Christmas at Montreux and Chillon

Sightseeing  :  Switzerland  :  Lake Geneva And Western Switzerland  :  Geneva  :  Day Trips

Immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit on this leisurely winter day trip to Montreux from Geneva. On your way to Montreux, enjoy driving past verdant vineyards and stunning Lake Geneva. In Montreux, wander the grand Christmas market, shopping for holiday gifts. You'll also take a guided tour of Château de Chillon, a beautiful and atmospheric lakeside castle just outside Montreux. Start your Christmastime day trip by departing Geneva's Gare Routiere Bus Station in the morning and traveling by comfortable coach 60 miles (97 km) to Montreux, a lovely city located between the Alps and Lake Geneva, one of the largest lakes in western Europe. On the way, pass the steeply terraced Lavaux vineyards bordering Lake Geneva.

In Montreux, spend the bulk of your day exploring the extensive Christmas market, where you can browse charming local crafts and buy Christmas gifts and souvenirs for loved ones. Don't miss the chance to enjoy a cup of steaming Swiss hot chocolate!

Afterward, head to nearby Château de Chillon, a beautiful castle with a dramatic position on Lake Geneva that's one of Switzerland's most famous monuments. Enjoy a 1-hour guided tour of Chåteau de Chillon to learn more about its colorful history and the artists and writers it has inspired. Lord Byron made the castle famous with his poem 'The Prisoner of Chillon' and scratched his signature in the castle's dungeon.

Leave Chåteau de Chillon and admire your Christmas purchases on the drive back to Geneva, ending your 8.5-hour day trip to Montreux at the bus station at around 6:30pm.