St Gallen is a city that rewards exploration on foot. Its compact layout, stunning abbey district, and colorful old town make walking tours a perfect way to soak up its charm. What sets these tours apart is how they cater to different interests—whether you’re after a quick snapshot, a deep dive into textile history, or sweet indulgence with chocolates. We particularly like the St. Gallen: Express Walk with a Local for its quick, insider approach and personalized tips, ideal if you’re short on time but want authentic sights and local advice.
To help you decide, we’ve put together a list of the top walking experiences in St Gallen, each offering a unique taste of the city. Whether you’re here for a brief visit or a leisurely exploration, these tours are worth considering.
1. St. Gallen: Express Walk with a Local in 60 minutes
At number one, this 60-minute mini-tour offers a quick but comprehensive way to see the essentials of St Gallen with a local guide. The tour is designed for travelers who want to get their bearings and insider tips in a short time. You’ll explore key landmarks such as the Abbey District, which showcases the city’s spiritual and architectural heritage, and enjoy personalized recommendations for cafes, bars, and restaurants.
What makes this tour stand out is its intimate size—max 8 travelers—which creates a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of chances to ask questions. The guide’s local insights make the history and current culture come alive, turning a brief walk into a memorable experience. With a perfect 5/5 rating based on four reviews, many visitors appreciate how much ground they cover in a short window. The price of $96 per person reflects a premium experience, but for those with limited time, it’s an efficient way to make the most of St Gallen.
Bottom line: If your schedule is tight but you want a personalized, insider glimpse of St Gallen, this express walk is hard to beat.
2. Old town walking tour in St. Gallen with textile museum
For those interested in St Gallen’s textile heritage, this Old Town & Textile Museum tour offers a richer cultural story. Priced at just $30 per person and lasting about 1.5 hours, it provides a deeper look into the city’s origins, starting around 612 AD. You’ll stroll through narrow streets and spacious squares, getting a feel for what made St Gallen a hub for merchants and textile production.
The tour includes a visit to the Textile Museum, where you’ll see the intricate craftsmanship behind the city’s famous embroidery. The highlight is understanding how the oriels (projecting windows) relate to the merchant class—an architectural feature unique to this region. Visitors often enjoy the chance to see the old town from a local’s perspective, with lively stories about the city’s trading past. It’s a solid choice if you’re interested in history and textiles, especially since the museum showcases stunning examples of embroidery from the city’s storied past.
Bottom line: Budget-friendly and focused on history, this tour suits travelers eager to explore both the streets and the textile legacy that defined St Gallen.
$30 per person
3. St. Gallen: Chocolate Tasting and Walking Tour with a Local
Sweet tooths will find their happiness on this Chocolate Tasting & Walking Tour. Lasting about 2 hours, it combines a sightseeing walk through charming neighborhoods with indulgent tastings from local chocolatiers. The tour begins at the Löwen Apotheke St. Gallen and includes visits to various spots where you’ll sample different types of Swiss chocolates. Along the way, your guide shares stories about St Gallen’s history and its love affair with chocolate.
What makes this tour special is its focus on local culinary culture. You’ll get tips on the best cafes and learn about the city’s favorite treats, paired with a cozy hot chocolate or beverage at a boutique café. The itinerary also features sightseeing stops around the cathedral and other picturesque streets, making it a delightful combination of cultural exploration and sweet indulgence. The 4.4/5 rating indicates a generally positive experience, especially from travelers who love chocolate and authentic local flavors.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a relaxed, delicious way to explore St Gallen and pick up insider tips on the best local sweets.
How to Choose the Right Walking Tour in St Gallen
When deciding between these options, consider your time, budget, and interests. If you’re pressed for time but want a quick, personalized introduction, the Express Walk with a Local is ideal. For a deep dive into the city’s textile history and old town, the Textile Museum Tour offers excellent value and educational content. If you have a sweet tooth and want a leisurely, flavor-filled experience, the Chocolate Tasting Tour combines sightseeing with indulgence.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons in spring and summer, to secure your preferred time slot. Also, check the availability for each tour, as some are more popular than others.
Final Thoughts
St Gallen offers a variety of walking experiences that suit quick visits, cultural exploration, or delicious treats. If you’re short on time but want insider tips, go for the Express Walk. History buffs and budget travelers will appreciate the Old Town & Textile Museum Tour, while chocolate lovers should not miss the Chocolate Tasting Tour. No matter which you choose, booking in advance will help ensure you enjoy your perfect stroll through this charming Swiss city.