Known for its picture perfect landscapes and beautiful towns and villages, Switzerland never ceases to surprise with its breathtaking sights. Diessenhofen, a pretty river side village about 50 km from Zurich is one such example. A perfect day trip from the city after the quarantine, Diessenhofen proved to be an engaging outing.
A view of Diessenhofen
Perched on the south shore of the High Rhine, Diessenhofen is located in the canton of Thurgau. It is interesting and significant to note that this little village is located right opposite the town of Gailingen am Hochrhein in Germany. In fact, it is separated by the wooden Rhine bridge or Rheinbrücke as it is called in German. While one side of the bridge is Diessenhofen, Switzerland; cross over to the other side and you are in Germany!
Easily accessible by a train ride from Zurich with a change at Schaffhausen, Diessenhofen is situated at a distance of just over 50 km from Zurich. Best explored on foot, village offers interesting sights like the Old town, Rhine bridge and St. Katharinental Abbey Church.
Replete with medieval vibes, the old town dates back to the 12th century and is characterized by typical wooden Swiss houses, water fountains, boutique cafes and restaurants.
Do not miss the pretty flowers on the side walks, water fountains as well as cafe fronts.
The sealing tower which has a large clock face is one of the most prominent buildings in the village and is believed to have been used for storing the city documents and its official seal in the 16th century. The building was scheduled for demolition in 1851 but the same was prevented and since then has been renovated and preserved.
The Rhine bridge is a narrow wooden bridge that serves as a passage for vehicles and pedestrians from Diessenhofen to Gailingen and beyond on the other side. Built with several windows, this one offers some scenic views of the Rhine and buildings along its shore.
The river offers a perfect retreat during the summer months with people thronging here for boating, swimming, kayaking and the like. With plenty of restaurants and ice cream parlours along the promenade, it is a popular spot with locals and tourists alike.
The hanging kit tower and the city church are yet other sights of interest in this serene village.
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