Best Things to Do in Lausanne – My Real Experiences

The reality is that when I first came to Switzerland in 2014, Lausanne wasn’t exactly on top of my list either.

Zurich, or perhaps Geneva along with Lucerne but Lausanne? It wasn’t on my radar. BUT when I eventually got there, it just jived. I recall standing by a pond in Ouchy looking at the water glistening in the sun and saying I cannot believe I did not know this was here

That moment changed everything.

This is the city with soul, Laussane, not just another Swiss city but, direct on the water. This is one of those places that combines culture and history, modern energy and nature in a balance that seems effortless. But the catch is, if you do not know what smell to look for, the trick is easily overlooked.

Which is exactly why I made this guide on the best things to do in Lausanne, so you won’t just get a list of touristy attractions. You can go with a friend and experience the city the way I would walk you through it.

I’m going to tell you where the best places are and what not to miss, based on my own experience, not just the Google searches most people do. Whether you’re a traveller in town, a student studying here, or even someone calling Switzerland home, I want to make your journey in Lausanne as smooth, comfortable, and meaningful as possible.

Lausanne is waiting, and I’m going to show you the right way.

Best 10 Things to Do in Lausanne

1. Ouchy Promenade – The Lakeside Charm You Shouldn’t Miss

Ouchy, if you ask me which part of Lausanne I feel like dreaming, this is it without a doubt.

Recalling my first walk at Ouchy Promenade. One of those sunny Swiss days in spring when you forget every second of stress a person ever held on their shoulders. The lake sparkled, swans glided over its surface, and the air smelled clear, piney, and potential. It was no longer a city, but a sanctuary.

Ouchy is where Lausanne meets Lake Geneva, and it’s not just a pretty sight. It’s a place where locals run, families picnic, couples stroll hand in hand, and visitors pause to take it all in. Every time I’m in Switzerland (which happens often after living five years in Zurich), I come here to recharge. It’s one of my must-visit spots when talking about the best things to do in Lausanne. 😉

If you’re planning on visiting, here’s what you should know:

What to Do in Ouchy:

• Drive to the promenade and walk on the water or rent a dirty bike
• There is also an Olympic Museum at hand (to be visited even if you’re not into sports stay tuned!)
• Have a coffee by the lake, or have an ice-cream (I recommend the one near Hôtel d’Angleterre).
• Whatever, tuck a protein bar in your back pocket and chill on the lawn grass yes, they let people do that here also!

Things to Keep in Mind:

• But on weekends, it turns into a popular spot really quickly, save mornings or weekdays for some peace.
• Local restaurants are costly. Bring your own food and eat in the city before you come

Personal tip: Come with a book and just sit by the lake, my favorite. Sometimes the smallest moments end up meaning the most.

2. The Olympic Museum – More Than Just Sports

Before I visited the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, I thought, “Well, I’m not a huge sports fan… will this even be interesting?

But trust me, it’s not just about sports. It’s about people. Passion. Perseverance. Dreams. If you’re making your own list of things to do in Lausanne, this spot deserves a top place.

Located right in Ouchy, the museum feels like it’s part of the lakeside magic. I walked in expecting medals and jerseys and walked out feeling inspired and emotional. It tells the story of the Olympic Games in a way that connects deeply with human stories across generations and cultures. For anyone exploring Lausanne attractions, this is more than just a museum—it’s a journey.

What Makes It Worth Visiting?

• Interactive exhibits: You can try out simulations, watch incredible Olympic moments on big screens, and explore how athletes train and prepare.
• A global journey: From ancient Greece to modern times, the museum takes you on a time-travel adventure through Olympic history.
• A celebration of humanity: There are stories of athletes overcoming political challenges, disabilities, and personal struggles just to be there. I had tears in my eyes more than once.

Insider Tips

• Set aside at least 2 hours – there’s a lot to see, and you won’t want to rush it.
• Visit the café upstairs – not just for food, but for the panoramic view of Lake Geneva. One of my favorite hidden spots.
• Don’t skip the outdoor area – there are Olympic torches, sculptures, and even a track to walk on. It’s part of the experience!

