Zurich Private Tour: Stein Am Rhein Schaffhausen and Rhine Cruise

Your guide will greet you at your hotel or residence, before whisking you away to Stein Am Rhein.

Arriving in the historic destination of Stein Am Rhein, our tour guide will delve into the ancient tales as you stroll through the pedestrianized medieval old town. During this immersive exploration, a multitude of historical heritage facts will be shared, including captivating stories of how emperors settled the town and the disruptive bombing of Stein Am Rhein in 1945.

Take in the town’s eye-catching, fresco-painted buildings and exceptionally preserved medieval center, featuring an unchanged ancient street plan and original city gates that will instantly transport you back in time. Come face-to-face with the striking medieval architecture of St. George’s Abbey as the guide unravels its historical heritage, ensuring a full understanding of the monastery’s importance. Continuing through the Stein Am Rhein, there’s the chance to visit several additional Swiss Heritage landmarks, including Burg Hohenklingen and the Castle Church.

Accompanied during a relaxing cruise journey across the Rhine River to Schaffhausen. Renowned for its magical landscapes of both Switzerland and Germany, combined with its indigo-blue water, this river boasts an enchanting Alpine backdrop that perfectly complements the surrounding region’s expansive history and charming culture.

Our guide will share various insights about the river’s origin in the Swiss canton of Graubünden and its historical importance as a navigable waterway for transporting trade and goods during the Holy Roman Empire. While gliding across through the blissful scenery, many medieval castles and defenses will be visible - offering a superb opportunity to take stunning photographs!

The guided tour will continue with a delightful trip to Schaffhausen, a picturesque town that sits on the upper Rhine River. While exploring the town, you’ll encounter a variety of vibrant and elegant baroque-style buildings, including churches and homes. During this marvelous discovery, the guide will share the comprehensive backstory of Schaffhausen’s heritage, including its establishment and transformation over the centuries.

You will learn many interesting facts about the town’s transition to an imperial city in 1208, the establishment of the Benedictine monastery of All Saints, its alliance with Swiss confederates between 1454 and 1459, and much more!

The last discovery on this guided tour is a visit to the spectacular Rhine Falls, Europe’s most powerful waterfall! Located on the High Rhine, bordering the cantons of Schaffhausen and Zürich, Rhine Falls sit at an impressive 150 m (492 ft) wide and 23 m (75 ft) tall. The waterfall’s deep blue waters cascade in between flourishing verdant landscapes, making this destination truly mesmerizing.

With ancient landforms dating back half a million years, this natural spectacle offers a glimpse into the surrounding region’s geological history. Upon visiting Rhine Falls, the tour guide will share tremendously intriguing insights including its drastic evolution and attempts during the late 1800s to harness the fall for power generation.

After a full day of adventure, your guide will return you safely to your hotel.