Montreux is a beautiful Swiss city on the shores of Lake Geneva. If you are thinking of a quick getaway, Montreux is perfect to explore in a single day. Famous for its jazz festival This place has a charm that will captivate you from the very first moment. Whether you like music, history, or just strolling through beautiful places, Montreux has something for everyone.
In this guide, we will tell you the essentials to make the most of your visit. From the famous Chillon Castle to promenade of the Montreux Riviera We assure you that you will not be short of things to do and see. And don't worry about the food, because we will also give you some recommendations for you to enjoy the local cuisine without wasting time.
So get your cameras ready, put on some comfortable shoes and come with us to discover Montreux in a day: we tell you what we consider to be the best places to visit in Montreux must-see sites not to be missed.
If you are traveling through the canton of Vaud We recommend other articles about the area:
Chillon Castle
The Chillon Castle is a medieval jewel located on a small island on the shores of the Lake Geneva. This castle, dating from the 12th century, has witnessed centuries of history and is one of the most emblematic and visited places in Switzerland. Its strategic location between the Swiss Riviera and the mountains makes it a must-see for lovers of history and architecture.
When you arrive, you will be impressed by its imposing structure and the panoramic views the lake and the mountains. Once inside, you can explore more than 25 buildings and three courtyards. Every corner of the castle tells a story, from the dungeons to the elegant noble rooms. Don't miss a visit to the weapons room the chapel with medieval frescoes and, of course, the prison where he was incarcerated poet Lord Byron who immortalized the place in his work "The Prisoner of Chillon".
The castle also offers guided tours and temporary exhibitions that will allow you to learn more about life in medieval times. The general admission fee is 15 CHF and your visit is free with the Swiss Travel Pass.
The castle is not located close to the center of Montreux, so you will be able to walk to him in about 40 minutes or simply take a bus that will leave you there in 10 points.
Riviera Promenade and Lake Geneva
The Montreux Riviera Promenade is one of the most pleasant activities you can enjoy in this charming city. This walk of about seven kilometers along the Lake Geneva offers spectacular views and is ideal for a quiet walk enjoying the views. Another very good option to enjoy this panoramic view is in a boat trip on the lake.
Along the promenade, you will find gardens well cared for, with colorful flowers and modern sculptures that add an artistic touch to the landscape. The contrast between the blue of the lake and the snow-capped mountains in the background creates a magical and relaxing atmosphere.
In addition, the Riviera Promenade is a popular meeting point during the famous Montreux Jazz Festival which is held every summer and fills the city with music and good atmosphere. Undoubtedly, this walk is an experience not to be missed during your visit to Montreux.
Freddie Mercury Statue
On your walk along Lake Geneva in Montreux you will come across various sculptures such as this one of Freddie Mercury which is the most famous. Located in the Market Square, right next to the lake, it pays homage to the legendary leader of the Queen and is a must-see for all music fans and those who want to learn more about the special relationship between Mercury and this Swiss city.
Freddie Mercury spent a lot of time in Montreux during the last years of his life, finding in this quiet town a creative refuge. Many visitors often leave flowers and messages at the foot of the statue, creating a small sanctuary in his honor. The view of the lake and the mountains in the background make this place a perfect setting for memorable photos.
As we mentioned before, along the promenade there are many sculptures, many of them related to the music. Some of which you will be able to see are:
- Statue Li Ning a tribute to the famous Chinese gymnast.
- Stravinsky Statue in homage to the Russian composer.
- Statue Les Amoureux of a couple in love.
Casino Barrière de Montreux
The Casino Barrière de Montreux is a place full of entertainment and history, perfect for a different kind of visit in this charming Swiss city. Located on the shores of Lake Geneva, the casino not only offers games, but also a rich programming of events and concerts. Even if you are not interested in betting, as in our case, we recommend you to approach and enter just to see the site because it is spectacular. And the best of all is that the entrance fee is free.
As we were saying, the Casino Barrière de Montreux is not only for gamblers. Its concert hall, the Stravinski Auditorium is one of the key locations during the famous Montreux Jazz Festival. Here, big names in international music have given memorable performances. In addition, the casino is home to the legendary Mountain Studios where Queen recorded some of their most iconic albums. You can visit the studio turned museum and discover anecdotes and objects related to the band.
The covered market Montreux is an essential place to visit on any tour, as it is not only a market, but also a place to enjoy the event and exhibition hall. Its lakeside location and architecture make the market a nice visit.
