1 Unbelievable Hidden Gem in Switzerland: Why You Must Visit Insel Werd
Visiting A Swiss Island
When looking for the absolute best hidden gems of Switzerland, we came across a very small, magical place called Insel Werd. Also known as Werd Island, this unique destination is actually a recognized UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Canton of Thurgau. It is the perfect spot if you want to escape the crowds and experience a truly tranquil side of the country.
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Arriving at Werd
- Via Train or Bus: Take a train to Stein am Rhein or Eschenz station (usually a quick connection via Winterthur or Frauenfeld). From either station, the idyllic island sanctuary of Insel Werd is just a scenic walk away across the wooden footbridge. Check schedules and book your ticket via Busbud here.
- Via Flight: Fly into Zurich Airport, then take a convenient train connection via Winterthur straight to Stein am Rhein to visit the historic island of Insel Werd. To find the best deals on airfare, search and book your flights here.
Getting Around and Staying in Switzerland
- Going Around:
- Taxis & Private Transfers Secure a reliable, fixed-price ride with professional drivers. Avoid the airport queues by booking in advance. Book your taxi/transfer here.
- Car Rentals Enjoy the freedom of the open road. Compare the best rates from top brands to find your perfect vehicle here.
- Public Transport Travel like a local and save money. Skip the station lines by securing your train and bus tickets here.
- Stay Connected: To navigate the city like a local and share your photos in real time, we recommend getting an eSIM. Pick the option that suits your needs:
- We recommend Airalo for a budget-friendly and basic plan. Get your Airalo eSIM here.
- Yesim is our top-pick for unlimited data needs. Get your Yesim eSIM here.
- Where to Stay: To make the most of your trip, I recommend booking one of these hotels.
Getting There and Crossing the Rhine
Getting to the island is incredibly straightforward. After parking our car nearby, we reached the pedestrian bridge that connects the mainland to the island. The wooden bridge is sturdy and extremely stable, making for a very comfortable walk.
While crossing the bridge, the view of the Rhine River is extremely stunning. The emerald water and the peaceful atmosphere immediately make you want to slow down.
Relaxing by St. Otmar’s Chapel
Once we crossed the bridge, we sat down on the lush green grass right by the river to enjoy the beautiful weather. This spot is completely dedicated to gorgeous views, prompting us to slow down and truly absorb the scenery.
From our relaxing spot on the grass, we could also see St. Otmar’s Chapel. The historic chapel adds an incredible charm to the natural surroundings, giving the entire island a peaceful, timeless feel.
Final Remarks
We spent almost 2 hours at the Island and recommend it to people looking for a relaxing, budget-friendly and laid-back nature enjoying experience.
Loved our slow exploration of Insel Werd? We’d be happy to build a personalized itinerary just for you! Head over to our Custom-Plans page to get started.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Insel Werd located?
Insel Werd is located in the Rhine River, just near Eschenz in the Canton of Thurgau, Switzerland. It is situated very close to where the river flows out of Lake Constance.
Is Insel Werd a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
Yes, the island is part of the UNESCO World Heritage prehistoric pile dwellings around the Alps, making it an important archaeological and cultural site.
Can you visit St. Otmar’s Chapel?
Yes, St. Otmar’s Chapel is located directly on the island and is accessible to visitors via the pedestrian bridge.
