4-Day Local Experience in Lausanne: Outdoor Activities and Shopping

Lausanne, Switzerland

4 days

The nights of the city
View to vineyards at Geneva lake
Street view to Geneva Lake
Cathedral of Lausanne
Ouchy Waterfront

About Lausanne, Switzerland

Nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva, Lausanne, Switzerland is a charming city known for its vibrant culture and picturesque landscapes. As the Olympic Capital, it houses the Olympic Museum, offering a unique insight into the history of the games. Explore the medieval Old Town with its impressive Lausanne Cathedral, or indulge in retail therapy in the bustling shopping district. The city's thriving food scene ranges from traditional Swiss cuisine to international delicacies. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride on Lake Geneva or a hike in the nearby Jura Mountains. With its blend of historical attractions, natural beauty, and modern amenities, Lausanne promises an unforgettable Swiss experience.

4-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Lake Geneva and the Olympic Museum

Morning

Start your day with a refreshing walk along the shores of Lake Geneva, taking in the stunning views of the Alps. This is a great way to get your blood pumping and start your day on a high note.

Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch by the lake. You can pick up some local Swiss cheese, bread, and fruits from a nearby market. Don't forget to try some Swiss chocolate for dessert.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring the Olympic Museum, where you can learn about the history of the Olympics and even try some sports simulations.

Dinner

Have a traditional Swiss dinner. Try some raclette or fondue, paired with a local wine.

Evening

End your day with a leisurely stroll through the City Centre, taking in the beautiful architecture and vibrant nightlife.

Morning

Start your day with a hike up to the Sauvabelin Tower. The panoramic views of the city and the lake from the top are worth the climb.

Lunch

Enjoy a packed lunch at the top of the tower, surrounded by the beauty of nature.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon shopping in the City Centre. You'll find a mix of high-end boutiques and local shops selling everything from fashion to Swiss watches.

Dinner

Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant. Try some Swiss sausage or rosti, a traditional Swiss dish made from potatoes.

Evening

End your day with a visit to a local theater. Lausanne is known for its vibrant arts scene, so you're sure to find a performance to enjoy.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Lausanne Cathedral. This beautiful Gothic cathedral is a must-see. Don't forget to climb up to the tower for a stunning view of the city.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local café. Try some Swiss pastries or a hearty soup.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring the Collection de l'Art Brut, a unique museum dedicated to 'outsider art'.

Dinner

Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant. Try some perch, a local fish from Lake Geneva, or a hearty Swiss stew.

Evening

End your day with a leisurely stroll along the lake, taking in the beautiful sunset.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Hermitage Foundation, an art museum housed in a beautiful 19th-century mansion.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local café. Try some Swiss pastries or a hearty soup.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring the city's parks and gardens. The Esplanade de Montbenon offers stunning views of the lake and the Alps.

Dinner

Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant. Try some Swiss sausage or rosti, a traditional Swiss dish made from potatoes.

Evening

End your day with a visit to a local theater. Lausanne is known for its vibrant arts scene, so you're sure to find a performance to enjoy.

Attractions in Itinerary (8)

Lake Geneva

1
Lake Geneva

A large lake shared by Switzerland and France, offering stunning views and a variety of water activities.

Attractions
Landmarks
Tours
Olympic Museum

2
Olympic Museum

The Olympic Museum in Lausanne, Switzerland houses permanent and temporary exhibits relating to sport and the Olympic movement.

Attractions
Museums
Cultural Experiences
City Centre

3
City Centre

The bustling heart of the city, filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural sites.

Attractions
Shopping
Food and Drink
Cultural Experiences
Neighborhoods
Sauvabelin Tower

4
Sauvabelin Tower

Sauvabelin Tower is a wooden tower offering panoramic views of Lausanne and the surrounding area.

Attractions
Landmarks
Lausanne Cathedral

5
Lausanne Cathedral

Lausanne Cathedral is a beautiful Gothic cathedral that is considered one of the finest in Europe.

Attractions
Monuments
Religious Sites
Architecture
Collection de l'Art Brut

6
Collection de l'Art Brut

Collection de l'Art Brut is a museum dedicated to 'outsider art' - art created outside the boundaries of official culture.

Attractions
Museums
Cultural Experiences
Hermitage Foundation

7
Hermitage Foundation

A renowned art museum in Lausanne, showcasing a diverse collection of artworks from various periods and styles.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Esplanade de Montbenon

8
Esplanade de Montbenon

Esplanade de Montbenon is a beautiful park offering stunning views of Lake Geneva and the Alps. It also houses the Casino de Montbenon, a cultural and social venue.