Whether you’re into sports or not, this museum leaves you with something real: a sense of what human beings are capable of when they believe in something bigger than themselves.

If you only visit one museum in Lausanne, make it this one it’s truly one of the most unforgettable things to do in Lausanne and a highlight of the city.

3. Lausanne Cathedral – History, Views

Lausanne Cathedral (Cathédrale de Notre-Dame) took me by surprise as I entered it for the first time. I had seen cathedrals before, but this one was different. Not just grand, but grounding.

This medieval Gothic marvel is a fixture in the Old Town and sits high above the city, doing so much more than just gracing us to this day. It is a place where time stands still. It is a holy silence within, even if you are not religious. I recall sitting on one of the backless wooden benches and simply… inhaling. I needed that moment.

Why It’s Worth Visiting

• It’s absolutely stunning and the gothic architecture with it’s arches, stained glass windows, and massive organ just wow you by all means.
• Can you ever have enough of this view?: climb the bell tower on site (yes, it is a workout!), and you will be rewarded with a 360° view over Lausanne, Lake Geneva, and the far-reaching Alps. It will be one of the best views city, and well worth all those steps.
• A peaceful environment: The cathedral is never crowded like the other tourist attractions It’s locals who kneel to light candles, tourists who whisper in amazement, and students who draw in notebooks.

Personal Tips

• Try to go in the morning or close to sunset for the best light through the stained glass.
• If you happen to come when the organ is playing, stick around: it’s an atmosphere that cannot be adequately described in words.
• Explore outside too the view is quite impressive from the terrace even if you decide to skip climbing up inside of the tower.

To me however Lausanne Cathedral is a place of reconnection, not so much with the past but definitely with oneself. That this is the place you head if you need a few moments break from life’s incessant hum.

4. Lavaux Vineyards – A UNESCO Day Trip You’ll Never Forget

The first time I visited Lavaux, I honestly didn’t expect much. I had seen pictures rows of vineyards, cute villages, Lake Geneva glistening in the background but nothing prepared me for the feeling of actually standing there. It’s like the world slows down, just for a moment.

Lavaux isn’t just beautiful it’s alive. These terraced vineyards have been here for centuries, clinging to the hillside between Lausanne and Montreux. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but it doesn’t feel like a tourist trap. It feels like a secret one that I wish I had discovered sooner.

What to Do in Lavaux

• Hike the vineyard trails: There are scenic walking paths between charming villages like Cully, Epesses, and Lutry. You’ll get lake views on one side, and rows of vines on the other.
• Stop for wine tasting: Small, family-run wineries dot the area. Most are happy to let you sample local whites, especially the crisp Chardonnay grape that’s famous in this region.
• Take the Lavaux Express: It’s a small tourist train that runs through the vineyards — fun and relaxing if you don’t want to walk.

Real-World Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes – the terrain is sloped and cobbled in places.
• Bring water and sunscreen, especially in summer.
• Avoid rushing through – Lavaux is best enjoyed slowly. Sit, sip, breathe.

Lavaux gave me one of the most peaceful days I’ve ever had in Switzerland. If you’re in Lausanne and have even half a day free, go. It’s not just a trip, it’s a memory you’ll carry home with you.

5. Art Brut Museum – Lausanne’s Most Unexpected Treasure

The first time someone suggested visiting the Art Brut to me, I recall I had never heard of it, and frankly, I didn’t think I would like it. Non-traditional art, they complained. “It’s raw, emotional, intense.” I was wondering, and I am glad I went.

I have had paradigm shifts in how I look at creativity from this museum.

It’s from the French, raw art, art that is, anyone making art who isn’t a professional artist. A large number of the artists included here were institutionalised or lived intense lives devoid of any form of education, let alone an art school. Their work is always intimate, it is always honest, and often it hurts. But it’s also unbelievably powerful.

