CGN Boats Montreux
Montreux, a jewel on Lake Geneva, captivates with its stunning Riviera, majestic Alps, and world-class music festivals.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Jazz Festival buzz
CGN Boats Montreux
Best Time
Jazz Festival buzz
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Montreux, a jewel on Lake Geneva, captivates with its stunning Riviera, majestic Alps, and world-class music festivals.
"A beautiful and nice town with breathtaking views of Lake Geneva and the Alps."
🚢 Boat Trip Views
Take a CGN boat trip on Lake Geneva for stunning views of Montreux and the surrounding Alps.
🎶 Jazz Fest Tickets
Book Montreux Jazz Festival tickets well in advance, especially for popular acts.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lake Geneva Promenade
Lakeside
Stroll along the picturesque promenade, dotted with sculptures and vibrant flowers, offering breathtaking views of Lake Geneva and the Alps.
Montreux Jazz Festival
Various venues
Experience world-class music at this iconic festival, drawing top artists and a lively international crowd each July.
Chillon Castle
Veytaux (near Montreux)
Explore this magnificent medieval island castle, a stunning historical landmark with a rich past and dramatic lakeside setting.
Christmas Market
Promenade
Immerse yourself in festive cheer with charming stalls, delicious treats, and a magical Santa's show during the holiday season.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Montreux Visit
Navigating Montreux's Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Boat Trip Views
Take a CGN boat trip on Lake Geneva for stunning views of Montreux and the surrounding Alps. 
🎶 Jazz Fest Tickets
Book Montreux Jazz Festival tickets well in advance, especially for popular acts.
🏰 Castle Exploration
Dedicate ample time to explore Chillon Castle; it's a historical gem.
🥨 Festive Food Finds
Don't miss the delicious Kurtos Kalacs at the Christmas market!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Boat Trip Views
Take a CGN boat trip on Lake Geneva for stunning views of Montreux and the surrounding Alps.
🎶 Jazz Fest Tickets
Book Montreux Jazz Festival tickets well in advance, especially for popular acts.
🏰 Castle Exploration
Dedicate ample time to explore Chillon Castle; it's a historical gem.
🥨 Festive Food Finds
Don't miss the delicious Kurtos Kalacs at the Christmas market!
🚂 Vintage Train Ride
Experience the Belle Époque train for a scenic journey through the Swiss Alps. +1
🎸 Guitar Show Vibe
Visit during the Montreux International Guitar Show for a unique musical experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Montreux is praised for its stunning lakeside setting, beautiful promenade, and vibrant atmosphere, especially during the Jazz Festival and Christmas market. Visitors enjoy boat trips and the historic Chillon Castle. Some find the town can feel crowded and altered during large events.
"A beautiful amphitheatrically located town above the Lake Lemann, due to the Jazz Festival held there, its beauty cannot be felt. There are many temporary buildings right on the promenade around the lake."
Tzvetelina Jordanova
"We didn’t take the boat, but the view around Montreux is so beautiful"
HAO DING
"Very nice and beautiful place 💕"
sushma batra
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Montreux is easily accessible by train from major Swiss cities like Geneva, Lausanne, and Zurich. The train station is centrally located, making it convenient to reach your accommodation. +1
Yes, the town center and promenade are very walkable. Many attractions are within easy reach on foot. +1
Public transport, including buses and boats, is efficient. Consider a Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats.
Driving is possible, but parking can be challenging and expensive in the town center. Public transport is generally recommended.
Montreux is about a 1-hour train ride from Geneva Airport (GVA), making it a convenient destination for international travelers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, tickets are required for most concerts at the Montreux Jazz Festival. It's advisable to book them in advance, especially for headliners.
Admission fees for Chillon Castle vary for adults and children. Check their official website for current pricing and opening hours.
The Montreux promenade, parks, and many viewpoints are free to enjoy. The Christmas market also offers free entry, though purchases incur costs. +1
The Montreux Christmas Market typically runs from late November through late December. Specific dates vary annually. +1
Yes, tickets for the Belle Époque train can be purchased through official Swiss Railways (SBB) or third-party booking sites like Get Your Guide. +1
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the Lake Geneva promenade, Chillon Castle, and enjoying the ambiance during the Jazz Festival or Christmas market. +1
Enjoy boat trips on Lake Geneva, visit Chillon Castle, explore the charming town, and take scenic train rides like the Belle Époque.
Yes, Montreux makes a wonderful day trip from cities like Lausanne or Geneva, offering beautiful scenery and key attractions.
Families can enjoy boat rides, exploring Chillon Castle, and the festive atmosphere of the Christmas market. +1
The promenade with the lake and mountains, Chillon Castle, and panoramic views from nearby hills offer fantastic photo opportunities. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
During the Christmas market, try Kurtos Kalacs and other festive treats. Local Swiss cuisine is also widely available. +1
Montreux offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining, with many restaurants offering lake views.
While in Switzerland, consider trying fondue, raclette, rösti, and Swiss chocolate.
Most restaurants in Montreux offer vegetarian options, and many dishes can be adapted.
Dining prices can vary. Casual meals might cost CHF 20-30, while a fine dining experience could be CHF 50+.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour (sunrise and sunset) offers beautiful light for the lake and mountains. Clear days provide stunning alpine vistas. +1
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can capture distant mountain details. A tripod is useful for low-light conditions.
The promenade, the view towards Chillon Castle, and panoramic viewpoints from the hills above Montreux are highly recommended.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially near the Jazz Festival venues or protected natural sites. Always check local regulations.
Focus on the atmosphere, the performers, and the crowds. Consider capturing the energy of the festival at night.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for fewer crowds. The promenade is safe and spacious for little ones to wander, and many hotels offer family-friendly amenities.
🎶 Music Lovers
Even outside of festival times, the town's musical legacy is palpable, making it a pilgrimage site for music lovers.
🏰 History & Culture Buffs
The town also has a connection to literary figures and artists, adding to its cultural allure. Exploring the historic parts of the town and its surroundings provides a rich cultural experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the Montreux Jazz Festival
Beyond the main stages, the festival spills into the streets with free concerts, pop-up performances, and a lively atmosphere. Visitors can expect a diverse range of musical acts, from jazz and blues to rock and pop. Planning ahead is crucial, as tickets for popular shows sell out quickly.
Experiencing the festival involves more than just attending concerts; it's about soaking in the unique ambiance of Montreux during this exciting period. The temporary structures on the promenade, while sometimes noted as detracting from the usual beauty, are part of the festival's energetic setup.
Scenic Journeys: Belle Époque Train & Lake Geneva Cruises
Complementing the train journeys are the CGN boat cruises on Lake Geneva. These cruises provide a different perspective of Montreux, the surrounding Riviera, and the majestic Alps. Whether you opt for a short trip or a longer excursion, the tranquil waters and stunning vistas make for a memorable experience.
+1These travel options are not just about getting from point A to point B; they are integral parts of the Montreux experience, offering unique ways to appreciate the region's stunning landscapes and historical charm. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
Montreux's Festive Charm: Christmas Markets and Santa's Village
A major highlight is the Santa's Village, where visitors can meet Santa Claus and enjoy a special show, adding to the enchantment for families. The market is a fantastic place to sample traditional Swiss Christmas treats, such as the popular Kurtos Kalacs, and find unique holiday gifts.
The Montreux Christmas Market is a beloved tradition, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere that captures the spirit of the holiday season. It's a perfect destination for those looking to experience a quintessential European Christmas market.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit