Historic site
Laufen Castle (Switzerland)
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Laufen Castle (Schloss Laufen) is a medieval fortress dramatically situated on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Rhine Falls. The castle dates back to the 11th century and has been carefully restored to blend historical charm with modern amenities. Today, it houses a restaurant, a youth hostel, and a museum detailing the history of the castle and the falls. Visitors can explore the castle's courtyards, towers, and ramparts, which offer some of the best views of the waterfall. The castle's restaurant serves Swiss cuisine with a terrace overlooking the falls, making it a popular spot for a meal or a drink. The youth hostel provides affordable accommodation for travelers who want to stay right at the falls. The castle is also the starting point for boat trips to the falls and the central rock.
Don't miss
- Enjoy a meal on the restaurant terrace with a direct view of the Rhine Falls
- Explore the castle's museum and learn about its history
- Walk the ramparts for dramatic perspectives of the waterfall
- Stay overnight in the youth hostel for a unique experience
- Take the elevator down to the boat dock for falls boat trips
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Laufen Castle (Switzerland)
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inChillon Castle Entrance Ticket in Montreux4.6★ · 325 travelers1–2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$18 per personSee dates →
Most bookedRhine Falls and Stein am Rhein Half-Day Tour from Zurich4.6★ · 799 travelers~5 hoursFree cancellationFrom$101 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleTrip from Lucerne to Interlaken, Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen5★ · 17 travelers9–10 hoursFree cancellationFrom$353 per personSee dates →More attractions in Schaffhausen