Lausanne is the home to the International Olympic Committee headquarters as well as the Olympic Museum and the lakeshore Olympic Park. It sits on Lake Leman or Lake Geneva as many like to call it.

The city is divided into the Upper Town which runs uphill from the main railway station and includes the medieval old town, and the Lower Town, more commonly known as Ouchy and is a district of parks, lakeside promenades and elegant hotels.

We chose to stay at the Hotel de la Paix which had breathtaking views over the lake. It is probably not the fanciest hotel in Lausanne, but it was well placed as far as getting to the various tourist attractions are concerned.

Your probably don’t need too many days in Lausanne, but you will enjoy what’s on offer.

  1. Olympic Museum – rich in artefacts and the history of the games, you will find this a fascinating place to visit. From the origins of the games in ancient Greece to the most recent modern day games, the museum includes Olympic torches, historic posters, equipment, and clothing worn by Olympians. The grounds outside have many beautiful sculptures depicting the different disciplines of the games. The museum is also well placed next to the lake so you get some stunning views across to the French alps.
  2. Cathedrale de Notre Dame – situated in the centre of the Old Town it is one of Switzerland’s most impressive Gothic style cathedrals.
  3. Ouchy – this beautiful promenade features three parks, hotels and restaurants and is a favourite place to visit for both locals and tourists. You will enjoy sitting and watching life on the lake, with the beautiful alps in the background.
  4. Palud Square – below the Cathedrale de Notre Dame are the winding streets of the Old City. In the centre of the square is the town’s oldest fountain with Justice represented on its central pillar, and close by is an animated clock which chimes every hour. A lovely part of Lausanne with plenty of shopping, markets and restaurants.
  5. Palais de Rumine – a beautiful late 19th Century building in Florentine Renaissance style it houses a number of different museums which hold exhibitions throughout the year. The Fine Arts museum is housed here with some quality French artists represented.
  6. Grand Pont – sit under the arches of this 19th Century bridge which cuts through Lausanne. Great place to people watch. We also found some great shopping around this area.

Travel Tips

  • Parts of the Upper Town are quite steep and the cobblestone paths are uneven to walk. So take your time wandering around this area.

Travel Alerts

  • We found Lausanne a safe place to be, and did not feel nervous at night as there were plenty of people around.

Travel Adventures

  • Lake Cruise – there is nothing more enjoyable or spectacular than a cruise on Lake Geneva. There are plenty of options to choose from depending on the time you have available.
  • Musee et Jardins – beautiful botanical gardens with stunning views across the lake.
  • Lausanne Market – operating on Wednesdays and Saturdays there is nothing like a good market. Plenty to see and do here.
  • Musee de l’Elysee – the museum is entirely devoted to photography with images reflecting worldwide and local subjects.