21 BEST Day Trips from Montreux by Train, Car, Boat, and Tour
Looking for the best day trips from Montreux, Switzerland?
We’ve made Montreux our base while exploring the western part of Switzerland, and day trips from Montreux are some of the best we’ve experienced as professional travelers.
From charming lakeside towns to amazing alpine adventures, Montreux is perfectly located for quick access to many incredible destinations.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the top day trips from Montreux by train, car, boat, and tour, sharing our personal recommendations along the way.
Whether you’re looking for castles or outdoor fun, you’ll find plenty of options for memorable trips, all within easy reach of Montreux.
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Day Trips from Montreux by Tour
Day trips from Montreux by tour are a fantastic way to explore the region with the convenience of a local guide, ensuring you see the top sights without worrying about planning or transportation.
We love these tours from Montreux because they offer flexibility, personalized experiences, and access to hidden gems you might miss on your own.
Chillon Castle
Visiting Chillon Castle on a tour from Montreux is a fantastic way to experience one of the most visited medieval castles in Europe.
We love this tour because it not only includes the castle but also the best of Montreux.
With flexible timing, we were able to adjust the tour based on our availability to fit it into our schedule.
You’ll have a private, local guide for up to 15 people, showing you highlights like the Freddie Mercury Statue, Montreux’s Old Town, the Temple of Saint-Vincent, and the scenic Chauderon Gorges.
The tour wraps up with a visit to Chillon Castle in Veytaux, the perfect ending to a great day trip from Montreux.
Gruyères
A day trip from Montreux to Gruyères transports you into the heart of Switzerland’s cheese and chocolate heaven, surrounded by the stunning Friborg Alps and peaceful pastures. To us, a day trip to Gruyères is a must!
We love wandering through the medieval town’s charming streets and visiting the 13th-century Gruyères Castle. Tasting fresh Gruyère cheese at La Maison du Gruyère is always a treat for us!
On the Gruyères city, Cheese & Chocolate Day Tour with Open Up Swiss Dream Travel, you’ll experience why we adore this area.
This private 9-hour tour includes a visit to Gruyères Castle and ends with a sweet adventure at Maison Cailler.
We appreciate the convenience of being picked up at our Montreux accommodation and spending the day immersed in Swiss history, culture, and, of course, amazing food!
Glacier 3000
A day trip from Montreux to Glacier 3000 is an unforgettable adventure.
We always enjoy the breathtaking views of the Alps and the excitement of reaching the glacier by cable car. The mix of outdoor fun and stunning scenery makes it one of our favorite excursions.
On the Glacier 3000 Day Tour, you’ll visit the lovely mountain village of Les Diablerets before taking the cable car to the glacier.
With activities like the snow bus ride and the world’s first suspension bridge connecting two peaks, there’s plenty of adventure for everyone.
The views of iconic peaks like the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc are truly spectacular, making this a perfect day out from Montreux.
Riviera Cruise
A boat trip on Lake Geneva is one of the top day trips from Montreux, and it is a peaceful way to explore the region.
We love being on the water, even when it rains, as it adds a unique charm to the experience.
On this Riviera Cruise, you’ll depart from Montreux on a historic paddle steamer, passing through picturesque towns like Villeneuve, Le Bouveret, and St. Gingolph.
The boat journey has stunning views of the Lavaux vineyards, and both the French and Swiss Alps, making it a scenic and relaxing day on the lake.
Zermatt
The Zermatt, Matterhorn, and Glacier Paradise Day Trip Tour from Montreux is a full-day adventure through the Swiss Alps.
In Zermatt, the majestic Matterhorn stands tall, but it’s important to go on a clear weather day to fully appreciate its iconic silhouette.
We love the quaint feel of Zermatt, with its narrow streets, cozy village atmosphere, great fondue restaurants, and historic wooden buildings.
The tour includes a ride on the highest cable car in the world to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of 38 Alpine peaks and explore the Glacier Palace. We had a ton of fun in the Glacier Palace – be sure to find the slide!
