Montreux

Located on the eastern end of Lake Geneva is the town of Montreux, where Freddie Mercury would spend his final days and the King of Iran would vacation. With incredible views, a wonderful Christmas market, and great access to local sights, its not hard to see why.

Where to stay: Grand Hotel Suisse-Majestic

Best location, hands down. The rooms are comfortable, the staff is very kind, and its set in a beautiful old building with stunning architecture and views. Plus, the breakfast in the mornings was very good. No complaints from us for this hotel.

Where to roam around a palace: Chateau de Chillon

This is the most iconic castle in all of Switzerland. Its located right on the lake, and the castle itself is enormous. Take a couple hours to get lost in and around the castle (and be sure to figure out how to get to the top viewpoint as well). Also a great 30 minute walk along the lakeside from Montreux (during the summer, there is a boat as well if you’d like to just do the walk one way).

Where to have the best cheese in the country: Gruyères

We did a day trip out to his cute little village and even though it may be small, it packs a punch of things to do. First and foremost, the cheese. Head to the Le Chalet de Gruyères for what we thought was the best of all the fondues we had in the country. It is in Gruyeres after all. Be sure to also check out the Castle of Gruyères because its Europe and seeing castles is a part of daily tourist life. Tour one of the several chocolate factories, because Switzerland. And last, but certainly not least:

Where to have a mulled wine on the set of Alien: HG Giger Museum

Have a mulled wine in one of the most wild bar/restaurants in the world. HG Giger is the creator of the alien look from the movie Aliens, as well as the mastermind behind some of the most famous mask, costumes and appearances around the world. This bar feels like you’re in the stomach of a massive alien, with skeletons, bones, and a bunch of other random shit all over the place. Definitely a must visit in Switzerland.

Where to have too much food and drinks: Montreux Christmas Market

This was the best, biggest Christmas market we went to in Switzerland. Better than Zurich’s and better than Lucerne’s. Its just massive. There’s a Ferris wheel, miles of little shops selling all types of food and trinkets, a big covered marketplace, and thousands of people enjoying the brisk Swiss evenings.