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If you have done the things to do in Italy, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Lausanne.
Nestled at the foot of the Swiss Alps lies the charming city of Lausanne, a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
From mesmerizing views from the hilltops to delightful flavors of the local cuisine, Lausanne offers an experience that is as scenic as it is unforgettable.
So pack your bags and get ready to indulge in the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and endless entertainment – Lausanne is yours to explore!
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Lausanne:
1. Olympic Museum
The Olympic Museum is a world-class museum dedicated to the history of the Olympic Games and the Olympic movement.
What to see or do: There are three levels of exhibits, showcasing the history of the ancient Olympic Games, the modern Games, and the athletes who have competed throughout history, as well as interactive displays, videos and temporary exhibitions.
Visitors can also try on Olympic gear and participate in interactive activities.
Don’t miss: The Museum’s highlight is on the top floor, which features a panoramic view over Lake Leman and the Alps, as well as the Olympic flame and the Olympic medals collection.
Insider travel tips: – The museum can get busy, especially during peak season, so it is advisable to book tickets in advance or arrive early.
2. Lausanne Cathedral
Lausanne Cathedral, also known as Cathédrale Notre-Dame, is a grand Gothic-style church located in the heart of Lausanne, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at the stunning architecture of the cathedral which includes a beautiful rose window, intricate detailing, and soaring vaulted ceilings.
Take a tour to learn about the fascinating history of the church and admire the impressive pipe organ, which has over 7,000 pipes.
Don’t miss: Be sure to climb the cathedral tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and Lake Geneva below. Also, take a moment to see the famous astronomical clock that dates back to the 1400s.
Insider travel tips: If you plan on visiting on a Sunday, attend one of the cathedral’s services for a special and unique experience. Additionally, entry to the cathedral is free, but donations are welcome to help with its upkeep.
3. Lake Geneva
Lake Geneva (also known as Lac Léman) is a stunning crescent-shaped lake that spans over 580 square kilometers and is shared by Switzerland and France.
What to see or do: Boat rides on the lake offer spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and shorelines and are available from different ports including Lausanne.
Lausanne, the Olympic capital, is a beautiful Swiss city built on hills overlooking Lake Geneva. The city’s old town, medieval cathedrals, and museums are worth exploring.
Don’t miss: Chillon Castle, a stunning medieval castle built on a rocky island in Lake Geneva, is a must-visit.
It offers incredible views of the lake and surrounding mountains and is a great place to learn about Swiss history and culture.
Insider travel tips: Take the time to walk along the promenade in Lausanne and enjoy the lake views from different angles.
Visit the Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the hills overseeing Lake Geneva, and taste the wonderful local wines.
4. Collection de l’Art Brut
The Collection de l’Art Brut is a museum in Lausanne, Switzerland that showcases art created by individuals who are not formally trained as artists and who often work outside of traditional artistic institutions.
What to see or do: Visitors to the museum can explore a wide range of art ranging from drawings and paintings to sculptures and textiles.
The collection includes work by well-known Outsider artists such as Adolf Wölfli, Aloïse Corbaz, and Henry Darger, as well as lesser-known artists from around the world.
Don’t miss: A must-see in the museum is the permanent collection which includes over 70,000 works dating from the 18th century to the present day.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Mondays, so make sure to plan your visit accordingly.
5. Parc de l’Hermitage
Parc de l’Hermitage is a beautiful park located in Lausanne, Switzerland. It covers an area of over 24 hectares and is home to many species of flora and fauna.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a peaceful stroll through the park’s gardens and admire the colorful flower beds and fountains. The park also features a children’s playground, picnic areas, and a small pond.
Don’t miss: The highlight of Parc de l’Hermitage is the Villa de l’Hermitage, a mansion that now serves as an art museum. The museum contains an impressive collection of 19th and 20th century Swiss art, as well as temporary exhibitions.
Insider travel tips: – The park offers stunning views of the city and Lake Geneva, so be sure to bring your camera.
6. Musée de l’Elysée
A photography museum located in Lausanne, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Explore over 100,000 photographs from the museum’s collection, ranging from historic images to contemporary works. Check out the temporary exhibitions featuring both established and emerging photographers from around the world.
Attend one of the museum’s many events, such as artist talks and screenings.
Don’t miss: The museum’s café, which offers stunning views of the surrounding park and lake. And be sure to check out the museum shop, which sells a variety of photography books and prints.
Insider travel tips: The museum is closed on Mondays, but open late on Wednesdays.
Consider purchasing a combined ticket with the nearby Plateforme 10 arts district, which includes two other museums and a train museum.
Entry is free on the first Saturday of every month. Don’t forget to bring a valid ID if you are under 25, as admission is free for young adults.
7. Sauvabelin Tower
Sauvabelin Tower is a beautiful wooden tower atop the hill of Sauvabelin in Lausanne, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb the tower’s 151 steps to enjoy breathtaking views of the city, the Lake Geneva, and the Alps. The surrounding forest is also perfect for hiking, picnicking, and bird watching.
Don’t miss: Make sure to admire the intricate wooden architecture of the tower, which was built in 2003 and stands at 35 meters tall.
The nearby Sauvabelin Lake and the playground are also worth a visit.
Insider travel tips: – Spring and summer are the best times to visit when the weather is mild and the surrounding forest is in bloom.
