Your Guide for Visiting Stein Am Rhein

Since basing myself in Switzerland earlier this year, I have made it my personal mission to find the cutest places in the country. On Christmas Day, I believe I have done just that! Stein Am Rhein is a postcard perfect little town, worthy of being on the cover of a Christmas card. Here is a guide for visiting Stein am Rhein.

Introduction

Stein am Rhein means “Little Stone on the River” in German. What this refers to exactly, no one seems to know.

This little town can be found where the Constance Lake joins the Rhine River. It retains its original appearance, which dates back to medieval times. The colorful Old Town is mostly known for the fresco paintings on the facades of the buildings that line its historic streets. It won the Wakker Prize in 1972 for its value in Swiss history and heritage. A visit here, will be a step back in time, and a chance to admire the medieval artwork all around town.

When to Go

Summer

The advantage of visiting in the warmer months is the chance to fully enjoy the natural surroundings in the Stein am Rhein area. The town itself is next to the Rhine River, which is beautiful during summer. There are also hiking and cycling trails, which will take you through beautiful scenery as you discover the area.

You can also visit the vineyards in the vicinity, which are open to visitors in the warmer months.

Winter

If you choose to visit in the colder months, I would suggest trying to time your visit around Christmas, or the month leading up to it.

This little town absolutely comes to life for Christmas, with Christmas trees all throughout the cobbled streets, and ample Christmas decor adorned by the old buildings.

It truly feels like the set of a Hallmark movie or a cheesy Christmas card. Plus, the vendors will be selling regionally produced Gluwein (hot wine) which will warm you right up on a cold day.

Getting There

By Car

If you are driving from Zurich, it will take you less than one hours to reach Stein am Rhein.

You don’t need a car to visit, as the town is quite small and can be fully discovered on foot. However, to reach the surrounding areas, a car is the best option.

There are paid parking spots located just outside the town walls, with a 90 minute stay costing about 2 CHF.

By Train from Zurich

You can get to Stein am Rhein by train from Zurich if you choose not to go by car.

The journey will take about an hour, and there are connections at least 3 times an hour on normal weekdays.

You will board the train at Zurich HB Station, and get off at Stein am Rhein Station.

The trains in Switzerland are some of the cleanest and most comfortable I’ve seen. Many even have coffee machines on board!

Book your train here.

Things to Do

Rathausplatz (Town Square)

The main highlight of visiting Stein am Rhein, are the beautifully painted frescoes decorating the historic timber buildings. The best ones will be found in the town square.

Each building has its own story to tell, and are all beautiful in their own way.

I saw a lot of biblical artwork, and a lot of animals. There didn’t seem to be a major central theme or color, as all the buildings looked quite different.

These are mostly original, and will go to show just how well preserved this town is.

Visit the Village Church

This churches tower is the tallest structure in town. It was established in the 12th century and free to enter. It’s worth a quick visit, although quite simple on the interiors.

Clock Tower

This is actually the towns main gate tower. The one standing today is not original. It was built to replicate the one that was destroyed during World War 2. It has large clocks on each side.

St. George’s Abbey

This abbey dates back to the 11th century, and a visit will give you an inside glimpse at how the monks here lived long ago. The interiors of some rooms are decorated in more ornate fresco paintings.

It’s only open from May to October.

Entrance fee: 4 CHF ($5 USD)

Cross the Bridge

The town is right next to the river, which adds to its charm. You can cross the bridge which connect both sides of Stein am Rhein and take in the beautiful views.

Walk the Riverbank

You can also opt to walk along the river, and loop back around on the other side of the bank. This walking path will allow you to enjoy the scenery from both the river and the towns on the way.

A full map of this route can be found here.

Visit a Vineyard

There are several vineyards around Stein am Rhein, occupying the many hills of the surroundings. Two that are good options are Leibacher Wein and Weinbau Trutmann.

At Weinbau Trutmann, you can join a viticulture workshop, if you’ve ever been interested in the wine growing process. For those of us more inclined to the wine drinking process, don’t worry. You can do plenty of that here, too.

Go Hiking

There are a few hiking trails and paths near the town. The closest hiking trail is a 7 minute drive from Stein am Rhein. It’s called Klingenbachschlucht, and it’s a short hike that takes only about 20 minutes to complete. will take you through the forest and passed some small streams.

Hohenklingen Castle

This castle is located on a nearby hill, overlooking the town below. You can visit the castle, from which you’ll have an amazing view of the town and river below.

Visit Rhine Falls

If you have a car, you may as well visit the Rhine Falls, together with Stein am Rhein as a day trip. Located only 30 kilometers away, one will be surprised at the sheer force and size of this waterfall.

While at Stein am Rhein, you may feel that the Rhine River is calm and gentle, but Rhine Falls will prove to you just the opposite.

Unfortunately, in Switzerland, it seems that everything costs money, even nature. You’ll have to pay a fee and come during opening hours to visit the falls.

Entrance fee: 5 CHF ($5.60 USD)

Where to Eat

Jakobsbrunnen: Visiting in the times of COVID, left few restaurants still open when I went. This was one of the only open ones. The interiors are well decorated and on top of offering coffee and warm drinks, they also sell jewelry and other items that would make good gifts.

Kafi und Me: A cute coffee shop, also selling cakes, pastries and small meals.

Where to Stay

Visiting Stein am Rhein doesn’t require an overnight stay. In fact, the town is small enough to see within a couple hours even if you visit the museums and restaurants. However, for those who want to enjoy the charms of this town fully, you can opt to spend a night here.

Hotel Adler: A 3 star hotel, located conveniently within the Old Town center. The hotel itself is a historic building, with its facade painted by a famous Swiss illustrator. Rooms start at $165 USD a night.

Guesthouse Pizzeria Pazza da Gianni: This will be the closest thing available as a budget option, since real budget options don’t exist in Switzerland. Rooms start at $107 USD a night, with a shared bathroom.

And there you have it! Your complete guide on how to visit Stein am Rhein. What’s your favorite place in Switzerland? Let me know below!

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