Things To Do
in Schaffhausen
Schaffhausen sits along the Rhine in northern Switzerland at roughly 47.7°N and 8.63°E, just above the Rhine Falls. Its well-preserved medieval old town is anchored by the Munot fortress and ornate churches, while the surrounding countryside invites hikes along the Rhine and through the region. The town serves as a gateway to nearby Lake Constance and to the German border, offering a calm, scenic Swiss experience with easy access to Zürich and Basel.
Expect a refined, small-city vibe with clean streets, excellent dining, and a mix of culture, nature, and architecture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the charming streets of Schaffhausen's Old Town, where you can admire the beautifully preserved medieval architecture. Stop by the impressive reconstruction of the Munot Fortress that overlooks the city, offering stunning views. Don't forget to visit some local bakeries for a taste of authentic Swiss pastry with your morning coffee.
After lunch at one of the cozy cafés, head to the Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfall, located just a short drive away. Take a boat trip to get up close to the thundering waters and appreciate the power of nature. Spend some time at the visitors' center to learn about the flora and fauna that inhabit this breathtaking area.
Return to Schaffhausen in the evening and enjoy dinner at a traditional Swiss restaurant serving fondue. Take a post-dinner walk along the Rhine River, where you can enjoy the serene ambiance as the sun sets over the falls. Conclude your day by experiencing the local nightlife, with several pubs and bars offering live music.
Begin your morning at the Schaffhausen Museum of History, where you’ll uncover the rich cultural narrative of the region through fascinating exhibits. Interact with knowledgeable curators who can provide insights into the local history and heritage. This immersive experience will provide a great foundation for your understanding of Schaffhausen's significance.
Enjoy lunch in the nearby restaurant and then head to the Allerheiligen Monastery, one of the city's most striking historical landmarks. Take a guided tour to delve into the monastic history and appreciate the beautiful architecture and peaceful gardens. You can also explore the museum situated there that features medieval artifacts and art.
As dusk falls, take a tranquil walk along the riverside promenade. Choose a riverside dining option for a meal while listening to the sounds of the water. End your day with a visit to one of the local wine bars to sample some regional wines.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-20 |
| ☕Coffee & pastry | $4-7 |
| 🚌Single public transit ride | $3-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $140-250 |
| 🎟️Museum entry | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable historic center with charm
- Close to Rhine Falls and Lake Constance
- High quality services and safety
- Costs can be high for dining and lodging
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- "Grüezi" - Hello
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Danke schön" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Schaffhausen
Visit one of these nice places.
Dramatic upstream and downstream views of Europe’s largest waterfall; best from the viewing platforms and boat tours.
Shot from the circular fortress and along the cobbled streets for skyline contrasts.
Gothic and Renaissance architectural details with tranquil cloister scenes.
Food in Schaffhausen
Schaffhausen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Classic Swiss sausage served with crispy rösti.
Must-Try!
Creamy Alpine macaroni with potatoes and onions, typically served with applesauce.
Cheese fondue or raclette for a social, shareable meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market near the town hall with fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and local specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Swiss culture values punctuality for appointments and public transport.
Greet with a polite 'Grüezi' in German; maintain polite, quiet demeanor in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Schaffhausen
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, rounding up or leaving about 5-10% is common if service was good; many people round up at cafés.
Cash and cards (Visa, Mastercard, sometimes Maestro) are widely accepted; Swiss francs are standard; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with long daylight; outdoor dining, river walks, and festival calendars.
Cooling temperatures, harvest season in vineyards, autumn colors along the Rhine.
Cold and sometimes snowy; Christmas markets in the Old Town and cozy cafés.
Mild days with fresh greenery; good time for city walks and nearby hiking.
Schaffhausen at Night
Hiking in Schaffhausen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic riverside hike with viewpoints near the falls.
Forested hills near the Swiss-German border offering varied terrain.
Airports
How to reach Schaffhausen by plane.
Major international hub about 1 hour by train from Schaffhausen.
Cross-border airport serving Basel, Mulhouse, and Freiburg; reachable by train or car.
Regional airport on Lake Constance with some international flights; accessible via rail and road connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents with Swiss-German roots; German is the primary language, with some English knowledge among service workers.
Visitors drawn to Rhine Falls, the Old Town, and nearby vineyards.
A small but present international community seeking high quality of life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Many scenic routes in the nearby hills and along the Rhine; suitable for all levels.
In nearby Alps and Black Forest regions during winter months.
Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding on calmer river sections.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Schaffhausen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Swiss dishes can be made vegetarian; look for cheese and mushroom plates, and request dairy-free options when needed.