Montreux Jazz Festival returns for its landmark 60th edition from July 2026, reclaiming its place as one of Europe’s most storied music gatherings. The festival spreads across the lakeside venues and public spaces that have defined it for six decades, offering both free performances and ticketed shows across multiple stages.
Artists include our friends Angus & Julia Stone, Raye, Sting, Aldous Harding, Pinkpantheress, John Legend, Joy Crookes, Agnes Obel, The Roots, Moby, Deep Purple, Gregory Porter and Cerrone Disco Symphonic to close off on the last night. I need to chat to the boss to see if I can work (well I say work…) from Montreux for most of July!
The festival’s setup remains true to its formula: major acts perform in seated venues whilst the waterfront stages host free, open-air performances. This mix means you can catch anything from international jazz legends to emerging acts without spending a franc, though premium seating for headliners comes at varying costs depending on the artist and venue.
Montreux sits on the eastern shore of Lake Geneva between the Alps and Jura Mountains. The town is easily reached by train from Geneva Airport (about 90 minutes) or by regional trains from across Switzerland and France. The festival transforms the lakeside promenade into a cultural hub, with bars, food stalls, and street performers adding to the atmosphere beyond the scheduled performances.
Accommodation fills quickly during the festival. Book early if you’re planning to stay overnight. Day visits work well too if you’re based in Geneva or other nearby towns. The free stages let you experience the festival’s energy without advance tickets, though the full programme and ticketed venue details release closer to the dates. Check the official festival website for the 2026 lineup and booking information as July approaches.
