Lausanne’s Old Town is a charming maze of cobbled streets, historic façades, and lively squares that tell the story of the city’s evolution. Begin at Place de la Palud, where the animated clock delights visitors hourly with miniature scenes of local legends. Nearby, the 17th-century Town Hall with its arcades sets the tone for a district steeped in heritage. As you stroll, you’ll find boutiques selling Swiss crafts, cozy cafés, and hidden courtyards that offer perfect rest stops.The highlight is the Lausanne Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece dating back to the 13th century. Step inside to admire its stained-glass windows, or climb the tower for breathtaking views over Lake Geneva and the Alps. The adjacent Episcopal Palace and gardens provide quiet spaces to pause before continuing your exploration.Small museums enrich the Old Town experience: the Musée Historique de Lausanne explores the city’s history, while the Collection de l’Art Brut offers a fascinating look at outsider art. Architecture lovers will enjoy the mix of medieval and modern designs coexisting harmoniously in this district.In winter, Christmas markets light up the streets; in summer, outdoor concerts and medieval festivals bring the area alive. Stopping at patisseries for a slice of gâteau de Lausanne or a cup of coffee overlooking a square adds to the charm.Funiculars and elevators make it easy to navigate Lausanne’s steep terrain, making the Old Town accessible to all. Plan at least half a day here to explore its layers of history, photograph its colorful streets, and enjoy spontaneous discoveries that capture the essence of Lausanne’s spirit.

The Lausanne Cathedral, consecrated in 1275, dominates the city skyline as Switzerland’s premier Gothic monument. Its impressive façade, complete with flying buttresses and carved portals, immediately showcases medieval craftsmanship. Arrive via the Old Town’s winding streets or elevators, and pause at the entrance square for sweeping views of Lake Geneva.Inside, towering ribbed vaults, a magnificent rose window, and vibrant stained-glass panels immerse visitors in centuries of artistry. The 8,000-pipe organ, often played during concerts, adds a captivating acoustic dimension. Climb the spiral staircase to the viewing platform for panoramic vistas over Lausanne, vineyards, and even Mont Blanc on clear days.Explore the cathedral’s cloister and crypt to uncover archaeological remains and spiritual history. Informative panels explain the cathedral’s role through the Reformation, medieval pilgrimages, and modern Lausanne life. For architecture enthusiasts, gargoyles, tracery, and sculptures offer endless photo opportunities.Events throughout the year, including organ recitals and religious festivals, bring the cathedral’s cultural role to life. Guided tours provide in-depth insights into its Gothic design and heritage, while evening concerts highlight its remarkable acoustics.Practical tips: wear comfortable shoes for climbing, visit early for fewer crowds, and bring a light jacket for cool interiors. The cathedral square offers cafés and benches for a reflective pause, making it easy to spend a few hours here.Visiting the Lausanne Cathedral isn’t just a sightseeing stop—it’s a chance to connect with centuries of craftsmanship, faith, and Swiss cultural identity. This awe-inspiring landmark remains a centerpiece of any trip to Lausanne.

A boat cruise on Lake Geneva is an unforgettable way to enjoy Lausanne’s lakeside beauty. Depart from Ouchy harbor for short sightseeing trips or longer journeys to Montreux, Vevey, or even Evian in France.Short cruises (1–2 hours) provide a relaxing introduction: glide past Lausanne’s shoreline, elegant Belle Époque hotels, and parks, with the Alps forming a dramatic backdrop. Longer cruises allow stops in Montreux for its lakeside promenade or Château de Chillon, and some include cross-border adventures to Evian-les-Bains.Sunset cruises are especially magical: golden-hour reflections on the water pair with Lausanne’s twinkling evening lights. Many boats feature dining options or themed excursions, like wine tastings and live music, creating a romantic or celebratory atmosphere.Eco-conscious travelers will appreciate that many boats are low-emission, with staff sharing details about conservation efforts to protect the lake’s biodiversity.Practical tips: book tickets in advance during summer, arrive early for the best deck seats, and dress in layers as breezes can be cool. Bring a camera—reflections of vineyards, swans gliding along the shore, and mountain panoramas create picture-perfect memories.Some boats allow bikes onboard, perfect for combining a cruise with cycling along lakeside trails. Families will love the novelty of water travel, while photographers enjoy unique perspectives of Lausanne’s skyline and vineyards.Whether you’re seeking relaxation, romance, or a scenic day trip, a Lake Geneva cruise delivers a serene yet vibrant experience, showcasing Switzerland’s elegance and natural splendor.

