Practical Information for Your Stay: Montreux

Local SIM Cards & Mobile Providers

Switzerland’s main mobile providers are Swisscom, Sunrise, and Salt, with excellent national coverage. Physical SIM cards are available at airports, official provider stores in Montreux, and some larger supermarkets or electronics stores. Prepaid data plans are available for visitors.

Connectivity Options

Ensure your Mobile phone is unlocked to use a local SIM.
eSIMs from Airalo provide immediate connectivity.
Consider a portable WiFi device from Solis Wi-Fi for consistent access.

Internet Access & Wi-Fi Availability

Internet access is widely available in Montreux. Hotels, cafes, restaurants, and public spaces often supply free Wi-Fi for their customers. "Free Wi-Fi" networks are also found at many train stations and public areas throughout Switzerland.

Staying Connected

Look for free Wi-Fi at establishments.
Train stations often have public Wi-Fi.
Swiss Post offers reliable mail services for postcards.

Language Barriers & Resources

Montreux's official language is French. German and English are broadly understood, specifically in tourist zones, hotels, and major attractions. Many Swiss are multilingual. Translation apps like Google Translate or DeepL Translate are helpful for conversations or signs; download offline language packs for use without internet.

Communication Aids

Try learning basic phrases with Rosetta Stone.
Utilize offline translation app features.
Don't hesitate to ask if someone speaks English.

Important French Phrases

A few phrases can significantly improve your interactions. Pronunciations are approximations.

Helpful Greetings & Questions

Bonjour (bon-ZHOOR): Hello/Good day
Merci (mer-SEE): Thank you
Parlez-vous anglais? (par-LAY voo ah(n)-GLAY?): Do you speak English?

Everyday Phrases

Common Courtesies

S'il vous plaît (seel voo PLEH): Please
Oui (wee): Yes
Non (noh(n)): No
Pardon (par-DOH(n)): Excuse me/Sorry

Shopping & Dining

Combien ça coûte? (koh(m)-BYEH(n) sa KOOT?): How much does it cost?
L'addition, s'il vous plaît (la-dee-SYOH(n) seel voo PLEH): The bill, please
Au revoir (oh ruh-VWAHR): Goodbye
A simple "Bonjour" when entering shops is polite.

Language Tip

Making an effort to speak a few French words is always well-received by locals in Montreux.

Business Hours & Cultural Etiquette

Shop Hours

Generally Mon-Fri 9 AM - 6:30/7 PM, Sat 9 AM - 5 PM. Most close Sundays.

Restaurant Service

Lunch 11:30 AM - 2 PM, Dinner from 6 PM. Many close between services.

Banking & ATMs

Banks Mon-Fri 9 AM - 4:30/5 PM. ATMs are widely available 24/7.

Religious & Public Holidays

Switzerland observes federal and cantonal holidays. In Vaud canton, these include New Year's Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, Ascension Day, Whit Monday, Swiss National Day (August 1), Jeûne fédéral (September), Christmas Day, and St. Stephen's Day.

Holiday Impact

Most shops, banks, and post offices close.
Public transport follows a Sunday schedule.
Confirm opening times for attractions on holidays.

Seasonal Closures

Some mountain attractions or smaller businesses may have seasonal closures or reduced hours during the low season (November-March), outside of major holidays. Always confirm opening times if your visit falls during these months.

Planning Ahead

Be aware of off-season changes.
Check official websites for current schedules.
Adjust your itinerary based on seasonal availability.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

General Customs

Handshakes are common for formal greetings.
Use "Bonjour" or "Bonsoir" as standard greetings.
Dress is generally casual but neat; smart casual for dining.

Sensitive Topics & Punctuality

Avoid discussing personal income.
Politics can be a sensitive topic; approach with care.
Punctuality holds high regard; arrive on time.

Accessibility & Airport Services

Switzerland is a leader in accessibility for travelers with disabilities. Airport services also aid in smooth arrivals and departures.

Infrastructure for Mobility

Switzerland has a reputation as one of the most accessible countries for travelers with disabilities. Public transport, including trains, buses, and many boats, frequently includes ramps or designated spaces. Major attractions are increasingly accessible with ramps, elevators, and wide pathways.

Accessible Travel Features

Public transport with ramps and spaces.
Many attractions have ramps and elevators.
Lakeside Promenade is flat and accessible.

Accessible Attractions & Transport

Chillon Castle: Partially accessible, with some areas reachable by wheelchair. Consult their official website for specific details on accessible routes. SBB Trains: Many modern trains are accessible; SBB offers pre-bookable assistance for boarding and alighting. VMCV Buses: Many local buses are low-floor and accessible.

Accessible Sites

Check Chillon Castle's website for routes.
SBB assistance services simplify train journeys.
Local VMCV buses offer easy access.

Airport Services

Airport services aim to provide a smooth travel experience. Priority Pass provides frequent travelers with independent airport lounge access globally. For flight disruptions, Compensair helps obtain compensation for delays, cancellations, or denied boarding.

Enhance Your Airport Experience

Access airport lounges with Priority Pass.
Seek compensation for flight disruptions with Compensair.
Plan for comfort during layovers.

Resources for Accessibility

Public transport announcements frequently include both visual displays and auditory announcements. Service animals are generally permitted in public places and on transport.

Organizations & Information

Procap Reisen: A Swiss organization promoting barrier-free travel.
SBB website: Details accessibility for train travel and assistance.
Montreux Riviera Tourist Office provides local advice.

Important Information

Flight Compensation Notes

Compensair offers fixed commission rates per successful claim.
Cookie duration for Compensair affiliate links is 30 days.
Terms apply for eligibility (delay length, cause).

Priority Pass Details

Priority Pass provides a 10% commission on referrals.
Cookie duration for Priority Pass affiliate links is 30 days.
Lounge access is subject to availability and specific membership tier.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Information

Progressive Stance

Switzerland is broadly progressive and welcoming.
LGBTQ+ rights are recognized, and same-sex marriage is legal.
Montreux is a liberal and welcoming town.

Public Displays of Affection

Public displays of affection are generally accepted for all couples.
Respectful interactions are the norm.
The environment is typically inclusive.

Peace of Mind

Switzerland's welcoming stance and accessible infrastructure contribute to a comfortable journey for everyone.

Practical Information for Your Stay