Things To Do
in Montreux

Montreux, located on the shores of Lake Geneva, is a picturesque town known for its stunning views of the Alps and vibrant cultural scene. Famous for the Montreux Jazz Festival, the town attracts music lovers and tourists alike. With its beautiful lakeside promenade, historic architecture, and lush vineyards, Montreux offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Visitors can explore charming shops, indulge in local cuisine, and enjoy numerous outdoor activities throughout the year.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Montreux
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a lakeside café, followed by a stroll along the beautiful Montreux promenade, taking in the views of Lake Geneva.

afternoon
:

Visit the Château de Chillon, a stunning medieval castle just a short walk from the town center. After exploring, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local dishes.

evening
:

Catch a live performance or concert at the Montreux Convention Center or enjoy dinner at a local bistro, experiencing Montreux's vibrant nightlife.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a scenic ride on the cogwheel train to Rochers-de-Naye for breathtaking panoramic views of the Alps and Lake Geneva. Enjoy a light hike in the area.

afternoon
:

Return to Montreux for lunch, then visit the Montreux Museum to learn about the town's history and the famous jazz festival.

evening
:

Dine at a gourmet restaurant, followed by a peaceful evening walk along the lakeside, enjoying the sunset over the water.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$25
Coffee$4
🚌Public transport ticket$3
🏨Hotel per night$150
🧀Cheese (1kg)$20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and views of the Alps.
  • Rich cultural scene with music festivals and events.
  • Variety of outdoor activities year-round.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season.
  • Higher cost of living compared to other Swiss towns.
  • Limited nightlife options outside the summer festival period.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
  • "Où est…?" - Where is…?

Places to Visit in Montreux

Visit one of these nice places.

Château de Chillon

A stunning medieval castle with picturesque views of the lake and mountains.

Montreux Promenade

The lakeside walkway lined with flowers and sculptures, perfect for sunset photos.

Rochers-de-Naye

Offers breathtaking panoramic views and is accessible by cogwheel train.

Culinary Guide

Food in Montreux

Montreux offers a delightful culinary scene, reflecting the rich flavors of Swiss cuisine and local specialties.

Montreux Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Rösti

A crispy potato dish often served as a side or breakfast.

Must-Try!

Fondue

Melted cheese served with bread, perfect for sharing.

Raclette

Melted cheese scraped onto potatoes and pickles.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Montreux Market

Held every Saturday, this market features local produce, cheeses, and artisan goods.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls offering Swiss sausages and crepes, especially during festivals.

Climate Guide

Weather

Montreux experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm and pleasant, averaging 25°C (77°F). Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures often dropping to 0°C (32°F) and occasional snow. Spring and autumn are mild, offering comfortable temperatures for outdoor exploration.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Always greet with a smile and say 'Bonjour' when entering shops.

Quiet Hours

Keep noise levels down in residential areas, especially during the night.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin your meal.

Safety Guide

Safety

Montreux is considered a safe destination for tourists, with low crime rates. Nevertheless, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secured. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Montreux

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill is common.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit cards, but having Swiss Francs for small purchases is advisable.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a lovely time to visit for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather attracts tourists, ideal for festivals and lakeside leisure.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures with beautiful fall foliage, perfect for hiking and wine tasting.

Winter

Cold temperatures bring snow, making it a great time for winter sports in nearby resorts.

Nightlife Guide

Montreux at Night

Montreux boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, particularly during the summer months when festivals are in full swing. The town features numerous bars and lounges, many with live music and a friendly ambiance. The Montreux Jazz Café is a popular spot, often hosting local and international acts. Additionally, there are several casinos nearby for those looking to try their luck.

Hiking in Montreux

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentier des Toblerones

A scenic trail that offers beautiful views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding mountains, suitable for all skill levels.

Hiking to Les Rochers-de-Naye

A popular trail leading to the summit of Rochers-de-Naye, providing stunning panoramic views and a chance to see local wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Montreux by plane.

Geneva Airport (GVA)

Approximately 90 km away, Geneva Airport is the nearest major international airport, offering numerous flight connections worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Montreux is highly walkable, with scenic promenades and well-maintained paths along the lake. The town center is compact, making it easy to explore on foot. Public transport options are available for longer distances, but many attractions are within walking distance of each other.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Tourists

A significant portion of Montreux's population consists of tourists, particularly during the summer festival season.

Local Residents

The local community is diverse, including Swiss nationals and expatriates drawn to the town's charm and opportunities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is widely popular in Montreux, with local clubs and youth teams actively participating in leagues.

Skiing

Nearby ski resorts attract winter sports enthusiasts for skiing and snowboarding.

Transportation

Traffic

Montreux experiences light traffic, especially outside the peak tourist season. Public transportation is efficient, with trains and buses connecting the town to surrounding areas. The scenic train route along Lake Geneva offers a picturesque way to travel.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Montreux.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, and local markets provide fresh produce.

Gluten-Free

Some restaurants can accommodate gluten-free diets; it's best to inquire in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Montreux has access to quality healthcare services, including hospitals and clinics. The main hospital is the Hôpital de Montreux, providing comprehensive medical care. Emergency services are prompt and efficient, ensuring visitors can receive care when needed.

Discover Switzerland

Read more in our Switzerland 2025 Travel Guide.

Switzerland Travel Guide