Thurgau is known for its apple growing and is therefore often called “Mostindien” (Cider India). Gentle hills, fertile fields and extensive orchards shape the landscape; to the north, Lake Constance forms a natural border and influences the climate. Those exploring the region encounter not only the lake but also a rural cultural landscape whose apple-growing tradition can be discovered on trails, in museums and through regional experiences.
Among orchards and themed trails
Around 1,000 kilometres of hiking trails cross the canton. For an outing with a particular theme, there are several trails to choose from: the Altnau Apple Trail passes 24 information boards with riddles about apple varieties, jokes and questions to explore. The Thurgau Fable Trail runs for eleven kilometres from Steckborn via Oberfruthwilen to Ermatingen. Its 18 stops introduce visitors to the world of fables; about halfway along, there are two barbecue and picnic areas.
The Thurgau Throne Trail offers another way to pause along the way: more than ten creative thrones invite visitors to stop and rest along the approximately 45-kilometre route. The trail is well signposted. The themed trails differ not only in length but also in what they draw attention to—from apple facts and riddles to fables and unusual places to sit. Check the individual routes before setting out on your hike.
The landscape can also be explored on two wheels. The canton has around 900 kilometres of cycling routes; in the Altnau area, trails run between the Lake Constance Cycle Path and orchards. This brings the connection between the lake and apple growing to the fore along the way, too. If you would prefer a guided look at the harvest, a tour of the MoMö cider press lets you see how the Möhl family turns apples into juice. Check the booking details in advance.
Museums tell stories of the lake, crafts and history
The region’s history is reflected in a wide variety of collections. The Lake Museum explores shipping on Lake Constance and landscape painting of the lake. It also displays objects from the steamship Jura, which sank in 1864. The history of shipping, art and a specific event in the lake’s history come together in one place.
In Arbon, the Saurer Museum focuses on industrial history. It displays commercial vehicles and engines, as well as embroidery and weaving machines from different generations, made in Arbon. Around 20 historic vehicles are on display. The Napoleon Museum at Arenenberg Castle offers a different view of history, where visitors can see the carefully restored and authentically furnished living quarters of Queen Hortense. The landscaped park at Arenenberg complements the visit with winding paths that continually open up new perspectives.
Ittingen Charterhouse also brings together different approaches to the past and present. The Ittingen Museum is housed within the historic monastery walls; the charterhouse is also home to the Thurgau Art Museum, which presents changing exhibitions. Outside, various routes lead through the species-rich Ittingen Forest, along winding paths through a thyme maze, or above the northern monastery wall to an encounter with Brother Klaus at the Ittingen Ranft. The themes range from landscape and monastic history to art and a maze.
Trails through cultural landscapes and places to savour
Castles and museums are among Thurgau’s cultural attractions, as are trails through the landscape. Frauenfeld Castle invites visitors to learn about historical upheavals in Thurgau during the Middle Ages and the early modern period. The exhibition brings this era to life through dialogues between four fictional castle figures, sounds and lighting effects. At the Vinorama Museum in Ermatingen, stories of people who lived and still live there are brought to life through documents, tools, everyday objects and historic buildings.
Wine is also part of the region’s attractions: the Weinfelden Wine Trail leads through vineyards and includes a wine locker where visitors can taste wines. Check availability on site. At Iselisberg, an experience trail offers the chance to discover artworks by Swiss artists and the wines of the Thurgau wine region. Those wishing to explore the region by water can include the discovery cruises of the Swiss Lake Constance Shipping Company in their plans. The white fleet connects lakeside towns and attractions; check timetables and routes in advance.
Discover more destinations: Frauenfeld, Kreuzlingen, Steckborn, Diessenhofen, Arbon, Weinfelden, MĂĽnchwilen, Bischofszell.
Return to the main travel overview: Switzerland.
