Montreux

Montreux, located on the shores of Lake Geneva with the Swiss Alps in the background, is a resort town known for its annual jazz festival. Visitors can explore the medieval Chillon Castle, walk along the lakeside promenade, or take a cogwheel train ride to the mountain peaks. The town's connection to music legends like Freddie Mercury and its mild climate make it a popular destination in Switzerland.

Montreux's Lakeside Promenade

The 4-mile path along Lake Geneva is lined with flowers and forms the center of Montreux. As you walk, you'll see grand Belle Époque hotels, gardens, and sculptures of music icons. Look for the statue of Freddie Mercury, who lived in Montreux for many years, striking a pose. If you continue south, you'll reach the Montreux Casino, where Deep Purple wrote "Smoke on the Water" after witnessing a fire.

Chillon Castle

About 3 kilometers south of town, you'll find the 13th-century Chillon Castle on a rocky island. You can tour the castle's towers, courtyards, and underground vaults to learn about its strategic importance and history. In the 16th century, the castle served as a prison for Genevan monk François Bonivard, an event that inspired Lord Byron's poem "The Prisoner of Chillon." From the top of the keep, you can see Lake Geneva and the Alps.

Montreux Jazz Festival

For two weeks each July, Montreux hosts its world-famous music festival featuring jazz, rock, and pop. Since 1967, the festival has welcomed performers like Miles Davis, David Bowie, and Prince. Even if you don't attend the main shows, you can enjoy free concerts on outdoor stages along the lakefront. Outside of festival season, visit the free Queen Studio Experience at the Montreux Casino to see where the band recorded several albums.

Cogwheel Train to Rochers-de-Naye

You can take a steep cogwheel railway from Montreux to Rochers-de-Naye at 2,042 meters (6,699 feet). The 55-minute journey passes through forests and meadows before reaching the summit. At the top, you can hike mountain trails, visit the Alpine garden, or look at the 360-degree view of Lake Geneva and the surrounding peaks. On clear days, you might see as far as the Jura Mountains and Mont Blanc.

Lavaux Vineyards

The terraced Lavaux vineyards extend for 30 kilometers along the lakeshore between Montreux and Lausanne. This UNESCO World Heritage site has produced wine since the 12th century. You can walk through the vineyards or take the Lavaux Express, a small tourist train that travels through the steep hillsides. Visit family-run wineries to try local wines like Chasselas white. For a good view, hike up to the village of Chexbres, known as the "balcony of Lavaux."

Chaplin's World

In nearby Corsier-sur-Vevey, you can visit Chaplin's World to learn about Charlie Chaplin's life and work. The silent film star lived in the area for his last 25 years. You can tour his mansion and walk through recreated film sets in the on-site "Hollywood Studio." The exhibits and multimedia presentations show Chaplin's artistry, and there's a cinema showing excerpts from his most famous films.

Shopping and Dining in Montreux

Montreux's main shopping street, Grand Rue, runs parallel to the lake and has boutiques, chocolatiers, and watch shops. On Fridays, you can visit the covered market for local products. For food, you'll find options ranging from Michelin-starred restaurants to casual lakeside cafes. Try regional dishes like Lake Geneva perch or cheese fondue made with local Gruyère. Many restaurants have outdoor terraces where you can eat while looking at the lake.