Lausanne is a magical Swiss city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. Nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva, Lausanne offers a myriad of experiences for visitors to enjoy. In this article, we’ll take you through the top things to do in Lausanne, providing you with a comprehensive itinerary that will ensure you make the most of your visit!

Whether you’re visiting Lausanne in winter or in summer (or any point in between) there are sure to be things to see and do in this gem of a city.

Disclaimer: I travelled to Lausanne in collaboration with Lausanne Tourism. All opinions are, as always, my own. This article may also contain affiliate links which – at no cost to you – help me keep this blog running.

Ten Amazing Things To Do in Lausanne

Explore the Old Town

When you’re in Lausanne, one of the first things you need to do is to explore the old town. It’s like taking a trip back in time, with its narrow streets and medieval vibes – perfect for photography or just for enjoying the vibe. The old town is bursting with history, culture, and stunning architecture that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook.

Start your adventure in the heart of the vieille ville at Place de la Riponne, a lively square that’s the perfect entry point to this historical district. If you’re lucky, you might even catch the market that sets up in this central square. From here, let your curiosity guide you! Walking around the old town and seeing what you find is a great way to orientate yourself when you arrive.

As you explore, keep an eye out for unique boutiques, bookshops, and cozy cafes where you can grab a cup of coffee or treat yourself to a tasty pastry.

 

Visit Lausanne Cathedral

Make sure to carve out some time to visit Lausanne Cathedral during your exploration of the old town. This magnificent architectural gem is an absolute must-see, and is considered one of the best gothic monuments in Europe.

Step inside, and you’ll find yourself immersed in a peaceful sanctuary that acts as the spiritual capital of French-speaking Switzerland. The cathedral was built during the 12th and 13th centuries and consecrated in 1275, although in 1536 (during the Reformation) it became a protestant cathedral.

For the adventurous (or fitter than me) at heart, make your way up the tower for a truly breathtaking experience. A total of 224 stairs lead up to the belfry, from which you can see a panoramic view of Lausanne. Gaze out over the red rooftops of Lausanne, the sparkling waters of Lake Geneva, and the surrounding mountains.

An absolute bonus is that Lausanne Cathedral is one of the many free things to do in Lausanne! The cathedral is free to visit, although there is a fee of 5 CHF for climbing the bell tower.

Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, a visit to Lausanne Cathedral is a must-see in the city.

Did you know? Lausanne Cathedral has a night watchman who calls out the hours starting at 10:00 PM until 2:00 AM, every day of the year. The role was historically to watch over the city, but is continued today by Renato Häusler to continue the 600-year-old tradition.

 

Stop at Place de la Palud

Nestled in the heart of Lausanne’s Vieille Ville (Old Town) is a picturesque medieval market square known as Place de la Palud that exudes timeless charm – it really was one of my favourite spots in the city!

Originally a marshy area, this square has been a focal point of the city for centuries. Today, it serves as the seat of the city government, housed within the elegant 17th-century Hôtel de Ville (town hall).

Also in the square you can find the Fontaine de la Justice, an enchanting fountain where the allegorical figure of Justice, adorned in blue and clutching scales, stands atop a brightly painted column, symbolising her role as the guardian of fairness.

Don’t miss the quaint Swiss charm of nearby Café Grütli with its old cable cars outside!

 

 

Climb the Escaliers du Marché

Experience a unique Lausanne landmark, the Escaliers du Marché. These picturesque staircases connect the lower and upper parts of the city and are adorned with vibrant flowers and charming shops. Take your time climbing the steps and enjoy the panoramic views along the way.

If you need a rest on the way up, take a break at Le Barbare, a bar and café that does a mean hot chocolate!

One of the most amazing ways to explore Switzerland is to take a road trip! If that sounds like your style, check out my article on road tripping Switzerland.

 

Venture inside the Palais de Rumine

If you’re looking for one of the best free things to do in Lausanne, don’t miss visiting the beautiful Palais de Rumine. This 19th-century Renaissance building is as beautiful inside as it is on the outside (aww) and is home to museums, such as the Cantonal Museum of Natural Sciences and the Cantonal Museum of Archeology and History, and also the Cantonal and University Library of Lausanne.

The Cantonal Museum of Fine Arts was previously located in the Palais de Rumine, but has since moved to a new location at Plateforme 10, close to the main train station of Lausanne. You can still see the facade of the museum though, and it’s absolutely beautiful.

The permanent expositions in the museums are free to visit, and the library can also be visited for free as well. Palais de Rumine is a must to explore, and is a great way to spend a rainy (or chilly) day, or just to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a while.

