancient beer culture. Each offers a different perspective, making both worth considering depending on what interests you most. We’ll walk through what each tour includes, their highlights, and who they’re best suited for, so you can pick the one that fits your travel style.
1. St. Gallen: Public city tour “Women who made history”
At number one, this Women who made history tour is a 1.5-hour stroll that brings to life the stories of remarkable women in Gallen’s past. The tour starts at Bankgasse 9 and takes you through the city’s streets, revealing unknown traces of women in the architecture and public spaces. It’s not just about famous figures; it highlights pioneering work by women whose contributions shaped local history but are often overlooked.
What makes this tour stand out is the focus on personal stories behind the buildings and landmarks, making history feel very human. The guide shares background info on these women’s struggles and successes, offering a fresh perspective on Gallen’s traditional narrative. It’s a light walk, suitable for people who enjoy cultural stories with a social twist. Since the tour is in German and rated based on reviews, it’s a good choice for those wanting an engaging, intimate experience. Be aware it’s not suitable for children under 12, but adults will find it insightful and thought-provoking. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for most travelers.
Bottom line: This tour offers a unique lens on Gallen’s history, emphasizing female pioneers and hidden stories woven into the city streets. Perfect for history or gender studies enthusiasts seeking a personal touch.
2. St. Gallen: Public Tour “St. Gallen Beer History”
Coming in second, the St. Gallen Beer History tour is a 2.5-hour journey through the city’s 1200-year-old brewing tradition. It starts in the historic center, where your guide takes you to local breweries and pubs, sharing stories of how beer became woven into Gallen’s culture. This tour includes a tasting of local beer, providing a direct connection to the city’s past and present brewing practices.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on the tradition of beer, a craft that’s been part of Gallen for over a millennium. During the walk, you’ll hear funny stories and interesting facts, making the experience both educational and entertaining. The tour is well-suited for beer lovers or those interested in Swiss local customs. The guide’s knowledge of local breweries and historical sites makes it a memorable exploration of Gallen’s cultural heritage.
While the tour is longer than the first, at 2.5 hours, it offers excellent value, especially with the included beer tasting. Reviewers mention that it’s perfect for those wanting a relaxed, fun way to learn about Gallen’s history. Potential drawbacks include the tour’s focus on beer, which might not appeal to visitors seeking solely cultural or architectural insights.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in local traditions and enjoy tasting regional beers, this tour provides a lively, flavorful way to learn about Gallen’s 1200-year-old brewing legacy.
How to Choose Between These Tours
When deciding between the two, consider your interests and travel goals. The Women who made history tour is ideal if you want a personal, narrative-driven experience that highlights women’s contributions and hidden stories. It’s short, accessible, and perfect for those curious about social history. Meanwhile, the St. Gallen Beer History tour suits beer enthusiasts or travelers eager to connect with Gallen’s long-standing brewing tradition through tasting and lively storytelling.
If your available time is limited, the first tour offers a compact, meaningful glimpse into the city’s social fabric. For those with longer stays or who love culinary history, the second provides a delicious and immersive cultural experience. Both tours can be booked in advance, and booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
In summary, Gallen offers a surprising variety of ways to explore its past. For a personal story, the Women’s tour is compelling; for a tasty dive into local customs, the beer tour is excellent. For the history lover, both promise engaging insights into Gallen’s unique identity. No matter which you pick, early booking ensures you won’t miss out on these authentic experiences.
If you want a rich, well-rounded understanding of Gallen, consider combining one of these tours with visits to its stunning abbey, or the Medieval Old Town—both are just a short walk away. Whatever your interests, Gallen’s stories are waiting to be uncovered, and these tours are a great way to start.
