THINGS TO DO IN MONTREUX (IN ONE OR TWO DAYS)

1 OR 2 DAYS IN MONTREUX – WHAT TO DO & MORE

If you are planning your Montreux itinerary, you are probably wondering about the best things to do in Montreux. If so, then this post is for you. Here is where to go, what to see, and many more travel tips (incl. where to stay, how to get around, and more) for your trip to Montreux in one day or two days.

Montreux is breathtakingly gorgeous and boasts one of the most scenic promenades in the entire country. Trust me, after exploring Switzerland for over a decade, Montreux has stolen my heart time and again with its picturesque Lake Geneva views and mesmerizing Alpine backdrops.

Let me share some fabulous tips for the top things to do in Montreux to help you create an unforgettable itinerary!

Montreux Switzerland and hotels at Lake Geneva
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Montreux! The moment I stepped into this quaint little town, I was head over heels in love within minutes and thus I have kept coming back to enjoy more of this dreamy Swiss destination.

SWISS TRAVEL PASS FOR MONTREUX ITINERARY

If you use public transportation, I recommend getting a Swiss Travel Pass for your Montreux/Switzerland trip.

  • It allows you to use trains and buses without any extra costs.
  • You can also do boat cruises on Lake Geneva and many other lakes in Switzerland without additional costs.
  • A Swiss Travel Pass also gives you a 50% discount on most mountain rides (you can get up via cable car/funicular for half of the price, and if you follow my tips, you will need it twice).
  • Also, you can visit Chateau de Chillon without any extra costs.

The initial prices for a Swiss Travel Pass are quite high – but it pays for itself if you get around via public transportation and are active in Switzerland for more than three or four days.  

For me, it usually makes sense as I am very active and use public transportation/mountain rides often (even if I road trip Switzerland). I also love boat rides – which means many, many boat cruises for me whenever I have a Swiss Travel Pass.

Check out prices for a Swiss Travel Pass here.

ONE DAY IN MONTREUX – THINGS TO DO IN 2024

Okay, let’s get started with the best activities for your itinerary for Montreux in 1 day.

Montreux Promenade

Start your day at the Montreux Promenade which is just a 2-minute walk from the train station.

Montreux is a magical place where you’ll find a vibrant blend of flowers, making up around 50% of the area, and a lively promenade, taking up roughly 40%. 

Though my numbers might be a bit playful, it’s no exaggeration that Montreux’s promenade turns into a blooming paradise during certain times of the year. 

What to do in Montreux - things to do in Montreux Switzerland Strolling the promenade
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Parks along the promenade in Montreux - Montreux things to do
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Imagine taking a lovely stroll along a breathtaking promenade filled with vibrant, colorful flowers of all shapes and sizes. Pair that with the crystal-clear water of Lake Geneva and the awe-inspiring mountains embracing it, and you’ve got the perfect Montreux experience. 

I recommend not aimlessly strolling around but to walk towards the Chateau Chillion Castle while enjoying this pretty, pretty promenade.

Lake Geneva

Of course, it is not only about the flowers in Montreux – Lake Geneva is also a sight to behold. Walking along the promenade will also give you some amazing views of one of the most beautiful Swiss lakes.

Make the most of your visit by lounging on comfy, complimentary recliners, as you soak in the stunning atmosphere with a delightful swim and some well-deserved relaxation.

Enough places to swim and rest - Switzerland Montreux attractions
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However, as inviting as these lounges are, make sure to only swim in areas that allow swimming. Often, swimming is not allowed and it is just about relaxing and chilling – so find the dedicated swimming spots near Montreux.

  • Free to visit 
  • Open 24/7, all year round

Freddie Mercury Statue & Walking Tour

Strolling down Montreux’s scenic promenade, you’re bound to discover some captivating sights. Keep an eye out for the iconic Freddie Mercury statue gracing the waterfront – it’s an unmissable gem in this charming location!

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Ever wondered about the connection between Freddie Mercury, Switzerland, and Montreux? Well, it’s quite an intriguing story! You see, Freddie, the iconic British lead singer of the rock band Queen, was captivated by Montreux’s tranquil ambiance and decided to make it his home.

