Top 12 Castles in Schaffhausen
Castles in Schaffhausen offer a journey through history, set against the backdrop of the Rhine River and surrounding vineyards. The region is characterized by its strategic historical fortifications and picturesque landscapes. These historical sites provide insights into medieval architecture and defensive strategies. Visitors can explore a variety of castles, from well-preserved fortresses to ancient ruins.
Best castles in Schaffhausen
- The most popular castles is Radegg Castle Ruins, a castle that is a worth-seeing ruin, which you can climb. From the top, there is a good view.
- Another must-see spot is Herblingen Castle, a historical site. This castle provides a glimpse into the region's past and can be viewed from the outside.
- Visitors also love Schloss Wörth, a castle located on an island in the Rhine. It offers unique views of the Rhine Falls and houses a restaurant.
- Schaffhausen is known for well-preserved castles, castle ruins, and historical sites. The region offers a variety of castles to see and explore, each with its own historical significance.
- The castles in Schaffhausen are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 820 upvotes and 790 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
View of Stein am Rhein from St. Johann Church (Burg)
Highlight • Viewpoint
The small church of St. John is hardly noticed by many visitors to the town of Stein am Rhein. But the Church of St. John at Burg is a little gem. It is the oldest church in the canton of Schaffhausen. Its origins date back to the end of the late Roman fort, the masonry of which can be viewed at the entrance to the church hill.
Services have been held here for over 1400 years. The building shows that it has been rebuilt and expanded several times. Wall paintings from 1420 have been preserved in the Gothic choir. They were created shortly after the end of the Council of Constance. The three picture cycles show scenes from the Old and New Testaments (the story of creation, the story of John the Baptist and scenes from the life of Jesus).
On the choir wall on the left, the birth vision of the Swedish Princess Birgitta is depicted for the first time since her canonization. The mother of eight children had made a pilgrimage to Bethlehem and witnessed the birth of Jesus there in a vision. Her visions are written down in several books. Birgitta was canonized in Constance on Candlemas 1415.
Ext / Source: bodensee.eu
bodensee.eu/de/was-erleben/uebersichtskarte/st.-johann_poi1858
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Schloss Wörth
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Hohenklingen Castle
Highlight • Castle
Hohenklingen Castle has been spared from military destruction in the course of its history. Its silhouette with walls and roofs still corresponds to the medieval appearance from 1200 to 1422.
de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burg_Hohenklingen
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Radegg Castle Ruins
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Herblingen Castle
Highlight • Castle
Today the castle is privately owned, so it can only be viewed from the outside.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Thayngen Castle
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Gallows Hill
Highlight • Viewpoint
At a distance you have a beautiful view of the mountains, nice to linger.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Burg Church, Stein am Rhein
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Wolkenstein Viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Oberhof Castle and Neunkirch Local Museum
Highlight • Castle
Opening hours:
Every first Sunday in the months of May to September 2-5 p.m
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more castles in Schaffhausen.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Schaffhausen
Hike the WasserWeltenSteig – Waterfalls, lakes and rivers of the Black Forest
Every cycling trip is a little holiday – bike to work Challenge 2026
Lake and Alps Adventure – explore 100 dreamy places in our cycling region!
Woodland, water and far-reaching views – start of season hiking hits
Rhine, vines, Randen – the top 5 cycle routes in Schaffhauserland
Klettgau-Rhein-Weg – hiking at the feet of the Alps
Rhine, hills and vines – autumn hiking tips in Schaffhauserland
Rhine, Vines and Randen – autumn cycling routes in Schaffhauserland
Picturesque landscapes in three countries – Lake Constance circular route
Constance, Seerücken and more – beautiful bike Tours in Thurgau
Other adventures in Schaffhausen
Tips from the Community
Hohenklingen Castle is a spur castle near Stein am Rhein in the canton of Schaffhausen, Switzerland. It is located at 594 m above sea level, almost 200 meters above the small town on a narrow Nagelfluh ridge running from east to west, the southwestern foothills of the Schiener Berg. Hohenklingen Castle was spared from warlike destruction throughout its history. Its silhouette with walls and roofs still corresponds to the medieval appearance from 1200 to 1422. The Bergfried is now used as a viewing tower. The name is derived from the Old High German klingo, Middle High German klinge, which meant something like mountain stream, gorge or rushing water. The name of the high Clingen ob Stain first appears in 1327. It refers to the Bachtobel, which unite at the foot of the castle hill. The history of Hohenklingen Castle is closely linked to the history of the town of Stein am Rhein and the St. Georgen Monastery. Around 1200, the Kastvogt of the monastery, Walter von Klingen, built a residential tower on the site of today's complex. It can be assumed that the earlier Kastvögte of the monastery, the Zähringer, had already built a wooden residential tower with a fortification ditch in the north, which after their extinction was taken over and expanded by the Barons of Klingen. At the beginning of the 14th century, the Hohenklingen family split into the Hohenklingen-Brandis and Hohenklingen-Bechburg branches. In 1359, Ulrich and Walter von Hohenklingen-Brandis sold their share of Burg Kastvogtei to Austria for financial reasons and received it back as a fief. In 1419, their descendants sold the fief to Kaspar von Klingenberg, Lord of the Hohentwiel Fortress, who in 1433 also bought the other half of the Hohenklingen complex. .... Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burg_Hohenklingen
1
0
The Schlössli Wörth (12th century castle with restaurant) was closed on December 22, 2024 for an indefinite period (for the purpose of handing over the catering business)
0
0
Historical drilling machine from Hahn and Kolb Patent Dresden.