Interlaken
The Berner Oberland Tour from Montreux is a perfect way to explore some of Switzerland’s most stunning landscapes.
The tour takes you through the mountains of Grindelwald and Interlaken, with breathtaking views along the way.
Lauterbrunnen, our favorite place in all of Switzerland, is a great stop, featuring its famous cascading waterfalls.
This private, 8-hour tour provides flexibility, allowing you to choose your itinerary based on weather and preferences. With pickup at your hotel and travel in a comfortable business SUV, it’s a hassle-free way to experience the beauty of the Swiss Alps.
Day Trips from Montreux by Train
Getting around Lake Geneva by train from Montreux is incredibly easy, with frequent and scenic routes connecting you to nearby towns and attractions.
We highly recommend the Swiss Travel Pass, which covers unlimited train travel and makes train trips from Montreux hassle-free.
Geneva
Taking a day trip from Montreux to Geneva by train is easy and scenic, with the journey taking just over an hour.
Once in Geneva, you can visit iconic sights like the Jet d’Eau, the United Nations headquarters, and the Flower Clock.
We recommend trying a Chocolate Tasting and Old Town Tour to get a taste of the city’s history and sweet treats.
The Geneva City Pass is a great option, providing access to 60 activities and attractions throughout the city.
It’s a perfect day trip from Montreux for both sightseeing and enjoying the lively atmosphere of Switzerland’s second-largest city.
Gstadd
The GoldenPass Express to Gstaad is our favorite train ride from Montreux.
This panoramic journey takes you through some of Switzerland’s most breathtaking landscapes in just over 1.5 hours.
We love the seamless experience, with floor-to-ceiling windows immersing you in the stunning panoramic scenery.
Gstaad, with its charming chalets and luxury appeal, makes for a perfect day trip destination from Montreux.
Lausanne
A day trip from Montreux to Lausanne by train is quick and easy, taking around 30 minutes.
In the morning, we recommend exploring Lausanne’s Old Town, where you can visit the Gothic Lausanne Cathedral and stroll through its charming streets.
Be sure to check out some of the city’s renowned museums, like the Collection de l’Art Brut, Musée Historique de Lausanne, and Musée cantonal des Beaux-Arts de Lausanne.
In the afternoon, head to the Olympic Museum near the lake, which celebrates the history of the Olympic Games.
Afterward, enjoy a relaxing walk along the Ouchy waterfront, a perfect way to end your day in Lausanne.
Fribourg
A day trip from Montreux to Fribourg is perfect for exploring one of Switzerland’s best-preserved medieval towns.
You can wander through its charming Old Town, cross the iconic Pont de Berne bridge, and visit the stunning St-Nicolas Cathedral.
We love strolling along the cobblestone streets and discovering the hidden courtyards and quaint shops.
Our favorite part of the day trip is exploring the Gothic architecture and history that make Fribourg so unique.
Montbovon
A day trip to Montbovon from Montreux by train takes you into a peaceful Swiss village surrounded by the Pre-Alps.
You can enjoy hiking trails, explore the countryside, or simply relax and take in the beautiful scenery.
We love visiting Montbovon for its tranquility and the chance to experience the authentic charm of a quiet Swiss village.
Day Trips From Montreux By Car
Day trips from Montreux by car allow you to explore nearby regions at your own pace.
We recommend renting a car from DiscoverCars for flexibility and convenience during your travels.
Lavaux Vineyards
A day trip from Montreux to the Lavaux Vineyards by car is one of the best ways to explore this stunning UNESCO wine region.
Domaine Bovy is our favorite winery in the area with incredible wines and breathtaking views over Lake Geneva.
While there is great hiking in the area, getting between wineries by public transportation can be challenging. Driving allows more flexibility, but be safe and avoid drinking too much if you’re behind the wheel.