Why It Stands Out

• Distinctive emotional appeal: They are not the clean or perfect portrait(fashion). Instead, you find very personal essays and experiences about trauma, joy, obsession, fear, hope.
• At the other end of the spectrum though, deep humanity: this is not technical that’s where you need creation to happen. And that comes across in each room.
• Small but nice🙂: Located in a beuatiful old villa right next to the beautiful Park Mon Repos there was always space and never crowdy.

Honest Thoughts

• Who knows, you might like it – and its unlike anything else in Lausanne.
• And take your time – I practically sat for minutes before some works, really digesting.
• This art is fucking dark, this is dirty, vulgar and without a god damned suit of armor around it so don’t walk in expecting anything pretty.

It reminded me that art isn’t just about what you see, it’s about how the experience makes you feel. Come to the Art Brut Museum when you are tired of all the shiny tourist attractions and want to see something you could really connect with.

6. Lausanne Old Town – Markets, Cafés & Timeless Charm

Of all Lausanne, there is none that feels more like a fairy-tale brought within reach than the Old Town, creating the centre of Lausanne. I still recall the first time I lost myself in its winding streets (quite literally, as I had no map or agenda, save for a busker and that warm scent of fresh bread from an authentic bakery).

In that moment, I really felt I was in Switzerland.

Intentionally losing yourself in Lausanne. write-up on grindergadget: Ancient fountains, secret stairways, gothic buildings, and vibrant open-air markets that the locals still visit for their fresh goods — history is at every turn.

What to Explore

• La Place de la Palud: This charming square features a small clock that tells a seven sec end long story every hour. Perfect for sitting and watching people pass by!
• GeneratedescriptionEscaliers du Marché: A lovely wooden staircase that connects top town with bottom. This is one of my go to spots for taking a few photos.
• Tiny, little cafés in hidden corners, like the one at Café Le Barbare (mmmmm hot chocolate on a cold day or people-watching).

Tips for the Old Town

• Market days are active and local chat in the mornings and evenings (generally Wednesday and Saturday).
• Do not rush linger in the local shops, talk to the sellers, and feel the pulse of the city.
• Wear comfortable shoes: those cobblestone streets might look posh, but gorgeous ain’t the word for heels!

I would say that Lausanne Old Town is not a sight to see, only it is someplace you should experience. It is the place where you do not see the city as a tourist but like a local roaming through thousands of centuries of stories.

7. Lausanne Metro – Small but Mighty (And Surprisingly Fun)

When I first heard that Lausanne had a metro system, I was honestly surprised. It’s not a huge city, so I imagined trams or buses, but a fully automated metro? That sounded like something out of a sci-fi movie.

Then I tried it, and I was instantly impressed. If you’re exploring the top things to do in Lausanne, don’t overlook this surprisingly fun and practical experience.

Lausanne’s metro may be small (just two main lines: M1 and M2), but it’s incredibly efficient, clean, and easy to use. What really caught me off guard? It’s the steepest metro in the world. And once you ride it, you’ll understand why this city is built on hills!

Why It’s More Than Just Transportation

• Connects key areas: Whether you’re staying in Ouchy, heading to the Old Town, or visiting the university campus, the metro connects everything in just minutes.
• Runs frequently: Trains come every few minutes, and they’re rarely late. It’s one of the most reliable systems I’ve used in Switzerland.
• It’s driverless! Yes  the M2 line is completely automatic, which honestly fascinated me the first few times.

Tips for Riding the Metro

• Buy a day pass if you’re planning multiple rides – it’s cost-effective and valid on buses too.
• Use it to avoid steep uphill walks – especially between Flon (city center) and Ouchy (lake level).
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help – even though the ticket machines are multilingual, they can be confusing the first time.

If you’re exploring Lausanne without a car (which I recommend), the metro is your best friend. It’s more than just a convenience! It’s part of the Lausanne experience.

8. Parc de Mon Repos – A Quiet Corner of Calm in the City

There’s something special about finding silence in the middle of a city. That’s exactly what Parc de Mon Repos gave me: silence, stillness, and space to breathe.