The Lavaux Vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer one of Switzerland’s most iconic hikes. Terraced slopes stretch between Lausanne and Montreux, showcasing centuries of viticulture and stunning views of Lake Geneva.Start your hike in Lutry or St-Saphorin, both easily accessible by train. Trails are well-marked and take you through narrow stone paths, terraced walls, and rows of grapevines, with informative signs about grape varieties, history, and sustainability. The crisp white Chasselas wine produced here is a highlight—stop at tasting huts or wine cellars to sample local vintages paired with cheese or charcuterie.The hike can be tailored: choose a 2–3 hour loop for a leisurely stroll or a full-day trek across multiple vineyard villages. September and October are especially lively during harvest, while spring and summer offer vibrant greenery and wildflowers. Even in winter, the quiet beauty of snow-dusted vineyards is striking.Wear sturdy shoes for uneven terrain, bring water, and prepare for frequent photo stops—the vistas are breathtaking. Combine your hike with a lakeside picnic or a visit to a winery for a guided tasting.Public transport makes the area easy to explore without a car, with frequent trains connecting villages along the route. Guided tours add historical context and access to private vineyards.The Lavaux hike blends culture, exercise, and culinary pleasures, making it an essential Lausanne experience. Its terraces are a testament to Swiss craftsmanship and a photographer’s paradise.

Perched above Lake Geneva, the Olympic Museum is a must-visit for sports fans and curious travelers. It celebrates the Olympic movement’s history, values, and global impact through immersive exhibits and cutting-edge displays.The museum’s three floors trace the Games’ journey from ancient Greece to today, blending historic memorabilia, athlete stories, and multimedia experiences. Highlights include interactive stations to test your reflexes, archives of Olympic torches and medals, and inspiring video footage of iconic moments. Temporary exhibitions often focus on topics like sustainability or athlete well-being.Its design is just as impressive: floor-to-ceiling windows reveal stunning lake views, while the landscaped Olympic Park outside features sculptures symbolizing athletic grace. A café and terrace overlooking Lake Geneva make it a perfect spot for a mid-visit break.Plan at least two hours to fully explore. Audio guides and multilingual staff enhance accessibility, while guided tours are available for groups. Families will enjoy the interactive zones designed for kids.Practical tips: purchase tickets online during summer, wear comfortable shoes, and check schedules for special events like athlete talks or film screenings. The gift shop offers Olympic souvenirs and books.Visiting the Olympic Museum isn’t just about sports history—it’s an inspiring journey celebrating resilience, diversity, and human achievement. Combined with Lausanne’s role as the headquarters of the International Olympic Committee, this museum underlines the city’s global cultural significance.

Plateforme 10 is Lausanne’s vibrant new cultural district, bringing together three major museums—MCBA (Cantonal Museum of Fine Arts), Photo Élysée (photography), and Mudac (design and applied arts)—in one striking complex just steps from the main train station. This innovative hub has transformed a former railway yard into a dynamic destination for art, creativity, and community life.Begin with MCBA, where exhibitions span centuries of visual art. From classic European works to Swiss masters and cutting-edge installations, its rotating exhibits appeal to casual visitors and art lovers alike. Next, explore Photo Élysée, dedicated entirely to photography. Here you’ll find archival images that shaped history alongside experimental contemporary projects, often accompanied by talks and workshops. Finally, Mudac showcases design innovation: furniture, textiles, and multimedia installations highlight how art intersects with everyday life, sustainability, and future trends.Plateforme 10’s modern architecture emphasizes open, light-filled spaces with outdoor plazas and sculptures, making the district itself an artistic experience. The complex is pedestrian-friendly, featuring cafés, boutiques, and spaces for public events like outdoor concerts or art fairs.Visitors can tailor their experience: spend a couple of hours exploring highlights or devote a full day to deep dives into each museum. Practical features include digital guides, multilingual signage, and easy access for wheelchairs and strollers. Families will appreciate creative workshops and interactive exhibits that engage children in art and design.Pro tip: Check exhibition calendars online, as major shows rotate seasonally, and consider combo tickets for all three museums. Plateforme 10 embodies Lausanne’s modern creative spirit, offering inspiration for everyone—from art aficionados to curious travelers—while showcasing Switzerland’s growing role as a design and innovation hub..

