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There are an array of things to do in Italy, with Montreux sharing quite a few of those!
Nestled along the banks of Lake Geneva, Montreux is a picturesque wonderland that exudes a charm that is impossible to resist.
With its cobblestone streets, captivating architecture, and stunning vistas, this Swiss gem has become an emblem of beauty and relaxation.
Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, indulge in some gastronomic delights, or explore the town’s rich history, Montreux has something for everyone.
So pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Switzerland.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Montreux:
1. Chateau de Chillon
A medieval fortress located on the shores of Lake Geneva in Montreux, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Explore the castle’s many rooms, halls, and towers, and learn about its rich history through exhibits and audio guides. Be sure to walk along the castle’s ramparts for spectacular views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Don’t miss: The Chapel, with its stunning 14th-century frescoes; the underground vaults, where prisoners were once held; and the beautiful courtyards and gardens.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid crowds, as this is a popular tourist attraction. Don’t forget to snap a photo with the famous “Chillon Castle” sign on the lakeshore outside the castle.
2. Freddie Mercury Statue
A bronze statue of the legendary Queen frontman Freddie Mercury.
What to see or do: The statue is located on the shores of Lake Geneva in Montreux, Switzerland. Visitors can take a stroll along the promenade and admire the statue.
It’s a popular spot for fans to take photos and pay tribute to the late musician.
Don’t miss: The statue is particularly stunning during sunset as the sky turns pink and orange, casting a warm glow on the bronze sculpture.
It’s also worth visiting during the annual Montreux Jazz Festival if you’re a music lover.
Insider travel tips: Head to the Freddie Mercury bar, which is located next to the statue. It’s a great spot to grab a drink and enjoy views of the lake while listening to some Queen tunes.
If you have some spare time, take a ride on the funicular to the nearby town of Les Avants for more stunning views of Lake Geneva.
3. Montreux Riviera
Montreux Riviera is a region in Switzerland that runs along the shores of Lake Geneva and is known for its stunning scenery, charming towns, and rich cultural heritage.
What to see or do: – Explore the promenade along Lake Geneva and take in the picturesque views of the Alps.
Don’t miss: – The Freddie Mercury Statue in Montreux, a tribute to the legendary Queen frontman who lived in the city for many years.
Insider travel tips: – Take the Golden Pass train from Montreux to Lucerne for unforgettable views of the Swiss Alps.
4. Freddie Mercury Montreux Memorial Day
Annual celebration of the life and music of Freddie Mercury, held in Montreux, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Attend the Freddie Mercury Montreux Memorial Day concert, which features performances by notable musicians and tribute bands in honor of the late Queen frontman.
Take a tour of the Queen Studio Experience, which showcases the band’s music and recordings made at Montreux’s Mountain Studios.
Don’t miss: The unveiling of the Freddie Mercury statue, which stands next to Lake Geneva in Montreux. Visitors can take photos with the statue and pay their respects to the rock legend.
Insider travel tips: Book accommodations in Montreux early, as the town fills up quickly for Memorial Day weekend. Consider purchasing a VIP pass for the Memorial Day concert, which includes exclusive access to the after-party and other perks.
Visit the nearby Château de Chillon, a medieval castle that inspired Lord Byron’s poem “The Prisoner of Chillon.
5. Hauts de Montreux
Hauts de Montreux is a stunning residential area located in the hills above Montreux, Switzerland.
What to see or do: From here, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding Alps. The area is also known for its beautiful forested trails, perfect for hiking and mountain biking.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the unique blend of Swiss culture and Mediterranean climate that the region is famous for.
Plus, make sure to catch the annual Montreux Jazz Festival, which takes place in the town center below.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to bring comfortable shoes suitable for hiking, as the terrain can be steep and uneven. Additionally, the area can get quite busy during peak tourist season, so plan ahead and book accommodations in advance.
Finally, if you’re interested in local culture, check out the small art galleries and artisan shops in the town center, where you’ll find an array of unique and handmade souvenirs.
6. Rochers-de-Naye
Rochers-de-Naye is a mountain in the Swiss Alps overlooking Montreux and Lake Geneva.
What to see or do: Enjoy panoramic views of the Alps, Montreux, and Lake Geneva from the summit. Take a ride on the cogwheel train from Montreux to the summit, which is an attraction in itself.
Explore the mountain trails, visit the Alpine garden, and observe marmots and other wildlife.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the sunrise or sunset from the summit. The changing colors of the sky and mountains are breathtaking.
Insider travel tips: Pack warm clothing, even during the summer months, as temperatures can be cooler at higher altitudes. If you’re a hiker, consider hiking from Haut-de-Caux to the summit for a different experience.
Avoid visiting on weekends as it can be crowded.
7. Montreux Jazz Festival
The Montreux Jazz Festival is a music festival held annually in Montreux, Switzerland.
What to see or do: The festival features a diverse range of musical performances of various genres such as jazz, blues, rock, pop, and hip hop.
Attendees can enjoy performances from international superstars to emerging talents across multiple stages while surrounded by the beautiful scenery of Lake Geneva.
Don’t miss: Definitely don’t miss the iconic Freddie Mercury statue located on the lakefront promenade, honoring the late Queen frontman, who frequented Montreux as a resident.
Additionally, be sure to experience the festival’s famous late-night jam sessions, where musicians from different bands collaborate in a spontaneous and intimate setting.
Insider travel tips: For a more affordable festival experience, consider attending the early shows or matinee performances.
