Montreux has a reputation for elegance and music, and the best way to meet both is on foot along its lake. The quays of Montreux form a promenade of about seven kilometres from Clarens through the centre of town to Territet, flat, asphalted and free of cars. Thanks to the sheltered position at the foot of the mountains, the climate here is mild enough for palm trees, cypresses and exotic flowers, which is why the path is sometimes called the Quay of Flowers. Benches face the water and the peaks on the French shore, cafés spill onto the pavement, and the grand façades of Belle Époque hotels remind you that this stretch of lake has welcomed visitors for well over a century. The most photographed sight is the bronze statue of Freddie Mercury, about three metres tall, which has stood on the waterfront near the covered market since 1996. The singer of Queen recorded several albums in Montreux, and fans still leave flowers and handwritten notes at the foot of the statue. Montreux is also known for its jazz festival every July, though the music and mood are present in every season. Walk toward Territet and you will soon see Chillon Castle rising from its rock in the lake, a perfect end to the stroll.
Planning the visit
The promenade is open at all times and has no admission charge. Montreux is about an hour from Geneva by direct train along the lake, so it works well as the first stop on a Riviera day, followed by Chillon Castle and, if you wish, Chaplin’s World or the Lavaux vineyards.
From the station, walk down to the lake in a few minutes. The statue stands by the covered market on the Place du Marché, a short stroll from the water, and the main tourist office and most cafés are in the same area.
The walk
Begin at the statue, then follow the quays east toward Territet, passing flower beds, sculptures, the casino building and the old grand hotels. The walk from the statue to Chillon Castle takes roughly forty-five minutes at an easy pace. If you have more energy, walk west toward Clarens for a quieter stretch with villas, gardens and views of the vineyards above. Take your time, because the pleasure of the promenade is in the details: the old boat landings, the lakeside parks and the changing light on the mountains.
Music and seasons
The Montreux Jazz Festival in July fills the town with concerts, and the town also hosts festivals and markets at other times. An exhibition devoted to the band Queen in the casino building, a few minutes from the statue, is free to enter and tells the story of their time in Montreux. During Advent, the Christmas market sets up along the quays with chalets, lights, food and mulled wine, and it is one of the most atmospheric in Switzerland.
From winter to spring, large figures made of conifer branches are placed along the promenade, with a different theme each year. In summer the lake is busy with swimmers and boats, and in autumn the light is soft and golden.
Making the most of it
Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a light jacket, because wind off the lake can be cool even in sunshine. Stop at a lakeside café for coffee or a glass of local white wine, and try a pastry from one of the town’s bakeries. Photography is best in the morning, when the water is calm and the mountains are clear, or around sunset, when the peaks turn pink.
The promenade is suitable for pushchairs and for visitors with limited mobility because it is flat. If you only have a couple of hours, walk from the statue to Chillon and take the bus or train back. If you have a full day, combine the quays with the castle and a train ride through the vineyards. It is an easy, joyful outing at any time of year.
What to expect
The experience
A free, flat waterfront walk with cafés, flower beds and a famous statue, easily linked to Chillon Castle.
Best time
Morning or sunset on a clear day, or during Advent for the Christmas market.
How long
Two to three hours including the walk to Chillon, plus about an hour each way by train from Geneva.
Tips
Take the direct lake train, start at the statue, walk to Chillon and take a light jacket for the breeze off the water.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who wants an easy, scenic walk on the Riviera, and Queen fans in particular.
- Families
- Flat and pushchair-friendly, with parks and ice cream stops along the way.
- Couples
- A relaxed lakeside stroll that ends at a castle, with sunset drinks on the quay.
- Pair with
- Chillon Castle at the end of the path, and the Lavaux vineyards or Chaplin’s World on the same day.
- Time needed
- Allow two to three hours for the walk and a coffee stop, or a full day with Chillon.
Good questions
Where is the Freddie Mercury statue in Montreux?+
It stands on the lakeside promenade near the covered market at the Place du Marché, a short walk from the water. The bronze statue is about three metres tall.
How long is the Montreux promenade?+
The path runs about seven kilometres from Clarens through Montreux to Territet. It is flat, asphalted and free of cars.
Can you walk from Montreux to Chillon Castle?+
Yes, it takes roughly forty-five minutes on foot along the lake from the centre of Montreux. The castle charges admission, but the promenade is free.
How do I get to Montreux from Geneva?+
Direct trains run along the lake and take about an hour. The station is a few minutes from the quays.
Is there a Christmas market in Montreux?+
Yes, a Christmas market sets up along the lakeside during Advent, with chalets, lights and food. Check the dates for the current year before you plan a trip.
