"Stadt der Wissenschaft und Kultur | City of Science and Culture"
About:
St. Gallen, a Swiss town, was founded in the 7th century around the Abbey of St. Gall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It grew in the Middle Ages as a hub for textiles. The town became a city in 1405, and joined the Swiss Confederation in 1454. In the 19th century, it became a center for embroidery, boosting its economy. Despite World War II hardships, St. Gallen rebounded, transitioning to a service-based economy. Today, it's known for its university and annual carnival.
When to visit:
St. Gallen, located in northeastern Switzerland, experiences a variety of weather patterns throughout the year. The ideal time to visit St. Gallen for a holiday largely depends on personal preferences. Summer, from June to August, offers warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities, while winter, from December to February, is perfect for those interested in winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. Spring and autumn can also be pleasant times to visit, with fewer crowds and moderate temperatures. Ultimately, the best time to visit St. Gallen on a holiday is subjective and may vary based on individual interests.
When to avoid:
The worst time to travel to St. Gallen on a holiday would typically be during the peak winter months of December to February. During this time, the city experiences cold temperatures, frequent snowfall, and shorter daylight hours, which can impact outdoor activities and sightseeing. Additionally, winter holidays may lead to increased crowds and higher prices for accommodations and attractions. Travelers looking to avoid these potential drawbacks may consider visiting St. Gallen during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn for milder weather and fewer tourists.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
During St. Gallen's winter months (December to February), temperatures average from -1°C to 3°C. Snowfall is common, transforming the city into a winter wonderland. Days are short with around 3 hours of sunlight, and cloud cover is typically high. Rainfall averages at about 60mm per month. An average day for a visitor might involve bundling up for a stroll around the historic city center, enjoying cozy café visits, or embarking on snowy mountain excursions. Despite the chill, the city's charm remains undiminished.
Summer (June-August)
In St. Gallen, Switzerland, the warmest part of the year is from June to August, which is the summer season. During this time, the average high temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) and lows range from 12°C to 15°C (54°F to 59°F).
Rainfall is relatively moderate during these months, with an average monthly precipitation of about 120-130 mm. The summer season sees a fair amount of sunshine, with an average of 7-8 hours of sunlight per day. Humidity levels hover around 70-75%, so the air can feel slightly humid but generally comfortable.
Cloudiness varies, with some days being clear and others having more cloud cover. However, generally, you can expect more sunny days than cloudy ones.
A typical summer day in St. Gallen for a visitor would likely involve comfortable warmth during the day, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. There might be occasional rain showers, so carrying an umbrella or raincoat would be a good idea. Evenings are cooler, so a light jacket or sweater would be useful. The slightly humid air can make the heat feel more intense, but it's generally not uncomfortable.
Language:
In St. Gallen, Switzerland, the most commonly spoken language is Swiss German, a group of Alemannic dialects used throughout the German-speaking part of the country. High German is also used, especially in formal settings like education and government. English, French, and Italian are taught in schools, so many residents have some proficiency in these languages as well.