Montreux is located in the French-speaking region of Switzerland. It is nestled right on the shores of Lake Geneva, at the foot of the Alps. The area is quite stunning, as it has that combo of a crystal-clear lake and the Swiss Alps as its backdrop. It is a very small city and is known for its views of Lake Geneva and all the famous people who have visited throughout time. Despite being small, Montreux is full of history and culture. You can explore a castle, attend the world famous Montreux Jazz Festival, take boat rides on the lake, and much more! Start planning your trip with this complete Montreux travel guide!
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Montreux, Switzerland
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Getting to Montreux
By Air:
If you are flying to Switzerland and Montreux is your first stop, the ideal airport to land at would be Geneva Airport. The airport is only about 57 miles from Montreux, so once you’ve touched down at Geneva, you have several transportation options to get to the city.
By Train:
Regardless of where you’re coming from, you will most likely be taking the train to Montreux. It is easy to reach from pretty much anywhere in Switzerland. Traveling from Bern, it takes about 2 hours with one transfer. From Zürich it is a little less than 3 hours with one transfer. And from Geneva, it is a 1 hour direct train ride.
By car:
If you are exploring Switzerland by car, you’ll be happy to hear that the drive to Montreux is pretty straightforward. Depending on where you’re coming from, you’ll take the major highways and follow signs for Montreux.
Getting Around Montreux
Walking:
Since Montreux is compact, you can walk around easily and stroll along the lakeside promenade. This charming walkway offers spectacular views of the lake and the surrounding Alps.
Public Transportation:
Montreux also has a great bus system that connects the town with its neighboring areas. The main VMVC bus line circulates every 10 minutes and passes through Montreux.
Of course, if you are wanting to explore the surrounding region, you can take a train to your destination from the Montreux railway station.
HOT TIP: Make sure you check with your accommodations about the Montreux Riviera Card. As a visitor in Montreux, you can take advantage of this card. It offers free access to local public transportation and also provides discounts on different attractions and activities!
Best Areas To Stay In Montreux
Montreux City Center:
If you are wanting to stay in Montreux itself, you certainly can. Staying here means you’ll be just steps away from the lakeside promenade, and probably even get lucky with a view of the lake! There is convenient access to restaurants and cafés. Additionally, you can hop on the train or bus to easily visit the surrounding areas too.
Vevey:
Vevey is a lovely town west of Montreux. It’s only about a 10-minute bus ride to Montreux. The town is super charming and has a lot to offer, with its own lakeside promenade, attractions, and delicious restaurants! Staying in Vevey gives you a slightly more laid-back atmosphere while still keeping you close to Montreux.
Best Hotels In Montreux
Fairmont Le Montreux Palace: $$$$
Talk about luxurious! The hotel was founded all the way back in 1906 and is truly amazing. Overlooking Lake Geneva, this luxury hotel has multiple restaurants, a spa, and of course, incredible architecture. (Even if you don’t stay here, you should definitely go for a cocktail or just to check it out!)
Hotel des Trois Couronnes: $$$$
If you have decided to stay in Vevey, this 5-star hotel is amazing (but it ain’t cheap!). The architecture and decor are beautiful with a historic charm. There is also a high end spa and two restaurants!
Grand Hôtel Suisse-Majestic: $$$
Situated right on the shores of Lake Geneva, the Grand Hôtel Suisse-Majestic is a lovely historic hotel. The views are amazing and the rooms are clean and spacious. Make sure you have a meal or coffee at the hotel’s restaurant – it overlooks the lake and is just gorgeous!
Royal Plaza Montreux & Spa: $$
If you want something that’s still very nice without completely breaking the bank, the Royal Plaza Montreux & Spa is a really great choice. The rooms and suites are clean and spacious – many of them even have balconies with lake views! There is also a lovely restaurant and two bars that we highly suggest you check out!
Eden Palace Au Lac: $
This hotel was built in 1894 and is a decent, more affordable option. It has a good location and is on the lake, so you get the nice views. The rooms are not quite as fancy as the other hotels mentioned above, but they are clean and functional.
Best Restaurants In Montreux
Café Bellagio:
Café Bellagio is part of the Grand Hôtel Suisse-Majestic. It is a beautiful restaurant with lakeside views. The food is delicious and they even have vegetarian and vegan options (which is hard to come by in Switzerland).
Restaurant Le Museum:
Restaurant Le Museum is located in a historical building in Montreux’s old town. The restaurant is charming and cozy and serves authentic Swiss food – and lots of cheese!
Restaurant La Rouvenaz:
Serving Italian and seafood, this restaurant is wonderful. It has a hip, modern vibe and a great wine selection!
Restaurant Au Parc:
If you are wanting something more casual (or you are craving pizza), definitely try this place! The food is very, very good and it’s nice to change it up with some Italian cuisine.
Things To Do In Montreux
SHOPPING
There are shops along the lake and in Montreux itself, including a shopping mall. But the surrounding areas like Vevey also have a bunch of charming shops to explore. We recommend also visiting the nearby towns during your stay!
Montreux Christmas Market:
If you are visiting Montreux around Christmas, you will get to experience the magic of Montreux’s Christmas market! The lakeside promenade is transformed into a magical wonderland filled with twinkling lights and festive stalls. You can read all about it here.