Maison Cailler
Visiting Maison Cailler by car from Montreux is a great experience for chocolate lovers.
The audio-guided tour takes you through the fascinating history of Swiss chocolate, and the all-you-can-eat chocolate at the end is the highlight!
The journey by car is straightforward and lets you enjoy the experience without the hassle. While you can get there by train, it requires multiple changes and can take more time.
If you drive, there’s a huge parking lot available, making it much easier to tour at your own pace and also visit Gruyères if you’d like.
Nyon
A day trip to Nyon from Montreux by car takes about 50 minutes and is a great way to explore this charming lakeside town.
You can visit Nyon Castle for beautiful views of Lake Geneva and learn about the town’s Roman history at the nearby Roman columns.
We recommend driving so you can also visit Château de Prangins in the nearby town, home to the Swiss National Museum
Best Day Trips From Montreux By Boat
Day trips from Montreux by boat depart from the pier along the lakefront, with routes to beautiful nearby destinations.
Rivaz and St. Saphorin
A boat trip from Montreux to Rivaz and St. Saphorin is a scenic way to explore these charming Lavaux vineyard villages.
Both have picturesque views, wine tasting opportunities, and peaceful walks through terraced vineyards.
We also love stopping by the Lavaux Vinorama in Rivaz to learn more about the region’s wine history and taste more local selections.
Evian-les-Bains, France
A boat ride to Evian-les-Bains, France takes about an hour from Montreux with scenic views of Lake Geneva along the way.
Once in Evian, you can explore the famous spa town, visit the mineral water source, and enjoy a relaxing day by the lake.
Yvoire, France
A day trip to Yvoire by boat from Montreux is a scenic way to explore the medieval village across Lake Geneva.
The peaceful boat ride sets the tone for a relaxing day, where you can wander Yvoire’s narrow streets and visit its beautiful gardens.
Morges
Taking a boat to Morges from Montreux is a relaxing way to enjoy the scenic beauty of Lake Geneva.
Once in Morges, you can stroll along the picturesque lakeside promenade and visit the town’s beautiful parks and seasonal flower displays. Don’t miss the Tulip Festival if visiting in the spring!
Half Day Trips From Montreux
Half-day trips from Montreux are easily taken due to the town’s central location and excellent public transportation.
Chillon Castle
A visit to Chillon Castle from Montreux is more of a half-day trip because of how close it is, just 10 minutes away. You can take Bus 201 directly from Montreux, making it a quick and easy journey.
Our favorite part of the castle is the underground dungeons, where you can imagine the history that unfolded there.
The castle has been around for centuries, playing a role in everything from medieval trade to housing prisoners. We joked that is a pretty great view if you were a prisoner!
If you don’t plan on taking a tour, we recommend buying your ticket in advance to skip the line and enjoy more time exploring this historic gem.
Vevey
A train ride from Montreux to Vevey takes just about 10 minutes, making it one of the easiest half day trips from Montreux by train.
Vevey is a charming lakeside town known for its stunning waterfront and vibrant markets.
While you’re there, a visit to the Alimentarium food museum is a must, where you can learn about the history of food.
Our favorite activity in Vevey is seeing the giant fork sculpture rising out of Lake Geneva, a quirky and fun landmark.
Another highlight is the Chaplin’s World Museum, where you can explore the life and legacy of Charlie Chaplin in his former home.
Rochers-de-Naye
A half day trip from Montreux to Rochers-de-Naye is one of our favorite escapes into the mountains.
We always enjoy riding up the cogwheel train and taking in the panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the Alps at the summit. It’s the perfect mix of relaxation and stunning scenery.
With the Montreux to Rochers-de-Naye Alpine Adventure Ticket, you’ll travel on a self-guided journey aboard the historic cogwheel train.
This flexible ticket lets you explore at your own pace, winding through lush landscapes and steep mountain slopes.
Les Pléiades
A quick trip by train from Montreux takes you to this nearby mountain, perfect for enjoying the blooming fields of narcissus flowers in the spring.