When I first discovered this park, it felt like I had stumbled into a secret garden. I was walking between meetings, a bit stressed and tired, and just wanted to sit down somewhere quiet. I saw an open gate, walked in, and instantly felt the pressure lift off my shoulders.

Tucked between Lausanne’s busier neighborhoods, Parc de Mon Repos is a peaceful escape full of trees, fountains, birds, and winding paths that lead to quiet corners. I’ve come here to journal, to read, to eat lunch, or just to do nothing. It’s now one of my favorite spots in the city.

Why It’s Worth Visiting

• Beautiful landscaping: Think classical statues, flowerbeds, and shaded benches all surrounded by nature.
• Parrots! Yes there’s actually a small aviary with tropical birds, which always surprises new visitors.
• Perfect for downtime: Whether you’re visiting Lausanne or living here, this is a perfect place to recharge.

Personal Advice

• Bring a book or a coffee and give yourself permission to pause.
• Visit in the late morning when it’s quiet but sunny.
• Avoid weekends if you want solitude! It’s still calm, but a bit more lively with families and kids.

Sometimes, the best part of a trip or a busy day is doing nothing at all. Parc de Mon Repos is where I go to do exactly that.

9. Local Food – From Cheese to Papet Vaudois (and My Favorites)

I have to say, when I first arrived in Switzerland, I believed Swiss food was only about cheese and chocolate. And although they are those things, I learnt immediately that there was so much more than just the cheese and chocolate, particularly in Lausanne.

With a delightful combination of the best in traditional Vaudois cuisine and international flavors, fine dining in Lausanne feels like home cooking in quaint local restaurants.

What You Have to Try

• Fondue moitié-moitié: Walk into winter with a bubbling pot of Gruyère and Vacherin cheese. Serve best with friends over a glass of white.wind.
• Papet Vaudois: The Vaud region’s speciality; leeks and potatoes cooked slowly with local sausage. Hearty, comforting, and uniquely local.
• Malakoff: Not very known by tourists, but yet so good.็ Deep-fried cheese balls (yes we swear). Crispy outside, molten inside.

Personal Favorites

• Restaurant Le Nabi (in Plateforme 10): Elegant design, local produce and some of the most creative yet comfort food-ish cooking in town
• Le Barbare: concealed next to the stairs near the cathedral for one of my lunch organic and best hot chocolates ever.
• Café Romand: A good traditional Swiss meal in an authentic environment, always a safe option.

Food Tips

• Also, consider pairing your meal with a glass of local wine, especially Chasselas from the nearby Lavaux.
• Try seasonal dishes, lots of restaurants change their menus with local fruits and vegetables.
• And skip dessert at your peril from meringues with whipped double cream, to chocolate tarts that never die… the glory of the end of an edge comes with extras here.

Lausanne, Food is not just food, but culture, history, and emotion. Try using your taste buds when having a sit-down meal or just grabbing a quick bite!

10. Nightlife in Flon – Real-Life Vibe & Options for Different Moods

The first night I was in Flon is one of my most vivid memories. So we went home to our apartments… It was right on a chilly friday after a long study week. Honestly, I didn’t have high hopes Man, was I wrong. With lights weaving through wide courtyards, music floating from chic bars and people of all ages chatting over drinks you don’t just visit a neighborhood here! This is the Flon experience.

Formerly an industrial area, Le Flon is the city centre, where you can eat in and party out in its rough-around-the-edges style. From a hushed cocktail through to a full-on club night, there’s something for everyone here in Flon.

Choose Your Vibe

• If you want something casual and chill:— Café Saint Pierre or Le Nomade ( cozy place, good seats, great drinks)
• COCKTAIL BARS: Try The Great Escape for the trendy international crowd or Les Arches if you want to enjoy a drink on a terrace.
• Nightclubbing: If the vibe is there, D! Club, one of the most legendary in the whole city. This might mean late night raving to big beats.
• Live music & events: Look out for Le Romandie, a little and mean spot where they bring in bands from near and far.

