Schaffhausen is Switzerland's northernmost city and lies entirely on the right bank of the Rhine – a geographical peculiarity that gives the town a slightly unusual feel. The old town has a high density of oriel windows – the bay windows on the townhouses are one of the most characteristic elements of the cityscape – and the Munot Fortress crowns a hill above the city.

The Munot Fortress (16th century) is the city's landmark and offers a wide view over the Rhine, the vineyards and the Schaffhausen hinterland. The Rheinfall is reachable from the city in around 10 minutes by train or bicycle. The old town is explorable on foot and has good restaurants, cafés and boutiques. Schaffhausen was named Swiss City of the Year 2023 – a sign of its high quality of life.

Schaffhausen is on the railway line and reachable from Zurich in around 45 minutes. By car, take the A4 motorway. Parking is available in the city centre and on the outskirts.