Appenzell Switzerland Travel Guide
The backbone of Appenzell's public transport is the Appenzeller Bahnen (AB), a regional railway network. This network links the main town of Appenzell with surrounding villages and joins the broader Swiss rail system via St. Gallen.
PostBus (PostAuto) services complement the trains, reaching more remote villages and hiking trailheads. The entire system stands integrated; one ticket or pass often covers journeys involving both train and bus. Detailed route maps for both Appenzeller Bahnen and PostBus are available at train stations, local tourist offices, and often within the vehicles themselves. The SBB Mobile app also gives comprehensive route information.
This card is free for guests staying three nights or more at participating Appenzell Innerrhoden accommodations. It grants free use of trains, buses, cable cars, and entry to many attractions.
A valuable asset for extensive travel throughout Switzerland. It grants unlimited travel on the entire public transport network and free entry to over 500 museums nationwide.
Download and use the SBB Mobile app. It is indispensable for checking real-time schedules, planning connections, and purchasing tickets.
Checking real-time schedules, planning connections, and purchasing tickets.
Especially for mountain excursions or less-frequented areas.
Maximize savings and convenience by using the Appenzell Holiday Card or Swiss Travel Pass.
Ensure a valid ticket before boarding; fines for traveling without one are significant.
While Appenzell's public transport works excellent, taxis offer convenience for specific needs, and ride-sharing options are limited.
Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Speed limits are strictly enforced; fines are substantial.
Roads are generally in excellent condition. Mountain roads can be narrow, winding, and steep. Winter requires winter tires; snow chains may be necessary.
Parking can be limited and often paid in Appenzell village. Blue zones allow limited free parking with a parking disc. White zones are paid parking. Yellow zones are restricted.
Appenzell is a paradise for walking and cycling, with a variety of routes for all levels. The village center welcomes pedestrians, with many charming, narrow streets.
Cable cars, funiculars, or unique local transport are an essential part of the Appenzell experience, providing access to higher mountain areas and panoramic viewpoints.
Often attractions in themselves.
Ebenalp Cable Car (Wasserauen), Hoher Kasten Revolving Cable Car (Brülisau), Säntis Cable Car (highest point in Alpstein range), Kronberg Cable Car (Jakobsbad).
Included with Appenzell Holiday Card (except Säntis).
Some newer cable cars and trains make good accessibility. Older infrastructure or rugged mountain paths pose challenges for travelers with mobility needs.
Check with operators beforehand.
Appenzell's region invites walking and cycling, with options for all levels. The village center welcomes pedestrians, with many charming, narrow streets.
Stay on marked trails for your safety and to preserve the natural environment.
Helmets are good for all cyclists. Always adhere to traffic laws.
Pay attention to signs indicating trail closures due to weather conditions or hazards (e.g., rockfalls).
Maximize your savings and convenience by using the Appenzell Holiday Card or Swiss Travel Pass. Understand what they cover before you travel.
For safe walking and cycling, stay on marked trails and always adhere to traffic laws. Check specific accessibility details with operators if you have mobility needs.