Not only that, he bought a recording studio where he created six albums – including Queen’s final masterpiece, “Made in Heaven.” No wonder Montreux is considered a pilgrimage site for Freddie’s fans!

Every year, Montreux celebrates Freddie Mercury in a special way – on the singer’s birthday! The free event is held around September 5th and is an amazing opportunity to honor the legendary music legend.

Even after all this time, Freddie Mercury’s steadfast admirers continue to commemorate him, evident by the fresh flowers I spotted near his statue from 1996! For those wanting to walk his path, there are fantastic guided tours available for just 30 CHF

As you meander down the promenade, don’t forget to feast your eyes on the fascinating sculptures gracing both sides of your path. Happy exploring!

Chateau de Chillon

After a leisurely stroll and some relaxation at the promenade of about 30-45 minutes, you will arrive at the enchanting Chateau de Chillon. This captivating gem, nestled just a stone’s throw away from Montreux, is a must-see for any visitor.

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Embark on a delightful adventure from Montreux´s village center – either by boat or an enjoyable stroll. I’d personally suggest walking, as the 3 km (about 2 miles) path is filled with cozy seating spots and picture-perfect moments that might extend your journey to over an hour! Just take a stroll down Montreux promenade, and keep an eye out for the numerous signs guiding you there!

During my visit to this popular Montreux attraction, it was bustling with people thanks to the gorgeous weather. A heads up for fellow pet lovers- pups need to stay outdoors, so my furry friend and I enjoyed the surroundings from outside. 

UPDATE: I finally got to see the interior of the castle and was amazed by it! It surely is a top Swiss museum and just evidence that Switzerland has more to offer than stunning lakes, impressive mountains, reliable public transportation, and good chocolate.

To truly appreciate the castle, I’d recommend setting aside an hour for your tour!

Chateaux de Chilean on the shore of Lake Geneva - Montreux what to do
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A castle with a view and a great Instagram spot in Montreux - things to see in Montreux Switzerland
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Just a stone’s throw away from the regal castle, you’ll find a charming pier where boats will whisk you back to Montreux. Alternatively, you can hop on a bus, catch a train, or simply stroll back while enjoying the picturesque scenery.

Lake Geneva Boat Tour

While you have gotten a glimpse of beautiful Lake Geneva already, it is time to spend some time on Lake Geneva! Its impressive size ranks it among Central Europe’s largest lakes, and its mesmerizing colors will leave you in awe.

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You can take the boat from the Chateau de Chillon boat station and use the short boat ride back to Montreux as a way to enjoy Montreux from a new perspective.

If you are not that much into boat rides, you can alternatively walk/take a bus back to Montreux.

Enjoy your lunch in one of the numerous restaurants in the lively Montreux promenade before you head to another destination for the rest of Day 1 in Montreux.

Rochers de Naye

Embark on an adventure to the majestic Rochers de Naye and enjoy a day in the mountains. This renowned hotspot near Montreux boasts breathtaking views of Lake Geneva and reaches a soaring height of 2,042 meters above sea level. Trust me, it’s worth the climb (or ride up).

Roche de Naye train ride
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Scenic train rides in Switzerland, Roche de Nayers
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I was absolutely amazed by the breathtaking scenery on a perfect fall day! From spectacular foliage to stunning views of Lake Geneva, it’s no wonder why so many people love this easy mountain excursion from Montreux.

The best part is that, for the lazier ones, Switzerland has ways to get up the mountain without hiking (a.k.a. there is a cogwheel that gets you up).

  • It takes about one hour via cogwheel to get to the summit of Rochers de Naye. So, plan in a few hours for the whole mountain trip.
  • There is a restaurant at the top of the mountain and if you plan to dine/have a drink there, check in advance whether it is open.
  • From Montreux to Haut-de-Caux the train ride is included in your Swiss Travel Pass. From Haut-de-Caux to Rochers de Naye, you pay only 50% with the pass.

DAY 2 IN MONTREUX – WHAT TO DO

This day is about the gorgeous vineyards near Montreux and the small town of Vevey. But before exploring Vevey, you will stop at another main attraction near Montreux – the stunning vineyards.

