MileHacker Logo
Attractions & Sightseeing

Attractions & Sightseeing

Lake Geneva Region, Switzerland

Iconic Landmarks

Chillon Castle stands on an island near Lake Geneva. It is one of Switzerland's most visited historic monuments. Its history reaches back to the 12th century, changing from a stronghold to a state prison.

The walk along the lakeside promenade from Montreux is scenic.

Chillon Castle Details

  • Hours vary seasonally. Check the official website for current times.
  • Adults about 15.50 CHF. Discounts are available with a Swiss Travel Pass or Montreux Riviera Card.
  • Audio guides are in many languages. Private guided tours can be arranged.
  • Arrive early to avoid crowds. Explore all areas: dungeons, courtyards, staterooms. A local bus goes to the castle.

More Iconic Landmarks

Freddie Mercury Statue

  • Description: A bronze statue remembers Freddie Mercury. He lived and recorded in Montreux in his later years. The statue stands on the lakeside promenade. Free access, always open.
  • Tips: A popular photo spot. Fans often put flowers and tributes. Reflect on his connection to the town.

Lakeside Promenade Quai des Fleurs

  • Description: A beautiful, flat path along Lake Geneva. It links Montreux to Clarens and Vevey. Free access, always open.
  • Tips: Good for walks, cycling, or jogging. Stunning views of the lake and mountains. Picnic or stop at cafes. Explore promenade tours.

Rochers de Naye

  • Description: A mountain peak at 2,042 meters. A cogwheel train from Montreux reaches it. Views of Lake Geneva, Swiss and French Alps. The summit has an alpine garden and marmot paradise.
  • Hours & Booking: Train runs seasonally. Check MOB railway for timings. Book Rochers de Naye tickets.
  • Fees: Round trip from Montreux about 70-80 CHF. Swiss Travel Pass gives a discount. Montreux Riviera Card also gives a discount.
  • Tips: Dress in layers. Check weather webcam for clear views.

This excursion presents breathtaking vistas and unique alpine experiences.

Museums and Cultural Institutions

  • Queen Studio Experience: Located inside the Montreux Casino. This small museum remembers Queen and Freddie Mercury. Memorabilia from their time recording at Mountain Studios. See the original mixing desk. Free admission.
  • Montreux Museum (Musée de Montreux): Housed in a historic building, this museum shows the history of Montreux and the region. It features local artifacts, art, and temporary exhibitions. Small admission fee.
  • Auditorium Stravinski (Montreux Music & Convention Centre): A world-renowned concert hall. Famous as the main venue for the Montreux Jazz Festival. Its acoustics are highly praised. The auditorium hosts various concerts, conferences, and events.
  • Check schedules for upcoming performances during your visit.

Historical Sites

  • Château de Chillon:

    A stunning medieval water castle near Lake Geneva. Switzerland's most visited historic monument.

  • Old Town (Vieille Ville):

    The charming uphill part of Montreux. Narrow cobblestone streets, historic buildings, Church of St. Vincent. Wander quiet alleys for lake views.

  • Lavaux Vineyard Terraces:

    UNESCO World Heritage Site. Terraced vineyards stretching along Lake Geneva. History of viticulture here goes back to the 11th century. Walk or cycle paths. Find Lavaux Vineyard tours on GetYourGuide.

  • Historic Hotels:

    Fairmont Le Montreux Palace and Hotel Victoria Glion are historic landmarks, offering glimpses into Belle Époque grandeur.

  • Local Churches:

    Several historical churches, like St. Vincent, have architectural and cultural interest.

Natural Attractions & Hidden Gems

Montreux's setting has natural beauty. Find relaxation and unique experiences.

Natural Attractions

  • Lake Geneva (Lac Léman):

    The largest lake in Switzerland and France. It has numerous recreational opportunities and stunning scenery. Montreux sits gracefully on its eastern end. Enjoy boat cruises, swimming at designated areas like Plage de Clarens, paddleboarding, or kayaking.

  • Jardin Botanique Alpin Flore-Alpe:

    Located near Champex-Lac, a bit further afield but still in the broader region. This garden features over 4,000 alpine plant species from around the world. It shows the incredible biodiversity of mountain environments. Seasonal opening, admission fee applies.

