Schaffhausen in 24 Hours: Rhine Falls, Rooftops, and a Fortress with No Crowds
Schaffhausen is one of the easiest day trips in Switzerland, especially if you’re coming from Zurich, it’s under an hour by train. Here’s how to make the most of a single day in this charming small town.
Morning: Rhine Falls first
Start early, before the tour buses arrive. From Schaffhausen station, it’s a quick train ride to Neuhausen am Rheinfall. If you are coming from Zurich, there are also trains that stop at Neuhausen am Rheinfall, so you don’t need to take e detour. Walk down to the viewing platforms and take in Europe’s largest waterfall while it’s still quiet. If you want a photo from the rock in the middle of the falls, the boats start running mid-morning from both sides.
Midday: Back to the Old Town
Take the train back into Schaffhausen and spend a couple of hours wandering the old town and. Look up as you walk: the oriel windows and painted facades are the real draw here, and half of them get missed if you’re staring at your phone map. Grab lunch at one of the small squares in the old town. There are tons of restaurants and take-aways.
Afternoon: Munot Fortress
Climb up to Munot, the circular fortress overlooking the city. It’s a short, steep walk, but the views over the rooftops and the Rhine are worth it. There’s usually only a couple of tourists up there, even in peak season. You see the Munot from the old town but going up there is totally worth it. The entry is free. Next to the Munot you find a beautiful rose garden.
Late afternoon: Head back or extend
If your train isn’t for a while, grab an ice cream by the river before heading to the station. El Bertin is one of the most beloved shops in this town and there is often a queue, but don’t let that stop you. The wait it worth it. Trains back to Zurich run every half hour.
Getting around: Everything above is walkable or a short train or bus ride apart, you don’t need a car for this itinerary.
Looking to extend your trip in Schaffhausen for more than one day? Find the best hotels here:
My name is Cory and my two favourite things in the world are traveling and scuba diving. You will either find me under the water or on top of a mountain. I have the PADI Advanced Certification and want to see as many marine animals as possible.
