Start at Place du Marché in Central Montreux

Place du Marché is the most popular central spot for visitors. It sits right by the water in the heart of the city. You will see the famous Freddie Mercury statue here. This is the ideal place for where to start the Montreux flower walk.

The market square offers easy access to the lakeside path. You can find public restrooms and many cafes nearby. Most visitors begin their journey heading south toward Chillon. This area remains very lively throughout the day in 2026.

Parking is available in the underground garage directly below the square. Prices average around 3 CHF per hour during peak times. Arrive before 10 AM to secure a parking spot easily. This location puts you right in the middle of the action.

From here, the path stretches for several beautiful kilometers. You will immediately see vibrant flower beds and exotic plants. It is a great spot to check our Montreux Lakeside Promenade guide for more details. The path is flat and easy to walk.

Begin Your Walk Near the Montreux Train Station

Arriving by train is very convenient for many Swiss travelers. The station is located on a hill above the lake. A short walk down the stairs leads you to the water. This is a practical choice for where to start the Montreux flower walk.

Follow the clear signs toward the "Lac" or lakefront area. The walk down takes about five to ten minutes. You will arrive near the Eurotel Montreux building. The flower displays start immediately along this beautiful shoreline path.

This entrance point is perfect for those on a quick day trip. You can easily return to the station after your walk. Many local buses also stop near this lakeside entry point. It saves time and allows for a flexible schedule.

Check the best flower displays on Montreux Promenade 2026 before you go. This helps you identify the most colorful sections of the path. The views of the Alps are spectacular from this height. You will love the fresh lake air.

Start the Flower Walk from Chillon Castle

Some walkers prefer starting at the southern end of the path. Chillon Castle is a world-famous landmark located on the lake. Starting here allows you to walk back toward the city center. It offers a different perspective of the scenic shoreline.

You can reach the castle by bus or local train. The walk from the castle to central Montreux is flat. It covers about four kilometers of paved pathways. This route is very popular for a relaxing afternoon stroll.

Use the Chillon Castle walk route to plan your timing. Entry to the castle grounds is free for walkers. The flower beds near the castle are particularly well-maintained. You will find many benches for resting here.

Walking toward the city provides better views of the sunset. The mountains frame the town beautifully as you approach the center. This is a quiet alternative for where to start the Montreux flower walk. It avoids the busiest morning crowds.

Practical Tips for Navigating the Promenade

The promenade is open 24 hours a day and is free. Most people spend two to three hours exploring the path. Wear comfortable shoes as you will walk several kilometers. The path is mostly flat and very easy to navigate.

Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated during your walk. There are several public fountains with fresh Swiss water. You can also find many lakeside kiosks selling snacks. Prices for a simple ice cream range from 5 to 8 CHF.

The best light for photos is during the golden hour. This happens shortly before sunset over Lake Geneva. You can find more scenic walks in Montreux 2026 to extend your trip. The atmosphere is peaceful and very romantic.

Seasonal Highlights for Your 2026 Visit

Spring is the peak season for the famous flower displays. Tulips and narcissi bloom beautifully from April to May. The gardeners create intricate designs that change every single year. You will see vibrant colors throughout the entire promenade.

Summer offers a different variety of exotic and tropical plants. Palm trees and banana plants thrive in the mild microclimate. The flower walk remains lush and green through August. It feels like a Mediterranean paradise in Switzerland.

Winter is quieter but still offers a unique charm. You might see frost on the remaining hardy plants. The Christmas market takes over part of the path in December. It is a magical time to visit even without flowers.