Citizens of most EU/EFTA countries and many others (e.g., USA, Canada, Australia) can enter visa‑free for up to 90 days. Switzerland is in Schengen, so a valid Schengen visa works.

What currency is used?

Swiss Franc (CHF). Some hotels and tourist spots accept euros, but change is given in CHF. Credit cards are widely taken.

What language is spoken?

German, or more precisely the Alemannic Swiss German dialect. Official communications are in High German, and many people speak some English, especially in tourism.

How do I get to Appenzell Ausserrhoden?

Fly into Zurich Airport (ZRH), then take a direct train to St. Gallen (1h) and connect to Appenzeller Bahnen. Some regional flights land at St. Gallen‑Altenrhein (ACH).

Yes, the tap water is pristine and drinkable everywhere, including from public fountains unless marked otherwise.

What’s the best time to visit?

June to September for hiking; December to March for winter activities. Late spring and early autumn are lovely and quieter.

Is English widely spoken?

In hotels, tourist offices, and larger restaurants English is common. In remote villages or small shops, a phrasebook or translation app helps.

Do I need hiking boots?

Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support are essential for mountain trails. Sneakers are fine for easy valley walks only.

Yes, ATMs (Bancomat) are available in Herisau, Trogen, Heiden, and other larger villages. Not all small hamlets have them.

Layers are key: moisture‑wicking base, insulating mid‑layer, waterproof‑breathable shell. Don’t forget sun protection, a reusable water bottle, and a Swiss power adapter (type J).

Is Appenzell Ausserrhoden family‑friendly?

Absolutely. Many trails are pushchair‑friendly, animals and dairies delight children, and mountain railways make summits accessible. Kids’ adventure paths add extra fun.

What is the best way to get around?

Public transport (trains/buses) is excellent. A Swiss Travel Pass offers unlimited travel.

Are there hiking trails for beginners?

Yes, many easy trails like the Ebenalp walk. Always check difficulty ratings.

Can I drink tap water?

Yes, tap water is safe and of high quality throughout Switzerland.

Is the region family-friendly?

Absolutely. Many easy hikes, playgrounds, and family-run farms welcome children.

What local food must I try?

Appenzeller cheese, Biberli (spiced gingerbread), and Chäs-Chüechli (cheese fritters).

What is the tipping etiquette?

Service is included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated for good service.

Can I use my mobile phone?

Yes, coverage is excellent. Consider a local SIM for data if not roaming.

Appenzell Ausserrhoden - Travel destination image

Appenzell Ausserrhoden

Switzerland, Europe

Appenzell Ausserrhoden is a STATE in Switzerland, Europe.

Nestled in the rolling pre-Alps of northeast Switzerland, Appenzell Ausserrhoden is a pastoral paradise of emerald hills, ancient farmhouses, and rugged mountain peaks. The iconic Säntis massif towers over a patchwork of wildflower meadows, where cows donning ceremonial bells graze peacefully. Hiking trails crisscross the Alpstein region, leading to crystal-clear mountain lakes like Seealpsee and breathtaking vistas from the Ebenalp cliff. Villages such as Herisau and Trogen charm with painted timber facades, town squares adorned with frescoes, and a living folk culture that endures in music, costumes, and the famous Alpabzug cattle descent. The air smells of fresh hay and Appenzeller cheese, produced in traditional dairies. Despite its timeless tranquility, the canton is easily reached from Zurich and St. Gallen. Whether you’re summiting Säntis for a 360-degree panorama, cycling through gentle valleys, or simply soaking in the serene sounds of cowbells, this is Swiss authenticity at its purest—remote yet welcoming, rugged yet refined.

Best time to visit Appenzell Ausserrhoden

Mid-June to late September provides the prime hiking window, with warm days, blooming alpine flora, and all mountain huts and cable cars operating. July and August are busiest, but you can still find solitude on lesser-known trails. Winter (December–March) transforms the region into a snowy fairy tale ideal for snowshoeing, winter walking, and cosy evenings; downhill skiing is limited compared to other Swiss regions. May and October offer mild, uncrowded conditions and vivid colours (spring blossoms or autumn gold), though some high-altitude paths and restaurants may still be closed. Avoid November if you dislike grey skies and dormant landscapes.

October

Now

Right now

Condition: Partly cloudy
Temperature: 4°
Feels like: 0°
Humidity: 83%
Wind: 14 km/h
Precipitation: 0 mm

Typical for October

Weather: Cool 5-14°C, autumn colours

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Moderate

Beautiful foliage; some mountain restaurants close after mid‑Oct.