8. Château Saint-Maire
Château Saint-Maire is a historic castle located in Lausanne, Switzerland.
It was built in the early 14th century and served as the residence of the Bishop of Lausanne until the 16th century.
Today, it serves as the seat of the government of the Canton of Vaud.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle, which includes the historic chapel, the Great Hall, and several rooms of the former bishop’s residence.
The castle also offers scenic views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding mountains.
Don’t miss: Be sure to see the castle’s beautiful frescoes and ornate carvings, which date back to the 15th century. The castle’s gardens are also worth a visit, with their manicured lawns, colorful flower beds, and fountains.
Insider travel tips: For the best views of the lake and mountains, climb to the top of the castle’s tower.
The castle can get busy during peak tourist season, so visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
And if you’re interested in the history of the castle, ask for a guided tour, which provides detailed information about the castle’s architecture, artwork, and historical significance.
9. Rolex Learning Center
A stunning learning and cultural center on the campus of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Marvel at the awe-inspiring architecture, designed by renowned Japanese architects Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa. Enjoy the open spaces and natural light that create an ideal environment for learning and studying.
Don’t miss: The unique bookshop, where you can purchase a wide range of books and materials on architecture, design, and other topics related to the center.
Also, don’t forget to check out the coffee shop and restaurant, offering delicious snacks and meals.
Insider travel tips: – Plan your visit on a sunny day to experience the full impact of the natural lighting.
10. Escaliers du Marché
A historic staircase in Lausanne, Switzerland that connects the lower town with the upper town.
What to see or do: Walk up or down the 142 stairs while admiring the views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding mountains. The staircase is also a popular spot for taking photos.
Don’t miss: The colorful umbrella art installation that hangs above the staircase during the summer months.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the stairs can be steep in some areas. Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for quieter crowds and better lighting for photos.
After climbing the stairs, explore the charming pedestrian streets and shops in the upper town.
11. Place de la Palud
Place de la Palud is a charming historical square in the heart of Lausanne’s city center.
What to see or do: The square is home to the iconic Palais de Rumine, a stunning neo-renaissance building that hosts several museums and cultural activities.
Take a stroll around the square and admire the architecture of the nearby buildings, which date back to the medieval era.
Don’t miss the Palais de Justice, a beautiful 19th-century building that sits at one end of the square.
Don’t miss: The Fontaine de la Justice, a landmark fountain that features a statue of Justice holding her sword and scales. The fountain also plays a special tune every hour, which is a popular photo opportunity for tourists.
Insider travel tips: If you’re visiting during the summer months, be sure to check out the night market that takes place on the square.
It’s a great opportunity to sample local cuisine and handmade crafts.
Also, be sure to take a walk down the nearby Grand-Pont, a historic bridge that offers stunning views of the city and Lake Geneva.
12. Flon District
A trendy and vibrant district in the heart of Lausanne, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Explore the narrow streets lined with unique boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Visit the trendy Flon Square, an urban space featuring street art, concerts, and events.
Catch a movie at the state-of-the-art Pathé cinema, or take a stroll along the picturesque promenade by the lake.
Don’t miss: The Flon Tower, a 22-storey skyscraper offering panoramic views of Lausanne. The funicular, a steep railway taking you up to the Cathedral of Notre-Dame.
The Escaliers du Marché, a colorful stairway adorned with street art.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to try a Swiss cheese fondue at one of the cozy restaurants in the district. Visit during the summer months to enjoy outdoor concerts and events in Flon Square.
Don’t miss the Friday market in Place de la Riponne for a taste of local produce and crafts.
13. Beaulieu Castle
Beaulieu Castle is a medieval castle in Lausanne, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visit the castle to admire its historic architecture and explore the grounds. It offers stunning views of the city and Lake Geneva.
Visitors can also view the Beaulieu Abbey, which sits adjacent to the castle.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a tour of the castle’s interior to see the grand halls and rooms, including a great hall and a chapel.
Additionally, take a stroll through the castle’s gardens, which offer a peaceful escape from the city.
Insider travel tips: – Check the castle’s website for special events, such as concerts and exhibitions.
14. Vidy Roman Theatre
The Vidy Roman Theatre is an ancient ruined amphitheater located in Lausanne, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Today, the Vidy Roman Theatre is an important historical landmark and a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the ruins of the amphitheater and get a glimpse of ancient Roman architecture and engineering.
Don’t miss: The stunning panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the Alps from the top of the amphitheater are not to be missed.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the ruins and bring a camera to capture the stunning views from the top. Additionally, try to visit during the summer months when various cultural events and performances are held in the theatre.
15. CIG de Malley Stadium
CIG de Malley Stadium is a state-of-the-art multi-purpose stadium in Lausanne, Switzerland. It is the home of the Lausanne Hockey Club and can also host other sporting events, concerts, and shows.
What to see or do: Catch a live ice hockey game of Lausanne Hockey Club, or other sports events at the stadium. Enjoy the electrifying atmosphere of the stadium, with seating for over 9,500 spectators.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see a game of Lausanne Hockey Club, one of the most successful ice hockey teams in Switzerland.
They play in the Swiss National League A. The stadium also hosts various concerts and events throughout the year.
Insider travel tips: – If you’re interested in seeing a game, make sure to check the schedule and buy tickets in advance.