A day trip to Montreux & Chillon Castle is one of the most picturesque and culturally rich experiences you can enjoy in Switzerland. Whether you’re traveling from Geneva or elsewhere, this trip offers stunning lake views, charming promenades, and the chance to explore Switzerland’s most famous medieval castle.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know—from how to get there to the best things to do, must-see sights, and practical travel tips.
Why Visit Montreux and Chillon Castle?
Montreux, located on the shores of Lake Geneva, is known for its scenic beauty, music history, and relaxed lakeside atmosphere. The town is home to the world-famous Montreux Jazz Festival and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Alps.
Just a short distance from Montreux lies Chillon Castle, one of Switzerland’s most visited historic landmarks. This medieval fortress is perched on a rocky island along the lake, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and explore well-preserved dungeons, towers, and grand halls.
If you’re looking for one of the best day trips from Geneva, Montreux and Chillon Castle should be at the top of your list!
How to Get to Montreux from Geneva
Montreux is approximately 95 km (59 miles) from Geneva, making it an easy and scenic journey. Here are your best options:
By Train (Fastest & Most Convenient Option)
- Duration: About 1 hour
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes
- Cost: CHF 30-40 (one-way)
Trains depart from Geneva Cornavin station and take you directly to Montreux via Lausanne. This is the fastest and most comfortable way to travel. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Geneva along the way.
By Car (Flexible but Expensive)
- Duration: Around 1 hour 15 minutes
- Route: Take A1 and A9 highways
- Parking: Limited parking in Montreux, but available near Chillon Castle
Driving gives you flexibility, but parking in Montreux can be tricky. If you plan to drive, try parking at Chillon Castle’s parking lot and walking to Montreux.
By Guided Tour (Hassle-Free & Informative)
Many day trips from Geneva offer guided tours to Montreux and Chillon Castle. These tours typically include transportation, entry tickets, and a local guide.
Best Day Trips from Geneva: Why Montreux & Chillon Castle Stand Out
While Geneva is a fantastic city, a day trip allows you to explore Switzerland’s diverse landscapes and cultural gems. Here’s why Montreux and Chillon Castle are among the best day trips from Geneva:
- Scenic train ride along Lake Geneva
- A perfect mix of history, nature, and relaxation
- Easy accessibility (only 1 hour from Geneva)
- Charming lakeside atmosphere and stunning castle views
Other popular day trips from Geneva include Lausanne, Gruyères, and Annecy, but Montreux’s mix of history and natural beauty makes it a standout choice.
Best Time to Visit Montreux and Chillon Castle
Montreux and Chillon Castle are beautiful year-round, but each season offers a unique experience:
- Spring (March-May): Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and blooming flowers
- Summer (June-August): Perfect for lakeside walks and boat trips, but expect crowds
- Autumn (September-November): Stunning fall colors and fewer tourists
- Winter (December-February): Magical with Christmas markets and snow-covered mountains
For the best experience, late spring or early autumn is ideal—pleasant weather with fewer crowds!
Itinerary for a Perfect Day Trip to Montreux from Geneva
Morning: Arrive in Montreux & Explore
- Take an early train from Geneva (around 8:00 AM)
- Enjoy a morning coffee at a lakeside café
- Walk along the Montreux Promenade
Midday: Visit Chillon Castle
- Walk (or take a bus) from Montreux to Chillon Castle
- Explore the dungeons, towers, and great halls
- Take in stunning views of Lake Geneva from the castle
Afternoon: Lunch & More Exploration
- Have lunch at a local restaurant (try Swiss fondue or lake fish)
- Visit the Queen Studio Experience (Freddie Mercury fans will love this!)
- If time allows, take a boat ride on Lake Geneva
Evening: Return to Geneva
- Walk along the lake one last time
- Take a sunset train back to Geneva
Things to Do in Montreux Before Visiting Chillon Castle
Before heading to Chillon Castle, take time to enjoy Montreux’s highlights:
🌿 Montreux Promenade – A beautiful lakeside walk with flowers and sculptures.
🎸 Queen Studio Experience – A small museum dedicated to the band Queen.
🏛️ Montreux Old Town – A charming historic area with cobblestone streets.
🌄 Rochers-de-Naye – Take a mountain train for breathtaking alpine views.
Discovering Chillon Castle: A Step Back in Time
Chillon Castle is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Europe. Key highlights include:
- The Dungeon – Made famous by Lord Byron’s poem The Prisoner of Chillon
- The Great Hall – Where medieval banquets took place
- The Towers – Climb for a panoramic view of Lake Geneva
- The Chapel – Features well-preserved medieval paintings
Tickets & Hours
- Entry Fee: CHF 13.50 (adults), CHF 7.00 (children)
- Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (varies by season)
Scenic Walk from Montreux to Chillon Castle
🚶 Distance: 3 km (~40-minute walk)
🌊 Route: Follow the lakeside path from Montreux to Chillon
📸 Highlights: Stunning lake views, vineyards, and swans along the way
Alternatively, take Bus 201 from Montreux to Chillon Castle (5-minute ride).
Dining and Food Options in Montreux
🍽️ Top Restaurants:
- Le Palais Oriental – Great for Middle Eastern & Swiss fusion
- Restaurant Le Museum – Traditional Swiss dishes (fondue & raclette)
- Caveau des Vignerons – Best place for local wines and cheese
If you’re in a hurry, grab a snack from one of Montreux’s bakeries before heading to Chillon Castle.
Tips for a Hassle-Free Day Trip
- Buy train tickets in advance (SBB Mobile App saves time!)
- Wear comfortable shoes (You’ll be walking a lot)
- Bring a camera (The scenery is stunning)
- Check the weather (Lake Geneva can be windy)
FAQs
1. How long does it take to reach Montreux from Geneva?
About 1 hour by train and 1 hour 15 minutes by car.
2. Can you visit Chillon Castle without a tour?
Yes, but guided tours offer more historical insights.
3. What’s the cost of entry to Chillon Castle?
CHF 13.50 for adults, CHF 7.00 for children.
4. Is Montreux worth visiting in winter?
Yes! Christmas markets and snow-covered mountains make it magical.
5. Are there boat tours from Montreux to Chillon?
Yes, CGN boats offer scenic rides on Lake Geneva.
Why a Day Trip to Montreux & Chillon Castle is a Must-Do?
A day trip to Montreux & Chillon Castle is perfect for those looking for history, nature, and scenic beauty all in one trip. Whether you’re coming from Geneva or elsewhere, this experience is unforgettable!