Lausanne or Montreux: Which is better? GREAT 2025 Guide

Trying to decide between Montreux or Lausanne, Switzerland?

Choosing between Lausanne or Montreux can be tough, but as professional travelers who have spent a lot of time in this part of Switzerland, we’re here to help!

In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between these two beautiful cities, covering everything from activities and day trips to hotels and dining.

Whether you’re into art, history, lakeside strolls, or mountains, this article will give you all the details you need to decide which city suits your travel style.

Let’s dive into the ultimate comparison of Lausanne vs Montreux!

Overview of Lausanne or Montreux, Switzerland

Before we dive into the details, we want to provide you with the best things in each city!

	Montreux	Lausanne
🚶 Best Activity	🎤 Freddie Mercury Tour	🚤 Swiss Riviera Tour
🏛 Best Attraction	🏰 Chillon Castle	🏅 Olympic Museum
🚈 Best Day Trip	🏔️ Glacier 3000	🍇 Lavaux Vineyards
🏨 Best Hotel	✨ Fairmont Le Montreux Palace	🌹 Hotel Royal Savoy
🍽 Favorite Restaurant	🥩 Restaurant Le Museum	🫕 Vieux-Lausanne Restaurant & Giraf Bar

When comparing Lausanne and Montreux, it really depends on your interests. For us, we typically pick Montreux but we also really love Lausanne.

If you’re an art lover, Lausanne is the better choice, with excellent museums like Plateforme 10 and the Cantonal Museum of Fine Arts. Sports fans will enjoy the Olympic Museum, which is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of the Games.

We really enjoyed exploring Lausanne’s Old Town, which is larger and more historic than Montreux’s. The Lausanne Cathedral is stunning and has great views of the city.

Montreux, on the other hand, is all about the lakeside experience. The promenade, lined with beautiful flowers, has some of the best views of Lake Geneva in Switzerland.

If you’re into music, especially if you’re Queen fans like us, Montreux is a gem. The Montreux Jazz Festival draws music lovers from all over, and the Freddie Mercury statue and Queen Experience are fun tributes to the band’s legacy in the city.

Both cities have great food, but Lausanne’s dining scene tends to be more diverse, while Montreux has more high-end, resort-style restaurants.

Day trips from both are about the same. You can easily reach Chillon Castle, Lavaux Vineyards, and Rochers-de-Naye from either city since they’re so close to each other.

For accommodations, Lausanne has options for every budget, while Montreux focuses more on luxury stays with lake views.

Which is Easier to Get To? Montreux or Lausanne

When deciding between Lausanne or Montreux, Lausanne is definitely easier to reach, especially from Geneva.

Located just 60 kilometers (about 37 miles) northeast of Geneva, Lausanne is closer and more convenient for travelers arriving at Geneva Airport. The train from Geneva to Lausanne takes only 35 to 40 minutes, making it a quick trip.

Montreux, on the other hand, sits further east along Lake Geneva and is about 90 kilometers (56 miles) from Geneva. The train to Montreux takes around an hour, so while it’s not much longer, it’s still a bit further.

From Zurich, it takes about 2.5 hours to reach Montreux by train, while Lausanne is slightly closer at just over 2 hours.

The same goes for Bern, where Lausanne is about 1 hour and 10 minutes away, compared to Montreux, which is closer to 1.5 hours.

Montreux’s location adds a bit more time when traveling from these major Swiss cities, though both are well-connected by Switzerland’s efficient rail system.

Which has Better Activities? Lausanne vs Montreux

When comparing activities, Lausanne has the unique Olympic Museum, while Montreux’s standout attraction is the stunning Chillon Castle. It’s hard to compare such different experiences, as both are must-see spots.

Lausanne has a vibrant cultural scene with more art and history museums, but Montreux’s waterfront and lake views are hard to top.

Both cities have a lot to offer, depending on your interests.

Montreux Top 5 Activities

To help bring context, here are the top 5 activities in Montreux.

Chillon Castle

Chillon Castle is the top thing to do in Montreux and an absolute must for history lovers.

Sitting right on the shores of Lake Geneva, it’s one of Switzerland’s most iconic landmarks, with roots going back to the 12th century.