We love hiking in this area because of the stunning views over Lake Geneva and the surrounding mountains.
Is Montreux, Switzerland a great hub for day trips?
Montreux, Switzerland is a fantastic hub for day trips because of its prime location on the eastern side of Lake Geneva.
This allows easy access to all the charming towns and attractions around the lake, like Lausanne, Vevey, and the Lavaux Vineyards.
Montreux is also closer to popular destinations like Interlaken, Zermatt, and Gstaad than the city of Geneva, making day trips to these areas shorter and more convenient.
Plus, Montreux is famous for its annual Jazz Festival, which brings the town to life every summer with world-class music.
Using Montreux as your base not only gives you incredible day trip options but also lets you enjoy the town’s stunning lake views.
How to Get To and From Montreux, Switzerland
Montreux’s transportation options make day trips easy and convenient.
The train station, located above the main town, requires taking escalators or stairs to reach but has great access to destinations across Switzerland.
Buses are also available, connecting Montreux to nearby towns and attractions, like Château de Chillon.
The ferry terminal is right near the train station, and the boats provide a scenic way to explore locations around Lake Geneva.
If you’re using public transportation, the Swiss Travel Pass is a fantastic option. It covers trains, buses, and boats, making travel free and stress-free for pass holders.
With these options, getting around from Montreux is simple and efficient for any day trip!
Where to Stay in Montreux, Switzerland
We recommend staying near the Montreux train station if you plan on taking day trips for easy access to transportation.
💎 LUXURY: Fairmont Le Montreux Palace
This 5-star hotel is a luxurious option with lakefront views, a spa, and multiple dining options. It’s just a short walk to the train station, making it perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.
⭐️ MODERATE: Grand Hotel Suisse Majestic
Located directly across from the train station, this 4-star hotel combines elegance and convenience. It features beautiful lake views, modern amenities, and a restaurant perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
🛏️ BUDGET: Hotel Splendid
This affordable option has charming, comfortable rooms with easy access to the train station. While more basic, the hotel provides excellent service and lake views, making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
FAQs for Day Trips from Montreux, Switzerland
What are the best day trips from Montreux by train?
The best day trips from Montreux by train include visiting Lausanne, Geneva, Fribourg, and Nyon. These destinations are easily accessible by Switzerland’s efficient train network and have a mix of cultural attractions, historic sites, and beautiful lakeside views.
Can you visit Lavaux Vineyards by car from Montreux?
Yes, you can easily visit the Lavaux Vineyards by car from Montreux. Driving gives you the flexibility to explore the terraced vineyards and stop at amazing wineries for a relaxing day trip from Montreux, Switzerland.
How do you get to Maison Cailler from Montreux?
To visit Maison Cailler from Montreux, driving is the most convenient option as it takes about an hour and avoids the multiple train changes required. The journey by car makes this a perfect day trip from Montreux to enjoy Swiss chocolate.
What are the best tours to take from Montreux Switzerland?
Some of the best tours from Montreux Switzerland include guided visits to Chillon Castle, Gruyères, the Lavaux Vineyards, and the scenic Diablerets and Glacier 3000. These tours cover a variety of interests, from historical sites to breathtaking alpine landscapes.
Can you visit Chillon Castle on a day trip from Montreux?
Yes, Chillon Castle is one of the easiest day trips from Montreux, located just 10 minutes away by car or bus. This stunning lakeside castle is a must-visit for history lovers exploring the Montreux area.
Is there a train from Montreux to the Mountains?
The cogwheel train to Rochers-de-Naye takes you from Montreux to stunning alpine views in under an hour. This scenic journey has panoramic vistas of Lake Geneva and the surrounding peaks, perfect for a day trip from Montreux to the mountains.
How to get to Mont-Blanc from Montreux?