Nightlife Tips

• If you want a spot, show up early. I like to go during the afternoon since many of them get crowded, especially on the weekends.
• Take the metro or go by foot, it is all near and a lot of miles are covered every day on the metro.
• Keep in mind that Swiss nightlife does not open for an early start, with most nightclubs starting their parties after 10 pm.

Lausanne nightlife is surprisingly lively for a town of its size. Flon is mostly about catching up with locals, students, expats, and everyone else who spend their day sharing their stories over a drink or two others filling the night away. It is the type of spot where one low-key drink can turn into an entire night out. And honestly? This is where all my favourite memories were made.

Practical Tips for Visitors – Things I Wish I Knew Earlier

When I first landed in Lausanne back in 2014, I had no idea what to expect. Everything looked picture-perfect on the surface the lake, the hills, the polite people but I quickly realized that Switzerland has its own rhythm, and Lausanne is no different.

Whether you’re exploring the top things to do in Lausanne or just settling in for a short trip, it’s the little details that make the biggest difference.

Here are the practical Lausanne travel tips I wish someone had told me when I arrived—the kind that could save you time, money, and a few awkward moments while enjoying the city’s best attractions.

Timing Matters

Shops and restaurants in Lausanne close early, especially on Sundays. I still remember walking around at 6:30 PM on a Sunday looking for food only to find everything closed except one tiny kebab shop (thank goodness for them!).

Tip: Always check hours before you go. And if you need groceries, Coop Pronto or Migrolino (often near stations) are open later—a lifesaver if you’re visiting Lausanne on a weekend.

Get the Lausanne Transport Card

If you’re staying in a hotel, hostel, or even some Airbnbs, you’re entitled to a free Lausanne Transport Card. This gives you unlimited access to buses, metros, and some trains within the city.

Tip: Ask for it when checking in it’s a game-changer.

Paying & Money

Switzerland isn’t in the Eurozone. The currency here is the Swiss Franc (CHF). Many places accept euros, but the exchange rate isn’t great, and change will be given in CHF.

Tip: Use a card with no foreign transaction fees, or withdraw cash at Bancomat ATMs.

Internet & SIM Cards

Need data fast? I recommend getting a prepaid SIM from Salt or Sunrise, as they often have tourist packages with generous data. You’ll find kiosks at Lausanne Gare (main station).

Tip: Swiss public Wi-Fi exists, but often needs SMS verification, so having a SIM makes things easier.

Cleanliness Culture

Lausanne is incredibly clean, and locals care deeply about recycling. Trash is taken seriously (yes, even your banana peel).

Tip: Know the difference between bins and avoid fines by using the official garbage bags if staying long-term.

Lausanne might look dreamy, but living or traveling here is much easier when you know these small but important daily details. Trust me, these tips will save you time, money, and help you feel like a local faster than you think.

Hidden Gems & Local Recommendations – My Favourites

That speaks to how much I love Lausanne after all these years living here! It continues to surprise me. Sure, the big sights are great, but it’s those hidden gems in Lausanne only known by locals that will be burned into your memory forever. These are the experiences that make it into my personal list of unforgettable things to do in Lausanne.

Some of my deep hidden gems that I personally love; they are the spots I’d recommend to a best friend who’s a fellow first-timer looking for authentic Lausanne attractions.

Café de l’Évêché – For a Quiet Break Near the Cathedral

Just steps from the cathedral, this tiny café is easy to miss, but it’s one of my favourite places to grab a hot chocolate or a glass of local wine and get out of the cold. It has a rustic charm, the wooden tables, the dim light, and the absence of tourist buzz. If you’re compiling your own Lausanne travel guide, this café deserves a mention as a warm, inviting stop.

