10 Things to Do in Lausanne

Lausanne is one of Switzerland's most popular cities, not only because it is surrounded by the Alps and Lake Geneva, but also because of its vibrant cultural life and rich history, offering a perfect blend of modernity and tradition. The city is also the world's Olympic capital and an excellent starting point for exploring other tourist destinations in the region.

Among the best activities you can do in Lausanne are visiting the Olympic Museum, exploring the local cathedral, relaxing in the City Garden, discovering the panoramic views from the Sauvabelin tower, touring the Rumine Palace and taking part in a wine tour in the wine-growing regions around the city.

The Olympic Museum in Lausanne pays tribute to the history of the Olympic Games and their impact on global culture and society. Located on the shores of Lake Geneva, this exhibition not only celebrates sport, but also explores Olympic values such as excellence, respect and friendship. Designed by architect Bernard Tschumi, the building combines modern elements with an unmissable natural setting.

At this museum, you can enjoy an interactive experience covering more than a century of Olympic history. Through multimedia exhibitions, historical objects and original documents, you can follow the evolution of the modern Games from their revival in 1896 to the present day. The collections include medals, torches and clothing worn by prominent athletes.

In addition to the permanent exhibitions, the Olympic Museum offers temporary activities and special events that highlight different aspects of sport and its protagonists. You can participate in interactive workshops, conferences and film screenings related to the Olympic Games, such as the popular Chariots of Fire. If you want to experience the spirit of the world's Olympic capital, don't miss out on buying tickets for the Olympic Museum in Lausanne.

Lausanne Cathedral, known as Notre-Dame Cathedral, is one of Switzerland's most iconic architectural gems and a testament to the city's historical heritage. Its construction began in 1170 and was completed in the 13th century, although it has undergone various modifications over the centuries. This Gothic building stands out for its façade, its elaborate stained glass windows and its tower, which rises 75 metres above the cityscape, offering panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the Alps.

Inside the cathedral, you can explore artistic and architectural elements that reflect the evolution of the Gothic style. One of the highlights is the cathedral's organ, which has been in place since the 18th century and is considered one of the finest in Switzerland. You can also admire the stained glass windows that narrate biblical stories and depict scenes from Christian history.

Please note that Lausanne Cathedral remains active and still plays an important role in the religious and cultural history of the region. During the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century , it was a key centre for reformist ideas led by figures such as Guillaume Farel and Jean Calvin. This transformation not only affected the cathedral itself, but also had a lasting impact on the spiritual and social life of Lausanne and its surroundings.

You can visit this site on your own or book a guided tour of Lausanne, which includes a stop at this site.

The City Garden is an oasis of tranquillity in the heart of Lausanne. Its landscape design combines classic elements with a variety of plants and flowers that change with the seasons, creating a serene environment ideal for strolling, meditating or simply relaxing outdoors between excursions.

As you stroll through the City Garden, you will discover the botanical diversity that sets it apart. The garden is home to species of trees, shrubs and flowers that not only beautify the space but also provide a refuge for various birds and butterflies. In addition, you will find themed areas that highlight local and exotic flora, allowing nature lovers to learn about biodiversity and the importance of environmental conservation.

One of the highlights of the garden is its privileged location, which offers panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding mountains. This natural setting not only provides an ideal backdrop for relaxation, but also invites you to enjoy outdoor activities such as picnics or reading under the shade of the trees. You can also visit this park in the company of a local expert if you decide to book a guided tour of Lausanne.

If you want to discover some of the best panoramic views of Lausanne, you cannot miss the Sauvabelin Tower. Located in Sauvabelin Park, this wooden tower rises 35 metres above ground level and is built in an architectural style that combines modern elements with the surrounding nature. Its design and privileged location make it an ideal place to enjoy the beauty of the Swiss landscape.

As you climb the 302 steps to the top of the tower , you will be rewarded with sweeping views of Lake Geneva, the Alps and the city centre. From this vantage point, you can appreciate the geography of the region, as well as nearby points of interest such as Lausanne Cathedral and the Olympic Museum.

The park, where the Sauvabelin Tower is located, also offers a variety of recreational activities and natural spaces to explore. With walking trails, cycling areas and a small lake where you can rent boats, the park is a perfect place to enjoy the outdoors with family or friends.

The Rumine Palace is a building that houses several cultural institutions and museums. Opened in 1906, this palace is a perfect example of the Neo-Renaissance style, and there you can visit various exhibitions of interest in the city, such as the Cantonal Museum of Fine Arts, which houses an extensive collection of works ranging from the Middle Ages to contemporary art.

Another attraction of the Palais de Rumine is the Museum of Archaeology and History, where you can immerse yourself in local and regional history through interactive exhibitions and extensive collections. This museum presents archaeological finds ranging from prehistory to modern times, allowing visitors to better understand the cultural and social evolution of Lausanne and its surroundings. The exhibits include everyday objects, tools and artefacts from the civilisations that inhabited this region.

