Lausanne
Lausanne, the Olympic Capital, captivates with its stunning Lake Geneva setting, charming Old Town, and vibrant cultural scene.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sunny terraces & park vibes
Lausanne
Best Time
Sunny terraces & park vibes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Lausanne, the Olympic Capital, captivates with its stunning Lake Geneva setting, charming Old Town, and vibrant cultural scene.
"Lausanne is adorable and the shops we visited were warm and welcoming."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lausanne is hilly! Be ready for lots of walking and stairs.
🎟️ Book Museum Tickets Online
Save time at popular spots like the Olympic Museum.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lausanne Cathedral
Old Town
Majestic Gothic architecture with breathtaking panoramic views from its towers. A must-see landmark.
Ouchy Lakeside Promenade
Ouchy
A serene escape with beautiful lake views, charming terraces, and a relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for a stroll.
The Olympic Museum
Ouchy
Immerse yourself in the history and spirit of the Olympic Games with interactive exhibits.
Old Town Charm
Lausanne Old Town
Wander through charming cobblestone streets, discover hidden squares, and soak in the historic ambiance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Hills (and Stairs!)
Book Ahead for Popular Spots
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lausanne is hilly! Be ready for lots of walking and stairs.
🎟️ Book Museum Tickets Online
Save time at popular spots like the Olympic Museum.
🚶♀️ Explore the Old Town
Get lost in charming streets and enjoy the historic ambiance.
🍷 Taste Local Delights
Discover unique food experiences and local specialties.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lausanne is hilly! Be ready for lots of walking and stairs.
🎟️ Book Museum Tickets Online
Save time at popular spots like the Olympic Museum.
🚶♀️ Explore the Old Town
Get lost in charming streets and enjoy the historic ambiance.
🍷 Taste Local Delights
Discover unique food experiences and local specialties.
🌳 Relax by the Lake
Enjoy the serene atmosphere of Ouchy.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Lausanne for its stunning lakeside setting, charming Old Town, and rich Olympic heritage. Many highlight the friendly atmosphere and the quality of local food experiences. Some find the city's hilly terrain challenging, but most agree the beauty and unique character of Lausanne make it a worthwhile destination.
"A wonderful afternoon exploring the tastes of Geneva with our wonderful guide Val. She was super knowledgeable and fun. She brought us to some very tasty and non touristy places, which we really appreciated. Thanks for a great afternoon Val!"
Lara Franks
"My wife and I were on our 30th anniversary trip in Switzerland and we had wonderful time with Val. She is an amazing guide and we could have spent the whole day with her. Her personality and stories were just fantastic! The tastings and shop owners were all magnificent and very welcoming as well. The combination of coffee/tea, vinegar/oil, cheese, meats, wine and chocolate were perfect. It was a wonderful experience that I could not recommend more highly!"
Kenneth Younts
"Stunning experience for our international corporate group, excellent mail communication from the beginning, efficiency of the booking and that Food tour was even more than we expected with Val. Her personality made our day so fun, the tastings were a real discovery, the artisans so welcoming… how could I not recommend that perfect activities especially for business group that need a yummy break during their stay in Geneva.
EAT AND CHILL TOUR is definitely a creative company to know.
Thanks from all of us."
christophe guihaire
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lausanne is easily accessible by train, with frequent connections from major Swiss cities like Geneva and Zurich. The train station is centrally located. If arriving by air, Geneva Airport (GVA) is the closest international airport, with direct train services to Lausanne taking about 45 minutes.
Yes, Lausanne has an excellent public transport system including metro, buses, and trams. A Lausanne Transport Card is often included with hotel stays, offering free travel within the city.
You can walk around many parts of Lausanne, especially the Old Town and Ouchy. However, be prepared for significant hills and stairs. Comfortable footwear is essential.
Driving in Lausanne can be challenging due to narrow streets, hills, and limited parking in the city center. Public transport is generally recommended for getting around.
The most convenient way is by train from Geneva Airport station directly to Lausanne. Trains run frequently and the journey takes approximately 45-50 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the main part of Lausanne Cathedral is free. However, there is a fee to climb the towers for panoramic views.
Ticket prices for the Olympic Museum vary. It's recommended to check their official website for current pricing and to book in advance, especially during peak times.
