Holidays in Montreux

Switzerland

  • Food & Drink
  • Easy Walks
  • Sightseeing

A summer holiday in Montreux is a little bit of everything Swiss - lake, mountains and vineyards, cheese, wine and chocolate... and walking of course

  • On the shores of Lake Geneva
  • UNESCO wine region
  • Promenade strolls & hill walks
  • Montreux Panorama
    Montreux Panorama (Copyright: Jan Geerk)
  • Montreux Rochers de Naye view
    Rochers de Naye view( Copyright: Switzerland Tourism)
  • Montreux Freddie Mercury statue on lakeside promenade
    Freddie Mercury statue on lakeside promenade (Copyright: Markus Buehler Rasom)
  • Montreux hikers at Rocher De Naye
    Hikers at Rocher De Naye (Copyright: Switzerland Tourism)
  • Montreux Chillon Castle
    Chillon Castle (Copyright: Markus Buehler Rasom)
  • Montreux boat on lake Geneva
    Boat on lake Geneva
  • Montreux hiker at Rocher de Naye
    Hiker at Rocher de Naye (Copyright: Matteo Senn)
  • Montreux Lavaux vineyard
    Lavaux vineyard (Copyright: Switzerland Tourism)
  • Montreux riviera stand-up paddlers
    Riviera stand-up paddlers (Copyright: Dominik Baur)
  • Montreux city and lake at sunset
    City and lake at sunset (Copyright: Maude Rion)
  • Montreux veytaux Chillon Castle
    Chillon Castle (Copyright: Ivo Scholz)
  • Montreux lake cruise
    Lake cruise (Copyright: Montreux Riviera)

Swiss Half Fare Card included

Up to half price off various modes of transport, plus free travel to children from 6 to 15 years old, when accompanied by a parent with the Swiss Family Card.

Montreux Riviera Resort Card included

Free travel on local buses, reduced fares on some mountain railways, plus up to 50% reduction on entrance to many local attractions.

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Walking in Montreux

Walking Trails:
100km

Terrain:
Diverse terrain from lakeside promenades and vineyard terraces to steeper routes into the hills
More walking info

Montreux at a glance

  • French
  • Swiss Franc (CHF)
  • Edinburgh (EDI), Manchester Int. (MAN), Bristol (BRS), Birmingham Int. (BHX), London Luton (LTN), London City (LCY), London Gatwick (LGW), London Heathrow (LHR)
  • London St Pancras (QQS)
More about Montreux

Travel included to Montreux

Depart on: any day except Tuesdays

Arrive into: Geneva, Zurich, Basel airport or Montreux station 

Transfer time: 1 hour 30 minutes - 3 hours 30 minutes 

More about travel & transfers

Included in your walking holiday to Montreux

  • Swiss Half Fare Card with half price rail, bus, and boat travel (worth over £100 pp) and free travel for children under 16 on mainline trains/buses/boats in Switzerland when accompanied by a parent
  • Montreux Riviera Card, given to you by your hotel upon arrival, gives you free travel on public transport and discounts on various activities/attractions
  • On holiday support and tailored advice from our Destination Expert based in Switzerland
  • Access to Inghams Digital Resort Guide with things to do, walks, and useful information on holiday 
  • Flights or train from the UK, transfers, and accommodation 

Walking in Montreux

Walks and hikes

Walking Trails:
100km
Terrain:
Diverse terrain from lakeside promenades and vineyard terraces to steeper routes into the hills

With around 100 kilometres of walking paths, Montreux offers plenty of opportunities for leisurely lakeside strolls or more challenging hikes in the hills above town. One of the highlights is the promenade that runs along the shore of Lake Geneva, stretching south from Montreux to Villeneuve and passing the medieval Château de Chillon. The region also features scenic routes through the UNESCO-listed Lavaux vineyards, which terrace the lake’s northern slopes, and it's just a short trip across the lake to explore walking trails in France as well. 

