Saint Gallen, Switzerland: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Saint Gallen, Switzerland? If you're planning to go to Saint Gallen, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Saint Gallen, Switzerland

Based on the climate and weather in Saint Gallen, Switzerland, the best time to go is September. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Saint Gallen, Switzerland

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Saint Gallen, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Saint Gallen, Switzerland by month

January

January in Saint Gallen can be extremely cold. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C) to 30s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Saint Gallen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Ensure that you choose the right kind. The majority of adapters available are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

If you are intending to check out the majestic St. Gallen Stiftsbibliothek, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Museum im Lagerhaus, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February in Saint Gallen is cold. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C) to high 30s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Saint Gallen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Take care to pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are intending to check out the majestic St. Gallen Stiftsbibliothek, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Museum im Lagerhaus, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March in Saint Gallen is pretty cool. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Saint Gallen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. It's important that you find the necessary kind. Many adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you are intending to check out the majestic St. Gallen Stiftsbibliothek, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Museum im Lagerhaus, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April in Saint Gallen is cold. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) to low 50s F (low 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Saint Gallen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Make sure to find the right kind. The majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are intending to check out the majestic St. Gallen Stiftsbibliothek, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Museum im Lagerhaus, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May in Saint Gallen is crisp. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Saint Gallen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Be careful to choose the right kind. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are intending to check out the majestic St. Gallen Stiftsbibliothek, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Museum im Lagerhaus, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

If you vacation in Saint Gallen during June, you may notice that it is relatively cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Saint Gallen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Ensure that you choose the right kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are intending to check out the majestic St. Gallen Stiftsbibliothek, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Museum im Lagerhaus, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

If you vacation in Saint Gallen during July, you might see that it is mild. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Saint Gallen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Be sure to find the correct kind. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are intending to check out the majestic St. Gallen Stiftsbibliothek, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Museum im Lagerhaus, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

In August, Saint Gallen is balmy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 60s F (low 10s C) and occasionally jump into the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Saint Gallen, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Saint Gallen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Check that you pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you are intending to check out the majestic St. Gallen Stiftsbibliothek, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Museum im Lagerhaus, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

If you vacation in Saint Gallen during September, you are likely to find that it is crisp. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Saint Gallen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Ensure that you choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you are intending to check out the majestic St. Gallen Stiftsbibliothek, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Museum im Lagerhaus, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

October in Saint Gallen is brisk. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) to low 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Saint Gallen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Check that you find the necessary type. Many adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

If you are intending to check out the majestic St. Gallen Stiftsbibliothek, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Museum im Lagerhaus, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

If you go to Saint Gallen in November, you will notice that it is cold. Expect it to rain or snow about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 40s F (single digits C). There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Saint Gallen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Ensure that you choose the right kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

If you are intending to check out the majestic St. Gallen Stiftsbibliothek, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Museum im Lagerhaus, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December in Saint Gallen is very cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C), with several days below 0 F (10+ below zero C). There is frost most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Saint Gallen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Be sure to pick the necessary type. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you are intending to check out the majestic St. Gallen Stiftsbibliothek, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Museum im Lagerhaus, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Saint Gallen, Switzerland

Nestled in the heart of Eastern Switzerland, Saint Gallen is a charming city that is a perfect balance of history, culture, and nature. With its well-preserved old town, world-renowned textile industry, and breathtaking natural surroundings, Saint Gallen can be a delightful destination for tourists. Whether you are a history buff or a nature lover, this city offers something for everyone. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Saint Gallen that you should not miss.

1. Abbey Library of Saint Gall

The Abbey Library of Saint Gall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is one of the oldest and most important libraries in the world. It houses over 170,000 texts, including some of the oldest manuscripts from as far back as the 8th century. The library's stunning Rococo hall is a must-see, with intricately decorated ceilings, shelves lined with ancient books, and an impressive collection of art.

2. Old Town

Saint Gallen's Old Town is a charming and well-preserved medieval quarter that is perfect for a leisurely stroll. It is home to beautiful baroque buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, and charming squares, such as the Marktplatz and the Weinmarkt. The Old Town is also famous for its beautiful frescoed bay windows, which can be found on many of the historical buildings.

3. Natural History Museum

Nature lovers will enjoy a visit to the Natural History Museum of Saint Gallen. The museum is dedicated to the flora and fauna of Eastern Switzerland and its surroundings, with an emphasis on the local wildlife. Visitors can explore different interactive exhibits, such as the geological exhibition and the poisonous animal exhibit, and learn about the natural diversity of the region.

4. Textile Museum

Saint Gallen has a long and fascinating history of textile production, and the Textile Museum is a perfect place to learn about it. The museum showcases the different types of textiles produced in Saint Gallen over the years, from embroidery and lace to silk prints and machine textiles. Visitors can witness the intricate weaving process and watch live demonstrations of embroidery and other textile techniques.

5. Klosterhof Square

Klosterhof is an attractive public square in the heart of the city that is lined with picturesque medieval buildings, including the renowned St. Gallen Cathedral. The square is also an excellent spot to relax after exploring the city, with numerous cafes and restaurants serving traditional Swiss cuisine.

6. Säntis

Säntis is one of the most iconic peaks in the Eastern Swiss Alps, standing at 2,501 meters tall. It is a popular destination for hikers, skiers, and mountain climbers, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visitors can also take the Säntis cable car to the summit and enjoy the views without the effort of a long hike.

Overall, Saint Gallen is a city that offers a wealth of attractions for tourists. Its rich history, culture, and natural beauty make it an excellent destination for travelers who are looking for a well-rounded experience. Whether you are interested in exploring the city's museums, strolling its charming streets, or taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, Saint Gallen is a city that will captivate your spirit.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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