Yes, many attractions are free to enjoy, including wandering through the Old Town, strolling along the Ouchy promenade, and exploring parks like Hermitage Park.
Many hotels offer a Lausanne Transport Card which provides free public transport and discounts on attractions. Check with your accommodation provider.
Opening hours vary significantly by attraction and season. It's best to check the official websites for the Lausanne Cathedral, Olympic Museum, and other specific sites before your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic spots include the view from the Lausanne Cathedral towers, the lakeside at Ouchy, the charming streets of the Old Town, and panoramic vistas from higher points.
Photography is generally allowed in the Olympic Museum for personal use, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on certain exhibits.
The Old Town, with its winding streets and historic architecture, offers excellent opportunities for street photography.
Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) offers beautiful light for capturing the city's charm. Summer evenings by the lake are also picturesque.
Yes, the giant Swiss flag is a notable sight, especially in the Old Town, and is a popular spot for photos.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Lausanne offers a diverse culinary scene. Look for Swiss specialties, but also explore international options like Lebanese street food and delicious cookies.
Explore the Old Town for traditional eateries, the Flon district for trendy spots, and Ouchy for lakeside dining. Foodie TikToks highlight various local gems.
Yes, look for street food options, bakeries, and casual eateries. Some places offer great value, especially during lunch.
Consider trying local bakeries for treats, exploring street food vendors, or even participating in a food tour if available.
La Maison des Cookies is a highly recommended spot for cookie lovers, offering a wide variety of delicious options.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For outdoor fun, the Ouchy lakeside provides space to run around, enjoy playgrounds, and perhaps even take a boat trip on Lake Geneva. When exploring the Old Town, be mindful of the hills and stairs, which might be challenging for very young children or strollers. Consider using public transport to navigate between different areas. Many parks and green spaces offer opportunities for kids to play and burn off energy.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Many parks, like Hermitage Park, offer beautiful settings for a picnic, which is a great way to save on dining costs. Utilize public transport effectively, especially if you can get a Lausanne Transport Card. Look for affordable eateries and bakeries for meals and snacks. Some museums, like the Photo Elysée, offer free admission for those under 26, making it a great option for younger travelers.
💖 Couples
A walk through the Lavaux vineyards (a short trip from Lausanne) followed by a romantic dinner is a highly recommended experience for couples seeking scenic beauty and fine wine.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Lausanne's Hills and Steps
To make navigating easier, Lausanne boasts an efficient public transport system. The metro lines are particularly useful for connecting the lower lakeside area of Ouchy with the higher city center. Many locals and savvy travelers utilize a combination of walking for scenic exploration and public transport to cover longer distances or tackle the steepest climbs. Consider purchasing a Lausanne Transport Card if you plan on using public transport frequently, as it often comes with hotel stays and offers unlimited travel.
Embrace the challenge of the hills! The reward is often a stunning view or a hidden gem tucked away on a quiet, winding street. Don't be afraid to take breaks, enjoy a coffee at a local cafe, and appreciate the unique verticality of this beautiful Swiss city.
Culinary Delights of Lausanne
For those seeking sweet treats, places like La Maison des Cookies are a must-visit, promising a delightful array of freshly baked cookies.
If you're in the mood for something savory and unique, the Lebanese street food from Kaak Lausanne has garnered attention. For a taste of local specialties, keep an eye out for places serving traditional dishes like Cordon Bleu, as seen in posts from local food accounts. Beyond specific recommendations, exploring the different districts can lead to delicious discoveries. The Old Town offers historic charm and traditional restaurants, while the Flon district is known for its more contemporary and lively dining options.
Don't hesitate to ask locals for their favorite spots or try a food tour to get an authentic taste of Lausanne. Lausanne's Olympic Heritage
The museum offers an immersive experience, showcasing artifacts, interactive exhibits, and the evolution of the Games. It's a place where visitors can learn about legendary athletes, iconic moments, and the values that the Olympics represent. The museum's location by the lake adds to its appeal, providing a beautiful setting for reflection after exploring the exhibits.
Beyond the museum, the city itself often reflects its Olympic status through public art, events, and a general atmosphere that celebrates sport and internationalism. Even if you're not a die-hard sports fan, the Olympic Museum provides a fascinating glimpse into a significant part of global culture and Lausanne's identity.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit