Visit Queen Studio Experience in Montreux: Rock History and Freddie Mercury's Legacy

History and Significance

Queen Studio Experience was founded in 2013 to mark the 40th anniversary of Queen's first single and album. The museum is located in the legendary Mountain Studios, which was founded in 1975 by Anita Kerr and Alex Grob at Casino Barrière de Montreux.

Mountain Studios was the most modern studio in Switzerland during the 70s, 80s, and 90s, where David Bowie, The Rolling Stones, Queen, and many other world stars recorded. Queen recorded regularly at the studio between 1978 and 1995 and even owned it between 1979 and 1996. This is the place where Freddie Mercury recorded his final songs before his death in 1991.

The museum operates under the auspices of the Mercury Phoenix Trust – Freddie Mercury's charitable organization fighting AIDS.

What to See

1. The Original Mountain Studios

The centerpiece of the museum is the original studio where Queen recorded 6 albums. The studio is preserved in authentic condition with original equipment, instruments, and atmosphere.

Albums recorded at Mountain Studios:

•Jazz (1978)

•The Game (1980)

•Hot Space (1982)

•The Works (1984)

•A Kind of Magic (1986)

•The Miracle (1989)

•Innuendo (1991)

•Made in Heaven (1995) – Freddie Mercury's final recordings

Atmosphere: Authentic, inspiring

Suitable for: All ages

2. Freddie Mercury's Costumes and Props

The museum houses original Freddie Mercury costumes worn on stage, as well as props and stage equipment.

Atmosphere: Nostalgic, emotional

Suitable for: Queen fans

3. Handwritten Song Lyrics

The museum displays handwritten original versions of songs written by Freddie Mercury, Brian May, Roger Taylor, and John Deacon.

Atmosphere: Intimate, inspiring

Suitable for: Musicians, fans

4. Instruments and Equipment

The museum displays instruments used by Queen, including guitars, drums, keyboards, and sound equipment.

Atmosphere: Interactive, educational

Suitable for: Musicians, technicians

5. Multimedia Presentations

The museum offers video presentations, photos, and interviews with Queen members about the Montreux period.

Atmosphere: Informative, entertaining

Suitable for: All ages

📋 Practical Information

How to Get to Queen Studio Experience

Address: Casino Barrière de Montreux, Rue du Théâtre 9, 1820 Montreux, Switzerland

From Geneva Airport:

•Train: To Montreux (1 hour), then 15 minutes walk

•Car: 1 hour 15 minutes

From Lausanne:

•Train: To Montreux (20 minutes), then 15 minutes walk

•Car: 30 minutes

From Zurich:

•Train: To Montreux (2 hours 30 minutes), then 15 minutes walk

•Car: 2 hours 45 minutes

With TripTransfer:

•Direct transfer from airport/hotel

•Drop-off directly at the museum

•No worries about parking and public transport

Parking:

•Recommendation: visit by public transport or TripTransfer

Visitor Tips

1.Combine with Freddie Mercury statue – 1 km from the museum

2.Visit in the morning – Fewer crowds

3.Plan 30-60 minutes – For full experience

4.Explore Montreux – Lakeside promenade, Chillon Castle

5.Visit in July – Montreux Jazz Festival

6.Take photos – Photography is allowed

7.Combine with Chaplin's World – 5 km away

8.Visit the shop – Queen souvenirs