0
0
Not much is known about the history of Herblingen Castle, which is actually located in the municipality of Stetten. Today the castle is privately owned, so it can only be viewed from the outside.
1
0
Beautiful view towards the Rhine Falls, a view that is definitely worth it
0
0
Hohenklingen Castle is a spur castle near Stein am Rhein in the canton of Schaffhausen, Switzerland. It is located at 594 m above sea level, almost 200 meters above the town on a narrow conglomerate ridge running from east to west, the southwestern foothills of the Schiener Berg. Hohenklingen Castle was spared from warlike destruction throughout its history. Its silhouette with walls and roofs still corresponds to the medieval appearance from 1200 to 1422. The keep is now used as a lookout tower. Source: Wikipedia
0
0
Great view of Laufen Castle from the Rhine bank hiking trail.
18
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Which castles in Schaffhausen offer the best panoramic views?
For breathtaking panoramic views, Hohenklingen Castle near Stein am Rhein is highly recommended, offering vistas across Lake Constance, the Swiss Alps, and Germany's Black Forest. The Munot Fortress in Schaffhausen also provides stunning views over the old town and Rhine River. Additionally, Schloss Laufen offers unparalleled views directly overlooking the Rhine Falls from its viewing platforms and panoramic elevator.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit in the Schaffhausen region?
Yes, several castles in the Schaffhausen region are suitable for families. Hohenklingen Castle is listed as family-friendly and features a restaurant. The Radegg Castle Ruins are also family-friendly, offering a climbable ruin and a picnic area with a fireplace. The Munot Fortress is popular with families, featuring a moat with fallow deer and hosting cultural events.
What historical insights can I gain from visiting castles in Schaffhausen?
The castles in Schaffhausen offer a deep dive into the region's history. The Munot Fortress, built in the 16th century, showcases advanced defensive architecture of its time. Hohenklingen Castle, dating back to 1225, is a well-preserved medieval fortress that played a key role as a toll castle. Schloss Laufen, with over 1000 years of history, features a 'Historama' exhibition detailing its past. Even ruins like Herblingen Castle provide a glimpse into the region's historical significance.
Are there hiking trails near the castles in Schaffhausen?
Yes, the Schaffhausen region offers numerous hiking opportunities around its castles. For example, you can find routes like the 'Uferweg Stein am Rhein – SchweizMobil 905' or the 'Nordspitze Panoramaweg – SchweizMobil 593' which can be combined with visits to castles like Hohenklingen Castle. The area around Radegg Castle Ruins also has trails, including a beaver walk. You can explore more options in the Hiking in Schaffhausen guide.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles in Schaffhausen?
The castles in Schaffhausen are enjoyable year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for exploring and hiking, with autumn providing beautiful foliage. Summer is ideal for combining castle visits with outdoor activities and events. Even in winter, the castles can be picturesque, especially with snow, though some outdoor activities might be limited. Always check local weather conditions before your visit.
Can I find restaurants or cafes near the castles?
Yes, several castles offer dining options. Hohenklingen Castle houses a restaurant serving local Swiss cuisine. Schloss Laufen provides various dining experiences, including gourmet meals and unique 'Dinner in the panoramic glass lift' options. In the vicinity of the Munot Fortress, you'll find cafes and pubs in Schaffhausen's city center. The town of Stein am Rhein, near Hohenklingen Castle, also has numerous restaurants.
How accessible are the castles for visitors with wheelchairs?
While historical sites can present accessibility challenges, Hohenklingen Castle has undergone renovations to make parts of it wheelchair-accessible, including the addition of a lift. Schloss Laufen, located at the Rhine Falls, features a glass panoramic elevator, which enhances accessibility to its viewing platforms. It is always advisable to check specific accessibility details directly with each castle before your visit.
Are there any unique natural features or wildlife to see at the castles?
Yes, the castles are often integrated with natural surroundings. The Munot Fortress is notable for its moat, which has been home to a colony of fallow deer since 1905. Schloss Laufen is uniquely positioned directly overlooking the powerful Rhine Falls, Europe's largest waterfall, offering a spectacular natural backdrop. The area around Radegg Castle Ruins is near a nature reserve with a lake, where you can observe beavers.
How can I reach the Munot Fortress by public transport?
The Munot Fortress is located high above Schaffhausen's old town. While specific public transport routes directly to the fortress entrance might vary, it is generally accessible by walking from Schaffhausen's city center or main train station. The walk offers scenic views as you ascend to the fortress.
What are some lesser-known or 'hidden gem' castles in the region?
Beyond the prominent castles, the Schaffhausen region also features lesser-known historical sites. The Radegg Castle Ruins offer a unique experience, allowing visitors to climb the ruin for a good view and enjoy a picnic area. Herblingen Castle and Thayngen Castle are also historical sites that provide a glimpse into the region's past away from the main tourist paths.
Can I visit the castles as part of a day trip from Schaffhausen?
Absolutely. All the mentioned castles are easily accessible for day trips from Schaffhausen. Hohenklingen Castle is a short distance away in Stein am Rhein, a picturesque town perfect for a combined visit. Schloss Laufen is located directly at the Rhine Falls, making it an ideal destination for a half-day or full-day excursion. The Munot Fortress is within Schaffhausen itself, allowing for easy integration into a city exploration.
Most popular routes in Schaffhausen
Most popular attractions in Schaffhausen
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Explore Schaffhausen’s best castles region by region:
Explore more
Looking for the best castles somewhere else? Discover other guides in Schaffhausen:
