Places to Visit in Montreux

Highlights:

Situated atop a rocky mountain, the Chillon Castle is in the midst of the serene Lake Geneva offering soothing views of the majestic mountains and lake. The Castle has also been home to various Dukes as well as has been used as a prison which allows visitors to experience the intricate raw architecture of the Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. From the great chambers to the prison cells; experience mediaeval life and culture like never before!

Transportation:

A popular visit destination, reaching this iconic attraction is no hassle. Visitors can choose between taking the local bus connecting the bus with the town center or can take a leisure stroll around the pleasant promenades leading upto the castle relishing the stunning views and the breeze of fresh air. The city is also connected by train from major Swiss cities offering quick and seamless travel to and fro from this historic fortress.

Nearby places to Visit:

• Dive into the abundant flora of the region at the Vaud Rivera!
• Relax and Replenish yourself to the European skyline aboard the Riviera cruise.
• Spend a day at the nearby city of Vevey exploring the statue and life of Charlie Chaplin!

What’s to Offer?:

The Freddy Mercury statue has been a long standing commemoration for Freddy Mercury and his extensive musical abilities. Overlooking the shoreline of Lake Geneva, the location allows access to the Queen’s recording studio where the band recorded songs. The bronze-figure in its iconic pose offers an insight into the cultural life of the city and musical backgrounds that developed along the city’s mesmerising beauty. The statue offers visitors a chance to learn of his life and dive into the shared passion of the locals!

Transportation:

The Freddie Mercury Statue is located at a walkable distance from the Montreux station and city center of Place du Marché. The statue is easily connected by the Montreux public transport system with various bus lines (201,204,205). For those traveling from nearby cities, taking a boat might as well be feasible since the pier is only a short walk from the statue.

Tips for Visitors:

• Ensure to pay tributes carefully and not litter the area while allowing the beauty around you to engulf you into its majesty.
• Remember to carry your camera and be respectful with the locals and other visitors by following turn-taking to capture a moment with the statue!
• Visit the nearby Queens Studio to truly immerse yourself into the magical journey of music making as done by the popular band – Queens.

Highlights:

The Montreux Old Town is amongst the most prominent locations of the city of Montreux. Beaming from its bright yellow cobblestone streets of Rue du Marché to the bustling markets at the Place du Marché; the Montreux Old town presents a blend of city life and the vibrant architecture of the city. With an endless range of charming cafes and authentic restaurants, the old town leads you into a journey of experiencing its cultural and historical glory.

Tips for Visitors:

• Check the local calendar to see if any cultural events like festivals or concerts take place during your visit to pump your adrenaline and experience the passion of the city.
• Explore the Old Town on foot for an immersive experience into the town’s lively atmosphere.
• If you happen to visit on a Friday, grab authentic locally crafted crafts and specialties at the bustling weekly market.

Nearby Places to Visit:

• Step into the St.Vincent Church and teleport into the 16th Century and into a world of stained glass windows and buzzing clock towers.
• Spend a while at the Montreux Casino to explore the magic of Jazz music and musical recordings.
• Take a stroll along the Quai des Fleurs, a lakeside promenade with pleasant views of Lake Geneva and the magnificent Alps.

What’s to Offer?

Situated in the heights of the Swiss Alps, Rochers-de-Naye is a popular destination for a multitude of reasons. Displaying a vast range of flora and fauna; the mountain is home to the Alpine marmots along the challenging hiking trails at the summit of the mountain. Curated for experienced and casual trekkers at the same time; the treks lead to the wonderland of adventure activities like sledding, skiing and other winter sports. Not to forget, the unbeatable views of the Swiss Alps coupled with the savory delicacies from the summit’s restaurant is an unbeatable experience!

Transportation:

Rochers-de-naye is seamlessly connected by a range of affordable and scenic modes of transport. The most prominent being the cog railway starting from the Montreux train station, it takes an hour through scenic views and narrow tunnels that lead to this mountain paradise. Another alternative could even be to use personal or rented transport or shuttle services that provide a soothing drive through the snow-capped ranges of the Alps.

What’s to Offer?

Being the most premier destination for adventure enthusiasts, the Glacier 3000 invites tourists to spend a day in its exciting attractions. Starting from the Col Du Pillon, a panoramic cable car to the glacier’s summit;followed by the exquisite Tissot Suspension bridge connecting two gigantic peaks; visitors are guaranteed an adrenaline rush in these heavenly attractions. The Alpine Coaster is also a popular ride amongst tourists stretching across the gorgeous landscape of the Alpine showcasing the majestic beauty of the Alps.

