SwissDayTrip: Montreux-Lausanne-Genève

Welcome to my travel blog series dedicated to exploring Switzerland economically through its efficient public transport system, primarily utilizing SBB services, thanks to various travel passes such as the Swiss Friend Pass for those under 25, the Swiss Travel Pass, or the GA Travelcard (https://www.sbb.ch/en).

These dynamic journeys are designed to help you uncover the diverse landscapes and cultures of Switzerland (French, German, or Italian Swiss regions) within a single day. While it includes recommendations for restaurants along the way, feel free to pack your own meals and enjoy picnics at some of the spectacular spots we highlight. We hope that the blog proves to be a valuable resource for your travels, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of Switzerland.

We recommend starting your excursions early to make the most of your day and have time to visit and engage in all activities within the same day.

FIRST TRIP: Three cities in the French Swiss region.

We begin by exploring Montreux, a charming city known for its wonderful lakeside promenade, where you will find the sculpture of Freddie Mercury and much more! If you continue walking for 35-40 minutes, you will reach the famous and impressive Chillon Castle situated on the lake. Other ways to get there include taking a bus from Montreux station to the medieval castle or taking a train which runs regularly and takes only a few minutes to Veytaux-Chillon station, where you will walk for 10-15 minutes to the castle.

After visiting this wonderful city, we head to Lausanne from Montreux station. The train journey takes approximately 25 to 35 minutes. Once you arrive in Lausanne, you can immerse yourself in exploring the streets, visiting the cathedral, La Palud Square, and the Town Hall, among others, until you reach the lake, where, if you are brave and the weather permits, you can take a swim. Taking advantage of the wonderful views of the lake, you can stop and relax, and have a meal in that area. Walking along the lake, you will reach the Olympic Museum, which I recommend visiting, and the surrounding area. You can return to Lausanne train station with bus line 21.

Lastly, it is time to visit the grand city of Geneva. The train journey takes about 40-50 minutes, during which you can enjoy the wonderful views of Switzerland. Once you arrive in Geneva, I recommend getting lost in the streets of the old town, appreciating its art and churches ( do not forget to visit the Cathedral Saint-Pierre) until you reach the lake and take the famous photo with the Jet d’Eau. As a recommendation for a very economical place to have fondue by the lake, I suggest Buvette des Bains.

I hope you enjoy this fantastic excursion! If you have any questions, feel free to ask.  

Don’t forget to share your adventures with us on Instagram: @SwissTripDay. 

Thank you for joining, and remember: Never stop traveling! 🌍