Montreux Christmas Market on Lake Geneva

Montreux Noël stretches along the shore of Lake Geneva, with the Alps across the water. More than 150 lit chalets line the quays and the Swiss Gardens, and the market carries on to Market Square and the boat landing, just 200 metres from the station.

Its signature moment is the Flying Santa, who crosses the sky above Montreux in his sleigh. You can also watch him from the lake on the Flying Santa cruise, aboard a Belle Époque boat on selected dates, or take the train up to Santa's House on the Rochers-de-Naye. Both are paid and worth booking ahead.

Back on the quays there's a ferris wheel on Market Square, a Forest of Wishes where you hang your wish on a glowing fir tree, and plenty to eat: fondue and raclette restaurants, Santa's Grill, churros, crêpes and fondue hot dogs.

Entry to the market is free. The craft stalls are open from late morning until 20:00 to 22:00 depending on the day, and the restaurants until 23:00. On weekend afternoons the VMCV buses 201 and 204 are free, and there are paid park-and-ride car parks at Chailly and Saussaz.