Also, check out the festival’s off-site events, such as the “Montreux Jazz Club” located near the train station, which features free concerts and DJ sets.
It’s also recommended to book accommodation and transportation in advance, as the festival attracts a large crowd.
8. Montreux Casino
A historic casino located in Montreux, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy gambling, live music performances, and fine dining.
Don’t miss: The iconic location for the filming of Deep Purple’s “Smoke on the Water” music video in 1971.
Insider travel tips: Check the schedule for upcoming concerts and events before planning your visit, and consider making reservations in advance for the casino’s restaurant and gaming tables.
9. Corniche Lavaux Vineyards
A scenic road that runs through the UNESCO-listed vineyards of Lavaux, located between Lausanne and Montreux in Switzerland.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely drive or walk along the Corniche road to enjoy the stunning views of Lake Geneva and the terraced vineyards.
Alternatively, join a guided tour of the vineyards to learn about the wine-making traditions and taste some of the local wines.
Don’t miss: The panoramic views from the Corniche road, especially during sunset.
Also, visit the charming village of Lutry, located at the heart of the vineyards, to explore its narrow streets and historic buildings.
Insider travel tips: Try to visit the vineyards during the harvest season (September to November) to see the winemakers in action and taste the freshest wines.
Be mindful of the traffic restrictions and parking regulations along the Corniche road, as it can be crowded during peak season.
10. Montreux Christmas Market
Montreux Christmas Market is an immersive holiday shopping and entertainment experience located in the heart of Montreux, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can wander through the picturesque market stalls, filled with handmade crafts, traditional Swiss gifts, and delicious food and drink. The market also features daily live music performances, children’s activities, and festive decorations.
Don’t miss: Be sure to try some of the local specialties, like Swiss cheese fondue, raclette, and mulled wine. And don’t forget to take a stroll along the promenade overlooking Lake Geneva, adorned with thousands of Christmas lights.
Insider travel tips: To beat the crowds, visit the market during the quieter weekday mornings.
And if you’re interested in local history, check out the nearby Chillon Castle, a stunning fortress that dates back to the 12th century.
11. Swiss Vapeur Parc
An outdoor miniature park with train rides and steam engines.
What to see or do: Enjoy a ride on the miniature train or steam engines through beautifully landscaped gardens. There are over 20 trains, all of different sizes, which run on more than 1.
5km of tracks. It’s fascinating for both children and adults to see the detailed models of Swiss train stations, bridges, and more.
Don’t miss: The Swiss railway journey. It’s a 30-minute ride around a lake, where you can take in stunning views of the Swiss Alps.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during peak summer months. You can bring your own food and drinks and enjoy a picnic on the onsite benches or grass areas.
Don’t forget to check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.
12. Montreux Old Town
Montreux Old Town is a charming historic district located in the heart of Montreux, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Strolling through the Old Town, visitors will find picturesque narrow streets and alleyways lined with centuries-old buildings and colorful flower boxes.
Architectural highlights include the Gothic Church of St. Vincent, the Castle of Chillon on the shore of Lake Geneva, and several grand Belle Epoque hotels.
Additionally, there are numerous galleries, shops, and restaurants in the area.
Don’t miss: The flower-lined promenade along Lake Geneva offers stunning views of the surrounding Alps and is an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll.
Be sure to also visit the Montreux Jazz Festival monument, which celebrates the town’s rich musical heritage.
Insider travel tips: To avoid crowds, it’s best to visit Montreux Old Town in the morning or late afternoon. Additionally, be prepared for hilly terrain and wear comfortable shoes to navigate the area’s steep cobblestone streets.
Finally, don’t hesitate to try out some of the town’s delicious Swiss cuisine, including cheese fondue and chocolate treats.
13. Lakeside Promenade Fleuri
Lakeside Promenade Fleuri is a picturesque and stunning promenade located in the charming town of Montreux, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade while taking in the breathtaking views of Lake Geneva and the magnificent Swiss Alps.
There are plenty of benches to sit and relax, perfect for people watching or enjoying a picnic with family and friends.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the bronze statue of Queen frontman Freddie Mercury, which is located at the start of the promenade.
Also, don’t miss the stunning flower-filled gardens both on the promenade and along the lake.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during the annual Montreux Jazz Festival in July for a lively and festive atmosphere.
14. Montreux Palace Hotel
The Montreux Palace Hotel is an iconic luxury hotel situated in the heart of Montreux, Switzerland. It was first opened in 1906 and has since been a popular choice among celebrities and world leaders.
What to see or do: The hotel features stunning views of Lake Geneva and the Swiss Alps and offers guests a wide range of luxury amenities, including an outdoor pool, spa, fitness center, and several top-notch restaurants.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a stroll along the hotel’s beautiful gardens, which are situated on the lakefront and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
The hotel also features a legendary jazz festival held every summer, attracting some of the world’s most renowned musicians.
Insider travel tips: For an unforgettable experience, book a room with a balcony overlooking the lake and mountains. The hotel’s rooftop terrace also offers stunning views and is the perfect spot for a romantic sunset cocktail.
15. Fun Planet Montreux
An amusement park in Montreux, Switzerland featuring various rides and attractions for all ages.
What to see or do: Enjoy a day of fun with family and friends by riding roller coasters, water slides, and other thrilling attractions. There are also plenty of calmer rides for younger children.
Don’t miss: The park’s signature ride, the “Hurricane”, a looping roller coaster that reaches speeds of up to 75km/h.
Insider travel tips: Book your tickets ahead of time online for better deals and to save time at the entrance.