Montreux Christmas Market, Your Essential Festive Guide
Have you ever stepped into a place so festive that it feels like walking through a real-life Christmas movie? That’s exactly how Montreux Christmas Market made me feel the moment I arrived.
Nestled right on the shores of Lake Geneva with the Swiss Alps as its stunning backdrop, Montreux Noël isn’t just another Christmas market. It’s an enchanting winter wonderland.
Picture twinkling lights reflecting off the tranquil water, stalls overflowing with mouthwatering Swiss treats and sustainable delights perfect for the eco-conscious traveller. I’ve visited several European Christmas markets, and believe me, this is a festive experience you’ll remember forever.
So if you’re planning a cosy winter getaway from your full time job, seeking sustainable yet magical holiday fun, or just looking for the best Swiss fondue with lakeside views, you’re in the right place. Let me guide you through everything you need to make your visit to Montreux Christmas Market unforgettable this year.
Why Montreux Christmas Market?
I know you’re thinking it. Why travel to Montreux Noel over the many other Christmas markets located throughout Europe? And it’s a fair question!
But unlike busy inner-city destinations, Montreux has so much more to offer. Especially if you’re looking to combine a Christmas market visit with beautiful wintery scenery.
A Picturesque Lakeside Location
Montreux sits right on the edge of Lake Geneva, surrounded by snow-capped Alpine peaks. It honestly feels like something out of a Christmas film.
One moment you’re wandering past chalet stalls, and the next you’re staring out over a still, shimmering lake with the mountains glowing pink at sunset. I found the contrast of lake and mountain views in Montreux in winter to be something really special.
Festive Decorations
Every evening, the entire promenade lights up. Thousands of fairy lights wind through the trees and sparkle across the water.
The wooden chalets that make up the market stalls are decked out with festive garlands and glowing lanterns. I remember walking along the lakefront thinking, this is what Christmas should feel like. It’s just really magical.
Sustainability In Mind
Montreux Noël is part of the national Swisstainable program, which promotes more sustainable tourism, achieving ‘Committed’ level.
The market promotes the use of reusable cups, has a solar-powered infrastructure, uses recycled PET for its Christmas decorations and uses a closed cycle of sunflower oil for catering.
It also uses locally-sourced ingredients and is committed to supporting local businesses and forging local links.
What to See and Do at Montreux Noel
There’s so much to delight and entertain at Montreux Christmas market, and it’s easy to miss sights when you’re busy in the moment.
Here are some of my favourite things I did during my own visit.
Ride the Ferris Wheel in Market Square
Market Square – or Place du Marché – is the beating heart of Montreux Christmas market. It’s where you’ll find the covered market, and where I picked up a warm pretzel and mulled wine.
I also really loved reading all the handwritten Christmas wish labels hanging from Christmas trees here, and writing and adding my own too.
It’s also where you’ll find the market’s impressive ferris wheel. Take a ride for some absolutely breathtaking views of the lake and mountains.
Explore the Chalets
There are more than 150 stalls, selling everything from handmade soaps and woollen hats to quirky Christmas decorations and local Swiss crafts. Montreux Noel is a great place to pick up meaningful gifts that aren’t mass-produced.
During my visit, I bought a gorgeous hand-carved wooden tree ornament and a jar of truffle mustard that my dad still raves about!
Watch The Flying Santa
If you time it right, you can catch the market’s famous ‘Flying Santa’ – he literally soars over the market suspended from a zipline. It’s wild, and so much fun to watch!
Find a spot along the dock with an unobstructed view of the wire early, as the area gets quite busy in the run up to each flight.
This year’s Flying Santa schedule hasn’t yet been confirmed (I’ll update here once it is), but last year it ran on the hour from 5pm on weekdays and 4pm on weekends. We just had time to catch the 5pm viewing before leaving to make our train.
Visit Santa’s House
If you’re travelling with kids, they’ll love Santa’s House. It’s reached by mini cogwheel train, which climbs to an altitude of 2,042 metres to the heart of the Rochers-de-Naye.
Once there, you can meet Santa himself in his log cabin and receive a surprise gift and original certificate.
Booking is essential – tickets are available online from September.
