Montreux Casino

Montreux Casino Visiting Hours, Tickets & Montreux Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Situated on the scenic shores of Lake Geneva, Montreux Casino—formally known as Casino Barrière de Montreux—is a cornerstone of Swiss Riviera culture. Famed for its elegant architecture, storied past, and pivotal role in music history, the casino attracts visitors year-round for gaming, concerts, and its unique place in the global music scene. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Montreux Casino visiting hours, tickets, accessibility, and the surrounding historical sites.

Introduction
History & Cultural Significance
Architectural Evolution and the 1971 Fire
The Montreux Jazz Festival
Visiting Hours, Tickets & Visitor Information
Events & Entertainment
Montreux Casino’s Musical Heritage
Nearby Attractions & Travel Tips
Accessibility, Facilities & Practical Info
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Conclusion
References

History & Cultural Significance

Founded in 1881, Montreux Casino was Switzerland’s first licensed gambling venue (CGN.ch). Initially a Belle Époque social hub, it quickly became a magnet for Europe’s elite, offering gaming, balls, concerts, and theater. Throughout the 20th century, the casino’s cultural significance grew, intertwining with the city’s development as an international resort and musical destination.

The casino is perhaps best known as the birthplace of the Montreux Jazz Festival in 1967—a world-renowned event that continues to draw legendary performers and music fans from across the globe (Montreux Jazz Festival Official). Its musical legacy was further cemented by the 1971 fire, which inspired Deep Purple’s iconic song “Smoke on the Water” (Dayhist.com), and by the presence of Mountain Studios, where Queen, David Bowie, and other icons recorded.

Architectural Evolution and the 1971 Fire

After its original Belle Époque design, the casino underwent several renovations to accommodate growing audiences and modernize facilities. The most dramatic moment in its history occurred on December 4, 1971, when a flare gun ignited a fire during a Frank Zappa concert, destroying the building (Dayhist.com). The casino was rebuilt and reopened in 1975, featuring enhanced safety systems and modern amenities. Today’s interiors blend classic grandeur with contemporary design, offering panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the Alps (CGN.ch).

The Montreux Jazz Festival

Founded by Claude Nobs in 1967, the Montreux Jazz Festival grew from a three-day local event into a global phenomenon. Initially hosted in the casino’s grand halls, the festival has welcomed legends like Miles Davis, Ella Fitzgerald, and Prince (Montreux Jazz Festival Official). Each July, the festival attracts around 250,000 visitors, boosting the local economy and transforming Montreux into a vibrant cultural epicenter (Swissinfo). The casino remains a focal venue, renowned for its acoustics and intimate concert settings.

Visiting Hours, Tickets & Visitor Information

Opening Hours: Slot machines operate from 09:00 to 05:00; live table games run from 16:00 to 03:00 (Casino Barrière Montreux).
Entry Fee: Free for eligible visitors; age 18+ with valid government-issued ID (Casino Switzerland).
Dress Code: Smart-casual attire is expected; sportswear and beachwear are not permitted.
Tickets: No ticket required for gaming areas; event and concert tickets are sold online or at the box office. Festival passes for the Montreux Jazz Festival are available on the official festival site (Montreux Jazz Festival FAQ).
Accessibility: The casino is wheelchair accessible, with elevators and adapted restrooms.
Guided Tours: Available upon request for groups interested in the casino’s history and architecture.

Events & Entertainment

Gaming: 24 table games (blackjack, roulette, poker, etc.) and over 380 slot machines (MyMontreux).
Poker Room: Regular tournaments and cash games.
Restaurants & Bars: Three restaurants (including Le Fouquet’s and La Mamma) and several bars, many with terraces overlooking the lake (MyMontreux).
Live Shows: The casino hosts concerts, dinner shows, and themed parties year-round (Casinos Barrière).

Montreux Casino’s Musical Heritage

The 1971 Fire and “Smoke on the Water”

The casino’s destruction in 1971 during a Frank Zappa concert became legendary through Deep Purple’s “Smoke on the Water,” immortalizing both the event and Claude Nobs’ rescue efforts (ShuttleDirect.com). The incident led to stricter safety standards in Swiss and European venues.

Mountain Studios & Queen: The Studio Experience

Queen’s purchase of Mountain Studios within the casino brought a new era of musical innovation. Today, the free “Queen: The Studio Experience” museum showcases original instruments, memorabilia, and interactive displays, drawing fans from around the world (paliparan.com).

Nearby Attractions & Travel Tips

Château de Chillon: A medieval fortress 7 km from the casino, accessible by train, bus, or on foot along the lakeside promenade.
Freddie Mercury Statue: Iconic lakeside monument celebrating Queen’s ties to Montreux.
Montreux Lakeside Promenade: Scenic walkways with historical plaques and panoramic lake views.
Montreux International Guitar Show: Annual spring event for guitar enthusiasts (MIGS).

Travel Tips:

Montreux is easily reached by train (10-minute walk from the station), car (A9 motorway, exit 15), or boat (MIGS Access).
Special transport services run during major events and festivals.
Use the Montreux Riviera Card from your hotel for free public transport and discounts on attractions (Montreux Riviera Tourist Office).

Accessibility, Facilities & Practical Info

Wheelchair Access: Elevators and accessible restrooms throughout.
Parking: On-site and public parking nearby.
Wi-Fi & Cloakroom: Free Wi-Fi and secure cloakroom services.
Age Restrictions: No entry for those under 18; children under 6 not admitted to concerts.
Safety: Security checks and responsible gaming support are standard.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are Montreux Casino’s visiting hours?
A: Slots: 09:00–05:00; table games: 16:00–03:00.

Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: No; entry is free with valid ID and age requirements.

Q: Do I need tickets for casino events?
A: Only for concerts or special events; buy online or at the box office.

Q: What is the dress code?
A: Smart-casual; no sportswear or beachwear.

Q: Is the casino accessible for disabled visitors?
A: Yes; wheelchair access and adapted facilities are available.

Q: What historical sites are nearby?
A: Château de Chillon, Freddie Mercury Statue, and the lakeside promenade.

Conclusion

Montreux Casino is more than a destination for gaming—it is a vibrant blend of Swiss history, legendary music, and lakeside elegance. Whether you’re visiting for the Montreux Jazz Festival, exploring the Queen: The Studio Experience, or simply enjoying a meal overlooking Lake Geneva, the casino offers a unique immersion into Montreux’s cultural heart. For the latest information on visiting hours, tickets, and special events, consult the official casino website and the Montreux Jazz Festival.