Lausanne’s culinary scene blends traditional Swiss comfort food with modern, creative gastronomy. Start your food journey at the Lausanne Market (held twice weekly), where local vendors sell cheeses like L’Etivaz and Vacherin Mont d’Or, seasonal vegetables, charcuterie, and artisanal bread. Sampling fresh produce and chatting with farmers offers an authentic taste of Vaud’s culinary heritage.Traditional Swiss dishes are widely celebrated here. Fondue and raclette remain staples: melted cheese served with bread, potatoes, and pickles is perfect for a cozy evening. Lakeside restaurants serve freshly caught perch fillets and whitefish, often paired with crisp Lavaux wines from nearby vineyards. For a sweet treat, bakeries offer chocolate pralines, fruit tarts, and local pastries like bricelets (crispy wafers).For fine dining, Lausanne boasts several Michelin-starred and innovative restaurants that reinterpret Swiss classics using local, seasonal ingredients. Many chefs source game from nearby forests, herbs from alpine meadows, and wines from Lavaux slopes, creating menus that reflect the region’s natural abundance. Reservations are essential during peak seasons.Casual cafés and wine bars line the Old Town and lakeside promenades, perfect for sampling light dishes or enjoying Swiss coffee culture. Wine tastings in Lavaux are highly recommended, where vintners explain terroir, winemaking traditions, and pairings. Food lovers can also book cooking classes, chocolate-making workshops, or farm-to-table experiences to gain hands-on insight into Swiss culinary culture.Lausanne’s food scene caters to all budgets and dietary needs, offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Whether enjoying hearty fondue, sampling award-winning wines, or indulging in Swiss chocolate, Lausanne delivers a memorable gastronomic journey that reflects its mix of tradition and innovation.

Lausanne is an ideal base for exploring nearby lakeside towns, Alpine villages, and even neighboring France, thanks to excellent trains and boat connections.Just 30 minutes east, Montreux is famous for its Jazz Festival, lakeside promenade, and the medieval Château de Chillon, perched dramatically on Lake Geneva’s edge. Vevey offers a relaxed vibe, with food-focused attractions like the Alimentarium Museum and scenic lakeside sculptures.Venture inland to Gruyères for a fairytale medieval town experience, castle visits, and cheese factory tours. Enjoy a traditional fondue meal before exploring the quirky HR Giger Museum. In the Jura Mountains, visit Neuchâtel for quiet Old Town charm, watchmaking history, and hiking trails.Wine lovers will enjoy half-day trips to Lavaux’s terraced vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take scenic walks through the terraces, sample crisp Chasselas wines, and enjoy panoramic lake views.For a mountain escape, head to Les Diablerets and Glacier 3000, where cable cars reveal breathtaking peaks, a suspension bridge, and year-round snow activities. In winter, nearby ski resorts offer easy access for day trips.For a cross-border adventure, boat or train connections lead to Yvoire in France, a flower-filled medieval village, or Geneva for cosmopolitan shopping and international institutions.Practical tips: use the Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited access to trains, boats, and buses; pack layers for changing mountain weather; and book tickets to popular attractions like Château de Chillon in advance.These day trips add diversity to a Lausanne itinerary, offering a balance of culture, nature, and gastronomy—all within easy reach.