 

Musée cantonal des beaux-arts

The Cantonal Museum of Fine Arts moved to its new location in 2018 and opened to the public in 2019. Plateforme 10 is Lausanne’s new arts district and it is an urban regeneration project that has revitalised a previously neglected area near the train station.

This museum showcases an impressive collection of artworks (over 10,000!), including paintings, sculptures, and installations from both Swiss and international artists. If you’re like me, however, and aren’t much of an art museum or gallery person, then you’ll be more impressed by the interesting architecture of the museum.

The Musée Cantonal des Beaux-Arts (MCBA) is situated parallel to the train tracks, with the design embracing the site’s industrial heritage through its form and sharp lines. The museum spans three floors, connected by a central foyer, and features exhibition spaces throughout.

A 19th-century train hall previously located in the space was demolished, but architects Barozzi Veiga preserved its arched window for the museum, which looks incredible in the huge foyer.

“The old arched window becomes the main protagonist of the building façade from the railway and, once within the foyer, it reveals its full role as a substantial structuring component of the new building’s sequence of spaces,” -Barozzi Veiga

 

mudac and Musée Photo Elysée

For design and photography enthusiasts, a visit to mudac and Musée Photo Elysée is a must. mudac, the Museum of Contemporary Design and Applied Arts, showcases innovative design pieces from various disciplines. It’s also the only museum in western Switzerland that’s entirely dedicated to design!

Just a stone’s throw away (if you’re throwing stones down the staircase), Musée Photo Elysée focuses on photography as an art form, featuring captivating exhibitions that will inspire any photographer.

Both are located within one building at Plateforme 10, just next door to the Musée Cantonal des Beaux-Arts.

Useful information: mudac is closed on Tuesdays, so make sure you plan around these opening times! You can get a ticket to all three museums at Plateforme 10 for 25 CHF (reduced tickets are available for students, pensioners, those with disabilities etc) and entry is totally free if you’re under 26! Entry to just one museum is 15 CHF.

 

Musée Olympique

Sports enthusiasts and history buffs alike should head to the Musée Olympique (Olympic Museum), a tribute to the Olympic Games.

Lausanne is known as the Olympic Capital and proudly houses the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and its remarkable Olympic Museum. This iconic attraction underwent a modern renovation in 2013, offering visitors an educational experience across three floors.

Explore the origins of the games and see over 1,500 items, such as Olympic torches, medals, and equipment of renowned athletes. Beyond the exhibition, the museum’s grounds feature stunning artwork, and a panoramic restaurant treats guests to breathtaking views of Lake Geneva and the Alps. Don’t miss this must-see Lausanne gem that celebrates the spirit of athleticism and the history of the Olympic Games.

 

Explore Ouchy and the lakeside

Stroll along the lakeside promenade of Ouchy and soak in the breathtaking views of Lake Geneva. Enjoy a leisurely walk, rent a bicycle, or simply find a bench to relax and watch the world go by. In the summer, you can even take a refreshing dip in the lake.

A quick descent from the main train station on the “vertical subway” brings you to this enchanting place.

For a spot of luxury, enjoy a meal at the Sky Lounge, the rooftop restaurant of the Hôtel Royal Savoy Lausanne, and enjoy the beautiful panoramic views over Ouchy, Lake Geneva and the Alps.

 

Take a day trip to the vineyards of Lavaux

Venture beyond Lausanne for a memorable day trip to the nearby vineyards of Lavaux. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts terraced vineyards that offer panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Embark on a wine tour, visit local wineries, and indulge in a wine tasting experience that showcases the rich flavours of the region.

My recommendation: In the heart of Lavaux, and open all year round, you can find the incredible Domaine Croix Duplex. This winery boasts an exceptional panoramic view of the vineyards and Lake Geneva. You can enjoy it from the shaded terrace in summer or from the conservatory when it gets chillier. Le Domaine Croix Duplex offer a diverse range of wines: 14 different grape varieties, each reflecting the unique characteristics of the region.

They offer a variety of dégustations, such as a tasting of 3 wines (15 CHF per person), 4 wines (20 CHF per person), as well as various sharing platters including a cheese platter (15 CHF) and the Vigneronne platter, featuring charcuterie, Gruyère cheese and artisanal bread (22 CHF).

 

 

Lausanne is a city that combines history, culture, and natural beauty in a way that will captivate even the most seasoned traveller. With this itinerary of the top things to do in Lausanne, you’ll be able to create magical memories as you immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant atmosphere and explore its rich heritage. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey through the enchanting streets of Lausanne!

Is Lausanne on your list to visit? Let me know in the comments if you are planning a visit soon!

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