From Vevey, catch a train to Cully (about 25 minutes) and prepare for an unforgettable visit! 

Vineyards – Lavaux UNESCO

Blessed by its natural charm, Lavaux stands out as one of Switzerland’s most enchanting regions, boasting a blend of historical, scientific, sporting, wine-centric, and artistic attractions. Covering 800 hectares, the terraced vineyards in the UNESCO-designated Lavaux region constitute Switzerland’s most extensive uninterrupted vineyard expanse, featuring terrace after terrace.

From the city of Lausanne and Chateau de Chillon, embracing incredible views of Lake Geneva and lush vineyards from 10,000 terraces.

Not just that – Lavaux has been listed as a UNESCO cultural heritage site since 2007! Soak in stunning vistas (from a boat, train, car, or while hiking in the area) at every turn while touring through this wine-producing region for an experience like no other.

Lauvaux hiking from Lutry near Lausanne near Geneva
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Regardless of the length of the hike, it is a rather easy hike (if you are used to being active) with only a few hundred meters of altitude change. If you did the whole hike, it would take around 4-7 hours (10 km/6 miles) – and it is worth every drop of sweat!

This route starts in Cully and ends in St.Saphorin – but you can start/end the trip at different stops and make it shorter if you are not ready for such a long walk. There are several train stations along the way, in case you want to do only some parts of the hike. 

And what if you are up for a longer walk? Then you could go and do a 32-kilometer – a pathway extends from Lausanne-Ouchy to Chillon Castle. Along this route, seven circuits with informative signs provide walkers with insights into local wine cultivation. Personally, the route from Cully to St. Saphorin is the most beautiful part though and I recommend this part the most!

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Discover the picturesque views while relaxing on the ample seating options available, and don’t forget to stay hydrated with free access to fresh drinking water fountains.

Fancy some wine tasting? Pop over to Montreux or Vevey’s tourist offices to inquire about it. 

  • Free to visit 
  • Open 24/7, all year round but the vineyard hike is not possible in the winter/the most scenic time is in the Swiss fall months

Vevey

From the vineyards and St.Saphorin train station, it is just a 4-minute train ride to Vevey, where you can spend the rest of your second day in Montreux.

Let’s shine a light on the charming village of Vevey by Lake Geneva! This picturesque spot is perfect for unwinding, taking a quick dip, or simply relishing in its beauty. After exploring the lovely vineyards, continue your Montreux itinerary by gracing Vevey with your presence.

Fevey Places to visit n 2 days - Vevey or Montreux ?
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This delightful little town has a handful of lovely restaurants and cafes perfect for a lunch break. The best part is, that you can easily explore Vevey on foot, making it an ideal half-day getaway. Don’t forget to enjoy some relaxing downtime while taking in the charming sights!

Searching for a delightful family destination that combines fun in the sun and charming history? Vevey’s got you covered! The little ones can splash around in free pools, while you’ll adore the pristine lake nearby. Plus, don’t miss the chance to explore this vibrant town with a rich past and other interesting surprises!

What to do at Lake Geneva - Places to Visit in Montreux and Best Things to do in Montreux - Arzo Travels
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Let’s dive into a dash of politics, shall we? I tend to steer clear of Nestle products for various reasons, and it just so happens that their headquarters are situated here, a popular spot for visitors.

But let’s not dwell on that, instead, let’s explore the brighter side of Switzerland. Don’t miss the iconic Fork of Vevey—a true marvel in this charming town!

  • Plan for at least half a day to see this cute town.

Why not enjoy a lovely 20-minute boat ride back to Montreux and experience the enchanting evening atmosphere while savoring a delightful dinner? And hey, if you’re a fan of the legendary Charlie Chaplin, don’t miss the opportunity to explore his fascinating museum located in Vevey!

MORE ACTIVITIES IN MONTREUX

Here are a few more activities if you stay in Montreux for more than 2 days or visit at certain times.

Glacier 3000 – Day Trip

Embark on a breathtaking adventure to the majestic Swiss mountain peaks with a ticket to Glacier 3000 from the enchanting village of Les Diablerets. Feel the thrill as you soar to an astonishing altitude of 9,842 feet (3,000 meters) in a stunning cable car ride.

