There is no better way to start a Swiss adventure than with a spontaneous train ride and a sunset walk.
I landed in Switzerland with only a few hours of daylight left, so I decided to keep it simple. I hopped on a train from Zurich and headed towards the northern border. Honestly? Even just the view from the train window was enough to make me fall in love. If you’re looking for a “slow travel” afternoon that feels like stepping into a storybook, this little loop is for you.
First Stop: Stein am Rhein
This town is famous for a reason. As soon as you walk into the Rathausplatz (Town Square), you’re surrounded by these incredible medieval buildings with painted facades.
- The Vibe: It feels like a living museum, but much cozier.
- What to do: Don’t overthink it. Just walk. The detail on the frescoes is insane. I spent most of my time just looking up at the architecture and the clock towers.
- The River View: Make sure to walk down to the Rhine River. The way the colorful houses reflect off the water during the golden hour is a dream for photos.
Next Stop: The Mighty Rhine Falls (Schaffhausen)
Just a short train ride away is Schaffhausen, home to the largest waterfall in Europe.
- The Walk: I arrived just as the sun was starting to set. There’s a beautiful, well-paved path that lets you walk right alongside the rushing water.
- My Favorite Spot: Find one of the red benches overlooking the falls. It’s the perfect place to sit, breathe in the fresh mist, and realize: “I’m finally in Switzerland.”
- The Castle View: Looking across the falls at Schloss Laufen perched on the cliff is the ultimate “premium” view.
My Honest Opinion:
If you arrive in Switzerland in the afternoon and don’t want to waste your first day, this is the perfect plan. It’s easy to navigate by train, not too tiring, and gives you those “Classic Europe” vibes immediately. It’s quiet, peaceful, and way less crowded than the big cities.
Quick Tips:
- Swiss Travel Pass: This is a lifesaver. I just hopped on and off the trains without worrying about buying separate tickets.
- Comfort is Key: Since I was just walking and exploring, I wore my favorite cozy set and a cap—perfect for that “chill traveler” look.