Things To Do
in Vevey
Vevey sits on the northern shores of Lake Geneva, framed by the Alps and the terraced vineyards of Lavaux. The town blends lakeside charm with a strong culinary and cultural heritage, from historic streets to modern museums. It serves as a quiet gateway to the Lavaux vineyard terraces and the Montreux Riviera.
With easy access to Geneva and Lausanne, Vevey makes a refined base for exploring the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey with a leisurely stroll through the charming cobblestone streets of Vevey's Old Town. Stop by the local bakery to enjoy freshly baked croissants while you admire the historic buildings adorned with colorful facades. Visit the Vevey Museum of Photography to appreciate the art of visual storytelling.
After lunch at a quaint café, spend the afternoon at the lakeside promenade, soaking in the stunning views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding Alps. Engage in some people-watching or enjoy a boat ride on the lake to see Vevey from a different perspective. Don’t forget to visit the iconic Chaplin's World attraction, dedicated to the legacy of Charlie Chaplin.
As the sun sets, treat yourself to dinner at a local restaurant with a menu focused on Swiss delicacies. Afterward, enjoy a walk along the lakeshore, where the lights reflecting on the water create a magical ambiance. Cap off the evening by relaxing with a glass of wine at a nearby wine bar.
Begin your day with a visit to the Alimentarium, a museum dedicated to the science of food and nutrition. Participate in engaging exhibits that provide insight into the origins of your favorite meals. Enjoy a light breakfast at the museum’s café, surrounded by beautiful views of the lake.
In the afternoon, take a scenic train ride to Montreux, just a short distance away, and explore its famous lakeside promenade. Visit the Château de Chillon, a medieval castle right on the waterfront, and learn about its rich history. Return to Vevey for a relaxed afternoon sampling local cheeses at a nearby fromagerie.
For dinner, join a traditional Swiss fondue experience at a cozy restaurant. Enjoy the warmth of a fire as you savor the delicious cheese melt with fresh bread. End your evening with a local cultural event or performance at the Théâtre de Vevey, celebrating Swiss arts.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant (three-course) | $20-40 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $3-6 |
| 🧀Cheese or pastry | $4-8 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $10-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning lake and mountain scenery
- Excellent access to Lavaux vineyards and Montreux Riviera
- High-quality public transport and safety
- Great food scene with local cheeses and fish from the lake
- High prices typical of Switzerland
- Smaller town feel may be quieter at night
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Bonsoir" - Good evening
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est la gare?" - Where is the train station?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît." - The check, please.
- "Pouvez-vous m'aider?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Vevey
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide promenade with boats on Lake Geneva and views of the Lavaux hills, especially at sunrise.
Contemporary architecture with lakeside views, ideal for interior and exterior shots.
Medieval castle perched above the town offering panoramic views over the lake.
UNESCO-listed terraced vineyards between Vevey and Lausanne, perfect for golden-hour photography.
Narrow streets and pastel façades ideal for street photography and charm-filled portraits.
Food in Vevey
Vevey Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pan-fried perch from Lake Geneva served with a light sauce and potatoes or vegetables.
Must-Try!
A traditional Swiss cheese fondue made with two types of cheese, perfect for sharing.
A hearty Vermont-style dish of leeks and potatoes with sausage, a classic Vaud specialty.
Crispy potato pancake often served with eggs, cheese, or vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market near the train station offering fresh produce, cheese, bread, and local snacks.
Casual street food spots and vendors with quick bites and local specialties by the water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be on time for appointments and queues; greet with a polite 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' depending on the time of day.
Keep voices moderate on public transport and in residential areas; observe quiet hours in the evenings.
Safety
Tipping in Vevey
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is appreciated if service is good.
Cash (CHF) and cards (Visa, MasterCard) are widely accepted; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with abundant outdoor activities; expect crowds on weekends and occasional thunderstorms; bring sunscreen and water.
Harvest season in Lavaux; wine festivals and colorful vineyards; mild to cool days.
Cool temperatures with possible snow in the surrounding mountains; museums and cafés provide warmth and indoor culture.
Mild temperatures and blooming flora; ideal for lakeside walks and vineyard trails.
Vevey at Night
Hiking in Vevey
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic hillside paths with vineyard viewpoints and lake vistas.
Elevated hikes with panoramic views over Lake Geneva.
Easy-to-moderate trail along the shore with views across the lake.
Airports
How to reach Vevey by plane.
Major international gateway about 60-90 minutes by train or road from Vevey.
Smaller international hub roughly 1.5-2 hours away by rail or car.
Compact airport serving regional flights, closer to the Valais Alps.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly French-speaking Vaudois with a mix of Swiss and international residents.
International visitors drawn to the lake, vineyards, and Montreux proximity.
Some international professionals and retirees living in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular water activity with rental boats and sailing clubs along the shore.
Wide range of day hikes with lake views and vineyard scenery.
Flat to rolling routes suitable for all levels, with rental options available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Vevey.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Vevey restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for risottos, seasonal vegetables, cheese dishes, and ask for 'plat végétarien' or 'sans viande'.