Montreux, an enchanting jewel on the shores of Lake Geneva! Known for its breathtaking scenery, world-class events and rich history, Montreux is an unforgettable destination.

PUBLISHED: 07 APR 2024 | LAST UPDATED: 30 JUN 2024 | JUMP TO COMMENTS & QUESTIONS

From the stunning Alpine backdrop to the charming lakeside promenades, this picturesque town offers an unparalleled experience for all the senses. Discover with us the beauty and charm that Montreux has to offer.

Enjoy the Montreux lakeside promenade

The Montreux lakeside promenade is much more than just a picturesque walk along Lake Geneva – it is a vibrant center full of history, culture and pulsating life. Lined with elegant Belle Époque buildings and lush parks, it invites you to immerse yourself in the city’s glamorous past. An eye-catching feature is the famous Freddie Mercury monument, which celebrates the city’s connection to the legendary rock band Queen, who recorded some of their biggest hits here. The waterfront is also a venue for the renowned Montreux Jazz Festival, which attracts countless music lovers from all over the world every year in July. During the day, you can enjoy the sun and fresh air as you stroll along Lake Geneva, and in the evening, the promenade provides a romantic backdrop for sunset strolls or culinary experiences in the numerous restaurants and cafés along the way. Whatever the time of day, the Montreux lakeside promenade is an essential part of the charm of this unique Swiss town.

Chillon Castle

Sitting majestically on the shores of Lake Geneva, Chillon Castle is a fascinating symbol of the region’s history and architecture. With a history dating back over 1000 years, this castle has witnessed a multitude of events and history that make it an unforgettable visit.Built in the 12th century, Chillon Castle has served as a royal residence, fortress and even a prison over the centuries. You can explore the well-preserved structure (admission adults 15CHF pP, family 35CHF), which offers an impressive mix of medieval architecture and Renaissance art. The interiors are adorned with magnificent murals, Gothic vaults and historical artifacts that give an insight into the life and culture of a bygone era.Today, Chillon Castle is one of the most visited historical monuments in Switzerland and offers you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the past, enjoy the breathtaking views of Lake Geneva and discover the rich history of this remarkable place.

Château du Châtelard

The Château du Châtelard, a curved jewel perched high above Montreux, offers you a fascinating journey through the history of the region. This historic castle, built in the 13th century, is perched on a hill and offers breathtaking views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding mountains.Originally constructed as a fortress, the Château du Châtelard has served various purposes over the centuries, including as a royal residence, a monastery and even a military stronghold. You can book wine tours, overnight stays and events via the Château du Châtelard website to make your trip unforgettable. But it’s also worth a short stop, as the picturesque surroundings also offer you a priceless view of the famous vines.

Stroll through the breathtaking old town of Montreux

The old town of Montreux is a picturesque and charming district that combines history, culture and a lively atmosphere. With its narrow streets, historic buildings and traditional stores, the old town is a real gem that transports you back in time.A highlight of the old town is the medieval church of St. Vincent, whose striking tower rises above the rooftops of the old town. The church is an impressive example of Gothic architecture and offers you the opportunity to admire the ornate frescoes and sculptures inside.

There are also numerous cosy cafés, restaurants and boutiques offering local specialties and handmade products along the cobbled streets of the old town.Here you can take a break, enjoy a cup of coffee and watch the hustle and bustle of the old town.In addition, the old town of Montreux offers you a variety of cultural events and festivals that take place throughout the year. From traditional craft markets to musical performances, there is always something to discover and experience. If you want to discover the authentic Swiss way of life, this is definitely a must-visit destination.

Hike at the Caux Palace Montreux

The Caux Palace, perched high above Montreux, is a fascinating historic building that combines a rich past and an inspiring present. Originally built as a luxury hotel, the Caux Palace was later transformed into an international conference center and a center for peace and reconciliation. One of the most remarkable features of the Caux Palace is its stunning location on a hilltop overlooking Lake Geneva, offering spectacular views of the surrounding Alps. This idyllic location provides a setting for seminars, workshops and conferences on topics such as sustainability, peace and intercultural understanding. In addition, it hosts a variety of cultural events, concerts, theater and art exhibitions. You also have the opportunity to discover the rich history of the building by taking part in guided tours or visiting the in-house museum. The Caux Palace is accessible by car or cog railroad. If you like sporting challenges, you can cycle up to the Caux Palace or combine your visit with a local hike.

Our culinary tip

Our culinary recommendation for an unforgettable typical Swiss-French pastry and coffee:

We recommend combining your trip to Montreux with a visit to charming Vevey, which is just a 15-minute drive from Montreux.Vevey has a pleasant riverside promenade that is ideal for swimming and picnics. It’s not just the waterfront promenade, the beautiful scenery and the old town that make the hometown of the famous writer Charlie Chaplin incomparable, but it is also home to the oldest chocolate factory in Switzerland and the headquarters of the powerful food company Nestlè.