A unique opportunity to experience Bach’s music at the highest artistic level, performed in historic settings in beautiful Swiss towns and villages.
The 31st edition of the International Bach Festival offers insight into musical prism of Johann Sebastian Bach's legacy, revealing diverse musical worlds – from the historically informed performance of Bach’s great works to new projects with a contemporary twist. The highlights of this year's festival include Bach’s St. Matthew and St. John Passions, as well as his Goldberg Variations. As is tradition at every Bach Festival, the week concludes with the Mass in B Minor. Alongside extraordinary concert projects, world premieres are an integral part of the Schaffhausen Bach Festival profile. In 2026, the Gershwin Piano Quartet will present a new version of Bach’s Concerto for Four Keyboards, while the Lautten Compagney Berlin will invite audiences to a European "Baroque Song Contest" at the City Theatre – a grand showcase of the greatest songs in European music history. Concerts take place in historic and atmospheric venues, primarily churches and landmark buildings in and around Schaffhausen.
There is no formal dress code. Audiences tend to dress smart-casual, with some choosing more formal wear for evening concerts. Mid-May weather is generally mild and changeable, so layered clothing is recommended. Light jackets and comfortable shoes are advisable.
Enjoy meals in local cafés and restaurants in the old town. There are also pleasant outdoor spaces along the Rhine and in the old town suitable for casual picnics.
The festival is held in Schaffhausen, Switzerland, in the northern part of the country, close to the German border and near the Rhine Falls. Schaffhausen is a small historic town, the atmosphere is cozy and intimate, with concerts in churches and historic venues, offering a calm setting rather than a busy city festival.
The nearest international airport is in Zurich, which is about 50 km from Schaffhausen. You can catch a direct train from the airport to Schaffhausen within 45 minutes. Schaffhausen station is centrally located and within walking distance or a short bus ride of most venues. It is also possible to reach Schaffhausen from Basel Airport. Basel Airport is a small, convenient airport located about 2 hours and 30 minutes away from Schaffhausen by train. Zurich city is approximately a 40-minute direct train ride from Schaffhausen. There is also a direct train connection from Munich, Germany, to Schaffhausen.
Rhine Falls (Rheinfall) - Europe’s largest waterfall is located just a few minutes from Schaffhausen and is the region’s most famous natural attraction. Viewing platforms, boat trips, and riverside walks make it a must-see.
Munot - A 16th-century circular fortress overlooking the old town of Schaffhausen. It offers panoramic views over the city and the Rhine and is one of Schaffhausen’s key landmarks.
Historic Old Town of Schaffhausen - Renowned for its beautifully painted façades, bay windows, and well-preserved medieval architecture. The pedestrian old town is ideal for strolling and café visits.
Museums - The Museum zu Allerheiligen, that is located in the center of the old town, offers a combination of archaeology, art, and regional history, as well as smaller specialized museums.
Nature and countryside - The region features gentle hills, vineyards, forests, and river landscapes along the Rhine. It is ideal for walking, cycling, and relaxed excursions.
Nearby destinations - Lake Constance (Bodensee) is about an hour away and offers lakeside towns, boat trips, and cultural attractions across Switzerland, Germany, and Austria.
