Things To Do
in Vevey

Vevey is a picturesque town located on the shores of Lake Geneva in Switzerland, known for its stunning views and vibrant cultural scene. It is famous for being the home of Nestlé and the annual Montreux Jazz Festival. The town boasts a charming old town with cobblestone streets, historical buildings, and a beautiful lakeside promenade.

Its proximity to the Swiss Alps makes it an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Vevey
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll along the lakeside promenade, enjoying the views of the Alps and visiting the iconic Chaplin's World museum, dedicated to Charlie Chaplin.

afternoon
:

Head to the Vevey market, held every Tuesday and Saturday, to sample local products and buy souvenirs. After lunch, visit the Alimentarium, a museum dedicated to food and nutrition.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a lakeside restaurant, followed by a leisurely walk to see the sunset over Lake Geneva.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a short train ride to the nearby town of Montreux and hike up to the Rochers-de-Naye for breathtaking panoramic views.

afternoon
:

Return to Vevey and visit the historical Château de Vevey, which houses the local museum. Explore the surrounding gardens and enjoy lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a visit to a wine bar to taste local Swiss wines and indulge in a cheese fondue.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$30
Coffee$4
🍷Glass of local wine$7
🚌One-way ticket on public transport$3
🛏️Night in a hotel (mid-range)$150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery with lake and mountain views.
  • Rich cultural offerings, including museums and festivals.
  • Safe and clean environment for travelers.
  • Higher cost of living compared to other European destinations.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation can be less frequent on weekends.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
  • "Où est la gare?" - Where is the train station?

Places to Visit in Vevey

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Geneva Promenade

Capture stunning views of the lake and the Alps, especially during sunset.

Château de Vevey

The historical castle offers beautiful architecture and scenic gardens, perfect for photography.

Charlie Chaplin Statue

A tribute to the famous actor located on the lakeside, providing a unique backdrop for photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Vevey

Vevey offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional Swiss dishes and local specialties. The town's location near Lake Geneva provides access to fresh fish and a variety of cheeses.

Vevey Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fondue

A classic Swiss dish made with melted cheese, typically served with bread for dipping.

Must-Try!

Rösti

A Swiss potato dish that is crispy on the outside and soft inside, often served as a side.

Lakeside perch

Fresh fish caught from Lake Geneva, usually grilled or pan-fried.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Vevey Market

Held twice a week, the market features local produce, cheeses, and artisanal goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Vevey enjoys a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm, with average temperatures around 25°C (77°F), while winters (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures dropping to around 0°C (32°F). Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rain is possible throughout the year, so packing an umbrella is wise.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued in Swiss culture; make sure to arrive promptly for appointments and meetings.

Respect for Personal Space

Switzerland values personal space; maintain a respectful distance when interacting with others.

Quietness

Keep noise levels down in public places to respect the tranquility of the surroundings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Vevey is generally a safe destination with low crime rates. However, common precautions such as keeping valuables secured and being aware of your surroundings are advisable. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Vevey

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not obligatory in Switzerland, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small percentage (5-10%) is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a lovely time to explore the gardens and outdoor attractions.

Summer

Warm weather is ideal for lake activities, with festivals and outdoor dining options available.

Autumn

The fall foliage adds vibrant colors to the landscape, making hikes particularly picturesque.

Winter

Cold temperatures and snow can be expected, with opportunities for winter sports in nearby mountains.

Nightlife Guide

Vevey at Night

Vevey has a relaxed nightlife scene with a selection of bars and lounges along the lakeside. Many establishments offer live music, especially during the summer months, and there are also wine bars that specialize in local wines. While it is not as bustling as nearby cities like Montreux, there is enough to enjoy a pleasant evening out.

Hiking in Vevey

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Rochers-de-Naye Trail

A scenic hike that offers panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the Alps, accessible by train and a short walk.

Les Pléiades Trail

A moderate hike that leads to breathtaking viewpoints and is known for its wildflower displays in spring.

Airports

How to reach Vevey by plane.

Geneva Airport (GVA)

Located about 90 km from Vevey, Geneva Airport is the nearest major airport, offering a wide range of international flights and convenient transport links to Vevey via train.

Getting Around

Walkability

Vevey is a highly walkable town, with most attractions located within a short distance of each other. The lakeside promenade and cobblestone streets create a pleasant atmosphere for pedestrians, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are plenty of benches to rest and enjoy the scenery.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Swiss Locals

The majority of residents are Swiss, reflecting the country's multilingual and multicultural nature.

Expat Community

Vevey is home to a vibrant expat community, drawn by its beautiful surroundings and quality of life.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Skiing

With the nearby Alps, skiing is a popular winter sport for both locals and tourists.

Cycling

Cycling is popular in the region, with many trails and routes available for both casual and serious cyclists.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Vevey is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation, including trains and buses, is efficient and connects Vevey to nearby towns and cities. The train station is centrally located, providing easy access to the rest of Switzerland.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Vevey.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask for specific options.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free dishes are available at some establishments, but always confirm with the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Switzerland has a high standard of healthcare. In Vevey, visitors can access hospitals and clinics if needed, with many practitioners speaking English. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses when visiting.

Discover Switzerland

Read more in our Switzerland 2025 Travel Guide.

Switzerland Travel Guide