From Basel: Mount Säntis, St. Gallen Old Town & UNESCO Library
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10h - 12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Join this exclusive small-group tour from Basel and experience Switzerland’s best in a single day.
Take a scenic train ride to the Appenzell region, ascend Mount Säntis via cable car for breathtaking panoramic views, and enjoy lunch at the summit.
Then, explore St. Gallen’s charming Old Town and step inside the UNESCO-listed Abbey Library, a Rococo masterpiece filled with ancient manuscripts.
- Panoramic 360° views from Mount Säntis
- Charming cobblestone streets and bay windows of St. Gallen Old Town
- Explore the historic UNESCO Abbey Library with rare manuscripts
Perfect for travelers who love nature, history, and culture — all in one unforgettable day!
Available options
Private Tour
Pick up included
Shared Tour
What's included
Train tickets (2nd class)
St. Gallen Old Town exploration
Mount Säntis Gondola
All transportation tickets, fees and taxes
Entrance ticket to UNESCO Abbey Library
Detailed itinerary
1
We will meet atBasel SBB (Main Train Station) and begin a relaxing and picturesque journey to the Appenzell region — gateway to Mount Säntis. Enjoy Switzerland’s countryside as the train travels through lush rolling hills, peaceful farmland, and traditional Appenzell villages dotted with colorful wooden houses.
2
Stop 2
From Schwägalp, we will board the modern Säntis cable car for a smooth ride up to 2,502 meters. As we glide above forests and limestone cliffs, the alpine panorama opens dramatically beneath us. At the summit, enjoy approximately two hours to explore viewing platforms with 360° vistas spanning six countries, learn about the region’s natural heritage, and relax over lunch at the summit restaurant
3
After descending from Säntis, we take a comfortable 1-hour train ride to the historic city of St. Gallen. Upon arrival, we’ll stroll through the charming Old Town, known for its beautifully preserved houses adorned with ornate bay windows, narrow cobblestone lanes, and a relaxed, elegant atmosphere.
4
We then make our way to the Abbey District of St. Gallen, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its centuries-old monastic tradition. Here, we visit the extraordinary Abbey Library, one of the oldest and most beautiful libraries in the world. During approximately one hour inside, you’ll marvel at its grand Rococo hall, ancient manuscripts, and rare books that preserve over 1,200 years of cultural history.
5
After an unforgettable day of alpine panoramas and cultural treasures, we board the train back to Basel
What's not included
Food and drinks during the tour
Any other extra personal expenses during the tour
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
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4 reviews
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Your guide will be waiting for you at Basel SBB station, in the departure hall, right across from the ticket office at the marked meeting point (in front of big picture).
About Basel
Basel is a vibrant city where Swiss, French, and German cultures converge. Known for its rich art scene, medieval architecture, and picturesque location along the Rhine River, it offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern innovation. The city's compact size makes it easy to explore, with numerous museums, festivals, and outdoor activities.
Top Attractions
Basel Minster
This iconic twin-spired cathedral is a symbol of Basel. It offers stunning views of the city and the Rhine River from its towers.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
CHF 6 for tower access
Fondation Beyeler
A world-class art museum featuring works by renowned artists such as Picasso, Monet, and Van Gogh. The museum is set in a beautiful park designed by architect Renzo Piano.
Museum
2-3 hours
CHF 24 for adults
Old Town (Altstadt)
The medieval old town is a charming labyrinth of narrow streets, historic buildings, and vibrant squares. It's the heart of Basel's cultural and social life.
Historical/Cultural
Half-day or more
Free to explore
Rhine River
The Rhine River is a central feature of Basel, offering beautiful walks, boat trips, and swimming spots. The Rhine Promenade is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Nature
Varies
Free (boat trips may have a fee)
Basel Zoo (Zolli)
One of the oldest and most beautiful zoos in Switzerland, Basel Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals and plants. It's a great place for families and animal lovers.
Nature/Adventure
2-3 hours
CHF 24 for adults, CHF 12 for children
Must-Try Local Dishes
Basler Läckerli
A traditional Swiss spiced biscuit made with honey, nuts, and spices. It's a sweet treat that's perfect with coffee or tea.
Dessert
Contains nuts, gluten, and honey
Basler Mehlsuppe
A traditional Swiss flour soup made with breadcrumbs, onions, and cheese. It's a hearty and comforting dish, often served with a side of sausage.
Dinner
Contains gluten, dairy, and meat (if served with sausage)
Rösti
A Swiss potato dish made with grated potatoes that are pan-fried until crispy. It's often served as a side dish or topped with cheese and onions.
Dinner
Vegetarian (if not topped with meat)
Zürcher Geschnetzeltes
A Swiss dish made with sliced veal in a creamy mushroom and white wine sauce, typically served with rösti.
Dinner
Contains dairy, meat, and gluten
Popular Activities
Hiking in the nearby Jura Mountains
Swimming in the Rhine River
Cycling along the Rhine
Enjoying a coffee or pastry at a local café
Taking a leisurely stroll along the Rhine Promenade
Visiting a spa or wellness center
Exploring the city's museums and galleries
Attending a concert or performance at the Basel Theater
Best Time to Visit
May to September
The summer months offer the best weather for outdoor activities and festivals. The city is lively with numerous events and cultural activities.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: German
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Swiss Franc (CHF)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Basel is a generally safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
Getting there
By air
- EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg • 5.5 km (3.4 miles) from city center
By train
Basel SBB, Basel Badischer Bahnhof
By bus
Basel Central Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The tram network is efficient and covers most of the city. Trams are clean, punctual, and user-friendly.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Taxi Basel
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Kleinbasel
Grossbasel
St. Alban
Day trips
Laufenburg
20 km (12.4 miles) • Half-day
A charming town on the Rhine River, known for its historic castle and picturesque old town. A great place for a leisurely stroll and a taste of Swiss-German culture.
Fribourg
80 km (50 miles) • Full-day
A picturesque medieval town in the canton of Fribourg, known for its well-preserved old town, stunning cathedral, and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. A great place for history buffs and culture lovers.
Strasbourg
120 km (75 miles) • Full-day or overnight
A beautiful French city on the border with Germany, known for its stunning cathedral, charming old town, and rich history. A great place for a day trip or a longer stay.
Festivals
Basel Carnival (Fasnacht) • February/March (dates vary)
Baselworld • March/April (dates vary)
Basler Herbstmesse • October/November (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Visit the Fondation Beyeler for its world-class art collection and beautiful park setting.
- Explore the city's hidden courtyards and passages for a unique and authentic experience.
- Try a traditional Swiss fondue or raclette at a local restaurant.
- Take a boat trip on the Rhine River for stunning views of the city and its surroundings.
- Visit the Basel Carnival (Fasnacht) for a vibrant and colorful celebration of Swiss culture.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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