When the market is held there are usually local products for sale, such as wine, cheeses or sweets, but also when the market is approaching, there is also the possibility to buy local products christmas becomes a magical setting full of decorations, little lights, handcrafted products y typical food to taste.
You can't miss also Santa Claus flying with his sleigh with gifts for everyone and the incredible Ferris wheel that gives us a spectacular view of Montreux.
Rochers-de-Naye
As good lovers of trails and nature, we cannot fail to recommend you Rochers-de-Naye. There are climbing options for all audiences, you can walk up or take the cog railway.
The route to foot is of moderate difficulty so we do not recommend it if you are not very fit. It is a 8h round trip if you do it from Montreux with enough slope. If instead you decide for the train in only 1h you will find yourself at the top, at an altitude of more than 2,000 meters. Both the journey on foot and on the train is spectacular, offering spectacular views panoramic views of the lake the Alps and the green valleys. Of course, if you decide to go by train we warn you that it is not cheap, 36 CHF round trip.
At winter the train will take you to an authentic snowy paradise The area is ideal for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. At summer the summit of Rochers-de-Naye becomes a perfect place for the hiking with well-marked trails and breathtaking views at every corner.
Upstairs you will also find a panoramic restaurant to enjoy a hot meal or drink while contemplating the majestic alpine scenery.
Montreux Jazz Festival
If your visit to Montreux coincides with the summer, you can't miss the Montreux Jazz Festival one of the most outstanding events in the city. Founded in 1967 by Claude Nobs, this festival is not only focused on jazz, but also encompasses a wide variety of jazz music wide range of musical genres attracting world-renowned artists. During two weeks of July Montreux is transformed and concerts are held in several emblematic locations such as the Stravinski Auditorium and the Montreux Jazz Club as well as outdoor stages by the lake.
The atmosphere of the festival is incredible, with spontaneous concerts, workshops and projections of music movies that invade the streets and squares of the city. Even if you don't have tickets for the main concerts, you can still enjoy the numerous free events and live performances in different parts of Montreux. We have not been lucky enough to see it but we think it can be a very cool experience.
What to see around Montreux
If you are touring Switzerland and decide to spend several days in Montreux, here are also some recommendations on the best places to visit near Montreux.
Chocolate train
The Montreux Chocolate Train is a delightful experience that combines the charm of the train ride with the pleasure of the Swiss chocolate. This tourist train departs from Montreux and takes you through spectacular landscapes up to Gruyères famous for its cheese, and Broc home of the Maison Cailler chocolate factory. Aboard elegant carriages, you can enjoy a comfortable and picturesque ride while tasting chocolate delicacies.
The tour includes guided tours to the cheese factory in Gruyères and to the chocolaterie Cailler where you will learn about the elaboration of these traditional products and, of course, you will be able to taste samples. The Chocolate Train is a must-do experience for sweet lovers and a unique way to discover two of Switzerland's most famous culinary traditions.
Vevey
One of the best places to visit near Montreux is this small village known as the Swiss Riviera. Located at the foot of Lake Geneva, it is worthwhile to lose yourself in its narrow streets and visit the Chaplin's World Museum. If you want all the details about what to visit in Vevey in one day do not miss our article.
To get from Montreux to Vevey, you can take a train or a boat with which you will enjoy spectacular views. Both are included in the Swiss Travel Pass.
Glacier 3000
One of the most famous excursions to do in the area is the visit to this impressive ski resort located in a alpine glacier.
The station is located in a picturesque village called Les Diablerets which we also recommend you to visit. From there, you will be able to see Glacier 300 in the distance and climb using the cable car whose 15-minute journey is an experience in itself: a spectacular view of the Swiss Alps.
Once upstairs you will have access to a a lot of activities some of which are included with the chairlift ticket:
- Peak Walk Suspension bridge of more than 100 meters linking two mountain peaks.
- Ice Express Chairlift.
- Fun park Sledding area: area for sledding.
There are also a multitude of routes to do, via ferratas and obviously if you go in winter you will also be able to enjoy the impressive ski slopes.
You can make the visit on your own taking into account that the cable car + some activities are 85 CHF. With the Swiss Travel Pass the price is reduced by half. There are also some organized excursions highly recommended for those who do not want to worry about how to get there or what to do.
👇 You may also be interested in:If you want to read other articles ideal for your trip that complement What to see in Montreux in one day you can visit our posts about Switzerland.
Español
English
Français
Leave a Reply