We will be in Zurich for business and will have 2 days where we can do day trips-one of which we are thinking of using to go to Lucerne, but the other we would really like to see a traditional village. Can anyone suggest a traditional village reachable by bus or train for a day trip from Zurich?
Posted by
Switzerland
408 posts
I'd suggest Appenzell. The area is known for its traditions and rural life. The village is picturesque and has nice shops/bakeries/restaurants - good place to buy traditional crafts and other souvenirs at lower prices than I have found in bigger "tourist towns" like Lucerne. Lots of local foods to try - cheese, meats, Appenzeller Beer brewery, etc. You can also easily go up the nearby Ebenalp cable car, where there are nice walks/mountain scenery.
http://www.appenzell.ch/en/appenzell.html
http://www.ebenalp.ch/tl_files/ebenalp/files/downloads/Ebenalp_Sommer-Flyer_web_eng.pdf
Posted by
OP
3 posts
Thank you! That sounds wonderful.
Posted by
Switzerland
408 posts
Just one other thing I forgot to mention - not sure which days you have free, but I would avoid going on a Sunday as most shops are closed. This is true everywhere in Switzerland, but the impact is much bigger in a small town like Appenzell and you will miss out on browsing around the village.
If you have to do one of your day trips on a Sunday, use that for Lucerne. Sundays are still relatively quiet, but there are more options available.
Posted by
Brisbane, Australia
7175 posts
I'd agree, Appenzell. A Swiss friend took me there when I went to visit him years back. I recently 'found' my Appenzell leather belt studded with little brass cows.
Posted by
OP
3 posts
Excellent!