  • Gorges du Chauderon:

    A picturesque gorge walk accessible from Montreux. The trail follows the Vercland stream, featuring waterfalls and lush vegetation. It is a refreshing escape into nature close to the town. Free access; the path can be slippery, wear appropriate footwear.

  • Panoramic Views:

    For breathtaking views, take the funicular up to Glion or Caux. These elevated points offer stunning panoramas of Lake Geneva and the surrounding Alps.

  • Hiking Trails:

    Numerous hiking paths behind the town lead to higher elevations, presenting various scenic overlooks.

  • Photography Spots:

    The lakeside promenade and elevated viewpoints are ideal for capturing stunning sunrise or sunset moments over the lake and mountains.

Sentier des Narcisses

In late spring (May-June), the hills above Montreux (Les Avants, Caux, Les Pléiades) are covered in wild narcissus flowers. This creates stunning white meadows. Walking trails go through these fragrant areas. Check blooming times, as they vary each year. Access by train from Montreux to Les Avants or Les Pléiades.

Vineyard Walks in Lavaux

While the Lavaux Vineyard Terraces are well-known, exploring some of the smaller, less-trafficked paths finds hidden beauty. Experience the tranquil scenery and the unique winemaking landscape.

Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory

Located in Broc, about an hour by train and bus from Montreux. This chocolate factory has an interactive tour and chocolate tasting. It is often overlooked for activities directly in Montreux but is a sweet and informative excursion into Swiss chocolate making.

More Local Highlights

Montreux has many local spots that add to its charm.

  • Local Markets: Montreux Market (Marché de Montreux) on Fridays has local produce, cheeses, and crafts. A good way to experience local life.
  • Montreux Noël: The large, popular Christmas market in winter. Festive goods, food, and crafts. Find Christmas Market experiences on GetYourGuide.
  • Museums & Galleries: Montreux has several smaller galleries and exhibition spaces. Check local listings for current shows.

Explore More Montreux

Montreux is known for its deep connection to music, especially jazz and rock. The town was home to the legendary Mountain Studios, where Queen recorded many albums.

The cultural footprint of these artists is visible throughout the town.

Musical Heritage

Montreux's musical past is a defining feature, celebrated through landmarks and events.

Musical Points

  • Freddie Mercury's statue is a prominent tribute on the lakeside promenade.
  • The Montreux Jazz Festival is a global highlight, drawing artists and fans worldwide.
  • Many famous artists visited and found inspiration in the town's studios.

Lake Geneva Significance

Lake Geneva is central to Montreux's beauty and lifestyle, providing both scenery and activity.

Lake Aspects

  • Offers scenic boat trips on historic steamers and modern vessels.
  • Opportunities for swimming and various water sports during warmer months.
  • Source of fresh fish for local cuisine, a regional delicacy.

Town History Walks

Self-guided walks around the Old Town show Montreux's past. Historical buildings and quiet streets offer a different perspective.

Points of Interest

  • Discover the historic Church of St. Vincent with its unique architecture.
  • Wander through narrow cobblestone streets and hidden alleys.
  • See traditional Swiss buildings and local residences.
  • Download a historical walking map from the local tourism office.

Public Transport Efficiency

Montreux boasts an efficient public transport system, making town navigation simple and eco-friendly.

Transport Highlights

  • The local bus network connects all areas, including Chillon Castle and neighboring towns.
  • The train station is central, providing connections to major Swiss cities and mountain excursions.
  • The Montreux Riviera Card grants free local public transport to hotel guests.

Lake Activities Beyond Cruises

Swimming & Beaches

  • Plage de Clarens is a popular public beach for swimming and sunbathing.
  • Designated swimming areas along the promenade are safe for refreshing dips.
  • Some hotels have pools, often with direct lake views, for guest use.

Water Sports Rentals

  • Paddleboard rentals are available along the shoreline for leisurely lake exploration.
  • Kayaking is a quiet way to explore the lake's calm waters and shoreline.
  • Pedal boats are a fun and easy option for families or couples.

Travel Tips for Attractions

To fully experience Montreux's attractions, plan ahead. Consider combination tickets for savings.