The beautifully preserved rooms, lavish halls, and frescoes are incredible, but our favorite part was exploring the eerie dungeons beneath the castle. We joked that if you had to be locked in a dungeon, at least the lake view would be unbeatable!

If you have the Swiss Travel Pass, both the short 10-minute bus ride from Montreux and your entrance are free. For those without the pass, booking tickets in advance is smart to avoid long lines—Chillon is one of Europe’s most visited castles.

Compared to Lausanne’s attractions, like the Olympic Museum, Chillon has a completely different, more historic experience that shouldn’t be missed.

Montreux Promenade

Walking the Montreux Promenade is our favorite way to soak in Lake Geneva’s beauty, with stunning views of the lake and the Alps all along the way.

The 5.8-kilometer (3.6-mile) path stretches from Chillon Castle to Villeneuve, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours.

You’ll pass colorful flower displays, peaceful parks, and unique statues, like our favorite, the Statue Les Amoureux—a charming sculpture of a couple by the water. There are even spots where you can dip your toes in the lake!

While Lausanne’s waterfront is nice, the Montreux Promenade has an unbeatable lakeside experience for a more relaxed stroll.

Montreux’s Music

Montreux’s music scene is legendary, making it a must-visit for any music lover.

The iconic Freddie Mercury statue along the lake celebrates the city’s connection to Queen, who recorded several albums here.

You can dive deeper into their legacy at the Queen Studio Experience, a small museum dedicated to the band.

To learn all about Freddie Mercury’s time in Montreux, we highly recommend the In the footsteps of Freddie Mercury Tour.

Montreux is also home to the world-famous Montreux Jazz Festival, drawing top artists from around the globe each summer.

For a more intimate experience, the Montreux Jazz Café has live music and a laid-back vibe year-round.

Casino

Montreux Casino offers something unique that you won’t experience in Lausanne.

Inside, there’s a wide range of games like slot machines, poker, and roulette, making it popular with both casual and serious players.

But it’s not just about gambling—the casino also hosts live music events and shows, adding to Montreux’s vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re there to play or just enjoy the energy, it’s a fun place to spend an evening in Montreux.

Gorges du Chauderon

Gorges du Chauderon is one of Montreux’s hidden gems for nature lovers.

The trail takes you through lush greenery and striking rock formations, following the Baye de Montreux River into the mountains.

We really enjoyed it as a peaceful escape from the town’s busier spots.

The sound of the rushing water and the quiet surroundings make for a refreshing and relaxing walk.

If you’re looking for a break from the sometimes crowded lakeside, this is a perfect option.

Lausanne Top 5 Activities

Here are 5 of our favorite activities in Lausanne:

Olympic Museum

Lausanne is known as the Olympic Capital, and the Olympic Museum is a must-see for sports fans and history buffs alike.

As we’re both from Atlanta, it was really cool to see all the memorabilia from the 1996 Olympics.

The museum has interactive exhibits covering the history of the Games, athlete stories, and the evolution of sports, making it easy to spend a few hours exploring.

Be sure to buy tickets in advance to skip the line, or entry is free with the Swiss Travel Pass.

Afterward, take a relaxing stroll through Olympic Park, where you’ll find sculptures and great views of Lake Geneva.

Ouchy Waterfront

The Ouchy Waterfront is a great spot for a relaxing walk along Lake Geneva with plenty of parks and places to sit.

The Château d’Ouchy, a beautiful lakeside castle turned hotel, adds a touch of history to the area, dating back to the 12th century when it served as a fortress before becoming a luxury retreat.

Compared to the Montreux promenade, we prefer the variety of restaurants and ice cream shops in Ouchy—they’re perfect for grabbing a bite or a treat while taking in the views.

You can also rent a paddleboat or hop on a boat to nearby towns like Montreux or Evian.

It’s a lovely place to visit, especially after exploring the nearby Olympic Museum.

Old Town

Lausanne’s Old Town is full of narrow streets, charming squares, and historic buildings.

Palud-Platz is a great place to start, where the animated clock plays a fun show each hour.

The Palais de Rumine is a must-see, with its stunning architecture and several museums to explore.

