Cultural delights in Schaffhausen

With its exceptional concentration of international music festivals, its vibrant local arts scene and its many clubs and bars, Schaffhausen is one of the most diverse and influential small towns in Switzerland.

Tips for the perfect cultural tour of Schaffhausen

The tour starts at the Museum zu Allerheiligen. At the former All Saints Benedictine Abbey in the middle of the picturesque old town, the museum not only pays testimony to the monastery’s history, but also houses a significant collection of works of art: from pieces from the 15th century right through to contemporary art. In the idyllic Pfalzhof, the museum’s café is the perfect place to relax for a while. The monastery complex also includes Switzerland’s largest Romanesque church, a wonderful cloister, and a sweet-smelling herb garden – an absolute “must see” when in the city.

Continue on to one of Schaffhausen’s greatest icons: the IWC watch factory. At the IWC Museum, you can experience the fascinating history of the largest German-Swiss watch manufacturer up close and in a multimedia format. Just a few steps towards the Rhine lies the Kammgarn. For over 25 years, KiK Kultur im Kammgarn has been hosting all kinds of concerts, parties, the Schaffhausen Film Festival, theatre performances, and the Irishnights Festival on the Kammgarn stage. The Kammgarn Bar serves delicious drinks and snacks for when you’re feeling peckish.

A visit to Schaffhausen’s City Theatre is the perfect ending to round off a cultural tour of Schaffhausen. From September to May each year, it hosts around 80 performances, with artists and ensembles from across the world.

As the day comes to an end, you can enjoy falling asleep to the sound of the “Munotglöggli”, the church bell of Munot Fortress. This is probably the last alarm bell to be rung by hand in Europe, and certainly the last in Switzerland. It is rung by hand by the Munot guard for five minutes every night from 9 p.m. In the Middle Ages, the ringing not only announced that the city gates were being shut, but also let people know that it was closing time in the city’s taverns. Continuous ringing at any other time meant that the Munot guard was warning of fire or enemies approaching the city.

Diverse city and experience tours in Schaffhausen

In addition to classic guided tours of the historic Old Town, Schaffhausen can also be experienced in unique ways. A ride in a traditional Weidling boat offers impressive views of the Rhine, night-time walks with the night watchman lead you through winding alleys, and with the merchant’s wife, the past comes alive in a journey back to the 16th century. These experience tours combine history, culture, and atmosphere – and open up surprising perspectives on the city.

Discover all tours in Schaffhausen:
Guided Tours City of Schaffhausen