Montreux is a beautiful city located on the shores of Lake Geneva in Switzerland. Known as the Pearl of the French Riviera, Montreux sits just below the Alps and offers stunning views of mountains and the lake, not to mention easy access to other exciting places in Switzerland. As you plan your next trip, make sure to include these things to do in Montreux!
Switzerland offers beautiful landscapes, interesting sights and plenty of things to do during your visit. Here are some of the top spots you shouldn’t miss when you’re in town!
1. Best things to do in Montreux Switzerland: Walk along Lake Geneva
Lake Geneva’s water is pristine and shimmering blue. It’s a beautiful walk along Lake Geneva with panoramic views of snow-capped mountains. That said, it can get windy so dress appropriately. And if you go too early in the morning when it’s still dark out (like I did), bring a headlamp! The walk will feel longer than it actually is because you don’t have much to look at until sun rises and starts reflecting off of lake Geneva.
2. Best things to do in Montreux Switzerland: Visit Chateau de Chillon
Chateau de Chillon or is a medieval castle situated on a rocky island just off shore from Lake Geneva. This imposing fortress has been occupied by some of Europe’s most important dynasties since the 11th century and is now a world heritage site recognized for its historical importance. If you’ve got time for only one thing during your stay in Montreux, make it a visit to Chateau de Chillon. Although it can get busy with tourists at peak times (including holidays), you can still experience history here by exploring on your own or taking an informative guided tour; it also offers indoor exhibits and activities such as sword fighting shows and jousting events throughout various seasons.
How to get there?
BY CAR
Chillon Castle is located by the lake side between Montreux (4 km away) and Villeneuve (2 km away).
Calculate your route with Google Maps.
BY TRAIN
You can use direct train to Montreux or the local train to “Veytaux-Chillon”.
Find the right train on CFF.
BY BUS
You can use the Bus N 201 from Vevey, Montreux or Villeneuve.And will stop you in front of “Chillon” stop just in front of the castle.
Find your bus on VMCV.
How much?
Adult ticket : CHF 13.50
Children ticket (6-15 years old): CHF 7
Reduced fee: CHF 11.50
Family: ( 2adults + 2 to 5 children 6 to 15 yeas old) CHF 35
Montreux Riviera Card holders: Adult CHF 6.75/ Children CHF 3
3. Best things to do in Montreux Switzerland: See The Three Corniches
When you think of Switzerland, chances are that lush mountains and snowy peaks come to mind. But did you know that there’s also a portion of land nestled between Lake Geneva and Lake Neuchâtel known as The Three Corniches? During your trip to Switzerland, take time out of your schedule for these three things. You’ll be glad you did!
4. Learn About Lavaux Vineyards
There are plenty of things to do in Montreux that don’t involve watching boats float by on Lake Geneve and few will bring you more bragging rights when you get home. Take a guided tour of Lavaux Vineyards (an UNESCO World Heritage Site), which will allow you to step into grapes grown 2,000 years ago. Visit some ancient Roman ruins; take a train from Lausanne down through France and back up again; rent a bike and explore one of Europe’s most picturesque lakes on two wheels. It’s not exactly along your usual itinerary but it makes for one great last stop in Europe—and we think it might be our favorite part of Switzerland so far.
5. Eat Local Swiss Cheese
To say Swiss cheese is good would be an understatement. It’s world-class and you should eat as much of it as possible while you’re in Montreux. There are a ton of great options for local cheese and one of my favorites is Chez Ma Vieille Garde (111 Rue du Mûrier). They offer a large selection of handmade local cheeses. I recommend going there with a group so that you can try a few different kinds; I guarantee you won’t regret it!
6. Ride the Bernina Express
The Bernina Express is one of Europe’s most scenic train routes and a must-do when you visit Lake Geneva. The route includes a series of tunnels that were hand-carved out of sheer rock walls. It takes about 2.5 hours from start to finish and is considered one of Europe’s highest journeys above sea level (over 2,000 meters). From top to bottom, it covers just over 100 kilometers and offers some wonderful views of the Alps along Lake Geneva. This is a must-do when you visit Montreux!
7. Gorges du Chauderon
The Chauderon Gorges is a hiking area in Montreux, Switzerland. It is suitable for all ages, but kids have to be guided all along the way. If you love to hike, then include it in your itinerary.
The trail starts at Les Planches and then to Glion, and finally, you can walk the telegraph path back to Les Planches. It may take around two hours of walking to complete the hike. You can enjoy walking and see the pristine clean water flowing throughout the gorges. The slithering waterfalls with cold and clear water are also a sight to behold. If you feel fit and robust, the walk would be one of a kind on your trip. If you take kids with you, check out the goat reserve on the way. When you are on an elevated area, view the enchanting Lake Geneva and Montreux down below. All in all, you will not be disappointed with the experience.
8. Lake Geneva Water Sports
Beyond its picturesque allure and tranquil atmosphere, Lake Geneva offers a plethora of exhilarating water sports activities that are sure to ignite your sense of adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a novice seeking new thrills, the expansive waters of Lake Geneva hold endless possibilities for unforgettable experiences.
9. Rochers de Naye: A Majestic Journey to Alpine Heights
Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Rochers de Naye stands as a majestic sentinel overlooking the breathtaking beauty of Lake Geneva and the surrounding landscape. With its awe-inspiring vistas, diverse wildlife, and captivating experiences, Rochers de Naye offers a one-of-a-kind adventure for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and those seeking an escape into the alpine wonderland.
Where to stay when visiting Montreux?
If you’re staying for a few days, we highly recommend that you choose somewhere centrally located but still close enough to restaurants and entertainment venues. But if you’re just planning on an overnight trip, then getting a hotel at one of Switzerland’s famous lake-side towns would be equally thrilling. My personal favorites are Yvoire and Versoix, which offer stunning views across Lake Geneva with mountains all around. You can also head into Montreux itself; there are plenty of good hotels by or along Lake Geneva.
Public transport around town
There are plenty of forms of public transport around town. You can rent a car at international airports nearby, but if you don’t have one, there are also plenty of local rental agencies. Taxis can be an option as well and most hotels will arrange transportation for their guests. There is also an extensive network of trains in and out of Switzerland; making it easy to take day trips or enjoy Swiss nightlife without worry about getting back. If you’re spending time in Montreux outside peak tourist season, you can often get great deals on train tickets from SBB (www.sbb.ch) due to decreased demand.
Exciting things to do when visiting Switzerland
You’ll have fun regardless of what time of year you visit because Switzerland has such a diverse landscape and its many regions are dotted with attractions. Whether you’re into sports, nature or culture, we can help you tailor a trip to suit your interests. In fact, every part of Switzerland is worth exploring at least once. So why not add an extra day or two to your vacation by venturing out on a small side trip? Whatever tickles your fancy: There’s something for everyone! Whether it’s skiing, snowboarding, sledding or just simply enjoying winter days: Don’t waste any more time and head off on an adventure! We can promise it will be a fantastic experience!
I hope this list will inspire you and gave you ideas on things to do in Montreux Switzerland. If you enjoy comedy Montreux is well known to host the Montreux comedy festival.