Head up the surrounding mountains to beautiful gardens and flower trails. Or, make your way down to Villeneuve, where ‘Les Grangettes’ nature reserve is an internationally recognised hotspot for songbirds, natural habitats and home to over 250 species.

Our favourite self-guided walks in Montreux

Montreux Lavaux vineyard
  • Grade: Easy
  • Distance: 3km
  • Walking time: 1 hour
  • Terrain: Roads and forested paths

The Mont Pèlerin walk offers spectacular panoramas of Lake Geneva and the Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Starting at the top, enjoy a scenic descent through lush forests and terraced vineyards, with idyllic hamlets along the way. The route changes with the seasons, from vibrant greens in spring to golden autumn hues. It’s an ideal hike for those who want a mix of natural beauty and cultural charm.

Image: (Copyright: Switzerland Tourism)

  • Grade: Moderate
  • Distance: 7km
  • Walking time: 3 hours
  • Terrain: Road, paved and forested path

The Kingdom of Chestnuts trail in Villeneuve is a peaceful walk through ancient chestnut groves. As you wander beneath the trees' canopy, enjoy views of Lake Geneva and the Alps, while passing by historic landmarks that offer a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage. This picturesque trail is perfect for nature lovers and anyone seeking a quiet escape in the heart of the Swiss countryside.

Montreux hiker at Rocher de Naye
  • Grade: Challenging
  • Distance: 6.4km
  • Walking time: 2.5 hours
  • Terrain: Wide paved and forested path

This trail takes you through the stunning Chauderon Gorge, shaped by the Baye de Montreux river. Expect towering cliffs, rugged rocks, and lush forest, alongside peaceful pools and waterfalls. The mix of easy forest paths and rocky climbs offers both relaxation and a bit of adventure. Historic stone bridges and beautiful viewpoints add a touch of charm, making this hike perfect for nature lovers seeking a quiet, scenic escape.

Image: (Copyright: Matteo Senn)

Our accommodations in Montreux

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    Hotel Masson Montreux Exterior

    Hotel Masson

    Montreux, Switzerland

    Historic charm Stunning lake views Lush garden surroundings
    Solo Holidays Family-Run
    • Half Board
    • London Gatwick
    • London Heathrow
    • London Luton
    • Manchester Int.
    • Bristol
    • Edinburgh
    • London St Pancras
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    From £869 View details
  • 4
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    Hotel Rene Capt Montreux Exterior

    Hotel René Capt

    Montreux, Switzerland

    Stunning lakeside location Comfortable and stylish rooms Plentiful added value and amenities
    Couples Holidays Group Holidays
    • Half Board
    • London Gatwick
    • London Heathrow
    • London Luton
    • Manchester Int.
    • Bristol
    • Edinburgh
    • London St Pancras
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    From £949 View details
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    Hotel Mona Montreux Aerial View

    Hotel Mona

    Montreux, Switzerland

    Stunning lake views Luxurious spa facilities Gourmet dining options
    Couples Holidays Central Location
    • Half Board
    • London Gatwick
    • London Heathrow
    • London Luton
    • Manchester Int.
    • Bristol
    • Edinburgh
    • London St Pancras
    • +2 More
    From £1,049 View details

Discover Montreux

  • Wander through the UNESCO World Heritage Lavaux Vineyards
  • Take the Chocolate Train for a unique, culinary day out
  • Stroll along the lakeside promenade and hop aboard a scenic cruise

Montreux sits on the north-east shore of Lake Geneva, between bright blue waters and the forested foothills of the Alps. Visitors have long been drawn to the mild climes here – from the monks who first planted the Lavaux vineyards to the well-heeled tourists and rock stars who have stayed in the belle époque mansions and stylish hotels. Trains climb into the mountains, exploring food routes and heading up to high alpine footpaths and viewpoints. The mild climate also fuels the food and drink scene; the whole Montreux Riviera is famous for its wine and cuisine.

