Switzerland
Montreux, Switzerland: City on Lake Geneva's Edge
A lakeside city known for the Montreux Jazz Festival and views of the Alps across Lake Geneva.
Fast facts
- Country
- Switzerland
- Region
- Canton of Vaud
- Climate
- Mild microclimate with Mediterranean vegetation
- Population
- Approx. 26,000 (2023)
- Known for
- Montreux Jazz Festival, Château de Chillon, lakeside promenade, cog railway
Montreux is a city located on the northeastern shore of Lake Geneva in Switzerland, recognized primarily for its annual jazz festival held each July. The city lies in the canton of Vaud and benefits from a microclimate that allows for Mediterranean plants like palm trees along the lakeside promenade. Winter brings views of snow-capped peaks like the Rochers-de-Naye, accessible by a cog railway from Montreux itself. Visitors often spend time walking the lakeshore or visiting the nearby Château de Chillon, a medieval castle situated on a rock island just south of the city.
Montreux Jazz Festival
Held every July, this festival attracts international jazz artists. Tickets sell out quickly, so plan ahead to catch performances.
Rochers-de-Naye Railway
The cog railway departs from Montreux station and climbs to a peak offering panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the Alps.
Château de Chillon
About 5 kilometers from Montreux, this castle on the lake is accessible by boat or local bus and dates back to medieval times.
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Where is Montreux?
Get a feel for Montreux on the map — the neighbourhoods, landscapes, and places that will shape the full guide.
Top experiences in Montreux
A handful of the best-reviewed, instant-confirmation tours and tickets — sourced live from our partners.
Half Day Morning Private Ski Lesson in Verbier
Full Day Private Ski Lesson in Verbier
Half Day Afternoon Private Ski Lesson in Verbier
Private Gruyères Tour Including Cheese and Chocolate Factory Visit from Montreux
Discover Montreux’s most Photogenic Spots with a Local
Private transfer from Verbier to Geneva Airport
Inventory updated 6 days ago.
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Hotels, apartments and independent stays in Montreux, sourced from the partners we use ourselves. Pricing and availability are real-time on each partner.
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You may also be interested in: VisitLucerne.com, VisitZug.com
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