In addition to its historical and cultural value, the Palais de Rumine also has architectural spaces that are worth exploring. The frescoed corridors, majestic staircases and elegant halls create a unique atmosphere that complements the museum experience.

Lausanne is a city that stands out not only for its natural beauty and rich history, but also for its wine-making tradition. The Vaud region is famous for its terraced vineyards that stretch along the slopes of the lake. This practice has roots dating back to Roman times, when settlers began cultivating grapes in this fertile land.

Booking a place on a wine tour in Lausanne offers a unique experience for wine lovers and those interested in learning about the winemaking process. During these tours, you will have the opportunity to explore picturesque vineyards and family-owned wineries that have been passed down from generation to generation.

Local guides will also share stories about the history of wine in the region, as well as details about the grape varieties grown, such as Chasselas, which is emblematic of the area.

Wine tours are not only focused on tasting and learning about wine; they also offer spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. As you travel through the vineyard-covered hills, you can admire panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the Alps in the background. Some tours include stops at strategic viewpoints where you can take unmissable photographs.

The Lausanne Art Museum is one of Switzerland's most important cultural institutions and a must-see destination for art lovers. Opened to the public in 1841, the museum has evolved over the years and has become a benchmark in the promotion of contemporary and classical art. Its collection ranges from Renaissance masterpieces to contemporary pieces, reflecting the region's rich artistic history.

The architecture of the MCBA is another aspect that deserves to be highlighted. The building was designed by Swiss architect Bernard Tschumi and opened in 2014, offering a modern and functional space for exhibiting works of art. The structure has spacious exhibition rooms, a specialised library and spaces dedicated to educational activities.

In this museum, you can explore a large collection that includes works by prominent Swiss artists such as Ferdinand Hodler and Alberto Giacometti, as well as pieces by renowned European masters such as Monet, Van Gogh, and Picasso. In addition, the museum organises temporary exhibitions featuring contemporary works and emerging trends, allowing visitors to discover new voices in the current art scene.

Interlaken is a picturesque Swiss town located between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz and is known for its natural beauty and history. Founded in the 12th century, Interlaken began as a small settlement that served as a connection point between trade routes crossing the Alps. Its name, which means "between lakes," reflects its strategic location and has attracted travellers for centuries.

As tourism developed in the 19th century, Interlaken became a popular destination for those seeking to enjoy the landscapes of the Swiss Alps. This is why one of Interlaken's main attractions is its mountainous surroundings, as the town is surrounded by iconic peaks such as the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau, making it an ideal starting point for outdoor activities.

If you decide to book an excursion to Interlaken from Lausanne, you can explore a variety of hiking trails, go climbing or enjoy skiing in winter. In addition, the region offers adventure sports such as paragliding and rafting, allowing tourists to experience the natural beauty from different perspectives.

On the other hand, Interlaken also has a lot to offer in terms of culture and history. The old town is home to well-preserved buildings dating back to the Middle Ages, as well as charming cobbled streets lined with shops, cafés and restaurants. The Höheweg Church and the Interlaken Casino are just a few examples of the architectural heritage that can be discovered while strolling through the town.

Montreux is a town on the shores of Lake Geneva and is a destination that attracts visitors from all over the world for its natural beauty and history. Founded in Roman times, Montreux has been a cultural and tourist meeting place for centuries, and its mild climate and landscapes have inspired artists and writers, including the famous composer Frédéric Chopin and the English novelist Lord Byron.

The city is also particularly well known for its jazz festival, which is held annually and attracts musicians and music lovers from all corners of the globe.

From Lausanne, Montreux is only about 30 minutes away by train, making it an ideal excursion for those who want to explore this gem on the lake. Here you can enjoy a promenade, visit museums and stroll through the quiet streets of the city. If you choose to book an excursion to Montreux from Lausanne, you can enjoy a comfortable and relaxed experience with the constant assistance of an expert local guide.

Another of Montreux's main attractions is Chillon Castle, a medieval fortress located a few kilometres from the city centre. This castle has witnessed centuries of history and is one of the most visited monuments in Switzerland. There you can explore its well-preserved rooms, towers and walls while learning about the castle's history and its strategic importance in the region.

Col du Pillon is a mountain pass located in the Swiss Alps, connecting the regions of Vaud and Valais. At an altitude of 1,564 metres above sea level, this mountain pass is not only a strategic point for transport, but also a popular tourist destination offering unmissable panoramic views.

The landscape of Col du Pillon is dominated by snow-capped mountains, green meadows and crystal-clear lakes. During the summer, the area is transformed into a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers, who can explore a network of trails offering different levels of difficulty. In winter, Col du Pillon becomes an ideal destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, as it is part of the Les Diablerets ski resort.

When you book an excursion to Col du Pillon from Lausanne, you can also visit the Diablerets glacier, where you can enjoy activities such as glacier skiing and ice walking. In addition, the area has several strategic viewpoints offering views of Mont Blanc and other Alpine peaks. You can also explore the marked trails there.