Landscape summit of Glacier 3000 Switzerland
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@Glacier 3000
Glacier 3000 sign in August
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Glacier 3000 sign in August

Walk at Glacier 3000, CH
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Upon reaching the summit of Scex Rouge, be prepared to have your breath taken away by the awe-inspiring alpine vistas, which extend all the way to the legendary Jungfrau, the mighty Matterhorn, and the magnificent Mont Blanc.

But that’s not all! Your ticket, packed with excitement, allows you to explore the wonders of the Peak Walk by Tissot – the iconic peak-to-peak suspension bridge. Wander along the captivating Quille du Diable Glacier Walk, glide effortlessly on the Ice Express chairlift, and have a blast at the exhilarating snow park.

Discover the magic of a popular day trip to Glacier 3000 from Montreux – read more about my unforgettable experience or check out ticket prices here. Embrace the call of the mountains and craft memories that will last a lifetime!

Charlie Chaplin Museum – Chaplin’s World by Grévin

Guess what? Freddie Mercury wasn’t the only legend smitten by Montreux – Charlie Chaplin, the brilliant actor and filmmaker, also spent over 25 years of his life in this beautiful region!

If you’re a Chaplin enthusiast, you’ll absolutely love exploring Chaplin’s World, an incredible exhibition dedicated to his life and work. Head on over to their website to discover more about his love affair with Montreux!

Uncover the captivating life of Charlie Chaplin at the whimsical Chaplin’s World by Grévin, nestled within his former family residence, the enchanting Manoir de Ban in Corsier-sur-Vevey.

Step back in time and explore the iconic comedian’s intimate belongings, relive his humble beginnings, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking ten-acre estate’s alluring park. Welcome to a unique experience where laughter and inspiration await!

  • Opening hours: Open every day, April to October from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm, November until 24th December from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm (different opening hours between Christmas and New Year´s Eve).
  • Prices are around 30 CHF for adults
  • ➡️ Book your ticket in advance 

Montreux Biennale

Did you know that the charming town of Montreux hosts a spectacular art festival called the Biennale? It all began in 2008 and has been stealing the spotlight every two years, dazzling visitors with incredible artistic displays.

Montreux Biennale 2021
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Guess what? I stumbled upon a fantastic art exhibition in the summer of 2021 – talk about serendipity! I’m not typically an art lover, but this one reeled me in. Picture yourself meandering by the breathtaking Lake Geneva, basking in the beauty of one-of-a-kind masterpieces. 

Art pieces in Montreux
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Since it is an open-air museum that lasts for 3 whole months, the pieces must be made of materials withstanding the sun, rain, and wind.

  • It is free to visit. 
  • Open 24/7 for three months every second year – The Montreux Biennial 2023 will take place from the beginning of August to the middle of October 2023

Montreux Jazz Festival

Okay, this is an extra.

Did you know Montreux is a paradise for jazz lovers? Every year in early July, the charming town on Lake Geneva hosts the world-renowned Montreux Jazz Festival! This spectacular event is dancing in second place as the largest jazz festival globally, with Canada’s Montreal International Jazz Festival taking the lead. Get ready to witness the magic of music in a breathtakingly beautiful lakeside setting! 

When summer arrives in Montreux, so does the excitement and energy, especially during the famous Jazz Festival! Now, if jazz isn’t your cup of tea, you might not be familiar with this event, but trust me, it’s worth experiencing the lively atmosphere and enjoying Montreux at its finest. And hey, maybe you’ll even discover a new-found love for jazz! 🎷

Just keep that in mind when planning your Montreux trip!

  • In 2023 the dates are from June 30 to July 15, 2023 (not confirmed yet)
  • The average ticket price is around $100
  • Some parts of the program are even free.

Christmas Market in Montreux

Embark on a delightful journey to Montreux this December, and let yourself be enchanted by the captivating Christmas Market! Stroll along the promenade, with its bustling stalls, immerse in the rustic charm of the Loggers’ Village, and indulge in a culinary adventure at the Gourmet Space.

