Trains from Zurich to Montreux

There is no better way to take in the Swiss countryside than hopping on a train from Zurich to Montreux. From the departure in Zurich, with its old town lined with cafés and cobbled streets, you can admire scenic views of the Swiss Alps and the picturesque lake of Zurich. The journey to Montreux lasts just over two hours and takes you through some of Switzerland's most beautiful towns and villages. You'll pass by Bern, where you can take in the medieval architecture of its old city, and Lausanne, the unofficial capital of French-speaking Switzerland.

The train from Zurich to Montreux is covered in the valleys of the Aare and Rhone rivers and passes through the spectacular Brünig pass. Along the way you'll have the chance to take in the impressive alpine meadows and forests of some of Switzerland's most iconic mountains. As you approach Montreux, you'll be blown away by the lake Geneva scenery and views of the snow-capped peaks of the Alps.

The journey from Zurich to Montreux is around 165 km (103 miles) and passes through several important towns and cities, including Aarau, Olten, Bienne, Fribourg, and Neuchâtel. The most iconic element of this journey is the renowned Golden Pass Line, which connects this route to some of Switzerland's most iconic lake towns. The Golden Pass is widely considered one of the most beautiful train routes in the world — and it's easy to see why. The scenery is simply breathtaking.

For those wanting to take in Switzerland's beauty, a trip from Zurich to Montreux is the perfect way to do it. The journey allows you to explore some of the country's most stunning towns and villages, as well as admire its magnificent alpine scenery. From the departure in Zurich to the iconic Golden Pass Line and the arrival in Montreux, a trip from Zurich to Montreux is one that you won't soon forget.

Zurich, the beautiful capital city of Switzerland, is a paradise for anyone looking to explore a stunning mix of historical and architectural sites. From its sparkling lakes and its scenic hills to its cobbled streets and old bridges, Zurich offers a wide range of attractions for tourists of all tastes and budgets. Here are seven of the most popular must-visit sites in Zurich. 

The Old Town (Altstadt): Dating back to the 12th century, this medieval old city offers a wealth of colorful old houses, winding lanes, bustling squares, and picturesque gothic churches. Take an afternoon to explore this area and marvel in its beauty. Its narrow streets are full of shops, galleries, and restaurants, providing the perfect place for a leisurely afternoon stroll.

Grossmünster: Located in the heart of Zurich, Grossmünster is an iconic Romanesque-style church dating back to the 11th century. With its impressive twin towers, it is considered the symbol of the city. Entrance is free, and it is open to visitors from Monday to Saturday, 9am to 6pm.

Uetliberg: With its striking summit of 871m, Uetliberg offers one of the most breathtaking views of Zurich. The mountain can be accessed by train or cable car, and it is a popular spot for picnicking and enjoying the views of the city. There are several trails of different difficulty levels, making Uetliberg the perfect place for an outdoor adventure.

Fraumünster: Located next to the Grossmünster, Fraumünster is a beautiful gothic church dating from the 14th century. Visitors can admire its intricate stained glass windows, designed by renowned painter, Augusto Giacometti. Its entrance is free, and it is open daily from 9am to 6pm.

Zurich Zoo: The Zurich Zoo is one of the most popular attractions in the city. It is home to over 400 species of animals, from exotic birds to playful monkeys. It is open daily from 9am to 6pm, and admission fees start at CHF13 for adults and CHF7 for children.

Lindenhof: Located within the Old Town, the Lindenhof offers some of the best views of the city and its stunning lake. It is a great spot for admiring the sunset, and it is also a popular place for jogging and relaxing. Entrance is free, and it is open daily from 8am to 8pm.

Rathaus (Town Hall): Built in 1694, the Rathaus is an impressive baroque building located in the main square of the city. It is a great place to learn about the city’s history and architecture. Entrance is free, and it is open Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.

When visiting Zurich, don’t forget to try some of its delicious local specialties such as Rosti, fondue, or apple-pie. With its beautiful scenery and rich cultural and historical attractions, Zurich is the perfect destination for an unforgettable vacation.

Montreux, Switzerland is an idyllic lake town in the Swiss Alps, renowned for its beautiful landscapes and vibrant cultural life. Whether you want to relax or explore, a visit to Montreux promises an unforgettable experience. Here's a list of must-visit historical and architectural sites when you travel to Montreux: 

Château de Chillon: Located on the shores of Lake Geneva and surrounded by majestic mountains, the Château de Chillon is a stunning medieval castle. Originally built in the 12th century, it was a residence of the counts of Savoy for centuries. It features a museum, a chapel, a fortress, and a courtyard with beautiful flowers and trees. Open daily 9:30am to 6pm and entrance fees for adults are CHF 14. Pro tip: visit the courtyard at night to experience the castle lit up by floodlights. 

Hôtel de Ville: Stroll through the old town of Montreux and admire the majestic 19th century town hall. The Hôtel de Ville is an architectural masterpiece with neo-classical designs and wrought iron balconies. It's located in the center of town, close to the Riviera-Promenade, and open for visitors Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm. Entrance is free. 

Église Saint-François de Sales: Located in the upper part of the old town, this 18th century Baroque church is a sight to behold. Its imposing size, majestic façade, and interior adorned with gold-leafed decorations and frescoes will take your breath away. It is open daily and at no cost. 

Ferris Wheel: Take a romantic ride up to the top of the hill for breathtaking views of Lake Geneva. The Ferris wheel is open daily 9am to midnight, with tickets costing CHF 8. Stop by the kiosk near the Riviera-Promenade for tickets and to experience the ride. 

Montreux Jazz Festival: If you visit in the summer, don't miss the jazz festival, a two-week long event full of great music performances. Held in July-August, entry tickets cost CHF 45 for a day pass. Pro tip: Make sure to reserve tickets in advance. 

Christmas Market: If you visit during the winter, be sure to explore the city's Christmas Market. It's a magical place with delicious treats, decorations, and holiday-themed activities. It's open from the end of November to the beginning of January and entry is free. 

Les Pléiades: Don't miss out on the delicious food in Montreux. Les Pléiades is a small café in the old town, serving traditional Swiss dishes like Raclette and Fondue. Open daily 11am to 11pm, with a menu of traditional food and affordable prices. 

From stunning lakeside views to captivating historical sites, Montreux has something for every traveler. There's no wrong way to experience this amazing Swiss city — just make sure to bring your camera and a good appetite!