Best Things To Do in Lausanne

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

Some of the best things to do in Lausanne include visiting the Olympic Museum, seeing the local Cathedral, relaxing in the City Garden, discovering the panoramic views from the Sauvabelin Tower, touring the Rumine Palace and taking a wine tour in the wine regions around the city.

The Olympic Museum of Lausanne is a tribute to the history of the Olympic Games and their impact on world 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.

In this museum you can live an interactive experience that spans more than a century of Olympic history. Through multimedia exhibits, historical objects and original documents, you can follow the evolution of the modern Games from their rebirth 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 highlighting different aspects of sport and its protagonists. This is why you can take part in interactive workshops, conferences and screenings of films related to the Olympic Games, such as the popular Chariots of Fire. If you want to get into the spirit of the Olympic capital of the world, you can't miss out on buying tickets to the Olympic Museum of Lausanne.

Lausanne Cathedral, known as the Cathedral of Notre-Dame, is one of Switzerland's most emblematic 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 is notable 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.

At the cathedral you can explore the interior, where you will find 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. In addition, you can also admire the stained glass windows that tell biblical stories and depict scenes from Christian history.

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 if you decide to 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 landscaping combines classical 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 walk through the Jardin de la Ville you will discover the botanical diversity that distinguishes it. The garden is home to species of trees, shrubs and flowers that not only embellish the space, but also provide a haven for a variety of birds and butterflies. In addition, there are themed areas highlighting 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, offering 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 in 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, a visit to the Sauvabelin Tower is a must. Located in the 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 countryside.

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, which includes the Sauvabelin Tower, 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. Inaugurated in 1906, this palace is a fine 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 at the Rumine Palace is the Museum of Archaeology and History, where you can immerse yourself in local and regional history through interactive exhibits and rich collections. This museum presents archaeological finds spanning from prehistoric to modern times, allowing visitors to better understand the cultural and social evolution of Lausanne and its surroundings. 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 worth exploring. The frescoed corridors, majestic staircases and elegant halls create a unique atmosphere that complements the museum experiences.

Lausanne is a city that not only stands out for its natural beauty and rich history, but also for its wine 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 to cultivate grapes on this fertile land.

Booking 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-run wineries that have been handed down from generation to generation.

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

Wine tours not only focus on wine tasting and learning about wine; they also offer spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. As you drive 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, moreover, ranges from Renaissance masterpieces to contemporary pieces, reflecting the rich artistic history of the region.

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 displaying works of art. The structure features spacious exhibition halls, 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 today's art scene.

Interlaken is a picturesque Swiss town situated between Lakes Thun and 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 connecting point between trade routes across the Alps. Its name, meaning "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 scenery of the Swiss Alps. This is why one of Interlaken's main attractions is its mountainous setting, 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 a trip to Interlaken from Lausanne you can explore a variety of hiking trails, go rock 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.

Interlaken also has a wealth of cultural and historical attractions. 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 to be discovered while strolling through the town.

Montreux is a city located 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 hotspot for centuries and its mild climate and scenery have inspired artists and writers, including the famous composer Frédéric Chopin and the English novelist Lord Byron.

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

From Lausanne, Montreux is only about 30 minutes by train from Lausanne , making it an ideal excursion for those wishing to explore this gem of a lake. Here you can enjoy a promenade, browse museums and stroll through the quiet streets of the town. If you choose to book a tour to Montreux from Lausanne, you will be able to participate in a comfortable and relaxed experience with the permanent assistance of an expert local guide.

Another of Montreux's main attractions is the Château de Chillon, a medieval fortress located just 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 ramparts while learning about the history of the castle and its strategic importance in the region.

The 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 becomes a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers, who can explore a network of routes offering different levels of difficulty. In winter, on the other hand, the Col du Pillon becomes an ideal destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, as it is part of the ski resort of Les Diablerets.

Booking a trip to Col du Pillon from Lausanne will also allow you to visit the Diablerets glacier, where you can enjoy activities such as glacier skiing and ice walking. In addition, the area has several strategic viewpoints that offer views of Mont Blanc and other alpine peaks. You can also hike the marked trails in the area.