Be dazzled by mesmerizing light shows, waltz into the enchanting Medieval Magic at Chillon Castle, and pay a visit to Santa’s cozy abode at Les Rochers-de-Naye. Discover why the Montreux Christmas Markets are hailed as one of Switzerland’s finest.

  • It takes place from 23rd November to 24th December 2023

MONTREUX FAQ 

Here are a few travel tips for your Montreux trip! 

WHERE TO STAY IN MONTREUX

Unfortunately, as mentioned in the beginning, you cannot expect to get a bargain sleeping in Montreux. I paid about 200€ for 4-star accommodation even though the Montreux Jazz Festival was over.

For jazz fans, the first two weeks of July might be the best time to visit; for anybody else, I would advise skipping these weeks. In 2023, the dates will be most likely (not confirmed yet). Friday, June 30 to Saturday, July 15, 2023

Here are a few good hotels in Montreux:

Luxury – Fairmont Le Montreux Palace:  For one of the most luxurious experiences in Montreux, check out Fairmont Le Montreux Palace. This 5-star hotel has a great location and is best known amongst those who like to indulge. From romantic hotels to design hotels, here are the most luxurious places.

➡️ Book your stay at Fairmont Le Montreux Palace here.

Mid-Range – Eurotel Montreux: As mentioned above, I stayed at the lovely 4-star hotel Eurotel Montreux – I was more than happy with my choice.

➡️ Book your stay at Eurotel Montreux here.

Budget in MontreuxOkay, there are not really budget-friendly hotels in Montreux. Accommodation around Lake Geneva is just pretty expensive. 

➡️ Book your budget-friendly hotel in Montreux here.

MONTREUX LOCATION 

Montreux Riviera stretches over 25km along the shores of Lake Geneva from Lutry to Villeneuve. Montreux itself is a town on the northeastern shores of Lake Geneva – close to Villeneuve.

WHICH LANGUAGE DO THEY SPEAK IN MONTREUX?

As you might have guessed from the name – Montreux – it is a French-speaking area. While there are 4 official languages in Switzerland and most people speak Swiss German as the main language, the area around Lake Geneva has French as the main language.

Germany is also widely spoken and since it is a tourist hotspot, you can also get around with English.

HOW TO GET TO MONTREUX

🚆 Arriving in Montreux by train: I arrived by train and took the famous panorama train, “Golden Pass Line,“ from Lucerne via Interlaken, Zweisimmen to Montreux. This is probably one of the nicest ways to arrive, as you pass rolling hills, pristine lakes, and cute little Swiss towns before you come upon the vineyards of the region.

🛥️ Arrive in Montreux by boat: Another beautiful way to arrive in Montreux would be by boat, either via Lausanne or Vevey. It is no less spectacular, and you´ll see that boat cruising is on the itinerary as well.

🚗 Arrive at Montreux by car: Montreux is not a car-free town, so driving there in your own car, or with a rented one, is also a good way to arrive. However, parking is always the trickiest part of driving in Switzerland. If your hotel does not have parking spaces and is located in the “town center,“ you might have to pay a little fortune for parking. Check out my Switzerland road trip itinerary for more tips.

HOW TO GET AROUND MONTREUX

Montreux itself is pretty small, so it is easy to get around by walking. Also, Montreux – as it is in most parts of Switzerland – has superb public transportation, which makes it easy to get from one place to another. 

This includes trains, buses, and boats. You can easily get to places like Geneva, Lausanne, or Vevey by boat. Also, these buses/trains run quite frequently (boats less frequently but regularly), which makes getting around Montreux by public transport super convenient.

It might take a while to get from one place to the other (Lake Geneva is one of the biggest lakes in Europe and the places can be quite spread out) but it is also a great way to see places from another angle.

FINAL THOUGHTS ON THE BEST MONTREUX ACTIVITIES

Though Montreux is not the first destination that comes to people’s minds when thinking about Switzerland, it is an absolutely amazing place. I hope you have gotten some travel inspiration for Montreux.

Whether you visit in summer, fall, or winter – Montreux is always a good idea and hopefully, this post has helped you find out about the best things to do in Montreux.

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