Appenzell has around 7,000 inhabitants; thus making it the political, economic and cultural centre of Switzerland's smallest canton, Appenzell Innerrhoden. The car-free heart of the village and its pretty high street with numerous small and quaint shops to explore is a great place for a stroll. Ornately decorated houses shape the characteristics of this location - where visitors can learn plenty of interesting facts and rather extraordinary experiences during a free public tour of the village.

In Appenzell you gain insight into ancient lifestyle up close - including diverse customs, cultural traditions and works of art such as the old Kunsthalle Ziegelhütte brickworks and Art Museum Appenzell dedicated to Carl Liner, father and son. The Appenzell Museum located by the town hall presents a cross-section of the history and culture of Appenzell Innerrhoden on six floors.
Outdoors plenty goes on year-round too: During carnival time (Fasnacht) «Botzerössli» parade the streets, and springtime sees the cantonal assembly (Landsgemeinde), the Corpus Christi procession and Alpine ascents, as farmers make their way to verdant pastures with their livestock. Come the end of Alpine summer, a large livestock show is then held on the brewery premises in the village. Wintertime has its own special charm, with the delightful scent of «Chlausebickli» and incense around many a corner.

Tradition continues with no end of crafts manufactured yesteryear style still today. Appenzell is the place to see saddlers, goldsmiths, wood turners, Bauernmalerei, also known as Bavarian folk art, and intricate hand embroidery. Palatable pleasures are not short-changed either, but the ancient recipes remain strictly secret! The Locher brewery has created a visitor centre for lovers of Appenzeller beer and at the spirits company Appenzeller Alpenbitter weekly public tours reveal the source of the famous Appenzeller Alpenbitter.