The Old Town is easy to walk on a walking tour, though the hills can be a bit of a workout! We recommend taking your time and stopping at Café du Grütli to relax and enjoy the atmosphere.

Don’t miss the Lausanne Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece dating back to the 12th century. The climb up the bell tower is worth it for the beautiful views of Lausanne and Lake Geneva.

Esplanade de Montbenon

The Esplanade de Montbenon quickly became one of our favorite spots in Lausanne.

This open park has some of the best views of Lake Geneva and the Alps, making it perfect for relaxing, enjoying a picnic, or simply soaking in the scenery.

Unlike Montreux, Montbenon provides a view from above Lausanne, giving you a unique perspective that Montreux doesn’t really have.

The park is also home to the Palace of Justice and the historic Casino de Montbenon, adding a bit of history to your visit.

We recommend heading there at sunset for the best views, though be prepared for a bit of a climb if you’re coming from the south.

Best of all, it’s one of those spots where you can enjoy Lausanne’s beauty without spending a cent.

Other Museums

Lausanne has some fantastic museums that dive into the city’s history and culture.

The Cantonal Museum of Archeology and History is great for exploring fascinating archaeological finds, while the Collection de l’Art Brut is a must for contemporary art lovers.

Our favorite area is Plateforme 10, located right next to the train station. This cultural hub houses three different museums: the Cantonal Museum of Fine Arts (MCBA), Museum of Contemporary Design and Applied Arts (MUDAC), and Photo Elysée, offering a mix of contemporary art, design, and photography.

Entry fees range from CHF 5 to CHF 20, and many are free with the Swiss Travel Pass, making it a great budget-friendly way to enjoy Lausanne’s cultural side.

Which has Better Day Trips? Montreux or Lausanne

When it comes to day trips from Montreux or Lausanne, both cities share access to most of the same beautiful spots, as they’re located in the same region. All the ones listed below can easily be a day trip from Lausanne or Montreux.

However, to help you plan better, we’ll break down the more western destinations closer to Lausanne and the eastern ones nearer to Montreux, so you can minimize travel time.

Montreux Top 6 Day Trips

Glacier 3000

A tour to Glacier 3000 from Montreux kicks off with a stop at the charming mountain village of Les Diablerets before heading up the glacier by cable car.

Once at the top, you can hop on a snow bus or take a walk across the world’s first suspension bridge connecting two peaks.

The views are incredible, with iconic sights like the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc in the distance.

Rochers-de-Naye

Rochers-de-Naye is one of our favorite mountain escapes from Montreux!

The cogwheel train ride up is always a fun experience, with incredible views of Lake Geneva and the Alps waiting for you at the top.

We love using the Montreux to Rochers-de-Naye Alpine Adventure Ticket, which lets you hop on the historic train for a self-guided adventure.

It’s flexible, allowing you to take in the stunning scenery and explore the mountain slopes at your own pace—perfect for a day of relaxed exploring.

Zermatt

A day trip to Zermatt from Montreux is a long journey, despite Montreux being the easternmost city on Lake Geneva.

The trip takes around 2.5 to 3 hours by train each way, so it’s a full-day commitment.

Once in Zermatt, you’ll find a charming, car-free town nestled in the Alps, with shops, restaurants, and plenty of outdoor activities.

The highlight, of course, is the view of the Matterhorn, one of the most iconic mountains in the world.

For incredible panoramic views, we recommend taking the Gornergrat Railway up to the summit—this ride has some of the best scenery in Switzerland.

It’s a long trip, but the breathtaking mountain views make it worth the effort.

Interlaken

A day trip to Interlaken from Montreux takes around 2.5 hours by train, but it’s worth the journey to experience another amazing part of Switzerland.

Along the way, you’ll get great views of Lake Thun, whether you drive or take the train.

Once in Interlaken, we recommend starting with the Harder Kulm funicular for stunning views of the town, the surrounding mountains, and Lake Brienz.

After that, head straight to Lauterbrunnen, our favorite town in all of Switzerland, known for its breathtaking waterfalls. The valley’s beauty is unmatched, and it’s perfect for a peaceful stroll.

Once you’ve soaked in Lauterbrunnen’s charm, return to Interlaken for a relaxing dinner to end your day.

