Montreux is at its best in summer, when the lakefront is warm, the boats are running, and the promenade is in full bloom. The Montreux Jazz Festival runs for two weeks in early July and is the town's defining event — accommodation fills completely and prices double, so book months ahead or stay in Lausanne and commute. The festival now spans many genres beyond jazz, and many free outdoor concerts run alongside the ticketed shows.
Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) are quieter, still pleasant, and much cheaper. The Rochers de Naye excursion is best on a clear autumn day. Winter is off-season for the town but the rack railway still operates and the Christmas market is small but charming. The mountains above have ski areas accessible from Montreux, though most serious skiers head further into the Alps.