Parc de Milan – A Local’s Picnic Spot

While Ouchy tends to be busier with tourists, you can watch the Alps at Parc de Milan alongside the locals. I love coming here with a book, perhaps after picking up snacks from the Saturday farmers market. It’s a peaceful escape and a perfect addition to your list of places to visit in Lausanne when you want to slow down and enjoy nature.

Théâtre de Vidy – Lausanne’s Experimental Art Scene

Skip the kitsch and visit Théâtre de Vidy for an evening or, if culture is your bag, pass up on those grand museums. Sitting near the lake, it always has something cool going on from experimental stage productions to abstract, thought-provoking installations. The article also says the café inside is a secret gem, pun intended.

La Ferme Vaudoise – Farm Shop in the City

Looking to bring a taste of Swiss life home? This little grocery shop located near the Flon district offers regional cheeses, wines, sausages, and made in Switzerland manufactures. Like going to a little Alpine village smack-bang in the middle of Lausanne.

Local Tip:

Ask locals where they go – the best places usually don’t even have signs in English, but you can feel their heart. And this is where the true Swiss magic resides.

Sample Itinerary Ideas – Make the Most of Your Time

One thing I’ve learned from helping friends plan their things to do in Lausanne trips (and figuring it all out for myself back in the early days) is that you don’t need to rush. Lausanne is best enjoyed at a relaxed pace—walking, pausing, and soaking in its atmosphere.

Here are a few sample itineraries I’ve recommended to travelers, students, and newcomers based on different moods and lengths of stay.

If You Have Just One Day: Classic Lausanne in 24 Hours

Morning:

• Start your day at Lausanne Cathedral, climb the tower, and enjoy the best view in town.
• Walk down to Old Town, grab coffee at Le Barbare, and enjoy the café stairs.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Olympic Museum, then walk along the lake at Ouchy Promenade.
• Lunch at Café de Grancy, a local favourite.

Evening:

• Metro to Flon for a drink or dinner. Try Nomade or The Great Escape for casual fun.

Tip: Use the free transport card (if you’re staying overnight) to save time and money.

Two Days or a Weekend: Balance of City + Nature

Day 1

• Follow the one-day plan above.
  Day 2
• Take a morning train to Lavaux Vineyards, hike between villages or enjoy a slow wine tasting with lake views.
• Return to Lausanne by evening for a quiet meal at La Ferme Vaudoise or a takeaway picnic in Parc de Milan.

Tip: Sundays are quite perfect for vineyard strolls or peaceful park time.

Want a Slow-Paced, Local-Style Visit?

• Mornings in Parc de Mon Repos, reading or journaling.
• Local lunch at Café Romand or fresh bites from the Saturday market.
• Explore the Art Brut Museum or small shops in Old Town.
• Sunset by the lake. No rush, no pressure, just living.

Planning your time based on your mood really works here. Lausanne is not about checking off lists, it’s about how it makes you feel. Trust yourself to explore the balance of discovery and rest. And no matter how long you stay, there’s always a reason to return.

Final Thoughts for Things to Do in Lausanne

When I first arrived in Lausanne, I had no idea how deeply this city would shape my life. What started as a place for higher education became my home, my inspiration, and eventually the reason behind Swiss Sustain.

Lausanne isn’t just a pretty postcard town, it’s a city full of rhythm, contrasts, and quiet magic. I created this guide on things to do in Lausanne not only to help you find your way but also to save you the hours I spent searching, guessing, and sometimes even getting lost (literally!). Whether you’re here for a short stay, a new beginning, or just curious about Swiss life, I hope this article made your journey lighter and clearer.

And most of all, I hope you fall in love with Lausanne the way I did.

If you found this guide helpful, don’t stop here. Swiss Sustain is just getting started. I’ve built this platform from my own journey to make yours smoother, easier, and more fulfilling. Whether you’re moving to Switzerland, planning your first visit, or already living here, there’s more personal advice, local tips, and real support waiting for you.

Have a question? Want to share your own story? I’d love to hear from you.

Let’s make your Swiss experience everything it should be! calm, confident, and full of joy.
You’re not alone. I’m here to help.