Munich to Schaffhausen by Train: 3h45m Direct, 4.5–5h with Zurich Transfer

The rail journey from Munich (München Hbf) to Schaffhausen, Switzerland offers two primary patterns:

Direct Connection (Optimal)

• Service: EuroCity (EC) / Railjet — typically 1 daily direct
• Duration: 3 hours 45 minutes
• Route: München Hbf → Lindau-Reutin → St. Margrethen → Schaffhausen
• Border: Crosses at Lindau (Lake Constance) — Schengen, no systematic checks

Via Zurich HB (Frequent Alternative)

• Munich → Zurich: 3h 30m (EC/Railjet, hourly)
• Zurich → Schaffhausen: 35–45 min (S-Bahn S12/S24 or IR, every 30 min)
• Total: 4h 15m – 5h including transfer
• Advantage: Frequency (hourly vs. 1 direct), flexibility

Practical Details

• Booking: DB Navigator, SBB.ch, ÖBB Scotty — book 6 months ahead for Sparpreis/Early Bird fares
• Tickets: Germany-Switzerland = cross-border fare; Bayern-Ticket + Swiss Travel Pass combo possible
• Luggage: No fees; racks + overhead
• Bikes: Reservation required on EC/Railjet (€9 + bike ticket)

Scenic Highlights

Lake Constance (Bodensee) crossing — Alps backdrop, island of Mainau, Rhine Falls (near Schaffhausen — Europe's largest waterfall, 150m wide, 23m drop).

Alternative: Drive

~250 km, 2h 45m via A96/A14 — but vignette (CHF 40), parking, traffic, alcohol limit (0.05% CH vs 0.05% DE). Train avoids all.

Direct EC is the civilized choice; Zurich transfer is the flexible choice. Both deliver you to the Rhine Falls' doorstep.