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

ZRH

Zurich Airport

International

80 km away

ACH

St. Gallen-Altenrhein Airport

Regional

30 km away

FDH

Friedrichshafen Airport

International

50 km away

BSL

EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg

International

180 km away

GVA

Geneva Airport

International

280 km away

Getting around

"The backbone is the Appenzeller Bahnen (Appenzell Railways) and a dense web of yellow PostBus lines, linking every village and trailhead. Purchase a Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited public transport and discounts on mountain railways. Driving is feasible, but narrow country lanes and scarce parking in historic centres make public transit more relaxing. The Säntis cable car whisks you from Schwägalp to the summit; other areas like Ebenalp are accessed by gondola. E‑bike rental is booming, and many hotels provide guest cards granting free local bus travel. Hiking is, of course, the way to truly immerse yourself."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

30 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Widely available in hotels, many cafés, and public spots

Local SIM

Swisscom, Sunrise, or Salt SIMs from CHF 20 at shops; eSIM options also work

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Extremely low crime; main hazards are weather and mountain terrain.

Night safety

8/10

Extremely low crime; main hazards are weather and mountain terrain.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

2/10

"Appenzell Ausserrhoden is exceptionally safe, with virtually no violent crime. The greatest dangers are natural: rapid weather shifts in the mountains, slippery rocky trails, and avalanches in winter backcountry. Always check the local forecast before heading out, carry a rainproof layer, sturdy hiking boots, and a fully charged phone. Observe trail markers and warning signs; do not approach grazing cows or their calves. In winter, stick to marked winter hiking paths or hire a guide for off-piste tours. If you’re trekking alone, inform someone of your route. The emergency app ‘Rega’ (Swiss Air-Rescue) is invaluable for mountain emergencies."

Police

117

Ambulance

144

Fire

118

European Emergency

112

REGA (Air Rescue)

1414

Entry and health

Health information

"No specific vaccinations are required; tap water is safe to drink. Medical care is excellent, with modern hospitals in Herisau and nearby St. Gallen. Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended, especially if you plan mountain activities (helicopter rescue can be costly). At the Säntis summit (2502 m) some visitors may experience mild altitude symptoms—ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol. Pharmacies (Apotheke) are well stocked in larger villages; note many close for lunch and on Sundays. Tick-borne encephalitis is present in forested areas; consider vaccination if hiking extensively, and wear long trousers."

Culture

Local customs

"Swiss German is the everyday language, but a cheerful ‘Grüezi’ (hello) is universally appreciated. Punctuality is a mark of respect—trains and appointments adhere to strict schedules. Dress is informal and focused on practicality; hiking gear is perfectly acceptable even in nicer restaurants. Tipping is not obligatory; rounding up the bill is a kind gesture. Always stay on marked paths, close pasture gates behind you, and refrain from picking wildflowers. During the annual Alpabzug (cattle descent), join the celebrations with a glass of ‘Most’ (apple wine) but give farmers and animals plenty of space."

German (official)French (official)Italian (official)Romansh (official)EnglishGermanFrenchItalianRomansh

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Luxury

Meals

CHF 25-40 (~$28-45) | a cheap local meal costs around CHF 25-40

Hotels

CHF 150-300 | budget hotels range CHF 150-300/night

Local transport

CHF 2-5 | local bus ride ~CHF 2-5

Cost notes

Switzerland is one of the world’s most expensive countries; picnic supplies from supermarkets can help lower food costs.

Timezone

Europe/Zurich
Local time 05:29

More facts

Population

55,000

ISO code

CH-AR

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Gerisau, Gerizau, Herisan, Herisau, Herizava, Hērizava, Kherisau, Kherizau, aryzw, hei li shao, helijau, herisa'o, herisa'u, herisaው, herizau, hyrasayw, hyrysaw, Герисау, Герізау, Херизау, Херисау, اریزو, هيراسايو, هیریساو, ہیریزاؤ, ہیریساو, हेरिसाउ, হেরিসাউ, ਹੇਰਿਸਾਓ, ሄሪሳው, ヘリザウ, 黑里紹, 헤리자우, Апенцэль — Аўсерродэн, Appenzell Ausser-Rhoden, Apencelo Ekstera, Appenzell Rodas Exteriores, Appenzell Rhodes-Extérieures, Appenzello Esterno, アッペンツェル・アウサーローデン準州, 아펜첼아우서로덴, Apencelis-Auserodenas, Appenzell Dadora, Appenzell Extern, Аппенцелль-Аусерроден, Аппенцелль-Ауссерроден, Kanton Appenzell Ausserrhoden, Appezell Usserrhode, CH-AR, أبينزيل أوسيرهودن, Аппенцелль-Ауссерроде

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