RHINE FALLS

No trip to Switzerland is complete without paying a visit to Europe's biggest waterfall, the Rheinfall. Located right on the border between Switzerland and Germany, it is often called the Niagra Falls of Europe. Formed more than 15,000 years ago due to certain tectonic shifts, the falls have now gained popularity among those visiting Switzerland.

Hundreds flock to the falls each summer when the increased water inflow creates mesmerizing cascades that the visitors can enjoy from up close. Right in the middle of this magnificent waterfall stands a sturdy rock that has withstood the test of time. Experience this captivating sight on your Switzerland tour, immersing yourself in the beauty and resilience of Lauterbrunnen's breathtaking waterfalls.

You can enhance your Europe Tour Packages experience by opting for a boat ride along the Rhine river to reach the rock formation, or you can opt to admire their majesty from the various trails and viewing platforms designed for this purpose. One particularly popular lookout is the Känzeli viewing platform, offering a stunning vantage point to behold the falls and, on occasion, feel the refreshing spray on your face.

The fact that it is very accessible adds to its popularity. Situated between the villages of Neuhausen am Rheinfall and Laufen-Uhwiesen/Dachien, the Rheinfall sees thousands of visitors each year. It stands at a breath of 150 meters, with the water falling at a rate of 23 meters per second.

How To Reach

The Rheinfall is quite accessible from the airport, with the Zurich Airport located at a distance of 26 km from and the waterfall. 

• By Road: The quickest way to reach the Rheinfall is to take a taxi from the airport, which will take approximately 35 minutes. 
• By Train: If you are looking for a cheaper alternative, you can choose to take a train, which will take around 45 minutes to 1 hour. There is a direct train departing from Zürich Flughafen, which will take you to Neuhausen. Services depart hourly and operate every day.

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Best Time To Visit

The Rheinfall attracts travellers all year-round, with each season providing its own charm. 

• Even though it gets quite cold during the winter, the scenery is ultimately beautiful. You can choose to take a walk along one of the trails to admire the beauty of the falls during the winter. However, if the adrenaline junkie in you is willing to brave the cold, you can instead choose to canoe along the river, which will provide you with an impressive view.
• During summers, the rate at which the water flows increases significantly, adding to the brilliance of the waterfall. You can discover the Rheinfall from numerous viewing platforms, some of which will take you as close to the falls as possible. 
• It is recommended that you visit the Rheinfall in the months of May and June for the best experience, as it is during this time that the water is at its peak. This adds to its magnificence, creating an incredible view for the visitors. However, If you choose to visit between the months of April and October, you can indulge in boat trips, which is one of the best ways to enjoy the waterfall.

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Other Essential Information

• Location: The Rhine Falls is located in northern Switzerland, on the High Rhine river.
• Entry fee: There is no entry fee for the Rheinfall. However, if you choose to rent a canoe or take a boat ride, you will be required to purchase a ticket. 
• Opening hours: The Rhine Falls is open 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year.
• Distance from Zürich Airport: The Rhine Falls is located at a distance of 26 km from the Zurich airport.

Restaurants in Rheinfall

1. Schlössli Worth

Located on the north bank of the waterfall, the Schlössli Worth boasts of a spectacular view. This lounge-style restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows offers market-fresh cuisine with the best local wines. 

2. Cafe Muhleradhaus

Famous for its wide variety of soups and barbeque, you will not be disappointed with Cafe Muhleradhaus. Located strategically in order to provide its customers with an impressive view of the falls, this cafe offers a wide variety of beer and wine as well. 

3. Sommerlust

If you are in the mood for fine dining, head over to Sommerlust. Located in the famous Schaffhausen, it offers European and Central European cuisine, with a variety of gluten-free and vegetarian options as well. 

4. Taverne Nohlbuck

If you are looking for a place to try out the local cuisine without causing too much of a dent to your pocket, Taverne Nohlbuck is worth a visit. Choose from their wide variety of Swiss fare. You will definitely enjoy sipping on the in house wines while lounging in their beautiful terrace overlooking the river.

5. Schloss Laufen am Rheinfall

Combine a fine dining setting with some well-curated meals by a chef who studied in France and you get Schloss Laufen am Rheinfall. Do not forget to try their Wiener Schnitzel, which is a Swiss delicacy. 

6. Beckenburg Das Restaurant

Known for their quick and efficient service, Beckenburg Das Restaurant is a must-visit if you are looking for a good place to have lunch. You can choose from their vast menu, which offers European, Central European, and Swiss cuisines. They are also known for their reasonably priced local wines and customers swear by the Hedinger Sauvignon Blanc and the Dichterwii Pinot noir that you get over there. 

7. Lang's Cafe

If you have a sweet tooth, Lang’s Cafe will quickly make a place for itself in your heart. This cozy little cafe will greet you with rows and rows of neatly laid out chocolates, along with other sweet fares such as lemon cakes and tarts. Not to forget their deliciously brewed coffee.

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Places to Stay near Rheinfall

1. Hotel Kronenhof

Located in the heart of the beautiful Schaffhausen, Hotel Kronenhof boasts of stylish, yet reasonably priced rooms. It also sports an in-house cafe restaurant and a steakhouse. A stone's throw away from the Munot fortress, the Allerheiligen monastery and the Rhine Falls, it is also famous for its market-fresh cuisine.

2. Hotel Rheinfall

Just as the name suggests, Hotel Rheinfall is conveniently located close to the mighty waterfall. If you are driving down to the hotel, they offer you free parking as well. Do not forget to check out their Asian restaurant, Little India, which is popular among tourists and locals alike. 

3. Hotel Park Villa

A romantic hotel with high windows and beautiful gardens, Hotel Park Villa is sure to capture your heart. Located near all the major attractions in the area, Hotel Park Villa will make your stay hassle-free. What's more, this pet-friendly hotel will welcome your furry friends with open arms!

4. Hotel Edelweiss

Situated in central Neuhausen, Hotel Edelweiss offers a restaurant with a garden terrace just a 10-minute walk away from the Rhine Falls. If you are looking for a budget hotel without compromising on the view, Hotel Edelweiss is a good match for you. The rooms are simple and clean with an unrivaled view. 

5. Zak Hotel & Backpackers

Located just 0.5 km from the Rhine Falls, Zak Hotel & Backpackers is every backpacker's dream. If you want to do some shopping and explore the wineries in the country-side, Zak Hotel & Backpackers is the perfect place to stay. They also have a restaurant right underneath the hotel and is very close to the train station.

Tips on visiting Rheinfall

• The months of May and June are considered to be the best time to visit the Rheinfall as the water peaks at this time.
• While visiting the falls, be prepared to get wet, especially if you choose to take a boat ride. Do not forget to carry an extra pair of clothes or a raincoat.
• Make sure that you wear sturdy, non-slippery shoes so that you are comfortable. 
• The Neuhausen am Rheinfall entrance on the north side of the falls is wheelchair friendly. Wheelchair users can drive right down to the Rhine Falls basin, and avail the elevator service to directly reach the boating space. 
• If you are planning to visit the falls via train, make sure that you get down at Schloss Laufen am Rheinfall or Neuhausen Rheinfall, which are the closest stops to the waterfall. 
• If you are visiting the falls in the evening, ensure that you stay on to see the Rheinfall illuminated in different colours after dusk. It is an experience you definitely don't want to miss! 
• Although the Rhine Falls is in Switzerland, you can easily pay in Euros.
• Buying food and drinks at the falls may prove to be too expensive. However, you can have your own barbeque in the picnic area on the Northern Bank which sports a grill and a fire pit.

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