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. After exploring Switzerland for over a decade, Montreux has stolen my heart with its picturesque Lake Geneva views and Alpine backdrops.
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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. I normally buy one for each of my trips (though I visit Switzerland several times a year) because it really helps me to discover the best sights, plus it helps me save money. So what is it?
- A Swiss Travel Pass allows me to use trains and buses without any extra costs.
- I can also do boat cruises on Lake Geneva and many other lakes in Switzerland without additional costs.
- A Swiss Travel Pass also gives me 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, I visited 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.
THINGS TO DO IN MONTREUX IN ONE DAY
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.
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 walking towards the Chateau Chillion Castle while enjoying this pretty, pretty promenade.
- Free to visit
- Open 24/7, all year round
- ➡️ Check out this guided tour with a local – who will show you the most Instagrammable places in Montreux
Lake Geneva
Of course, it is not only about the flowers in Montreux – Lake Geneva is also stunning. 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 recliners, as you soak in the stunning atmosphere with a swim and some well-deserved relaxation.
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.
I have never dipped into Lake Geneva – though it looks incredible (and clean), I am just a chicken when it comes to cold water. Yet, I do think swimming here is a good idea.
- Free to visit
- Open 24/7, all year round
Freddie Mercury Statue & Walking Tour
Keep an eye out for the iconic Freddie Mercury statue gracing the wonderful waterfront – it’s an unmissable gem in this charming location!
Ever wondered about the connection between Freddie Mercury, Switzerland, and Montreux? Well, it’s quite an intriguing story! 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. I cannot blame him, Montreux is a stunner.
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 – 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, as evidenced by the fresh flowers I spotted near his statue! For those wanting to walk his path, there are fantastic guided tours available for just 30 CHF!
- Free to visit
- Open 24/7, all year round
- ➡️ Check out guided tours here
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.
Get there from Montreux´s village center – either by boat or a 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.
The interior of the castle is amazing! 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!
Just a stone’s throw away from the regal castle, I found a charming pier where boats whisked me back to Montreux. Alternatively, hop on a bus/train, or simply stroll back while enjoying the picturesque scenery.
- Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
- Prices: Ticket prices are 13.50 CHF, free with a Swiss Travel Pass – Audio Guide 6 CHF
- ➡️ You can also buy your Chillon Castle Entrance Ticket in Montreux here.
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 never fail to amaze me.
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.
But of course, you can do much longer boat tours than this – including a trip to Lausanne or Vevey (I will never judge anyone who does a lot of boat cruises, because I totally understand, I totally understand, but that might be a great activity for day 2).
If you are not that much into boat rides, 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 the rest of the 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.
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.
WHAT TO DO IN MONTREUX IN 2 DAYS
This day is about the gorgeous vineyards near Montreux and the small town of Vevey.
From Montreux/Vevey, catch a train to Cully (about 25 minutes).
- With a Swiss Travel Pass, you can do the boat tours without any additional charges. You can even do a boat tour to Geneva or Lausanne.
- ➡️ Check out prices for a Swiss Travel Pass here.
Vineyards – Lavaux UNESCO
Blessed by its natural charm, Lavaux stands out as one of Switzerland’s most enchanting regions. 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, embrace 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! 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.
Regardless of the length of the hike, it is rather easy (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!
I hiked the area several times and one I enjoyed the most was the following:
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!
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.
This 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.
Searching for a family destination that combines fun in the sun and charming history? I recommend Vevey in this case. The little ones can splash around in free pools, while you’ll adore the pristine lake nearby.
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 fork statue in Lake Geneva.
- 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 having dinner?
And 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 an 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 cable car ride.
Upon reaching the summit of Scex Rouge, my breath was taken away by the alpine vistas, which extend to the legendary Jungfrau, the mighty Matterhorn, and the Mont Blanc.
The ticket allowed me to walk the Peak Walk by Tissot – the iconic peak-to-peak suspension bridge, I had access to the Quille du Diable Glacier Walk and enjoyed a ride on the Ice Express chairlift.
This activity is a popular day trip from Montreux.
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 exhibition dedicated to his life and work.
Uncover the captivating life of Charlie Chaplin, nestled within his former family residence, the Manoir de Ban in Corsier-sur-Vevey.
Explore the iconic comedian’s intimate belongings, relive his humble beginnings, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking ten-acre estate’s alluring park.
- 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.
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.
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, Montreux 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.
Just keep that in mind when planning your Montreux trip!
- In 2024, the dates are: Fri, Jul 5, 2024 – Sat, Jul 20, 2024
- The average ticket price is around $100
- Some parts of the program are even free.
Christmas Market in Montreux
If you visit Montreux in December, visit the Christmas Markets! 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 21 November – 24 December 2024
MONTREUX FAQs
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.
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 Montreux: Okay, 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.
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 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 I visit in summer, spring, 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.
- More beautiful places to visit in Switzerland: 20 most beautiful towns and villages in Switzerland.
- Best things to do in Switzerland: Find out about 25 fun things to do in Switzerland
- Find out about the best places to stay in Switzerland.
- Check out my 10-day Switzerland itinerary