Rhine Falls

Tumbling from a height of 75 feet over a 450-foot stretch of rock, the mighty Rhine Falls are the largest waterfalls in Europe. Located just outside the medieval town of Schaffhausen, the Rhine Falls make a popular day trip from Zurich and standing at the foot of the falls is one of the country’s dramatic sights, with an average 21,000 cubic feet of water plummeting into the Rhine river basin each second.

There are a number of ways to get a view of the falls, including strategic viewing platforms overlooking the main falls and a bridge linking the north and south banks. The medieval castle of Schoss Laufen also offers breathtaking views over the thundering falls, but the most hair-raising way to experience the power of the Rhine falls is to take a boat ride and cruise through the rapids.

Practical Info

The natural wonder isn’t the only attraction in the area – the riverside is laced with walking and cycling trails, and there’s even a treetop adventure park where daring travelers can brave the rope bridges, zip-lines and climbing ropes. Alternatively, time your visit for Swiss National Day (1st August) when the falls play host to one of the country’s biggest celebrations and a dazzling fireworks display lights up the water.