Our Montreux guide: all our tips for visiting the Capital of the Vaud Riviera!

Jazz Festival, Christmas Market, Chillon Castle, Lavaux Vineyards, Rochers de Naye — Montreux is sure to charm you at every turn!

Visiting Montreux, a charming town nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva, holds many surprises! Once home to legendary artists such as Freddie Mercury and Charlie Chaplin, Montreux is now world-renowned for its celebrated jazz festival. It also shines in December, when one of Switzerland’s most enchanting Christmas markets takes place. No mention of Montreux would be complete without its iconic Chillon Castle, mirrored in the lake’s waters, or the Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Perfectly located to explore the region — from the picturesque village of Gruyères to the unspoiled nature of Rochers de Naye — Montreux never fails to charm, whether you’re enjoying a tailor-made Alpine getaway or attending a corporate event.

Montreux, Capital of the Vaud Riviera

Discover some general information about the destination to help you prepare for your trip around Montreux.

Where is Montreux, in Switzerland?

Montreux lies on the shores of Lake Geneva, in western Switzerland, about 95 km (1h20) from Geneva, located at the opposite end of the lake. It is also 30 km (35 minutes) from Lausanne, just 20 km from the French border, and 37 km (50 minutes) from Évian-les-Bains.

How far is Montreux from Zurich?

Montreux is also just over 200 km (2h40) from Zurich, with its charming city center and international airport.

When to visit Montreux?

Spring and summer, from May–June through September, are without doubt the best times to visit Montreux: the temperatures are pleasant, and the remarkable sunshine makes it ideal for enjoying everything the destination has to offer.

Are you a jazz or blues enthusiast? Then you simply can’t miss Montreux in July, when the world-famous Montreux Jazz Festival takes place over two unforgettable weeks — a true must-see event!

Of course, if you find yourself in the Alps during the festive season, Montreux will offer you a magical interlude with a warm stroll through its spectacular Christmas market.

The nearest airport to Montreux and transfer options to travel to Montreux, Switzerland

Montreux is located about 90 km (1h20) from Geneva International Airport and 70 km (45 minutes) from Sion Airport.

Planning a tailor-made journey through the French and Swiss Alps? Our team takes care of all your private transfers to and from airports, train stations, or any Alpine destination. Contact us for a personalized quote or to receive more information!

Is Montreux worth visiting?

Montreux enjoys a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere as a lakeside town, sure to delight every type of traveler with a wide range of interests. Culturally, it offers renowned museums; for sports lovers, a wealth of outdoor activities lies just steps from the town center. History enthusiasts will be captivated by the prestigious Chillon Castle, while food and wine aficionados will appreciate the nearby Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In short, whatever your passions, you’ll find happiness in Montreux!

What to do in Montreux? Best things to do in Montreux, Switzerland

Discover all the experiences that await you in Montreux, for memorable moments off the beaten path.

Guided tour of Montreux’s old town

A must for the curious, the guided tour of Montreux takes you along the famous Flower Promenade on the shores of Lake Geneva, where vibrant exotic plants line the walkway and statues honor iconic figures who shaped the town’s history, such as Freddie Mercury. Along the way, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains surrounding the lake and the imposing Chillon Castle.

The journey continues into the heart of the town, home to splendid luxury hotels with elegant architecture and charming little cafés. From there, make your way up to Montreux’s Old Town and its Saint-Vincent Church, offering a stunning panoramic view of Lake Geneva and the town spread out below.

Experience our guided tour of Montreux during your stay in the Swiss Alps!

Visit Chillon Castle, just steps from Montreux

Chillon Castle is undoubtedly the must-see landmark when visiting Montreux.

This imposing medieval fortress offers a fascinating journey back in time to the 12th century, when it was built. The castle’s history—as both a defensive stronghold and a princely residence, spanning the House of Savoy, the Vaudois, and the Bernese—unfolds before your eyes as you explore its rooms. With a guide, immerse yourself in the captivating stories of this regional icon, filled with intriguing anecdotes and fascinating characters, as you wander along the battlements, courtyards, underground passages, and vast halls.

With 1786, enjoy a perfect day combining a visit to Chillon Castle with a discovery of the Lavaux vineyards, complete with a delightful wine tasting!

Ascent to Rochers de Naye and panoramic hike

Want to gain some altitude and breathe in the mountain air? Take the cogwheel train up to Rochers de Naye, a peak rising 2,042 meters above sea level, overlooking Montreux and Lake Geneva. Up there, and along the way, a breathtaking spectacle of wild nature awaits you.

At 1786, we offer you the chance to explore this pristine environment on a half-day guided tour or during a memorable panoramic hike. Whichever option you choose, you’ll be accompanied as you discover the local flora and fauna—whether in the Rambertia Garden or along the trails—and learn to recognize the majestic Alpine peaks that surround you.

Tour of the Lavaux Vineyards

Visiting Montreux also means exploring the Lavaux vineyards, a unique UNESCO World Heritage site. These terraced vineyards rise dramatically above the shores of Lake Geneva, supported by centuries-old stone walls.

If you are passionate about—or simply curious about—the rich world of wine, don’t miss our Wine Tour. You’ll meet the winemakers who bring this terroir to life and gain firsthand insight into their craft, while enjoying a tasting of their signature wines, including the local Chasselas.