Music lovers might spot the Freddie Mercury statue on the promenade—a nod to Queen and other legendary artists like Led Zeppelin, the Rolling Stones and David Bowie, who recorded at Montreux’s Mountain Studios. For the full experience, visit during the Montreux Jazz Festival, held from 4–19 July 2025.

Geneva is the largest lake in Switzerland – and one of the best ways to explore it is by boat. Ferries and paddle steamers cruise between the villages, towns and cities that dot the shores. With a day pass in hand, you can hop on and off wherever you fancy, we recommend Vevey for museums and galleries or Lausanne for its café culture and the Olympic Museum. To see the lake from above, head up the Rochers de Naye cog railway from Montreux - there's views for miles and plenty of exciting walking trails to discover.

The Lavaux vineyards were founded by the monasteries that ruled these parts back in the 11th Century. With sunny, sheltered terraces that dip down towards the waters of Lake Geneva, the Lavaux must be one of the prettiest winemaking regions in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spanning around 800 hectares, it has some of the loveliest walking territory too, including the 11 kilometre-long Terrasses de Lavaux hiking trail. Back in Montreux, you can sip a glass of Lavaux-grown Chasselas with a plate of fresh fish or platter of peppery le petit chaude cheese.

You can take your pick of train stations in Montreux, which is home to the scenic trans-Alpine Simplon railway line. A cog railway also runs up to the viewpoint at Rochers de Naye. From here, you can embark on the final part of the Via Alpina long-distance walking trail, which runs back down to Montreux, or wander the Alpine garden. Alternatively, embark on a typically Swiss culinary day out and hop aboard the Chocolate Train which runs from Montreux. The belle époque-style carriages trundle through vineyards and mountain meadows, to Montbovon where the Chocolate bus takes over, taking you first to the medieval village of Gruyères - famous for its cheese - and on to the village of Broc and the Cailler-Nestlé chocolate factory.

Trains

Switzerland has an incredible railway system - one of the best in the world. You can use your included Swiss Half Fare Card to get up to 50% off journeys across Switzerland. Montreux has its very own train station, meaning you can enjoy a day trip to nearby towns for a change of scenery and explore more of the local walking terrain.

Routes and timetables are available locally. The best way to enjoy the trains is to pre-book a travel pass.

Mountain railway

The Montreux to Rochers-de-Naye cogwheel railway takes you to a walking hotspot in just under one hour. From here you’ll experience spectacular views over the Alps, Montreux Riviera and Lake Geneva.

You can get up to 50% reduction on the fare when using your included Swiss Half Fare Card.

Bus

The bus circulates regularly along the lake, from Vevey to Villeneuve via Montreux. The main bus line number is 201, which is perfect for quick and easy access to onward connections and walking trails. There are also plenty of other numbered and colour-coded routes which reach hiking start points and mountain villages as well.

With the Montreux Riviera Guest Card that's included, you have free travel on these local buses, including Villeneuve nature reserve, Vevey and Glion viewpoint.

Boats

There are plenty of ports to stop at when catching one of the ferries or pleasure boats from Montreux. Nearby stops to consider include:

  • Vevey
  • Lausanne-Ouchy
  • Evian-les Bains

Use your Montreux Riviera Resort Card to get 20% discount on regional rides on the CGN’s Belle Epoque boats that sail around Lake Geneva.

Cards and Passes

The Swiss transport network is an excellent combination of trains, mountain railways, cable cars, boats, and buses that make it a pleasure to get around and explore at your own pace. 

The Swiss Half Fare Card is included in the price of your holiday and is sent to you as part of your rail transfer tickets.

This card can be used around Switzerland for up to 50% discount on various modes of transport - so make sure you keep it with you. It also gives free travel to children from 6 to 15 years old, when accompanied by a parent with the Family Card.

Subject to change.

