Rhine Falls and Stein am Rhein Half-Day Tour from Zurich
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Visit the magnificent Rhine Falls and the pretty village of Stein am Rhein on this 5-hour trip from Zurich. With a guide, you'll travel along part of the Grand Tour of Switzerland, passing through gently rolling vineyards and picturesque farming villages near the German border. Marvel at the powerful Rhine Falls - Europe’s largest waterfall - from clifftop Laufen Castle and enjoy breathtaking views from the panoramic glass lift. Witness an incredible 700,000 liters of water per second thundering over a 150-meter-wide drop into the basin below. In summer, you can opt for an unforgettable boat ride that brings you up close to the mighty cascades (optional). Continue to the beautifully preserved town of Stein am Rhein, where a guided walking tour reveals its richly frescoed, half-timbered buildings and fascinating medieval architecture. Perfect for those short on time, this tour offers a memorable snapshot of Swiss history, culture, and natural beauty - all in just half a day.
Your experience
Stop 1
Sit back and relax on a comfortable coach while listening to your multilingual guide explaining about Switzerland's interesting history and culture. The journey takes you along the Grand Tour of Switzerland through picturesque landscapes with gently rolling vineyards and charming farming villages close to the German border.
Stop 2
Reach the first highlight of this afternoon at splendid medieval Castle Laufen – the mighty Rhine Falls! Enjoy about one hour leisure time at Europe's biggest waterfalls and one of Switzerland's major tourist attractions! Delight unique views from the panoramic lift and see how an average of 700'000 liters of water per second plunge across a width of 150 meters into the basin below. The Belvedere panoramic trail brings you to the viewing platform right above the falls where you feel the spindrift of the rumbling waters. Take an optional boat ride (summer only, additional costs) close to the falls. Enjoy an hour here to see an exhibition, admire panoramic views from the glass elevator, or walk to the viewpoints above and around the falls to thrill at their roar and power. The site also has a playground, shops, and restaurants. Perhaps opt for a boat ride (subject to availability and not included in price) to experience the crashing cascades close up.
Stop 3
Continue via Schaffhausen with its well-known Munot Fortress and passing through the beautiful countryside to the medieval town of Stein am Rhein. On a guided stroll, you learn about the well-preserved old town with its many distinctive buildings. Most of these half-timbered houses are made of stone with delicate wooden windows and stun visitors with their exceptional frescoes. The most prominent of these houses is the White Eagle, whose fresco counts as the oldest preserved mural painting of the Renaissance in Switzerland.
Stop 4
Drive back to Zurich in the evening, where the tour ends.
What’s included
- Visit to Rhine Falls (including ticket), and access to Laufen Castle and Historama
- Fully guided tour by professional multilingual guide
- Transportation in comfortable coach with AC
- Carbon-balanced operations certified by myclimate
- Guided village walk in Stein am Rhein
Not included
- Food and drinks
- Optional boat ride (CHF 12 per adult / CHF 8 per child, payable on site by cash or card)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
Meeting and pickup
The official departure point for all tours departing from Zurich is Sihlquai Bus Station, near Zurich’s main train station (Zürich HB). Please check in at least 15 minutes before departure at the “Best of Switzerland Tours” counter with your QR code on your voucher ready, printed or electronically.
Before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Optional boat ride: CHF 12 per adult / CHF 8 per child (April to October, subject to availability, payable on site by credit card or in cash)
- The boat ride is not suitable for guests with reduced mobility or strollers
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
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