Whether exploring the Swiss Alps or Germany's stunning Black Forest (one of the not-to-miss destinations in Germany according to locals), a short detour can be made that would certainly be a welcome addition to either trip. Thought of as Switzerland's most well-maintained medieval village, Stein am Rhein can be the perfect addendum for travelers exploring the place where Western and Central Europe meet. Another fairytale Swiss village with picturesque charm, it was awarded the first-ever Wakker Prize
by the Swiss Heritage Society for its architectural beauty and historical preservation efforts. Stein am Rhein offers up a beautiful promenade on the banks of the Rhine River as well as a series of impressive landmarks, like the St. George's Cloister Museum (a former Benedictine abbey) and the Hohenklingen Castle, both with a design that will leave art historians and novices alike in awe.
Just over an hour on the train from Zurich in Switzerland via either Schaffhausen or Winterthur, the village finds itself nestled just below the German border. If arriving from Germany, Stein am Rhein is under two hours away from Stuttgart by car, and thanks to large stretches of the German autobahn being speed-limit-free, daredevil drivers might just make record time on the way to this picturesque Swiss village. If you are planning on making the drive, be sure to understand crucial driving rules in Europe before your departure.
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Explore The Castles And Historic Old Town Of Stein Am Rhein
Stein am Rhein's medieval marvels are on show in the heartbeat of the village's old town, which is an Instagrammer's paradise. Tourists can take snaps that show off their time-traveling exploits as they're transported back in time amidst a backdrop of timber-framed houses dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries. The history of the village is also on show with the 14th-century Undertor, one of the three gates that form part of the original city walls that protected the town in its bygone era. A four-minute stroll brings you to Stein am Rhein's Rathaus, the spectacular timber town hall that features intricate frescoes depicting the village's past. On the way, visitors will pass the Lindwurm Museum, a multi-story dwelling that recreates scenes of bourgeoisie Swiss life in the 1800s.
Perched on the hilltop overlooking Stein am Rhein lies its pièce de résistance, Hohenklingen Castle. This late 12th-century fortress offers panoramic views of the Rhine. Reaching it from the old town takes less than 30 minutes on foot. For those keen to explore more of the region's feudal past, the Helfenberg Castle ruins are about a 15-minute drive from town through the surrounding countryside. Tucked into the region's hills, what is left of the castle at Helfenberg comes with a local legend: a nobleman who secretly murdered his brother and whose tortured spirit now haunts the ruins, terrifying any would-be inhabitants.
Unwind By The Rhine With Views, Boats, And Top-Quality Food
Stein am Rhein is not just about history; it is also about unwinding in its beauty. The promenade is a perfect spot for tourists to mosey along the waterfront and enjoy some of the finer things in life. A stone's throw away is the Swiss chocolatier Schoggibox, a perfect place to pick up some luxurious sweet treats and then take them back to one of the promenade's benches. There are boats traversing down the river towards either Lake Constance or Schaffhausen, with some boat tours available for visitors to enjoy.
The village also offers connoisseurs of the finer things in life numerous high-end options for lunch and dinner at one of its fine-dining restaurants. Those staying down by the promenade can enjoy the restaurant at the Rheinfels Hotel, lauded in particular for its fish dishes. During the warmer months, guests can enjoy a meal and a glass of wine on the hotel's river terrace, a memorable culinary experience for those who try it. Meanwhile, at the aforementioned Hohenklingen Castle, there's a restaurant that provides not only world-class views but also delicious French cuisine prepared using local market produce. Switzerland does have a reputation for being pricey, so be warned that an appetizer and main will likely set guests back around $90 (at the time of writing). In spite of the priciness, for travelers seeking a destination that blends history, riverside beauty, and exquisite food, this Swiss gem is hard to top.
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