What to Eat at Montreux Christmas Market
The food here is next level. Think hot raclette melted onto crusty bread, bubbling pots of fondue, grilled sausages and sweet treats like gingerbread and apple fritters. Of course, mulled wine (vin chaud) is on every corner.
Eat, Drink & Be (Casually) Merry!
If you’re looking for a casual bite to eat, look for the stalls selling regional dishes, especially if you spot one doing malakoff (deep-fried cheese balls). They’re delicious and so warming.
Sit-Down Restaurants
There are also four main restaurants at the site, if you’re looking to sit-down and enjoy a fuller meal:
- Bar des Etoiles – perfect for aperitifs and cosy vibes, with Jazz music every Wednesday and Thursday evening.
- La Poya – great for groups and families looking for treats including smoked “borne” ham and VachouMeringue.
- Chalet Heidi – A fondue fan’s dream come true! This peaceful spot offers various fondue dishes, soups and platters.
- Chez Hugo – A 90-seat restaurant specialiing in raclette (a dish made from brushed rinded Swiss mountain cheese).
Montreux Christmas Market 2025 Dates & Times
In 2025, Montreux Christmas market runs from 20th November to 24th December. Weekday evenings are ideal, with fewer crowds and all the lights on full glow. Weekends get very busy, especially from mid-December onwards.
I visited on a Tuesday in early December, and it felt festive without being overwhelming.
The 2025 opening times are:
|
Artisans & Merchants |
Restaurants | |
|---|---|---|
|
Monday |
11h – 20h |
11h – 22h |
|
Tuesday |
11h – 20h |
11h – 22h |
|
Wednesday |
11h – 21h |
11h – 23h |
|
Thursday |
11h – 21h |
11h – 23h |
|
Friday |
11h – 22h |
11h – 23h |
|
Saturday |
10h – 22h |
10h – 23h |
|
Sunday |
10h – 20h |
10h – 22h |
|
23rd December |
10h – 20h |
11h – 22h |
|
24th December |
10h – 17h |
11h – 17h |
How to Get to Montreux
Montreux is super well connected. If you’re flying into Geneva, you can be lakeside within an hour on a direct train. Trains run regularly and reliably throughout the day from Geneva, Lausanne and even from Zurich if you’re coming from further afield.
Use Omio to compare transport options and book the right tickets for you based on the timetable and price. 🚄 🎟️
SBB (the Swiss rail company) has a special Montreux Noel rail offer – it’s a bundled ticket that includes your return travel, a hot drink, a pretzel and a souvenir mug. It’s great value and part of the fun! If you’re just buying a standard return or all-day ticket, purchase as far in advance as possible for the best rate.
Parking in Montreux in winter is limited and expensive, so I really recommend sticking to trains, rather than hiring a car. You can also travel around the town by local bus.
Where to Stay in Montreux
Accommodation gets booked up fast, especially lakeside hotels with views of the market. Here are some local hotel recommendations:
Budget Accommodation – Hôtel de la Rouvenaz
- Perfect if you’re watching your spend but still wanting central, Christmassy proximity.
- Free Wi‑Fi, helpful staff, with breakfast and a cosy bar on site
- 3‑star, budget‑friendly, literally steps from the Christmas Market on Rue du Marché.
- Check availability and price with booking.com
Mid-Range Accommodation – Hotel Eden Palace Au Lac
- 4‑star, about a 2‑minute walk from the market
- Lakeside position, pet‑friendly, and good guest reviews
- Gorgeous views, breakfast available, and ideal for comfortable festive stay without breaking the bank
- Reserve for your dates with booking.com
Luxury Accommodation – Fairmont Le Montreux Palace
- 5‑star grand hotel, around 10–11 minutes’ walk along the lake to the Christmas Market
- Iconic historic property with spa, several restaurants and stunning lake‑Alps views
- A truly indulgent base for festive breaks, especially enjoyable if you love style and pampering
- Book a room now with booking.com
There are also plenty of B&Bs and mid-range options a short walk from the market. Or consider staying in Geneva or elsewhere if you just want to visit Montreux for the day.
