Things To Do
in Monthey
Monthey is a charming valley town in the Valais region of Switzerland, perched along the Rhône and framed by the Dents du Midi. It serves as a gateway to the Chablais and the nearby ski resorts, blending alpine scenery with a practical, Swiss-town vibe. The town center offers pleasant strolls, traditional markets, and a starting point for day trips into the surrounding mountains.
With its accessible location and friendly pace, Monthey invites both outdoor adventures and relaxed, scenic explorations.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in Monthey, savoring fresh pastries and artisanal coffee. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of the historic center, admiring the well-preserved architecture and vibrant facades. Don’t miss the impressive St. Vincent Church, with its stunning stained glass windows that beautifully catch the morning light.
After lunch at a nearby bistro, visit the Monthey Museum to immerse yourself in the local history and art. Explore the surrounding area, where you can find delightful shops selling handmade crafts and local products. Take a moment to relax at the Place de la Liberté, a lovely square perfect for people-watching.
As dusk approaches, dine at a traditional Swiss restaurant, indulging in fondue or raclette, dishes that are popular in the region. Enjoy the warm ambiance and perhaps engage with locals who are eager to share stories about their town. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the Rhône River, taking in the serene views of the surrounding mountains.
Start your day with a scenic drive to the Lavaux region, known for its terraced vineyards overlooking Lake Geneva. Stop at a local vineyard for a guided tour, where you will learn about the winemaking process and the unique grape varieties grown in this UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy a light breakfast of local cheeses and bread paired with a glass of fresh white wine.
After the tour, embark on a leisurely hike along the vineyard paths, taking in breathtaking views of the lake and the Alps in the distance. Stop at several tasting rooms to sample a variety of wines, including the renowned Chasselas. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the vines, surrounded by the stunning landscape.
Return to Monthey and unwind at a cozy wine bar, reflecting on your day of exploration. Savor a glass of local wine while trying some small plates featuring regional specialties. As night falls, take a stroll through the town, enjoying the peaceful ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-6 |
| 🚆1-way public transportation | $3-6 |
| 🍷Glass of local wine | $6-12 |
| 🧀Cheese purchase or cheese board | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong access to alpine scenery and day trips to nearby ski resorts
- Relaxed town vibe with good Swiss infrastructure
- Smaller nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
- Limited direct international flight options from Monthey itself; best accessed via Geneva or Sion
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est... ?" - Where is... ?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Monthey
Visit one of these nice places.
A sweeping overlook offering dramatic peaks of the Dents du Midi and a sense of the valley below; best at sunrise or golden hour.
Cobbled squares, historic façades, and daily life provide great street photography opportunities in the heart of Monthey.
Reflective water scenes and gentle light along the river; ideal for landscape and portrait photography.
Alpine-backdropped vineyards offering colorful scenes in different seasons, especially during harvest and sunset.
Food in Monthey
Monthey Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Melted cheese served over boiled potatoes, pickles, and onions; a Swiss staple widely found in Monthey’s bistros and mountain huts.
Must-Try!
Cheese fondue using local Valais cheeses; enjoy dipping bread and vegetables in a warm, communal pot at many restaurants.
A distinctive blue cheese from the Valais region; sample on cheese boards or in simple regional dishes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the town center offering cheeses, bread, charcuterie, fresh produce, and regional specialties; great for sampling local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is standard in formal settings; use Bonjour in French-speaking areas and address people politely as Monsieur/Madame when appropriate.
Be punctual for meetings and reservations; dress neatly for nicer venues; avoid loud behavior in public spaces.
Ask for permission before photographing individuals or private interiors; respect local customs when visiting homes or religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Monthey
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are not mandatory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common but not obligatory.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; many shops and markets prefer Swiss francs (CHF).
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder temperatures and blooming meadows; trails open up, though some higher routes may still be damp.
Warm days with abundant outdoor activity; expect occasional afternoon storms; stay hydrated and plan flexible hikes.
Clear air and harvest color; comfortable trekking conditions and fewer crowds.
Snowy landscapes with access to nearby ski areas; dress in layers, use proper winter footwear, and check road conditions.
Monthey at Night
Hiking in Monthey
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible routes with varying difficulty and expansive views of the mountain range.
Gentle to moderate hikes through vineyards and alpine scenery, ideal for a relaxed day out.
Waterfront and forest trails offering tranquil scenery and opportunities for a picnic.
Airports
How to reach Monthey by plane.
Major international gateway; roughly 1.5–2 hours by car or train from Monthey with frequent connections and robust rail links.
Regional airport closer to Monthey; limited international flights, often serving seasonal and charter routes; convenient for regional travel.
Largest Swiss airport with broad international service; longer transfer from Monthey but excellent rail connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Family-friendly town with parks and safe pedestrian areas.
Residents who work in the valley and nearby towns enjoy a balanced, outdoor-focused lifestyle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in winter with nearby resorts offering a range of runs and reliable lift systems.
Extensive networks in the Dents du Midi region and Chablais hills suitable for different fitness levels.
Scenic routes along the Rhône and in nearby valleys attract cyclists of all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Monthey.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available: look for seasonal vegetable plates, cheese-based dishes like raclette, and bean or lentil soups; ask for meat-free fondue or salads as needed.