Aquaparc
Route de la Plage, Le Bouveret, Switzerland CH-1897 · 41 24 482 00 11
You'd think Aquaparc would be a kids-only destination; this park has a broader appeal and is a great way to enjoy the scenery. There are spots to relax on a beach, thrilling eaterslides, and a lakeside restaurant. It's minutes from Montreux by car in Bouveret. Or go by boat – the trip takes about 40 minutes and daily from June 23rd to late October (tickets are 25 SFR).
Château de Chillon
Av de Chillon 21, Veytaux, Switzerland CH-1820 · 41 21 966 89 10
One of Switzerland's most visited attractions, this castle outside Montreux is most famous as the subject of Lord Byron's poem, "The Prisoner of Chillon." Take the path along the lake from Montreux to the castle, then head inside for dark, dreary, tourist-packed fun. Don't settle for the video foisted on you at the entrance. Pay the fee and head inside on your own. Wine-tasting is also on offer. Guided tours are available on Sundays from September throughJune, daily during July and August - call for times.
Fairmont Le Montreux Palace
Grand-Rue 100, Montreux, Switzerland CH-1820 · 41 21 962 12 12
At more than 100 years old, this grande dame of the region is as famous for its outdoor terrace as it is for the five-star rooms inside. An absolute must for any visitor to Montreux, the terrace is particularly beautiful at sunset with views of Lake Geneva below and the shadows of the Alps above. Order anything, sit for hours, surround yourself with good company. Or you can check out the high-end spa inside.
Freddie Mercury Memorial
Av des Alpes 68, Montreux, Switzerland CH-1820
In the land of conservatives, chocolate and punctual trains, it is definitely a surprise to see a life-size statue of Queen's late lead singer Freddie Mercury on the shores of Lake Geneva, standing in his classic "we are the champions" pose. A visit here is a must, if only for the photo opportunity.
Golden Pass Railway
Montreux, Switzerland · 41 840 245 245
Truth is, any small train that hauls itself up one of the Alps will lead to good things. In this case, head up and over Montreux for terrific views of France and further. It's another world in the mountains, with another realm of activities. The line runs between Zürich and Geneva, but you can take a much shorter jaunt. If you want to act like a local, find a path and start walking. You'll often find Swiss families doing the same. Call or check the website for scehdules.
Lakeside Promenade Fleurie
Montreux, Switzerland
The Promenade stretches from Vevey to Villenueve, including a meander through Montreux and on to Chillon Castle. There are benches for relaxing and boulders to hop on if you're adventurous and unafraid of getting wet. Along the promenade, there are cafés and enough colorful characters to keep you occupied for hours. Use the path to get around, instead of a taxi or a rented car.
Le Petit Train de Lavaux
Lavaux, Switzerland · 41 21 799 54 54
This train – what can only be described as the little wine express – snakes its way through vineyards of the Lutry/Cully region. Even if you are not a big wine drinker, this pint-size train offers spectacular views and is a terrific getaway from the city.
Mines de sel de Bex
Route Des Mines de Sel, Bex, Switzerland CH-1880 · 41 24 463 03 30
Just two train stops and about 15 minutes from Montreux, the salt mines of 1684 are one of those experiences you can only get here, deep in the mountains, in the dark. This is the perfect place to escape the summer heat. And although you would not necessarily think so, the views under the Alps are as surprising and breathtaking as those above them. Tours take approximately two hours - contact for exact times.
Musée du Vieux Montreux
Rue de la Gare 40, CH-1820 Montreux, Switzerland · 41 21 963 13 53
Housed in a 17th-century building, this "museum of old Montreux" documents the various eras from the dawn of history to the age of tourism – quite a bit of ground to cover. Inside you will find typical artifacts like Roman remains and coins, and less typical showcases revealing how Montreux became a tourist mecca.