Beyond the Market: Exploring Montreux
If you have a few hours spare around your Montreux Christmas market visit, you’re in for a treat! Montreux has some fantastic sights that are within easy reach.
Chillon Castle
Just a 30-minute lakeside stroll (or a 10-minute bus ride) from Montreux is Chillon Castle – a real-life medieval fortress on the water. It also houses an innovative contemporary history museum focusing on entertainment and strategy.
It’s one of Switzerland’s most visited historic sites, and it looks incredible surrounded by snow and winter mist.
And, look closely. Do you recognise it? This castle was the inspiration for Eric’s castle in Disneys version of The Little Mermaid!
Montreux Riviera
The area around Montreux is also worth exploring if you have time. The lakeside promenade is dotted with sculptures, including the famous Freddie Mercury statue – he holidayed in Montreux, and wrote ‘A Winter’s Tale’ while looking out over Lake Geneva).
Queen fans can even visit their former recording studio, the Queen Studio Experience at the Casino Barrière, which is free and surprisingly emotional. It’s open every day from 9am to 9pm.
If you fancy a bit of snow, the scenic cogwheel train to Rochers-de-Naye whisks you up into the mountains. The views are unreal!
Montreux Christmas Market FAQ
Some commonly-asked questions about Montreux Noel, and up-to-date answers.
What date does the Montreux Christmas Market start and end in 2025?
Montreux Christmas market runs from 20 November to 24 December 2025.
What are the opening times for the market?
This year, Montreux Noel is open Monday & Tuesday 11am to 8pm, Wednesday & Thursday 11am to 9pm, Friday 11am to 10pm, Saturday 10am to 10pm and Sunday 10am to 8pm.
Exceptions are December 23rd (10am to 8pm) and December 24th (10am to 5pm).
The restaurants are typically open slightly later.
Where is the market held?
The market is held along the lakeside promenade in Montreux, stretching from the covered market (Marché Couvert) to the Place du Marché.
How do I get to Montreux Christmas Market?
The easiest way is by train, especially from Geneva, Lausanne or Zurich. Montreux has a main station just a short walk from the market. Trains are regular, fast and scenic. Book via Omio to compare timetables and prices.
Is it better to use cash or card at the market?
Most stalls accept card payments, but it’s a good idea to bring some Swiss francs in cash, especially for smaller purchases or food stands.
Is the market suitable for children?
Absolutely! There’s a Santa’s Village, a ferris wheel, and even the magical Flying Santa that kids will love.
Are there toilets and baby changing facilities?
Yes. There are public toilets and baby changing stations along the market route and in the main square.
Is the market accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes. The lakeside promenade is flat and wheelchair-friendly, and public transport in Switzerland is generally very accessible.
When is the best time to visit?
Evenings are the most magical, with the lights fully glowing and the market in full swing. For fewer crowds, go on a weekday earlier in December.
What else can I do nearby?
Explore Chillon Castle, stroll the Montreux Riviera, see the Freddie Mercury statue, or ride the scenic train to Rochers-de-Naye for snowy views and Santa’s mountain-top grotto.
Your Actionable Takeaways for Montreux
Hopefully you’re now sold on visiting Montreux Christmas market, and ready to go ahead and make a plan.
Here’s a step-by-step to-do list to help get you started:
- Plan ahead: Book your accommodation early to coincide with the market dates.
- Book public transport: Trains are fast, clean and stress-free, but book in advance for the best price.
- Sample local food: Don’t miss out on raclette, fondue and vin chaud. Reservations can be made in some of the on-site restaurants.
- Dress warmly: Layers, gloves and a hat are your best friends, plus a waterproof outer layer in case of rain.
- Explore Chillon Castle: It’s a fairytale spot just a short walk away. Grab tickets in advance to save time on the day.
Whether you’re going with friends, solo or as a festive date trip, Montreux’s Christmas market is one of the best winter locations I’ve visited. It ticks all the boxes – stunning scenery, tasty food, festive fun, and that warm fuzzy feeling you only get at Christmas.
So what are you waiting for, start planning your winter visit to Montreux today?
Visiting Switzerland for a few days? Check out my blog post on Churwalden’s alpine coaster for some pre-Christmas thrills and spills! 🎢 🇨🇭
