A Day trip to the Rhine Falls

When making a book hotel Zurich, consider staying a few extra nights to explore sights outside of Zurich. The city is a gateway to some of Switzerland’s most iconic attractions, including the stunning Rhine Falls. The largest waterfall in Europe, Rhine Falls is just 45 minutes by train from Zurich. The city’s main railway station is only a ten minute walk from the Comfort Hotel.

Located between Neuhausen am Rheinfall and Laufen-Uhwiesen, the Rhine Falls are found in northern Switzerland near Schaffhausen. The waterfall measures 150 metres or 450 feet wide and 23 metres or 75 feet high. Formed during the last ice age, the Rhine Falls has been the site of a mill and a blast furnace for smelting iron ore from the 17th century to 19th century. Since the 19th century, the waterfall has also been used to generate electricity.

Each year on August 1 during the country’s day of independence, Swiss National Day, the waterfall is illuminated in a stunning display. The Rhine Falls also draw tourists at other times of the year, including on boat trips that travel along the Rhine. Viewing platforms are found on both banks of the river, offering stunning views of the falls. The nearby Schloos Laufen is also a popular attraction. The castle overlooks the waterfall and traces its routes to the 9th century.

Celebrate the Swiss National Day in Zurich

The Swiss National Day celebrates the foundation of the Swiss Confederacy. Held on August 1, the national holiday has been officially recognised since 1994. The date was picked because of the early August signing of the Federal Charter of 1291, which is seen as the founding of Switzerland when three cantons joined together in a confederation.

One of the year’s most important days, the Swiss National Day is celebrated across the country with local and regional events. Some of the most popular events include the illumination of the scenic Rhine Falls near Schaffhausen, which is just an hour from Zurich by S-Bahn. Fireworks along the Rhine in Basel and celebrations at the Rutli Meadow near Lake Lucerne are also popular events. In Zurich, visitors can expect jovial celebrations throughout the city and fireworks over the lake. Visitors can even buy their own fireworks and launch them from parks and other public spaces with locals.

Book hotel Zurich accommodation well in advance if you are interested in spending the Swiss National Day in the city. The day of independence falls during the peak season and booking in advance can help you get the best possible rates, and guarantee a room.

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