Visitors can also indulge in other adventurous activities including getting aboard the memorable experience of Dog-Sled rides and Cruise on the summer loipe- over 25 kilometers of ski slopes inviting adventure enthusiasts of all ages. Visitors may also embark on a thrilling trail for hiking or choose to use a helicopter ride to drool over the beauty of this snow-capped expanse from a bird’s eye-view. Amongst various other engagements, visitors can also retreat to the comfort of a snow bus ride and relax at the snowpark before collecting their souvenirs from the shops and establishments at the summit on their way back!

What’s to Offer?

Gstaad has proven to be a popular tourist destination in the Alpine for its formidable hospitality and perfect blend of luxury and natural beauty. Visitors can indulge in its adventurous activities like hiking and biking trails across the magnificent peaks of Gstaad. Visitors can also experience the Swiss beauty at the Wispile, a popular viewpoint region or relax with a luxurious spa treatment before relishing the gourmet specialties of the regions at the local eateries.

Transportation:

With a seamless connection to public and local transport, traveling to Gstaad is an enjoyable and hassle-free experience. Visitors can choose comfort at affordable prices by taking the train from major Swiss Cities and enjoy the scenic journey through the countryside or can even choose to utilize the highway system by driving to the village. For enhanced convenience, visitors may also reserve shuttle services through local hotels and resorts to easen their journey to this alpine paradise.

Nearby Destinations:

• Take a short drive to the Lauenen Lake and spend your evening fishing in the midst of a serene and soothing backdrop.
• Embark on a day-long expedition to the Glacier 3000 to rejuvenate the kid inside you with scenic views and sporty activities
• Visit the city of Gruyere and experience the fusion of culinary delights and wonderful architecture at the castle and local markets.

Highlights:

The town of Gruyere invites you into its vibrant pathways and rich history blended into the quaint attractions of the town. Experience the well-preserved rooms and striking architecture at the Gruyeres Castle before diving into the mind-blowing works of HR Giger at the HR Giger museum to experience biomechanical art in the historic St. Germain Castle. Extending beyond its historical and culinary delights; the town engulfs visitors in its winding streets and scintillating scents of fresh flowers into the beauty and charm of the Swiss countryside.

Places to Visit:

• Visit the La Maison du Gruyère to experience the traditional and renowned art of cheese-making while learning abouts its history as you let your tastebuds devour the samples.
• Indulge in the Swiss flavours and make sure to experience the heavenly combinations of meringues and double cream at the local eateries.
• Take a trip to the Calvaire de Gruyères to experience the 14 chapels of religious importance established just outside the town in a beautiful landscape.

What’s to Offer?

The Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory offers an interactive tour that takes you on a journey of traditional Swiss chocolate making while diving into the historical legacy and the sourcing of ingredients to the intricate process of transforming those ingredients into the delicious chocolates. Visitors also get an opportunity to sample the wide ranges of Cailler’s creations after which they could choose to take away their favourites from the factory’s outlets. One can even participate in Cailler’s chocolate-making workshops to create personalised chocolates by themselves!

Transportation

Situated a bit afar from the town of Montreux, the Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory is still connected with a seamless network of public and private transport ensuring accessibility for everyone alike. The Factory is just a short walk away from the Broc-Fabrique station and a quick stop from the Broc-Fabrique bus stop when taking a bus from Bulle to Juan (Line 263). Visitors may even use personal transport or take the magical journey of chocolate trains during the Summer months (May to October).

Tips for Visitors:

• Ensure to book your tickets in advance and before time to guarantee a seamless experience, especially in the peak season.
• Be punctual on time and experience the factory at leisure tasting and exploring every stop and tasting with passion and zeal.
• The tour is for a longer duration of time and interactive in nature so remember to wear comfortable footwear and a jacket if felt necessary since certain regions may get too cold.

What’s to Offer?

The museum offers an endless range of activities and demonstrations that immerse you into the life of Charlie Chaplin. Beginning from the Manoir de Ban, visitors dive into the former house of Chaplin preserved along with its memorabilia and photographs of his personal life. Visitors can next dive into the Studio, hosting the multimedia displays and exhibits that allow you to step into the shoes of the legendary actor. Visitors can also relax and catch a regular film screening of the beloved works in their authentic glory.

Transportation:

Located in the Corsier-sur-vevey region, the Chaplin World is easily accessible by a range of transport methods primarily being directly connected to the Route de Fenil 2, 1804 while those traveling by train can take a train to the Vevey-Corseaux station followed by a quick bus (Line 212) and getting off at the ”Chaplin” stop. Visitors may even choose to take a guided tour of the venue for a clearer and further understanding.

Nearby Places to Visit:

• Hike through the vineyards or take a scenic train ride in the Lavaux Vineyard Terraces to witness vineyards stretching across Lake Geneva.
• Explore the interactive exhibits and participate in the workshops at the Almentarium in the city of Vevey.
• Another prominent destination in the city of Vevey, explore the Swiss Camera Museum to understand the history and development of photography and related equipment.