Best Things To Do In Rapperswil (+Map & Insider Tips)

Immerse yourself with us in the charming old town with its medieval alleyways, explore the imposing Rapperswil Castle or relax on the shores of Lake Zurich and enjoy the magnificent views of the surrounding mountains.Explore with us the most beautiful places and must-do activities for a perfect experience in Rapperswil.

As locals, the car is our main means of transportation. Rapperswil is just a stone’s throw away from the beautiful and imposing city of Zurich and can be easily reached via the picturesque country roads in around 30 minutes. If you would like to book a rental car, we recommend that you do so via the provider Sunny Cars. Here you get the best prices and don’t have to worry about insurance.

Switzerland also offers one of the best public transport networks in the world. This means you can explore the whole country comfortably by train, streetcar and bus. Thanks to the SBB Travel Pass, you can get to your desired destination cheaply and comfortably.

The old town of Rapperswil is like a living history book that takes you back in time. Picturesque cobbled streets, medieval towers and richly decorated buildings that bear witness to a fascinating history await you here. Stroll through the narrow streets and discover charming boutiques, cozy cafés and traditional Swiss restaurants that invite you to linger (our recommendations below).Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of past centuries and feel the pulse of this vibrant historic city as you explore the architectural treasures and hidden gems of the Old Town.

Along the lakeside promenade in Rapperswil is an oasis of relaxation and beauty that will enchant you. Here you can stroll along the glistening Lake Zurich while admiring the majestic Swiss Alps on the horizon. The promenade not only offers a picturesque view, but also a variety of activities to suit every taste. Venture out on a boat tour across the crystal-clear lake, hire a bike for a relaxing ride along the shore or simply to enjoy the fresh breeze. For those who crave peace and quiet, the numerous seating areas invite you to linger while you enjoy the breathtaking beauty of nature.

As locals, the following restaurants have emerged as insider tips that we would like to share with you:

• San Marco Restaurant
• Rossini Restaurant
• Dieci Restaurant
• Kaffe Klatsch
• House of Spice
• La Fuente
• Banoo im Rössli

Rapperswil Castle is a fascinating sight with a rich history. It sits majestically on a hill on the shores of Lake Zurich and offers you a breathtaking view of the surrounding area. A special story is the castle’s connection with the Polish national hero, Count Jan Sobieski. This is why Rapperswil Castle is now home to the Polish Museum, which presents the rich culture and history of Poland. You can stroll through the magnificent rooms of the castle, admire historical artifacts and immerse yourself in the fascinating past.

The Lindenhof is an enchanting place with a rich history and offers you a unique atmosphere in which to relax and enjoy yourself.A fascinating fact about the Lindenhof is that it was once part of a medieval castle complex built in the 13th century. Over time, the area has become a popular meeting place for locals who want to enjoy the picturesque views of Lake Zurich and the surrounding countryside.The imposing lime trees are a particular attraction. These trees lend the place a romantic and idyllic atmosphere.The Lindenhof is also a popular venue for cultural events and festivals, such as open-air concerts, art exhibitions and theater performances. This gives you the opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of Rapperswil and enjoy the beauty of nature at the same time.

The Catholic Church of St. Johann and the Liebfrauenkapelle are two important religious sites in Rapperswil that will impress you with their architecture and history. The Catholic Church of St. Johann was built in the 15th century and towers majestically over the old town of Rapperswil and is an impressive building both from the outside and the inside. The Liebfrauenkapelle, also known as the Marienkapelle, is a charming chapel, also from the 15th century, which is located in the immediate vicinity of the St. Johann Catholic Church. It is known for its simple elegance and tranquil atmosphere. Both churches play an important role in religious Rapperswil and are popular destinations for pilgrims and visitors who want to discover the spiritual side of the town. It also offers a fascinating insight into the religious history and architecture of the region.

The rose garden in Rapperswil is a magical oasis of beauty and tranquillity that will enchant you with its colorful blooms and picturesque views. A fascinating fact about the rose garden is that it is home to over 15,000 roses in more than 600 different varieties. This variety of flower colors, shapes and scents creates a unique atmosphere.In addition, the rose garden offers a breathtaking view of Lake Zurich and the surrounding countryside. Here you can take a romantic stroll, sit down on a bench and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The rose garden is not only a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers, it also has historical significance. It was laid out in the 19th century and has since become a symbol of beauty and peace in Rapperswil. Although the rose garden is at its best in summer. Here you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and relax in the midst of a blooming oasis of peace.

The Enea Tree Museum is a unique destination for nature lovers and art enthusiasts alike, creating a fascinating connection between nature and art. An exciting fact about the tree museum is that it is not just a collection of trees and plants, but also a place where art and design merge with nature. The founder, Enzo Enea, is a renowned landscape architect and art lover who created the museum to celebrate the beauty and diversity of nature. The museum is home to an impressive collection of over 50 different tree species, carefully planted around the grounds. You can stroll through the lush gardens and admire the different textures, colors and shapes of the trees.

In addition, the tree museum has an impressive collection of sculptures created by renowned artists from around the world. These works of art complement the museum’s natural surroundings and create an inspiring atmosphere for visitors of all ages. The museum is not only a place of beauty and inspiration, but also a place of learning and reflection. Here you have the opportunity to learn more about the importance of trees to our ecosystem while experiencing the creative power of nature and art.

The wooden bridge in Rapperswil is a historic landmark that connects the two shores of Lake Zurich and will delight you with its picturesque beauty and rich history. An impressive fact is that it is one of the oldest wooden bridges in Switzerland and was built back in 1358. Today, the wooden bridge is a popular destination for anyone wishing to explore the picturesque surroundings of Lake Zurich. A special feature of the wooden bridge is its characteristic shape, which is supported by elegant wooden arches and blends harmoniously into the natural landscape. Here you can stroll across the bridge and enjoy the idyllic view of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The wooden bridge is not only an architectural jewel, but also a symbol of the solidarity of the people in the region. It invites you to explore the history, enjoy the beauty of nature and experience the unique atmosphere of Lake Zurich.

Near Rapperswil you will find an incomparable farm, the Juckerfarm in Seegräben. It is an incredibly enchanting place that will delight you with its idyllic landscape, agricultural activities and culinary offerings. A fascinating fact about the Juckerfarm is that it not only offers a traditional farm environment, but also a variety of experiences for everyone. From harvesting fruit and vegetables to creative activities such as pumpkin carving and flower picking, there is always something to do and discover here. A highlight of Jucker Farm is its famous pumpkin patch, which comes to life in the fall when thousands of pumpkins of all shapes, sizes and colors adorn the fields. Here you can wander through the pumpkin maze, take part in pumpkin tastings and enjoy the intricately carved pumpkins.

In addition, the Juckerfarm also offers a variety of gastronomic experiences, including a cozy farm café that serves delicious homemade food and drinks, as well as a farm store where you can buy fresh local produce.

The Juckerfarm is not only a place for entertainment and enjoyment, but also a place where you can learn more about sustainable farming and the value of fresh, locally grown food. You’ll have an unforgettable time here, with breathtaking views and irresistible delicacies.