Gstadd

The GoldenPass Express to Gstaad is easily our favorite train ride from Montreux!

In just over an hour and a half, you’ll take in some of Switzerland’s most stunning landscapes.

The floor-to-ceiling windows on the train make it even better, giving you a full view of the beautiful surroundings.

Gstaad, with its charming chalets and luxury feel, makes for an ideal day trip from Montreux and a great way to experience the Swiss Alps.

Vevey

Visiting Vevey is a quick and easy trip, as it’s closer to Montreux vs Lausanne.

A must-see is Chaplin’s World, where you can learn all about the legendary Charlie Chaplin.

We also enjoyed the Alimentarium, along with the iconic Fork sculpture just outside.

The Mont Pèlerin funicular is a fun ride, and the view from the top was our favorite of Lake Geneva.

Also, don’t miss the Swiss Camera Museum if you’re into photography!

Lausanne Top 6 Day Trips

Lavaux Wineries

The Lavaux Vineyards are barely closer to Lausanne than Montreux, making them an easy and scenic day trip from either city.

As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the terraced vines overlooking Lake Geneva are absolutely stunning.

Many vineyards have tastings with unforgettable views, and Domaine Bovy is our favorite for its perfect combo of great wine and incredible scenery.

You can reach Lavaux by car, train, bike, or even boat from Lausanne.

We highly recommend a guided vineyard tour to dive into the history and winemaking process—it’s a peaceful escape and a perfect way to spend an afternoon.

Geneva

Geneva is on the western side of Lake Geneva, making it closer to Lausanne for an easy day trip.

The city has plenty to offer, including the famous Jet d’Eau and the beautiful flower clock in the Jardin Anglais. Geneva’s vibe is a bit more international with a different feel than Lausanne or Montreux.

We loved taking a Chocolate and Old Town tour to learn about the city’s history and sample some of Switzerland’s best chocolate.

While you can cover some of the highlights in a day, we’d recommend spending at least two days in Geneva to experience everything fully. There’s so much in Geneva to explore, from museums to lakeside walks.

Gruyères

A day trip to Gruyères from Lausanne is easy, with trains taking about 1.5 hours.

Start with a visit to La Maison du Gruyère Cheese Factory to see how the famous cheese is made.

Gruyères Castle takes you back in time with its medieval history and beautiful views.

For something different, the HR Giger Museum is a fascinating stop for art and sci-fi lovers.

Be sure to enjoy some classic Swiss fondue in the village before heading back.

If you want to explore more around Gruyères, we also recommend visiting Maison Cailler in Broc for all-you-can-eat chocolate samples!

Swiss Riviera

The Swiss Riviera Tour from Lausanne is a great way to see many of the main attractions along Lake Geneva.

The tour starts with a scenic drive through the Vaud countryside to Lavaux, where you can visit a vineyard and taste local wine.

In Vevey, you’ll explore Chaplin’s World, the museum dedicated to the life of Charlie Chaplin.

We especially enjoyed the boat ride on the Belle Epoque steamer, which takes you past stunning lakeside scenery on the way to Chillon Castle.

The final stop is in Montreux, where you can explore the streets, that legendary artists have visited, like Aretha Franklin, Ella Fitzgerald, BB King, and Ray Charles.

Nyon

Nyon is a charming town just 20 minutes from Lausanne by train, located along the shores of Lake Geneva.

It’s known for its beautiful Nyon Castle, which has great views of the lake and a small museum inside. You can also visit the Roman Museum to explore the town’s ancient history.

Just a short distance from Nyon is the Château de Prangins, home to the Swiss National Museum, where you can dive into Swiss history and culture.

Bern

Visiting Bern from Lausanne takes just about an hour by train, and there’s so much to explore once you’re there.

We were amazed to find actual bears living in the Bear Park—it’s not every day you see bears in the middle of a city!

The Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a beautiful place to wander, with its medieval streets and the famous Zytglogge clock tower.

We also loved learning about Einstein’s time in Bern at the Einstein Museum—did you know he developed his theory of relativity while living here?

The Federal Palace is worth a visit, and a peaceful stroll along the Aare River is a great way to relax after sightseeing.

