The Rhine Falls are considered the tallest waterfall in Central Europe.
This stunning body of water reaches a height of 23 meters and spans around 150 meters from shore to shore. Located along the upper course of the Rhine between the medieval town of Neuhausen and Laufen-Uhwiesen in northern Switzerland, it is truly a natural wonder.
The Rhine Falls have been a tourist destination for many years. Today, several organizations work to preserve this iconic area of Switzerland, helping to maintain the falls in pristine condition.
NOTE: If you want to visit the falls from Zurich, a half-day tour is the best option. Here are two recommended excursions:
What to see at the Rhine Falls
The breathtaking views at the Rhine Falls are simply mesmerizing.
This beautiful landscape, combined with the powerful sound of the cascading water, makes it a delightful spot well worth visiting, with numerous ways to take in the scenery.
One notable feature is a rocky outcrop that has captivated visitors for years. This limestone formation has eroded very little over time due to the fact that the Rhine waters contain very few sediments.
Approximately 15,000 years old, these waterfalls offer spectacular views.
You can enjoy them from the viewpoints set up on each side of the river. Additionally, you can reach the large rock in the center of the falls by boat and then climb stairs to the top.
Currently, there are various options for experiencing this natural wonder in Switzerland:
- Different boat tours
- The impressive rock known as Rheinfallfelsen
- Scenic viewpoints on both sides of the river
- Wörth Castle
- Laufen Castle
A trip to the Rhine Falls is an unforgettable experience, allowing you to see Switzerland’s power and beauty up close, with historic castles, river views, and fascinating geological features all in one place.
Each of these spots offers visitors a perfect perspective of the area. You can also visit the historic Müehlenradhaus hammer mills, which harnessed water power as early as the Middle Ages.
Additionally, there is an old furnace once used to smelt iron, located on the rocky bed of the falls.
Spectacular viewpoints on both sides of the river
In addition to the major viewpoint on the rock, there are also panoramic lookouts on either side of the Rhine Falls.
These structures offer a different perspective of this imposing Swiss waterfall.
On one side, you have the Neuhausen Shore, a fully accessible recreational area that is free of charge.
On the other side is the Schloss Laufen Shore, which requires an entry fee; but it’s worth it, as this side offers an impressive vantage point.
In fact, the Neuhausen viewpoint is so close to the falls that you can even reach out and touch the water. A unique and unforgettable experience for any visitor.
Wörth Castle
Wörth Castle is one of the most remarkable buildings around the Rhine Falls.
Built in the 12th century, it stands on the Neuhausen Shore.
This medieval structure offers beautiful views of the Rhine.
This is also where boats depart for tours along the river.
The castle includes a restaurant with a terrace, where you can sit and enjoy some of the finest Swiss cuisine.
Rheinfallfelsen
Another impressive feature of the Rhine Falls is the large rock known as Rheinfallfelsen.
This magnificent geological formation rises dramatically in the middle of the falls.
It now serves as a remarkable high viewpoint, accessible by climbing narrow stairs to the very top.
To reach this viewpoint, you’ll need to take a boat, as it is the only way to access the rock.
Laufen Castle
Schloss Laufen Castle is located on the opposite side of the Rhine Falls.
This medieval structure, like Wörth Castle, offers wonderful panoramic views.
Its viewpoints are closer to the falls, allowing visitors to get close enough to feel the mist of the water, making it a must-see area along your journey.
This renovated castle also features a children’s playground and an exhibition on the Rhine Falls.
It’s an excellent spot to learn more about the history of this magnificent site.
There is also an adventure trail and elevators that provide spectacular views of the Rhine Falls.
Railway Bridge
Another beautiful sight worth photographing along your visit to the falls is the railway bridge.
Currently, it is the only railway line connecting the city of Zurich with Schaffhausen.
The Rhine Falls area offers an incredible mix of natural beauty, historical sites, and unique experiences, making it one of Switzerland’s must-visit destinations.
The architectural design includes beautiful arches that support the structure, blending perfectly with the surrounding landscape.
Boat Tours
If you’re looking to venture out onto the water, you can take one of the scenic tour boats. These boats depart from the Neuhausen Shore, where Wörth Castle is located. This is arguably the best way to experience the Rhine Falls.
The boats get close to the waterfall and travel all the way to the Rheinfallfelsen rock.
Here are two boat tours we recommend:
Useful Information
- Since you’ll be exploring a damp area, it’s best to bring a rain jacket.
- Keep in mind that in winter the water flow is 250,000 liters per second, while in summer it reaches 600,000. So be cautious and don’t get too close.
- The best months to visit the Rhine Falls are between April and May. However, September and October are less crowded.
- Access from Neuhausen is completely free, while Schloss Laufen requires an entrance ticket.
- There is a circular route that takes about two hours, starting from Laufen Castle, passing through Nohl, and ending at Wörth Castle.
- There are hiking trails for nature lovers.
- Biking routes are also available.
- Parking at Neuhausen costs 5 CHF, while it is free at Laufen.
Rhine Falls Ticket Prices
Ticket prices for boat tours at the Rhine Falls vary depending on the option you choose.
Our favorite excursion is this one from Civitatis, which we enjoyed during our visit to the city. It takes you through Laufen Castle, the falls, Munot Castle, and even gives you a glimpse of Schaffhausen. The tour lasts 4 hours and includes a Spanish-speaking guide.
Exploring the Rhine Falls by boat or on foot offers unforgettable views and a chance to experience the region’s natural power and beauty up close.
Here are other tours with their respective prices:
- 20-minute tour to Rheinfallfelsen: 10 CHF
- 15-minute river cruise: 6 CHF
- Tour including Laufen Castle: 7.50 CHF
- 30-minute audio-guided tour: 10 CHF
- 1.5-hour tour: 22 CHF
- Canoe rental: 70 CHF
- Rhine crossing, 5 minutes: 2 CHF
- Short tour with Rheinfall Felsen view, 45 minutes: 13 CHF
- River tour with waterfall views and stops at natural pools for swimming: 15 CHF
Rhine Falls admission prices for entering Laufen Castle:
- 5 CHF, which includes descent to the waterfall.
Rhine Falls prices for entry to the Rheinfall Adventure Park:
- Prices vary by age, ranging from 16 CHF to 40 CHF.
Rhine Falls Hours
The Rhine Falls are open at any time, day or night, all year round. For Laufen Castle, hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. in October, April, and May; from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. from June to August; and from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. from November to March. The boats operate from April to October, with hours from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in April and October, and from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. from May to September.
How to get to the Rhine Falls from Zurich
You can reach the Rhine Falls by car or public transportation.
The approximate travel time is about one hour, and getting from Zurich to the Rhine Falls is straightforward.
How to get there by train
If you plan to take the train, you can board the S9 suburban train heading to Schaffhausen, which takes you directly to Neuhausen station.
A round-trip ticket costs 46 CHF.
For a more budget-friendly option, you could take the Schloss Laufen line at a price of 33.60 CHF. However, this route requires a transfer along the way.
How to get there by car
To reach the Rhine Falls by car, head toward Schaffhausen and take the Rheinfall exit.
Alternatively, you can drive to Neuhausen and follow the signs directing you to the falls.
Note that if you’re driving in Switzerland, you’ll need a highway vignette, which costs around 40 CHF to use the roads freely. Also, keep an eye out for speed cameras, which are prevalent throughout Switzerland.
Whether by train, car, or boat, a trip to the Rhine Falls promises a remarkable experience, combining ease of access with stunning views and memorable activities.