The ‘Montreux Riviera Resort Card’ is provided by your hotel upon arrival and gives you:

  • Free Travel on local buses, including to Villeneuve nature reserve, Vevey and Glion viewpoint above the lake
  • Free welcome drink at the tourist office upon arrival
  • Up to 50% reduction on entrance to many local attractions, including Château de Chillon and Swiss Toy Museum
  • Reduced fares on some mountain railways

Subject to change.

The Lake Geneva Regional Pass is best for getting around on trains, boats and mountain railways in the Lake Geneva region, including Vevey, Evian, Geneva and Rochers de Naye.

There are two passes available:

  • Five-day pass - includes two days of unlimited travel and three days with 50% off
  • Seven-day pass - includes three days of unlimited travel and four days with 50% off

Subject to change. Please note that the Chocolate/Cheese train is not included.

Travel to Montreux

Travel by air

Flights depart any day expect Tuesdays between 17 May - 25 Oct 25 & 16 May - 24 Oct 26.

Fly from:

  • London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Luton, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, and Bristol

Fly into:

  • Geneva, Zurich or Basel airport 

Transfer time:

  • From Geneva: approx. 1 hour 30 minutes by rail. 
  • From Zurich: approx. 3 hours by rail. 
  • From Basel: approx. 3 hours 15 minutes by rail. 

Your journey may involve a change of trains or a bus. On arrival at Montreux station, there might be a hotel shuttle or taxi (not for the Hotel Mona) to take you to your hotel. Please advise the hotel of your arrival time.

Travel by train

We offer holidays by train to Montreux which depart London-St Pancras daily. There is a flexible stay from 3 days.

The journey takes around 14 hours from London St. Pancras and you'll be able to enjoy the change of scenery out of the train window as you journey through France and into the Alps of Switzerland.

See below for train journey details. 

The provisional outbound timings are:

  1. London St. Pancras

  2. Gare du Nord

    Change

  3. Gare du Lyon

    Change

  4. Basel

    Change (Onward Travel by Train)

Onward travel from Basel: the transfer from Basel to Montreux will be by train. The journey will take around three hours and will have two or three changes of train.

On arrival into Montreux station, there will be a hotel shuttle or taxi to take you to your hotel. 

For your return journey, you will travel back to Basel on Saturday morning by train. The journey takes around three hours and will have two or three changes of train.

The provisional inbound timings from Basel are:

  1. Basel

    Travel to Basel by Train

  2. Gare du Lyon

    Change

  3. Gare du Nord

    Change

  4. London St. Pancras

Things to do in Montreux

Cycling in Montreux

Everyone loves a scenic bike ride, right? The beautiful lakeside promenade lined with palm trees and flowers can be explored even further by bike. Take a gentle ride to nearby villages such as Clarens and Veytaux for picture-perfect views with refreshment breaks along the way. More of a mountain biker? Then the 29-kilometre Montreux Panorama circular trail will have you winding through forests, riding over rolling hills and speeding down tracks to Bains de l'Alliaz.

Image: (Copyright: Montreux Riviera)

Montreux boat on lake Geneva

Hop on a charming lake steamer or ferry as you set sail on Lake Geneva to nearby towns and villages. Or, take a round trip. The scenic cruises will have you landing in Evian, Lausanne and other pretty destinations to explore further by foot. Glide over the clear waters as you travel past Chillon Castle, the nature reserve Les Grangettes, alongside the Swiss and French Alps on the two-hour Montreux Riviera cruise by paddle-steamer.

Bookable locally

‘Riviera Tour ’ Lake Cruise

A 2-hour cruise on the picturesque ‘Haut-Lac’ where the most beautiful scenery and impressive backdrops of the upper part of Lake Geneva can be enjoyed.

Prices include a Swiss Half Fare Card discount.

Please note that the price of excursions will vary depending on the resort you are staying in. We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Montreux veytaux Chillon Castle

Visit the famous 12th Century castle, located on a rock on Lake Geneva's banks – something quite spectacular. The museum inside is incredible for the whole family, and has amazing views over Lake Geneva. Or, visit the nearby Fort de Chillon in Veytaux – an interactive military museum.

