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If you have done the things to do in Italy, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Rapperswil.
With its picturesque charm and vibrant energy, Rapperswil is a treasure trove filled with experiences waiting to be explored and savored.
From stunning lakeside views to buzzing urban landscapes, this Swiss town provides ample opportunities for adventure and discovery.
So, grab your map and let’s dive into the exciting world of Rapperswil!
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Rapperswil:
1. Castle Rapperswil
A medieval castle located in Rapperswil, Switzerland, overlooking Lake Zurich.
What to see or do: Visit the castle museum to learn about the life and history of the castle, view the impressive collection of paintings and tapestries, and take a stroll along the medieval castle walls for stunning views of the city and lake.
Don’t miss: The rose garden, which boasts over 15,000 roses in bloom during the summer months, and the nearby deer park, home to a variety of wildlife.
Insider travel tips: Take the train from Zurich to Rapperswil for a beautiful scenic route. Visit on a sunny day and enjoy a picnic in the castle courtyard with views of the lake.
Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the picturesque scenery.
2. Seedamm
A bridge connecting the cities of Rapperswil and Pfäffikon across the Lake Zurich.
What to see or do: Enjoy stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Take a leisurely walk or bike ride across the bridge.
Don’t miss: A visit to the medieval Rapperswil Castle, located at the end of the bridge on the Rapperswil side.
Insider travel tips: Visit during sunset to capture the picturesque scenery.
If you have time, explore the charming old town of Rapperswil, famous for its roses and narrow streets lined with boutique shops and cafes.
3. Old Town Rapperswil
Old Town Rapperswil is a picturesque medieval town located in the canton of St. Gallen in Switzerland.
What to see or do: Explore the narrow cobblestone streets and alleys lined with historic buildings and charming shops. Visit Rapperswil Castle, built in the 13th century, and enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Zurich from its tower.
Stop by Stadtpfarrkirche St. John’s Church, one of the most beautiful churches in Switzerland, and admire its stunning stained glass windows.
Take a stroll along the lake promenade and take in the stunning views.
Don’t miss: Enjoy a delicious gelato or a cup of coffee in one of the many cafes in the town square. Check out the local farmers’ market, held every Wednesday and Saturday, to sample local produce and crafts.
Take a boat ride on Lake Zurich and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the streets and alleys can be steep and uneven. If you visit in July, don’t miss the annual Rose Festival, when the town is decorated with thousands of roses.
To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning or in the late afternoon.
4. Rapperswil-Jona Harbor
Rapperswil-Jona Harbor is a picturesque harbor located on the southern shore of Lake Zurich in Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a stroll along the promenade and admire the beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. There are several restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a drink or a meal while taking in the scenery.
You can also rent a paddleboard, yacht or motorboat to explore the lake.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the wooden bridge, which is a popular spot for taking photos. You can also visit the impressive Rapperswil Castle, which is just a short walk away.
Insider travel tips: Try to visit during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny.
The harbor can be very crowded on weekends, so try to visit during the week if you want a quieter experience.
Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the lake and the mountains.
5. Forum Wurth Rapperswil
The Forum Wurth Rapperswil is an art museum and cultural center located in the Swiss town of Rapperswil-Jona.
What to see or do: The museum features a collection of contemporary art and hosts exhibitions, concerts, and other cultural events. Visitors can explore the galleries and learn about the works on display through guided tours and educational programs.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is its sculpture garden, which features works by renowned artists such as Joan Miró, Max Bill, and Alexander Calder.
The garden provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the town.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly.
6. Polish Museum
The Polish Museum in Rapperswil is a cultural museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing Polish heritage and history.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the various exhibits and displays, which cover topics such as traditional Polish clothing, art, music, and religious practices.
The museum also holds special events and exhibitions throughout the year.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the stunning views of Rapperswil and Lake Zurich from the museum’s location on the hillside.
Insider travel tips: Check the museum’s website for upcoming events and exhibitions, and consider visiting during Polish holidays or festivals for a truly immersive experience.
7. Stadtmuseum Rapperswil-Jona
Stadtmuseum Rapperswil-Jona is a museum located in the town of Rapperswil-Jona, Switzerland.
What to see or do: The museum displays the history of the town and its surrounding areas through various exhibits. It has sections dedicated to the castle, the Reformation, local art and culture, as well as a temporary exhibition space.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the reconstructed baroque banquet hall of the former Capuchin monastery in Rapperswil.
Insider travel tips: – The museum offers audio guides in various languages, making it easy for visitors to follow along with the exhibits.
