How to Get Your Riviera Card in 2026

You receive the Riviera Card for free when staying in local commercial accommodation. This includes many hotels, youth hostels, and even some local holiday rentals. Your host will provide the card upon your arrival in the city. It remains valid for the entire duration of your winter stay.

The Riviera Card is a digital or paper document given to all overnight guests. You can use this card the very moment you check into your local hotel room. This great benefit starts on your arrival day and ends at midnight on your departure day. Make sure to keep your phone charged to show the digital QR code to staff.

Check your email for a digital version of the card before you arrive in Switzerland. Many providers now send a QR code directly to your mobile phone for convenience. You can also ask for a physical paper copy at the hotel front desk. Keep this card with you at all times while you are exploring the town.

Free Public Transport Benefits in Vevey

The biggest benefit is free travel on the Mobilis regional public transport network. This covers bus and train lines within many specific local transport zones. You can travel between Vevey, Montreux, and Villeneuve without paying any extra money. This is essential for affordable winter transportation throughout this beautiful region.

The card covers zones 70, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, and 78. Simply hop on any VMCV bus to reach many popular local winter spots. You do not need to validate the card when you enter the bus. Just show it to a ticket inspector if they ask for your ticket.

Regional trains between Vevey and Villeneuve are also included in the free transport offer. This allows you to visit the famous Chillon Castle during the quiet winter season. Always check the zone map to ensure your destination is within the free area. Staying within these zones helps you maintain a strict travel budget in 2026.

Buses run frequently between the main train station and the beautiful lakeside promenade. You can easily reach the Nestle headquarters or the famous fork statue by bus. These short trips are completely free for all holders of the Riviera Card. Enjoy the convenience of jumping on and off transport throughout the day.

Museum and Attraction Discounts in Winter

Winter is the perfect time to explore many of Vevey's world-class museums. The Riviera Card offers a 50% discount on almost all local entrance fees. You can visit the Alimentarium for half the usual ticket price. This museum explores the fascinating history of human food and global nutrition.

Chaplin’s World is another must-see attraction located very near to Vevey. The card reduces the ticket price significantly for all of your guests. You will also find great discounts at the Swiss Museum of Games. These indoor activities are perfect for chilly or very snowy winter days.

The Jenisch Museum also offers reduced entry for those holding a valid card. This museum features impressive collections of art and works on paper. It provides a warm escape from the cold winds of Lake Geneva. Use your savings to enjoy a hot chocolate at a local cafe.

Winter Mountain and Lake Adventures

The card provides a 50% discount on the train to Les Pléiades. This mountain offers skiing, snowshoeing, and stunning views of the Lake Geneva. The cog railway departs directly from the main Vevey train station platform. It is a highlight of budget winter travel in Vevey during this season.

You can also enjoy half-price tickets on the funicular to Mont-Pèlerin. This ride offers a panoramic view of the beautiful snow-capped Swiss Alps. The journey takes only eleven minutes from the local Vevey-Funi stop. It is a quick way to escape the thick city fog.

Boat trips on Lake Geneva are also discounted during the winter months. While the schedule is reduced, the scenery remains absolutely breathtaking in 2026. Use your Riviera Card to get a 50% discount on CGN cruises. A winter boat ride offers a unique perspective of the lakeside vineyards.

The train ride to Les Pléiades is especially magical after a fresh snowfall. You can rent snowshoes at the top for a very small fee. The discount on the train makes this an affordable day trip. Remember to check the weather forecast before heading up the mountain.

Practical Tips for Using Your Card

Always carry a valid photo ID alongside your official Riviera Card. Ticket inspectors may ask to see your passport or your national ID. The card is personal and cannot be shared with any other people. Ensure the dates on your card match your actual stay in Vevey.

Download the SBB Mobile app to check all train and bus schedules. The app helps you navigate the free transport zones very efficiently. Look for the "Riviera Card" logo at all attraction ticket booths. This ensures you always receive your full 50% discount on entry.

Visit the local tourist office if you have any questions about the card. They are located near the train station and the Grand Place. The staff can provide a physical map of the free transport zones. This map is very helpful for planning your daily winter excursions.

Remember that the card is only for guests staying in the region. If you are visiting for the day, you cannot buy this card. It is a special reward for choosing to stay in Vevey. Use it daily to maximize your savings during your 2026 trip.