For an even fuller experience, we invite you to enjoy a day combining a tour of the Lavaux vineyards with a visit to the iconic Chillon Castle.

Montreux museums: Queen Studio Experience and Chaplin’s World

A true cultural hub, the Montreux-Vevey region has welcomed many personalities from the arts, as reflected in statues of Freddie Mercury and Charlie Chaplin.

In the heart of Montreux, within the walls of the Casino Barrière, you’ll find the Queen Studio Experience—a museum exhibition dedicated to Freddie Mercury’s legendary band. Open daily, it is housed in their former recording studio, active from 1979 to 1993. For true fans, guided Freddie Tours offer an even deeper immersion into the band’s history and legacy.

In Vevey, Charlie Chaplin spent the last 25 years of his life in a charming manor, now transformed into an interactive museum. It tells the story of the Chaplin family within its walls and recreates iconic scenes from Chaplin’s greatest films—a must-see for all cinema lovers!

Montreux Christmas market and New Year’s celebrations

Visiting Montreux becomes even more magical from mid-November until December 24th, when the town is adorned with enchanting lights, festive Christmas market stalls, cozy spots to savor local delicacies, and a wide range of activities for both young and old.

Families can experience the wonder of Christmas by meeting Santa Claus and watching him take flight over the lake at dusk. Friends or couples can browse the artisan stalls for unique gifts before warming up with a delicious, aromatic meal in the welcoming atmosphere of one of the market’s charming chalets.

Considered one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Switzerland, Montreux promises an enchanting holiday season you won’t soon forget!

The Montreux Jazz Festival

Montreux is also world-renowned for the Montreux Jazz Festival, which every year in July hosts the biggest names in jazz and blues, as well as iconic international artists in recent years, including Muse, Ed Sheeran, Adele, Lady Gaga, and many more!

What to do in Montreux in one day?

Visiting Montreux and want to see as much as possible in just one day? Our team invites you to discover all the historical and cultural highlights of Montreux on a fascinating guided tour. Your guide will then continue to accompany you through the rooms of Chillon Castle for a memorable journey back in time.

History and food enthusiasts? Choose a unique excursion combining the Lavaux vineyards and Chillon Castle!

Prefer to soak up fresh air and breathtaking natural landscapes? One of our guides will take you on a stunning panoramic hike above Montreux, overlooking the sparkling waters of Lake Geneva.

Of course, we are here to create a tailor-made itinerary to explore Montreux and its surroundings, designed according to your interests and preferences!

Day trips from Montreux

If Montreux is your base for a trip to the Alps and you want to explore the region, we have just what you need!

One of our private drivers can take you to discover Geneva, at the far end of Lake Geneva, for a day full of experiences. Enjoy a guided city tour, wine and cheese tasting, a private cruise on the lake, or an excursion combining Geneva sightseeing with a visit to a museum dedicated to Switzerland’s famous watchmaking heritage.

Just 40 minutes from Montreux lies the picturesque town of Gruyères, a place that’s hard not to fall in love with! Our guide will lead you through its charming cobblestone streets and quaint shops during an engaging guided tour. Gruyères is also renowned for its eponymous cheese, which you’ll have the chance to savor during an excursion including a village tour, a visit to a Gruyère cheese dairy, and a trip to the Cailler Chocolate Factory, one of Switzerland’s most famous chocolate brands.

Finally, just over 30 minutes from Montreux, don’t miss a guided tour of Lausanne, a lakeside city offering a journey through time with its diverse architecture from avenue to avenue, lush parks and gardens, and captivating museums.

For a deeper experience, discover all our exclusive and private experiences across Switzerland!

Your tailor-made stay in Montreux, the Pearl of Lake Geneva

Planning to visit Montreux on your next trip to the Alps? Share your interests and desired destinations with us, and our team will craft a complete itinerary featuring unique and exclusive experiences, private transfers between Alpine towns, charming hotel stays, and delicious lunches and dinners.

All you need to do is provide your travel dates, budget, and must-see locations — we’ll take care of the rest. Don’t hesitate to get in touch!

To inspire your next tailor-made stay around the Montreux Riviera, explore our suggested itinerary, fully customizable to suit your preferences.

Your corporate event and team-building in Montreux, Switzerland

Thanks to its accessibility, enchanting setting, and wide range of accommodations and restaurants, Montreux is also an ideal destination for multi-day corporate event, executive retreats, or team-building days.

What could be better than gathering your colleagues or partners on the shores of Lake Geneva for surprising and Alpine-inspired team-building activities, such as the Mission Ascension, the 1786 Olympiads, or the Impossible Expedition? We also organize memorable corporate evenings and high-quality meetings or conference sessions.

Our original experiences, such as the Wine Tour through the Lavaux vineyards, a visit to Gruyères, a panoramic hike around Rochers de Naye, or a guided tour of Chillon Castle, are perfect activities for executive retreats or incentive trips.

Convinced to Visit Montreux? Our team is at your disposal to answer any questions and provide a personalized quote, whether for a tailor-made stay, a private transfer, or a seminar request. To explore further, discover all the services offered by Agence 1786.