A layover in Altenrhein is one of those happy accidents of air travel. St Gallen Altenrhein Airport sits just 70 minutes from the city center by Bus and S-Bahn train, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at ACH:
First, verify that you can enter Switzerland — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Bus and S-Bahn train takes about 70 minutes into Altenrhein, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — CHF is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some CHF in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
From ACH, the Bus and S-Bahn train gets you to Altenrhein in around 70 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 90 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Bus and S-Bahn train offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Luggage Storage at ACH
Traveling light makes a layover outing much easier. At ACH, you’ll find bag storage at Unlikely to be available due to the airport’s small size. Travelers are advised to confirm with the airport directly for any storage options..
Tip: store your bags as soon as you clear arrivals to maximize your free time. If the airport options don’t work for you, check online luggage storage platforms for alternatives near the city center.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Quick budget math for your Altenrhein layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$17 |
| Meal | ~$34 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$61 |
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Altenrhein.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
For a layover visit to Altenrhein, we’d suggest Markthalle Altenrhein (Hundertwasser House) and Lake Constance Shore Walk (Rheindelta). Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Altenrhein. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside ACH, you can spend time at Terminal Viewing Area or try ACH Duty-Free Shop. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
- In the city: Restaurant Schiff (Rheineck) and Restaurant Seehuus (Horn) are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Altenrhein.
- At the airport: Flieger & Flieger Restaurant and Flieger & Flieger Cafe & Bar will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at ACH for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Altenrhein or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Taking a Break at ACH
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, ACH has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Altenrhein genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.