Which has Better Accommodations? Lausanne or Montreux

When it comes to accommodations in Lausanne or Montreux Switzerland, both cities have something for every traveler.

Montreux leans towards luxurious, lakeside resorts with stunning views, making it a top choice for those seeking a relaxing retreat.

Lausanne, on the other hand, has a wider variety of options, from historic hotels with a mix of old-world charm and modern amenities to more budget-friendly choices in quieter neighborhoods.

Montreux Best Hotels

💎 LUXURY: Fairmont Le Montreux Palace

If you’re looking for luxury, Fairmont Le Montreux Palace is a top choice.

This 5-star hotel has breathtaking views of Lake Geneva, an impressive spa, and several dining options.

We especially loved how close it is to the train station, making it convenient after a day of exploring. The lakeside location is perfect for unwinding.

⭐️ MODERATE: Grand Hotel Suisse Majestic

Right across from the train station, the Grand Hotel Suisse Majestic combines elegance with convenience.

You’ll enjoy modern amenities, beautiful lake views, and a fantastic restaurant.

The location makes it easy to get around, and the hotel is ideal for relaxing after a busy day of sightseeing.

🛏️ BUDGET: Hotel Splendid

For budget-conscious travelers, Hotel Splendid is a great choice.

It has charming rooms, easy access to the train station, and excellent lake views.

We found it to be one of the best options for those wanting comfort and service without overspending, all while staying in a prime location.

Lausanne Best Hotels

💎 Luxury: Hotel Royal Savoy

Hotel Royal Savoy is a standout for luxury stays in Lausanne.

With its elegant rooms, beautiful spa, and a rooftop terrace with incredible views of Lausanne and Lake Geneva, it’s a top choice for anyone wanting a mix of historic charm and modern amenities.

We loved how this hotel combines the best of both worlds, making it a fantastic option for a luxurious stay.

💼 Moderate: Agora Swiss Night by Fassbind

Located near the train station, the Agora Swiss Night has stylish, modern rooms and quirky décor that we found refreshing.

The rooftop breakfast, with panoramic views of Lausanne, was a highlight for us.

This mid-range hotel is perfect for travelers seeking comfort, convenience, and a fun touch in a central location.

💸 Budget: Tulip Inn Beaulieu Lausanne

For a budget-friendly option, the Tulip Inn Beaulieu is an excellent pick.

With clean, comfortable rooms and easy access to the city center, it’s perfect for travelers wanting affordability without sacrificing comfort.

We appreciated the friendly service and the peaceful neighborhood, making it a great choice for a quieter, more relaxed stay in Lausanne.

Is Montreux more expensive than Lausanne?

Yes, Montreux tends to be a little more expensive than Lausanne, especially for accommodations and dining.

Montreux is known for its luxury hotels and upscale restaurants, partly due to its reputation as a resort town and its famous events like the Montreux Jazz Festival.

Lausanne, while still not cheap, generally has more affordable options across the board, especially for budget-conscious travelers. This is in part due to it having a university and many students.

Getting from Lausanne to Montreux

Getting from Lausanne to Montreux is straightforward, with several great options. The most popular way is by train, with frequent direct services taking 20 to 30 minutes.

Another relaxing option is by boat, which takes about an hour and has beautiful views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding Alps.

If you have a Swiss Travel Pass, it’s even more convenient. The pass covers unlimited travel on trains, boats, and buses across Switzerland, including the journey from Lausanne to Montreux.

It’s perfect for travelers looking to explore multiple cities without worrying about separate tickets.

Driving from Lausanne to Montreux takes about 30 minutes, covering a scenic 30-kilometer stretch along Lake Geneva.

We recommend renting a car in Geneva through DiscoverCars if you want the flexibility to explore this stunning region at your own pace.

FAQs for Montreux or Lausanne

We hope this guide has helped you decide between Lausanne or Montreux, and given you a clear picture of what each city has to offer.

Whether you choose Lausanne’s cultural gems or Montreux’s lakeside charm, we’re confident you’ll have an amazing trip.

And if you have enough time, we highly recommend visiting both to experience the best of Switzerland’s Riviera.

Safe travels, and enjoy your time exploring these incredible destinations!

We wish you the best travels and don’t forget to set your “Out of Office!” 

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