Location: Montreux
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What to do and see in Montreux, Switzerland: The Best Places and Tips
Jazz aficionados know Montreux as the home of the famed jazz festival. And where else will you find a statue of Queen lead singer Freddie Mercury? But even those who aren't music fans will find respite in this resort town on the Swiss Riviera: The wineries here are world renowned, the Chateau de Chillon is an impressive example of a medieval castle and the views of the Dents-du-Midi are breathtaking. Walk on the lake promenade, ride the cogwheel train or wander Old Montreux to taste its Edwardian flavor.
Restaurants in Montreux
1. Lakeside Promenade Fleuri
Overall Ratings
5 based on 678 reviews
Reviewed By michael c
I have been to many countries, Switzerland is the cleanest, most beautiful and peaceful place I have traveled. The flowers and Gardens, the lakeside walks and the beautiful mountain range around the lake makes this place a must see. Lausanne and Montreux are stunning. If the cost of living was not so high I would live here. Very peaceful lifestyle.
2. Chateau de Chillon
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3 reviews
The doors of one of Europe's most fascinating castle are open to you. This thousand year old historical monument is located in an natural setting on the shores of Lake Geneva in at the foot of the Alps in Switzerland. Individual or groups tours, unaccompanied, guided or with an audioguide are available. Chillon also organises Exhibitions, artistic and popular Performances, as well as Concerts throughout the year. Open all year round (except January 1 and December 25).
Reviewed By TourismProfessional - Worcester, UK
We were staying in Geneva and got a combined train ticket and entrance to the castle from Geneva train stations information centre (it is cheaper to do it this way). When you get to Montreaux train station go down the steps (there are signs for the chateau) and cross the road and pick up the bus (can't remember the number) so that you have your back to the lake and it is behind you. The Chateau is only a few stops and you can see it up ahead to know when to get off. It was POURING with rain on the day we visited and sadly couldn't distinguish the lake from the Mountains it was all grey. The inside was a maze with lots of steps and little rooms. Some rooms they had emphasised and others they hadn't really bothered with when they could have - the room with the 13th century painted animals Springs to mind. There could have been more interpretation. You can hire an audio guide for 6sf I suppose if you wanted to know more.
3. Chaplin's World
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 848 reviews
A scenographic concept unique in the world. The Manoir retraces the private and public life of this genius of the seventh art. The Studio, a new building of Hollywood inspiration, presents the cinematographic work of one the greatest artists of the 20th century. The four-hectare park showcases hundred-year-old trees beloved by Charlie Chaplin and a breathtaking view of Lake Léman and the Alps.
4. Swiss Vapeur Parc
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 390 reviews
This unique park displays its attractions in an area of over 17’000 m2 at Le Bouveret, in a pleasant location adjacent to the shores of Lake Geneva, Switzerland. One miniature train enthusiast, having come from afar to admire this touristic marvel of lower Valais, confided that all the troubles of everyday life seem to disappear within the gates of the park. Only a child’s earliest experiences of joy can come close to expressing the first sensations of a trip on a miniature train. The little trains chug along as if by magic through a sumptuous decor displaying miniature replicas from the rich heritage of Switzerland: the Castle of Aigle, the Church of Saanen, the Halls of Neuchâtel, the Swiss Residence, railway buildings and constructions of every sort (bridges, viaducts, tunnels, etc.), conjuring up a journey into a land of dreams !
Reviewed By Globe-trotteress-NY - Geneva, Switzerland
Other than the fact that we weren't lucky with the weather, there's absolutely nothing to complain about.
The place is easily accessible from Geneva where we live: You take a train from Cornavin to Aigle, then you cross the street and there's a bus that takes you right to the entrance of the park.
The miniature trains are as cute as it gets and riding them is an unforgettable experience.
The place has several restaurants and cafeterias, as well as interesting replicas of historical buildings: a castle, a church, a bank, etc.
It also has a nice gift shop from which we bought some souvenirs. Too bad they had no more t-shirts in the size of my children.
Also, the views on the lake are stunning and a walk along it very pleasant.
For an additional treat, we took a boat instead of the bus back, and it was such an enjoyable experience with view that would make you think you're in paradise. If you're Geneva-bound like us, you can get off the boat at Vevey, and then take a direct train to Geneva.
5. Charlie Chaplin Statue
Overall Ratings
4 based on 439 reviews
6. Queen Studio Experience
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 422 reviews
Reviewed By Dave R - Cambridge, United Kingdom
Plenty of interest packed into a small space and all for free. Essential viewing for all with a passing interest in the band and music in general.
7. GoldenPass Line
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 715 reviews
GoldenPass Line : Montreux - Zweisimmen - Interlaken - Luzern Experience an unforgettable journey though Switzerland ! A marvellous sight during the whole journey though 3 passes, the famous 4000 of the Alps and 8 lakes.
Reviewed By Sunshineqld - Noosa, Australia
We travelled the Golden Pass Line (it's actually a normal route) between Lucerne and Interlaken Ost, didn't book the first class carriage obviously more expensive, I had read that second class have large windows and they were perfectly big enough to capture all the amazing scenery, the amount of Lakes, Mountains, Swiss Houses, Villages, Forests and Waterfalls just beautiful, I took videos along the way absolutely recommend this train trip.
8. Corniche Lavaux Vineyards
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 195 reviews
9. Rochers-de-Naye
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 750 reviews
From the Rochers-de-Naye, towering at an altitude of 2,042 meters, you can enjoy an amazing view on the lake and the Mountains. Get to this peace of heaven with the cog railway leaving from Montreux. Many activities as well as two restaurants, an hotel and Mongolian yurts will give real pleasure to adults and children all the year long.
Reviewed By pinksoda7 - Southport, United Kingdom
Really excited for this trip we had one day in Montreux so went to get the train up as soon as we arrived at 12.17pm. The views were amazing, but we kept stopping with no explanation why (I mean other than the planned stops). It literally took about 2 hours to get to point 7, after so much sitting and waiting with no updates, kids needed the toilet, one poor child actually wet themselves we went back down to allow for people to get off if needed while they tried to fix and electric fault - thankfully translated to us by someone who spoke English as the drivers didn’t which is fair enough but you need to tell people what is going on. Anyway after 4 hours we made it down, very frustrating waste of our day. Refunds could be made but as I booked my tickets online I now need to write for my refund. This apparently happens often so surely they should handle the situation better? I would attempt it on my next visit but note take spare snacks and water and go to the toilet before in case you have the same frustrating experience!
10. Freddie Mercury Memorial
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1 reviews
Memorial to Freddy Mercury, long-time resident of Montreux and member of the band "Queen".
Reviewed By A TripAdvisor Member
Worth a visit
What does Switzerland mean to you in December especially at Christmas - skis , snow , hot toddy, parties very active Sports types ?
Not always try Montreux and especially the Royal Plaza Hotel for a great place to stay , good food , super accommodation, and a home from home - without the cooking ,crowds and pressure!
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