Getting There & Away: Montreux

Air Travel to Montreux

Major Airports

Montreux has no large international airport. Plan to arrive at a nearby hub.

Airport Options

Geneva Airport (GVA): Approximately 95 kilometers (60 miles) southwest. Most convenient international arrival point.
Zurich Airport (ZRH): Approximately 200 kilometers (125 miles) northeast. Switzerland's largest airport with extensive connections.
Bern Airport (BRN): A smaller regional airport, less common for international arrivals.

Airlines & Routes

Major airlines serve Geneva and Zurich. They connect Switzerland to global destinations.

Flight Connections

Geneva (GVA): Served by SWISS, easyJet, British Airways, Air France, Lufthansa, KLM, Turkish Airlines, United, Emirates, and Qatar Airways.
Zurich (ZRH): SWISS International Air Lines main hub. Other major airlines like Lufthansa, Edelweiss Air, United, American, Delta, British Airways.
Direct flights from major global hubs in North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Consider Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for flight deals.

Seasonal Flight Availability

Flight prices fluctuate throughout the year. Peak tourist seasons influence fares.

Price Fluctuations

Prices highest during summer (June-August) and major holidays (Christmas, New Year, Easter).

Airport Facilities

Geneva (GVA) and Zurich (ZRH) are modern facilities. They offer duty-free shops, restaurants, car rentals, currency exchange, lounges.

Airport Transfers to Montreux

From Geneva Airport GVA

Train: Most efficient way. Direct trains run frequently from Geneva Airport train station. The journey to Montreux takes approximately 1 hour.
Taxi/Private Transfer: More expensive (approx. 200-300 CHF). Available outside the terminal.
Purchase train tickets at the station, from SBB ticket machines, or via the SBB Mobile app.
Geneva Airport train station stands directly below the airport terminal.

From Zurich Airport ZRH

Train: Direct trains run frequently from Zurich Airport train station to Montreux. You might need one change, often in Lausanne or Bern. The journey time is approximately 2.5-3 hours.
This is the most practical transfer option from Zurich.
Allow sufficient time for connections and travel.
Tickets available at station or SBB Mobile app.

Land Transportation to and from Montreux

Border Crossings

Switzerland is a Schengen Area member. Border crossings from neighboring Schengen countries are seamless. Carry valid ID documents for compliance.

Train Network

The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) operates an excellent, efficient, and extensive rail network. Montreux is well-connected within this system.

Train Tickets

Purchase tickets at train stations, from SBB ticket machines, or conveniently via the SBB Mobile app. Booking in advance can offer "Supersaver" fares.

Self-Driving Considerations

Driving Requirements

Driving in Switzerland offers flexibility. Be aware of local regulations.

Requirements Overview

Valid domestic driver's license. International Driving Permit (IDP) highly recommended or mandatory if license is not in a Swiss official language.
Minimum driving age is 18. Some companies may require drivers to be 25 or older.
Vignette: All vehicles using Swiss motorways require a highway vignette (an annual sticker, approx. 40 CHF). Rental cars usually possess this. DiscoverCars.com offers options.

Road Conditions & Safety

Swiss roads are well-maintained. Adherence to rules helps avoid high fines.

Driving Safety

Road Conditions: Roads are well-maintained and generally excellent. Mountain roads can be winding and steep. In winter, snow tires and/or chains may be mandatory in alpine areas.
Safety Concerns: Adhere to speed limits; Swiss traffic fines are high and strictly enforced.
Parking: Can be expensive and limited in town centers. Research parking garages in advance. Understand blue, white, and yellow zones.

Sea and River Arrivals

Montreux presents a beautiful way to arrive via Lake Geneva.

Lake Travel

Montreux serves as a port for CGN (Compagnie Générale de Navigation sur le Lac Léman) passenger boats.
Boats offer scenic cruises and connections to other lakeside towns. Popular destinations include Lausanne, Vevey, Evian (France), and Geneva.
Immigration: When traveling from a French port on a CGN service, keep your passport accessible for checks.

River Transportation & Connections

River transportation is not relevant for Montreux. All water-based transport is exclusively on Lake Geneva.

Local Connectivity

The Montreux CGN boat landing is centrally located.
It is a short walk from Montreux train station and various bus stops.
This location simplifies connecting to other parts of the town or continuing your journey.

Departure Procedures

Exit Fees or Taxes: Switzerland levies no specific departure taxes or fees on travelers. Any costs are typically included in your airline ticket price.
Airport Departure Timing: For international flights, arrive at least 2-3 hours before. For flights within the Schengen Area, 1.5-2 hours before departure.
This allocates time for check-in, security, and potential VAT refund processing.

Train Station Departure Timing: Arrive at the train station 10-15 minutes before your train's departure.
Boarding is typically quick and efficient in Switzerland. There is no need for lengthy security checks like at airports.
Airport and Station Facilities: Both GVA and ZRH offer comprehensive facilities for departing travelers, including duty-free shopping, restaurants, cafes, and lounges. Train stations feature shops, eateries, and luggage storage.

Seamless Departure

Planning your departure in advance secures a smooth and stress-free end to your Montreux journey. Confirm your flight or train schedules and arrive with ample time.

Getting There & Away