SIGHTSEEING/ACTIVITIES:
Chillon Castle:
Chillon Castle is definitely a must-see. It is located on a small island in Lake Geneva and is one of Switzerland’s most visited historic sites. This medieval fortress has a rich history dating back to the 12th century and is particularly special due to the way it moulded with the oval shape of the rocky island that it was built on. You’re welcome to take a guided tour (we recommend this) or do a self-guided tour if you just want to explore at your leisure. (They provide a brochure and a map to help you navigate.)
Stroll the Lakeside Promenade:
You will definitely want to take a walk along Montreux’s beautiful lakeside promenade. It’s a wonderful way to soak in the panoramic views of Lake Geneva, and the surrounding Alps. There are also some charming cafés and shops to explore.
Mountain Excursions / Hiking:
Take a 55-minute cogwheel train to Rochers-de-Naye for incredible views! It’s a great place for hiking during the summer and skiing during the winter. There’s also a tiny Alpine garden you can check out (however, it’s closed during winter).
You can also venture to the nearby villages of Les Avants and Les Pléiades for some more hikes and breathtaking views.
Wine Tasting at Lavaux Vineyards:
Attention wine lovers! This one’s for you! The Lavaux region is a short train ride from Montreux and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is famous for its terraced vineyards overlooking Lake Geneva. Pick a winery or two (or three) and sip some wine whilst admiring the beauty surrounding you! You can also take a tour of the vineyard(s), and in a lot of cases, you can also learn about the wine making process.
Hike Gorge du Chauderon:
In the old town is the beginning of the hiking trail along the Gorge du Chauderon. The gorge has been carved over time by the river La Baye-de-Montreux, which flows into Lake Geneva. It’s a nice, shady hike where you are surrounded by lush greenery and waterfalls. The gorge was actually closed for a couple of years while they worked to make the footpath safer, and it is now open again!
HOT TIP: Thankfully, the path is clearly marked. Behind the Montreux railway station, look for the yellow signs.
Lake Geneva Boat Tour:
Take a tour on Lake Geneva! There are several choices out there for a boat tour. Browse the options and pick the one that strikes your fancy!
Daffodil trail:
If you are visiting Montreux in the spring, take a walk amongst the wild narcissus flowers! Up in the hills, there are a bunch flower trails in the surrounding mountains.
HOT TIP: Ask the tourist office for maps with marked trails.
Swimming/Water Sports:
During the summer, take a dip in the lake. Or you can rent a paddle board or canoe. There are also options for water skiing, wake boarding, and more! More info here.
CULTURE
Queen - The Studio Experience:
Did you know that the band Queen recorded 6 albums at Mountain Studios in Montreux? Now they have a cool exhibition you can visit in Casino Barrière de Montreux.
Be sure to also visit the Freddie Mercury statue on the lakeside promenade. This bronze statue was installed after his death in 1996.
If you are a big Queen fan, you can also take the guided Freddie Tour.
Musée de Montreux:
The Musée de Montreux (Montreux Museum) is located in the town’s old covered market, near the railway station. You will learn all about the history, culture, and evolution of Montreux. It displays a diverse collection of exhibits, such as local artifacts, historical photographs, and more!
Note: The museum is open April – November.
Montreux Jazz Festival:
If you are considering taking a trip to Montreux in the summer, make sure you plan it during the month of July! The Montreux Jazz Festival is a truly legendary event and the stages have been graced by artists such as Miles Davis, Nina Simone, Ella Fitzgerald, Aretha Franklin, Prince, Elton John, Queen, and Pink Floyd (just to name a few).
The festival originated as jazz but after evolving over the years, it now features an eclectic lineup of jazz, rock, pop, hip hop, and more.
HOT TIP: Be sure to check the schedule and book your tickets in advance!
Hidden Gems In Montreux
Charlie Chaplin's World:
In the neighboring town of Vevey, Charlie Chaplin’s World is a museum dedicated to the iconic silent film star, Charlie Chaplin. If you’re a fan, you should definitely add this to your Montreux itinerary. The museum honors the life and career of one of the most beloved figures in cinematic history. You can explore his former estate, Manoir de Ban, and the studio where he created some of his most famous works. It’s really fascinating and totally worth the visit!
Lantern Walk at Les Pléiades:
This is a fun experience if you are going to Montreux in the winter (January – February). At night, you strap on some snow shoes and follow a path marked by lanterns through the forests. Afterwards, enjoy a warm meal at the restaurant! It’s really cool to be out in nature as you follow the illuminated path through the snow – quite magical!
To get there, take the train to Les Pléiades station and just follow the signs along the trail lit up with lanterns!
More info here.
Swiss Camera Museum Vevey:
Those of you who are into photography should pay a visit to this museum in Vevey. Located in a historic building, the museum has a wide range of different equipment and old photographs. You can take a guided tour and learn about the history and inventors who contributed to the development of photography.
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FAQ
How many days should you spend in Montreux?
We suggest spending 3 days in Montreux. Although the town itself is small, there is a lot to do in the surrounding areas.
When is the best time to visit Montreux?
Summer (June – September) is really the best time to go to Montreux, as the weather is glorious and it’s also when the Jazz Festival takes place!
About Us
We are Sandro & Juli! Sandro is a Swiss native and Juli was born and raised in California. We LOVE to travel – especially to Sandro’s home country. Because we are often asked by friends and acquaintances where to visit in Switzerland, we decided to dedicate a place where our knowledge of all things Switzerland can live. We are always adding to our travels, so follow along as we share all our best tips, hidden gems, travel guides and everything in-between.
Happy travels!