Image: (Copyright: Ivo Scholz)

Vevey cobbled streets

Visit the old town of Vevey, with its cobbled streets, little shops and local history museum. You can also go to 'Chaplin’s world', the Charlie Chaplin interactive museum. On Saturdays from July to September, there are folk markets that take place in Vevey – ideal for snapping up some souvenirs and local products.

Image: (Copyright: Maude Rion)

Montreux Cycling Through Lavaux Vineyards

Take a trip to the staggered vineyards in Lavaux where you can taste some of the 300 regional wines. Discover the UNESCO world heritage site – where you will go on a beautiful vine grower stroll before tasting the fresh products back inside. Maybe you will find your new favourite wine.

Image: (Copyright: Switzerland Tourism Bruno Augsburger)

Montreux riviera paddleboarding

You can pick up a stand-up paddle board, canoe and other water sport equipment at local hire shops, perfect for cooling off on the lake. If your feeling daring, then there are also opportunities to try more advanced water sports like wakeboarding, water skiing and rubber dinghy and banana boat rides. There's also several public swimming areas for a dip in the lake.

If the weather takes a turn the Aquaparc is a family fun spot close to Montreux with lots of fast flumes, rubber raft rides and family slides. There is also a children's section called 'Sharkyland', with their own suitable slides and paddle pool. This waterpark also has a large splash lagoon, wave pool and outdoor lazy river – perfect for all ages.

Image: (Copyright: Dominik Baur)

Montreux jazz festival

Montreux has a lively atmosphere and a few festivals and events throughout the summer really add to it:

  • Montreux Jazz festival with live music (approx. 4 - 19 Jul)
  • ‘September Musical’ classical music festival
  • Street Artists festival with free shows in Vevey

Image: Montreux jazz festival (Copyright: Maude Rion)

Montreux hikers at Rocher De Naye

View Lake Geneva from new heights as you make your way up the Rochers-de-Naye by rack railway. There is even a 'Marmottes Paradise' themed coach, so keep your eyes peeled and count how many marmots you can spot.

Image: (Copyright: Switzerland Tourism)

Montreux Glacier 3000 suspension bridge

Take a journey up to the glacier where the whole family can brave the peak walk by Tissot suspension bridge, or zoom down the alpine coaster at the fun park. This is also an exceptional place for holiday photos, with an incredible ice capped backdrop – even in the summer months.

Image: (Copyright: Raphael Dupertuis)

Pack your bags and set off for a full day culinary trip. This experience will have you all seeing, smelling and most importantly tasting the world-famous Swiss chocolate. Starting in Montreux, going to Broc and then returning, you will visit the Cailler-Nestlé chocolate factory and “La Maison du Gruyère” show dairy where they produce famous Swiss cheese.

Bookable locally

The Chocolate Train runs from  May to September 

  • May, June and September on Tuesdays and Thursdays
  • July and August every day

Travelling in authentic train carriages from the “Belle Epoque”, style the Chocolate Train allows passengers to discover the landscape and Swiss products. Starting in Montreux, train will cross sunny vineyards, mountain pastures and pass famous chocolate factory in Broc to arrive at the picturesque medieval village Gruyères. Upon completion of this gourmet experience, you will know all there is to know about traditional and tasty Swiss milk choco­late and the famous Gruyères cheese.

Included:

Belle Epoque train Montreux – Montbovon

  • Coffee and chocolate bread served between Montreux and Montbovon
  • Entrance to "La Maison du Gruyère" and entrance to "La Maison Cailler" with chocolate tasting
  • Guiding
  • Coach transfer from Montbovon between sites and travel back to Montreux

Prices shown include a Swiss Half Fare Card discount.

Please note that the price of excursions will vary depending on the resort you are staying in. We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Image: Chocolate Train (Copyright: Looka Photo Digital Www.Looka.Ch Luca Carmagnola)

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