8. Rosengarten auf dem Lindenhof
A beautiful rose garden located on top of Lindenhof hill in Rapperswil, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the garden and admire the stunning views of Lake Zurich and the surrounding mountains. Take in the fragrant perfumes of the various roses and admire the many different colors and varieties.
Don’t miss: The panoramic views of the lake and the town of Rapperswil from the top of the hill.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. Bring a picnic and enjoy a relaxing afternoon surrounded by beauty.
In the summer months, there are often concerts and other events held in the garden.
9. Alpamare Water Park
Alpamare is a sprawling water park located in the picturesque town of Rapperswil, Switzerland.
What to see or do: The park features a variety of thrilling water slides, including the famous Grand Canyon, a 450-foot-long slide that takes riders through twists, turns, and drops.
There are also a number of relaxing pools and lazy rivers, as well as several saunas and steam baths for those looking to unwind.
Don’t miss: One of the main highlights of Alpamare is the Wave Pool, which is capable of generating waves up to 3.3 feet high, making it feel like you’re actually swimming in the ocean.
Another must-see attraction is the Black Hole slide, which takes riders on a wild ride through a twisting, pitch-black tunnel.
Insider travel tips: To beat the crowds, it’s recommended to arrive at the park early in the day, especially on weekends. There are also special discounts available for those who visit in the late afternoon/evening.
Don’t forget to bring your own towels and flip-flops to avoid having to pay extra for them at the park.
10. Knies Kinderzoo
A children’s zoo located in Rapperswil, Switzerland.
What to see or do: The zoo features over 200 animals, including exotic birds, monkeys, llamas, and ponies. Visitors can also enjoy a petting zoo, pony rides, and a playground.
Don’t miss: The daily animal shows and feeding experiences, as well as the opportunity to ride on the zoo’s miniature train.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and be sure to bring sunscreen and water as the zoo can get hot in the summer months.
Visitors can also pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the zoo’s designated picnic area.
11. Swiss Science Center Technorama
Swiss Science Center Technorama is a science museum located in Rapperswil, Switzerland. It is a hands-on science center where visitors can explore and experiment with science and technology in an interactive way.
What to see or do: There are over 500 interactive exhibits at Technorama covering various topics such as physics, chemistry, mechanics, electricity, and more. Visitors can experiment with water, bubbles, electricity, sound, light, and optical illusions.
There are also special exhibitions and workshops available.
Don’t miss: The Science Dome is a must-see attraction where visitors can experience a 360-degree projection on a dome-shaped screen. It offers an immersive experience with various shows such as the Northern Lights, the Universe, and the Human Body.
Insider travel tips: – Technorama is a great place for kids and families, but it can get crowded during weekends and holidays.
12. Jucker Farm
Jucker Farm is a family-owned farm located in the scenic town of Rapperswil, Switzerland.
What to see or do: – Take a stroll through the beautiful fields of sunflowers, pumpkins, and corn.
Don’t miss: Jucker Farm hosts various seasonal events, including a pumpkin exhibition in the fall and a tulip festival in the spring.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the farm.
13. Rapperswil Zoo
A popular zoo in Switzerland with over 70 species of animals.
What to see or do: See animals such as tigers, leopards, bears, penguins, flamingos and much more. Watch live animal feedings and attend educational programs about the animals.
Don’t miss: The African Savanna exhibit which allows visitors to see giraffes, zebras, and ostriches roaming freely in a natural habitat.
Insider travel tips: Don’t forget to check the schedule for the live animal feedings as they provide an up-close and interactive experience. It’s also best to visit during the weekdays to avoid crowds.
14. Esel-und Strassenkunstmuseum
Esel-und Strassenkunstmuseum is a unique and quirky museum in Rapperswil, Switzerland dedicated to the art and culture of street performers and donkeys.
What to see or do: The museum has an extensive collection of street performers’ tools and costumes, including unicycles, juggling props, and stilts. You can also find a variety of artwork inspired by donkeys, including paintings, sculptures, and even clothing.
In addition to the exhibits, the museum also hosts live performances from street performers on weekends.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the “Hall of Fame” exhibit showcasing some of the most famous and talented street performers from around the world.
Insider travel tips: The museum can be difficult to find, so be sure to check the map and directions on their website before you go.
It’s also worth noting that the museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan accordingly.
If you’re visiting in the summer, try to time your visit with one of the museum’s outdoor performances for a truly immersive experience.
15. Rapperswil Beach
What to see or do:
Don’t miss:
Insider travel tips: Bring sunscreen, as the beach can get quite hot and sunny during the summer. Rent a bike or go on a boat tour to explore the lake.
Don’t forget to try some authentic Swiss chocolates and cheese during your visit.