When you’re attending START Summit 2023 in St. Gallen, Switzerland, you might be wondering what else there is to do in the city besides attending the conference. Fortunately, there are plenty of activities to enjoy during your free time, as well as numerous great restaurants and bars to explore.
One of the most popular attractions in St. Gallen are the 3 Weieren, three picturesque lakes that are popular with locals and tourists alike. You can rent a paddleboat or simply relax on the shore and enjoy the views.
If you’re interested in museums, St. Gallen has several to choose from. The Museum of Art showcases contemporary and modern works, while the Textilmuseum explores the history of textile production. The Naturmuseum is a great option for families, with interactive exhibits on the region’s natural history.
For animal lovers, the Wildlife Park Peter & Paul is a must-visit attraction. This spacious park is home to a variety of native animals, including deer, bears, and wolves.
If you’re looking for outdoor adventure, Flumserberg is a popular destination for skiing, snowboarding, and hiking. The mountain offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is easily accessible from St. Gallen by a 1.5 hour train ride.
Back in the city, the Altstadt (old town) is full of charm and history. The impressive St. Gallen Cathedral, with its distinctive twin towers, is a standout feature. Moreover, St. Gallen is the city of bay windows, so you will be able to see a ton of them whilst exploring the old town.
Another attractions in St. Gallen is the Abbey Library, which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of St. Gallen Abbey. This stunning library features a vast collection of historical books, many of which date back to the Middle Ages. If you’re a book lover or interested in history, this is a must-visit spot.
When it comes to dining, St. Gallen has plenty of great restaurants to choose from. For fine dining, Einstein Gourmet and netts, which has a Michelin star by the way, are both excellent choices. Seeger and Jägerhof, which also has a Michelin star, offer more traditional Swiss cuisine.
If you’re on a budget, there are plenty of great options as well. Focacceria, Esswerk, and Fratelli all offer delicious food at more affordable prices and take-away options. And for a fun and casual dining experience, Hans im Glück offers tasty burgers at a lower cost.
Finally, if you’re looking for some nightlife, St. Gallen has plenty of options to choose from. Trischli is a popular nightclub, especially among the local students, with a relaxed atmosphere. Of course, the START Summit Afterparty is sure to be a highlight for conference attendees and should definitely not be missed. Moreover, Südbar, News Cafe, and Einstein Bar are all great spots for a drink or two, while Oya and Affekt are popular nightclubs.
In conclusion, there is no shortage of things to do in St. Gallen during your visit for START Summit 2023. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just enjoying great food and drinks, this charming Swiss city has something for everyone.