To get to Mont-Blanc from Montreux, take a train to Martigny, then transfer to a train to Chamonix, France. From Chamonix, you can take a cable car or bus to Mont-Blanc. The journey takes around 2.5 to 3 hours each way, depending on connections.
In Conclusion: Day Trips from Montreux, Switzerland
We hope you have as great a time taking day trips from Montreux as we did!
Whether you’re exploring charming villages, hiking around the Alps, or tasting Swiss chocolate and wine, this region has endless beauty and adventure.
You’ll quickly fall in love with Montreux and its surroundings, just as we have!
We wish you the best travels, and don’t forget to set your “Out of Office!”
🌟 Loving our content? Support the journey and buy us a coffee! ☕️
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Switzerland Travel Planning Guide
🚙🚄 Is renting a car or public transportation better in Switzerland?
For traveling in Switzerland, we recommend using public transportation. Switzerland’s train system and other public transportation options are some of the best in the world.
We always buy the Swiss Travel Pass, which provides access to trains, funiculars, boats, lifts, and buses. It also gives you free access to over 500 museums.
Renting a car in Switzerland has its pros and cons. Pro: You get the freedom to explore at your own pace and visit remote areas. Con: Parking can be expensive and challenging in cities. When we rent a car, we always use Discover Cars for reliable service.
📲 Will my phone work in Switzerland?
Maybe, but it will be expensive! Depending on your provider, plans can charge you $10 per day while in Europe.
To use your phone in Switzerland and save money, we recommend an eSim with Airalo. Airalo simplifies the steps and provides you with all the necessary data for convenient travel.
There is not a lot of free WIFI in Switzerland, so you’ll need your phone for navigating.
🌐 Do I need a VPN when on the internet in Switzerland?
While abroad, we consistently prioritize our online security by using a VPN to appear as if we’re streaming from the US and protect ourselves from cybercrime.
NordVPN serves as an incredibly convenient solution for both mobile phones and laptops, effortlessly ensuring our safety while browsing or streaming.
🏩 What’s the best way to book my Switzerland accommodations?
Our go-to for Switzerland hotels is Booking.com. They offer the widest range of choices, and their filtering system simplifies the process of discovering the perfect accommodation for your needs.
✈️ What’s the best site to buy flights to Switzerland?
For finding cheap flights to Switzerland, we recommend Kayak. Their awesome multi-city flight search and handy price notifications help us save big, allowing us to splurge on other adventures once we arrive.
Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) is usually our airline of choice while in Switzerland.
🚐 Should I book tours in Switzerland? Do the guides speak English?
We LOVE taking tours in Switzerland.
We prefer to book our tours on Viator and GetYourGuide for easy searching, trusted reviews, and transparent pricing. We always filter for the tours that are offered in English.
For free walking tours in English, we always book through GuruWalk.
🚑 Should I buy Switzerland travel insurance?
100% YES! Switzerland has a publicly funded healthcare system known as the LAMal (L’Assurance Maladie Obligatoire), also known as the Swiss Health Insurance Law, which provides basic health insurance to all Swiss citizens and legal residents!
Foreigners visiting need travel insurance in case anything happens on their visit. We recommend Safety Wing – they provide general travel coverage as well as medical!
💧Can you drink the water in Switzerland?
Drinking water in Switzerland is exceptionally safe and clean. You can drink tap water anywhere, and it’s often better than bottled water.
There are many public fountains in cities and towns where you can fill your water bottle. If a fountain is not safe to drink from, there will be a sign indicating this. Generally, no sign means the water is safe to drink.
For an extra layer of protection, we recommend always using a LifeStraw Go Series to stay safe and hydrated.
🎫 Do I need a visa for Switzerland?
Citizens of the European Union (EU) and European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries do not need a visa for short stays.
For travelers from many other countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, no visa is required for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, always check the latest visa requirements before you travel, as rules can change.
💸 What currency is used in Switzerland?
Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to have some cash for smaller purchases.
🗣️ What languages are spoken in Switzerland?
Switzerland has four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
