Montreux City Guide

Local food highlights are cheese fondue, raclette, and chocolates. You’ll find international cuisines too. Vegetarian and vegan options are growing. Late-night eateries are rare outside hotels or events.

Nightlife is relaxed, centered on hotel bars, some pubs, and live music during the jazz festival. It’s quieter than big cities.

Coffee shops range from traditional Swiss cafés to emerging specialty spots. The scene is relaxed with good quality coffee.

Tipping isn’t required as service is included. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% in restaurants and rounding taxis is common.

SIM cards are sold at airports, train stations, and mobile shops. Main providers are Swisscom (best coverage), Sunrise, and Salt. eSIMs are common. ID/passport registration required.

Streets and public areas are very clean with excellent waste management and recycling.

Limited 24/7 services. Hospital emergency rooms are always open; few late-night pharmacies and minimal late-night food options.

Coop and Migros supermarkets are widespread, offering good international products. Open Mon-Sat 8AM-7/8PM; closed Sundays and holidays. Bargaining isn’t done here.

Card payments are accepted in most shops, restaurants, and hotels. Cash is rarely needed for daily purchases.

ATMs from UBS, Credit Suisse, and Raiffeisen are common. International withdrawal fees depend on your bank, but local fees are low or none.

Schools mostly follow the Swiss French curriculum. International options nearby include St. George's International School (Clarens) and Collège Champittet (Lausanne). Check admissions early.

The digital nomad community is small with few meetups. Many cafes have Wi-Fi suitable for remote work.

Large green areas including the lakeside promenade and Parc de l'Indépendance. Plenty of shade and walking paths.

The lakeside promenade is a flat, scenic route. It’s safe and popular with local runners. The annual Montreux Marathon is well known.

Several gyms and sports centers offer various fitness options.

Tennis courts at clubs like Tennis Club Montreux. Padel courts emerging. Booking usually done online or direct.

Padel is growing but options are limited.

Several studios offer yoga styles like Hatha and Vinyasa. Spa facilities are common at hotels. English-speaking instructors available.

Dojo options include Judo, Karate, and Taekwondo. Some clubs have English-speaking instructors.

Ski resorts are about 1-1.5 hours away, like Les Portes du Soleil and Leysin. Season runs December to April. Terrain suits all skill levels; rentals available.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing are popular on the lake. Rentals and guided tours are easy to find.

Lake Geneva isn’t good for surfing. Windsurfing and paddleboarding are popular alternatives.

Dive sites in Lake Geneva explore wrecks and underwater formations. Visibility varies. Dive centers offer certification and gear.

High-quality healthcare with English-speaking staff at Hôpital Riviera-Chablais (Montreux). Both public and private options are excellent. Pharmacies offer OTC meds and advice.

Tap water is safe, clean, and often comes from natural springs.

Playgrounds and parks line the lake promenade. Many kid-friendly cafés. Attractions include Chillon Castle and scenic train rides.

The city and Switzerland overall are accepting and safe for LGBTQ+ people. Strong legal protections exist.

Montreux is pet-friendly with dog parks, vet services, and pet-welcoming accommodations. Pet import rules are strict.