Check Schedules

Always check opening times and ticket availability online before your visit, especially for seasonal attractions or special events.

Comfortable Footwear

Wear comfortable shoes, as many attractions involve walking, including the lakeside promenade and castle grounds.

Weather Ready

Be ready for varied weather, specifically if heading to Rochers de Naye, where temperatures are cooler at the summit.

Additional Exploration Ideas

Historical Walking Tours

Discover the rich history of Montreux's Old Town with a self-guided historical walk. Maps are available locally.

Lake-View Picnics

Grab local treats from the market and enjoy a picnic along the lakeside promenade with stunning views.

Local Art Galleries

Explore smaller, independent art galleries scattered throughout the town for local and regional art.

Photography Expeditions

Montreux offers countless picturesque scenes, from the castle to vineyard terraces, ideal for photography enthusiasts.

Funicular Rides

Take a scenic funicular ride to Glion or Caux for breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and mountains.

Montreux's Global Connections

Montreux is known for its deep connection to music, especially jazz and rock. The town was home to the legendary Mountain Studios.

Musical Legacy

  • Freddie Mercury's statue is a prominent tribute.
  • The Montreux Jazz Festival is a world-renowned cultural event.
  • Many famous artists recorded at Mountain Studios, finding inspiration here.

Lake Geneva's Central Role

Lake Geneva is central to Montreux's beauty and lifestyle, providing both stunning scenery and opportunities for activity.

Lake Features

  • Offers scenic boat trips on historic steamers and modern vessels.
  • Opportunities for swimming and various water sports during warmer months.
  • Source of fresh fish for local cuisine, a regional delicacy.
  • Provides picturesque backdrops for photos and relaxation.

Montreux Riviera Card Reminder

Guests staying in Montreux receive this card, granting free public transport within the region.

It also offers discounts on many attractions, museums, and lake cruises.

Explore More Montreux

Beyond the main attractions, Montreux and its surroundings hold lesser-known spots that present unique experiences.

Sentier des Narcisses

In late spring (May-June), the hills above Montreux (Les Avants, Caux, Les Pléiades) are covered in wild narcissus flowers. This creates stunning white meadows.

Narcissus Trail Details

  • Various walking trails lead through these fragrant areas.
  • Check blooming times, as they vary each year based on weather.
  • You can reach these areas by train from Montreux to Les Avants or Les Pléiades.

Vineyard Walks in Lavaux

While the Lavaux Vineyard Terraces are well-known, exploring some of the smaller, less-trafficked paths finds hidden beauty.

Lavaux Exploration

  • Wander through tranquil vineyard paths.
  • Stop at local wineries for tastings.
  • Discover charming wine villages nestled among the terraces.

Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory

Located in Broc, about an hour by train and bus from Montreux. This chocolate factory has an interactive tour and chocolate tasting.

Chocolate Experience

  • An informative excursion into Swiss chocolate making.
  • Learn about the history and process of chocolate production.
  • Enjoy generous chocolate tastings at the end of the tour.

A sweet and memorable day trip from Montreux.

Old Town Exploration

The charming uphill section of Montreux, featuring narrow cobblestone streets and historic buildings.

Historical Insights

  • Discover the historic Church of St. Vincent.
  • Enjoy quiet alleys and rewarding views of the lake from higher points.

This area offers a glimpse into Montreux's past, away from the bustling lakeside.

Glion / Caux Mountain Retreats

These villages sit at higher altitudes above Montreux. They offer stunning panoramic lake and mountain views.

High-Altitude Highlights

  • Incredible vistas and fresh, clean air.
  • A peaceful, more secluded atmosphere for relaxation.
  • Access to mountain activities and scenic funicular/train rides.

These areas are quieter and provide a tranquil escape from the town below.

Seasonal Experiences

Spring

Witness the wild narcissus blooms in the hills above Montreux (May-June), creating white meadows.

Autumn

Experience the Lavaux vineyards during harvest season (September/October), with colors and wine festivals.

Winter

Enjoy the Montreux Noël Christmas market (November-December) and the festive atmosphere.

Expert Tip for Exploration

The Montreux Riviera Card, received upon hotel check-in, provides free public transport and discounts on many attractions, a good value for active visitors.