A romantic escape to Rhine Falls and Stein am Rhein is a fairytale Swiss day trip.
If you are visiting Zurich and want to have an ideal day excursion, the Rhine River region is the best option. In less than an hour, you can go by train or car to an area of outstanding natural beauty with fairy-tale towns and villages.
Among the numerous stunning and unforgettable sights, the Rhine Falls and the mediaeval village of Stein am Rhein stand out. They constitute a combination that will offer you a romantic escape in one of Northern Switzerland’s most picturesque areas.
If you have the time, it is worth visiting other mediaeval villages along the Rhine, such as Diessenhofen and Steckborn. These charming towns offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history, with their cobbled streets and well-preserved architecture. Exploring the local markets and enjoying traditional cuisine will enhance your experience even further.
Rhine Falls: A romantic wonder of nature
Situated close to the town of Schaffhausen, the Rhine Falls (known as Rheinfall in German) is the biggest plain waterfall in Europe. The falls, which are 150 metres wide and descend roughly 23 metres. They were formed between 14,000 and 17,000 years ago during the last Ice Age, producing a magnificent display of falling water. On average, 600 cubic metres of water cascade over the falls each second during the summer months.
The waterfalls are a natural wonder and a representation of Switzerland’s unmatched beauty. At the Rhine Falls, the majesty of nature leaves you speechless. It is no wonder you sense both awe and subliminal fear, because you feel helpless against the river’s strength. At the same time, the waterfalls are in a scenic location. The adjacent castles, the river, and the lush green surroundings make for the ideal romantic backdrop.
In addition to its natural beauty, the Rhine Falls region provides visitors with a wide range of activities. The visitor centre and dining facilities are housed within Laufen Castle, which is located adjacent to the falls.
What to do and how to reach the falls
The location is appropriate for families, nature lovers, and history buffs alike. Its well-kept walkways and observation decks give the visitors the opportunity to watch the falls in all their glory and in close proximity. Starting high up, nearly at the level of the visitor centre, the observation platforms descend all the way to the water level, where you can literally touch the water.
During the summer, boat cruises are available that let you go up close to the thundering water. For added excitement, take a boat to a tall rock in the midst of the falls and then climb stairs to a breathtaking vista. You may also cross the train bridge from the visitor centre to the other side and follow a circular route around the falls. This way you can view the falls from both sides of the river (at the southern banks from Laufen Castle and at the northern banks from Wörth Castle).
The centre also features a tourist train, an adventure park, a history museum and various signposted trails. All the range of activities can be found on rheinfall.ch. Also, on the official website, you could be informed on ticket prices and opening hours.
The falls are accessible by train from Zurich, with the observation platforms only a short walk from Neuhausen Rheinfall station. The falls can also be easily accessed by car after a 40-minute drive from the city. The visitor centre offers numerous parking facilities located nearby. Although the region is reachable all year round, the most spectacular water flow usually occurs in late spring and early summer. It is during that period that the level of the river is increased by snowmelt.
Stein am Rhein: A fairytale mediaeval town
Stein am Rhein, located just 22 km from the falls, is a fairytale place. It is well-known for its wonderfully maintained mediaeval old town and artistically adorned half-timbered homes. Nestled where the Rhine River pours out of Lake Constance, the community formed around a Benedictine monastery founded in the 11th century. The monastery was later supplemented by the construction of Hohenklingen Castle, which still guards the town today.
Stein am Rhein obtained city rights in 1459, opening the path for its growth into a thriving trading centre. Its growth was a result of its advantageous location along the river. Despite centuries of conflict and shifting borders, the town has retained its true character and stands today as a superb example of mediaeval architecture and urban heritage.
Stepping back in time
It’s as if you’re stepping back in time when you cross the Rhine Bridge, which connects the main provincial road and train station to the old town. The first thing you see is the majestic St George’s Abbey (which is now a museum). Even if you do not visit the museum, a walk through its garden is worthwhile. Particularly search for the “magic” gate that leads you to the riverbank. As you stroll along the riverbank, the serene views of the Rhine create a perfect scenery. The soothing sound of the water gently lapping against the shore beckons you to pause and admire the genuinely romantic landscape.
The village’s main square is only a few metres from the abbey. A square that is undeniably one of the most beautiful in Switzerland. The fountain in the centre, the colourful buildings with impressive wall paintings that surround it, and the well-cared-for stores create the ideal setting. It’s as if the town is telling stories from its past through the vibrant imagery. Sitting in one of the square’s cafes and allowing your sight to wander at the surrounding buildings will fill your mind with unique images and long-lasting memories.
After leaving the square and continuing the tour, make a stop at the clock tower, Untertor, at the edge of the settlement. Finally, two museums (Museum Lindwurm and Cribs World Museum) dedicated to the village’s traditions and history are worth a visit.
How to reach Stein am Rhein
From Zurich, you may take a direct train to Stein am Rhein in approximately an hour. Travelling by car takes about 50 minutes. Another wonderful option is to take a boat ride along the Rhine from adjacent cities such as Schaffhausen, admiring the river’s natural splendour before arriving in town.
Ermatingers Café Späth and Käsekuchen
Located in Schaffhausen, the area’s oldest bakery and pastry shop is called Zuckerbäckerei Ermatinger. Known for its themed cakes, it was established in 1894. Ermatinger includes the classic Café Späth on Stein am Rhein’s main square, which has been there since 1996. Both a well-cared-for interior space and a table-equipped outside space are available. This place offers great treats (such as their renown raspberry cake) to go with your coffee. Also available are local specialities like the mouthwatering Käsekuchen.
‘Käsekuchen’ literally means ‘cheesecake’ in German. However, it is also a broad word for a variety of pies made with cheese. A variety of the Käsekuchen is made in the Zurich region. The specific variety is made with a buttery tart dough that is filled with a rich mixture of cheeses that have been spiced and flavoured with mustard. The combination of the cheese and the subtly sweet, buttery dough creates a distinct flavour that is certainly worth trying.
A romantic escape and a fairytale day trip
Visiting Zurich and taking a day excursion to the Rhine Valley is an unforgettable travel experience. The natural wonder of the falls, along with the picturesque mediaeval town of Stein am Rhein, creates an ideal setting for admiring both natural and man-made wonders. A visit to Rhein Falls and Stein am Rhein is both a romantic getaway and a beautiful Swiss day trip.
