Schaffhausen Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Town

Facts and practical information

Schaffhausen, a charming town located in the Zürich region of Switzerland, offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural experiences. Nestled on the banks of the Rhine River, this picturesque destination is perfect for those seeking a tranquil getaway.

One of the town's most iconic attractions is the Rhine Falls, Europe's largest waterfall. Witnessing the sheer power and beauty of this natural wonder is an awe-inspiring experience. Visitors can get up close to the cascading water by taking a boat ride or simply enjoying the view from one of the numerous observation platforms.

For history enthusiasts, Schaffhausen boasts a well-preserved old town that dates back to the Middle Ages. Take a stroll through its narrow, cobblestone streets and admire the beautifully preserved medieval buildings. The Munot Fortress, a circular 16th-century fortification, stands proudly atop a hill and offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside. Exploring the fortress and learning about its fascinating history is a must.

Art lovers will be delighted by the Museum zu Allerheiligen, which houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts. From renowned Swiss artists to international masterpieces, this museum showcases the rich artistic heritage of the region. Additionally, the Fronwagplatz Square features a variety of galleries and studios, providing a platform for local artists to showcase their work.

Schaffhausen also offers plenty of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. The nearby Randen mountain range boasts numerous hiking trails, offering breathtaking views of the Rhine Valley and the Swiss Alps. Cycling along the riverbanks or taking a leisurely boat ride on the Rhine River are also popular options.

Culinary delights await visitors in Schaffhausen's many cozy restaurants and cafes. Indulge in traditional Swiss cuisine, including hearty dishes like fondue and raclette, or sample the town's local specialties such as Schaffhauser Riesling wine or the famous Schaffhauser Cherry Brandy.

Alternative names: Population: 36.6 thous.Area: 16.15 mi²Elevation: 1312 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 47°41'48"N, 8°38'8"E

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ZürichSwitzerland

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Schaffhausen Top Attractions

Schaffhausen Attractions - What to See and Explore

Schaffhausen offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Munot, Museum zu Allerheiligen, Münster Schaffhausen, Haberhaus. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Landmark 16th-century circular fortress
Munot
Perched atop a hill overlooking the charming city of Schaffhausen, Munot stands as a testament to Swiss heritage and architectural prowess. This historic fortress, built in the 16th century, has become an iconic landmark and a must-visit tourist destination for those...
Specialty museum • Museum • History museum
Museum zu Allerheiligen
Nestled in the picturesque city of Schaffhausen, Switzerland, the Museum zu Allerheiligen is a cultural gem that offers visitors a deep dive into art, history, and archaeology. This multifaceted institution is housed in a historic monastery complex, providing a unique...
Church • Romanesque architecture • Gothic architecture
Münster Schaffhausen
Münster is one of the two main churches of the old town of the Swiss city of Schaffhausen. First built in 1064 AD as a Romanesque Basilica of the then Benecdictine Kloster Allerheiligen, it was rebuilt several times, and became in 1524 the Reformed Church of the city of Schaffhausen.

47°41'43"N • 8°37'55"E
Haberhaus
Concerts and shows • Theater
Library
Stadtbibliothek Schaffhausen
The Stadtbibliothek Schaffhausen maintains a universal scientific stock. but without being associated with a university. Since the Canton of Schaffhausen does not maintain its own library, the Public Library performs the tasks of a cantonal library.
Church
St. Maria
Santa Maria Church was built between 1883 and 1885 in Schaffhausen, Switzerland. It was the first Roman Catholic church to be rebuilt in Schaffhausen after the Reformation and belongs to the Bishopric of Basel.
Tunnel
Cholfirst Tunnel
The Cholfirst Tunnel is a tunnel in Switzerland. The tunnel lies in the northern canton of Zuerich, and forms part of the Autostrasse A4. It was completed in 1996, and is 1,260 metres long. The tunnel has three lanes. There is no central reservation.
47°41'48"N • 8°38'1"E
Fronwagplatz
Square
47°42'27"N • 8°38'55"E
Tennisclub Niklausen
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47°42'24"N • 8°38'33"E
Aranea Kletter- und Badmintonzentrum
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Day trips

Schaffhausen – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Schaffhausen, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Grossmünster (Zurich), Hoch-Ybrig, Technorama (Winterthur).

23 milesS
Landmark 12th-century cathedral
Grossmünster, Zurich
The Grossmünster, an emblematic church in Zurich, Switzerland, stands as a testament to the city's rich religious history and architectural heritage. This Romanesque-style Protestant church, with its distinctive twin towers, dominates the Zurich skyline and is one of...
47 milesS
Winter sport, Historic walking areas, Ski area
Hoch-Ybrig
Nestled in the heart of Switzerland's pre-Alpine landscape, Hoch-Ybrig is a winter paradise that beckons skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. This charming ski area, located in the canton of Schwyz, offers a delightful blend of well-groomed slopes, stunning...
14 milesSE
Museum, Science museum
Technorama, Winterthur
In the heart of Winterthur, Switzerland, lies a hidden gem that sparks the curiosity and wonder of visitors of all ages: Technorama. This Swiss Science Center is not merely a museum; it is an interactive playground where science comes to life through hands-on exhibits...
23 milesS
Museum, Vernacular architecture, History museum
Zunfthaus zur Meisen, Zurich
Nestled in the heart of Zurich, the Zunfthaus zur Meisen is a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage. This historical building, dating back to the 18th century, serves not only as an emblem of Zurich's medieval guilds but also as a museum that captivates...
24 milesS
Zoo
Voliere Zürich, Zurich
Nestled in the heart of Zurich, Switzerland, the Voliere Zürich offers a charming retreat for both locals and tourists alike. As a haven for a diverse array of birds, this specialized zoo provides a unique opportunity to observe and learn about feathered creatures...

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Best Time To Visit Schaffhausen

Learn when is the best time to travel to Schaffhausen weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

JFMAMJJASOND

August is the most popular and therefore the most crowded month to visit this location. Many people also choose to visit in December.

Average temperatures in °F

JFMAMJJASOND

The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.

Monthly rainfall in inches

JFMAMJJASOND

The lowest rainfall is recorded in March. Most of it rains in June and July.

Length of day in hours

JFMAMJJASOND

We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Schaffhausen?

The top attractions to visit in Schaffhausen are:

What is the best time to visit Schaffhausen?

August is the most popular and therefore the most crowded month to visit this location. Many people also choose to visit in December. The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.