Parks
Attractions

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Fondue

Fondue

A classic Swiss dish made with melted cheese and served in a communal pot. It's a must-try in Lausanne, as Switzerland is famous for its high-quality cheese.

Raclette

Raclette

Another popular Swiss cheese dish where the cheese is melted and scraped onto potatoes. It's a hearty meal that's particularly popular in the colder months in Lausanne.

Rösti

Rösti

A Swiss-style potato pancake that's often served as a side dish. It's a staple in Lausanne and showcases the Swiss love for potatoes.

Zürcher Geschnetzeltes

Zürcher Geschnetzeltes

A traditional Swiss dish from Zurich that's also popular in Lausanne. It's made with sliced veal in a creamy white wine and mushroom sauce.

Swiss Chocolate

Switzerland is world-renowned for its chocolate, and Lausanne is no exception. Tourists should definitely try some local Swiss chocolate while they're in town.

Gruyère

Gruyère

A hard yellow cheese named after the town of Gruyères in Switzerland. It's a popular cheese in Lausanne and is often used in Swiss cuisine.

Swiss Pastries

Switzerland, including Lausanne, is known for its pastries. Tourists should try local favorites like Nusstorte (nut tart) and Zopf (braided bread).

Swiss Sausages

Switzerland has a variety of local sausages. In Lausanne, tourists can try Cervelat, the national sausage of Switzerland, or Bratwurst, a popular grilled sausage.

Swiss Wine

Lausanne is located in the heart of the Swiss wine region. Tourists should try local Swiss wines, particularly the white wines made from the Chasselas grape.

Rivella

Rivella

A popular Swiss soft drink made from milk whey. It's a unique drink that tourists should try while in Lausanne.

Absinthe

Absinthe

Although it was banned for many years, absinthe is a traditional Swiss spirit that's now legal and popular in Lausanne.

Schümli Pflümli

A traditional Swiss plum liqueur. It's a popular after-dinner drink in Lausanne and showcases the Swiss love for fruit liqueurs.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Lausanne, Switzerland, is during the summer months from June to August. During this time, the weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city also hosts several events and festivals during the summer. However, if you're interested in winter sports like skiing, the winter months from December to February would be ideal. Keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, so it might be a bit crowded. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are also good times to visit, offering mild weather and fewer tourists.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day (regional holiday)

January 2

Tue

Berchtold Day (regional holiday)

January 6

Sat

Epiphany (regional holiday)

March 1

Fri

Republic Day (Neuchâtel)

March 19

Tue

Saint Joseph's Day (regional holiday)

March 29

Fri

Good Friday (regional holiday)

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday (regional holiday)

April 4

Thu

Näfels Procession (Glarus)

May 1

Wed

May Day (regional holiday)

May 9

Thu

Ascension Day (regional holiday)

May 20

Mon

Pentecost Monday (regional holiday)

May 30

Thu

Corpus Christi (regional holiday)

June 23

Sun

Jura Independence Day (Jura)

August 1

Thu

Swiss National Day

August 15

Thu

Assumption of Mary (regional holiday)

September 5

Thu

Genevese Fast (Geneva)

September 16

Mon

Federal Fast Monday (regional holiday)

September 22

Sun

Mauritius Day (Appenzell Innerrhoden)

September 25

Wed

St. Nicholas of Flüe (Obwalden)

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day (regional holiday)

December 8

Sun

Immaculate Conception (regional holiday)

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day (regional holiday)

December 26

Thu

St. Stephen's Day (regional holiday)

December 31

Tue

Restoration Day (Geneva)

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Lausanne is the smallest city in the world to have a rapid transit system. The Lausanne Metro is a great way to get around the city, with four lines (M1, M2, M3, and M4) serving various parts of the city and surrounding areas.

The city's bus network is extensive, serving not only the city center but also the suburbs and surrounding areas. The buses are operated by Transports Publics Lausannois (TL).

Lausanne is well-connected by train to other parts of Switzerland and Europe. The main train station, Lausanne Gare, is a hub for Swiss Federal Railways (SBB), and offers services to cities like Geneva, Zurich, and Milan.

While driving in Lausanne is possible, it's not always the most convenient option due to traffic and limited parking. However, car rentals are available for those who prefer this mode of transport.

Lausanne is a bike-friendly city, with numerous bike lanes and bike-sharing services available. The city's hilly terrain can be challenging, but electric bikes are also available for rent.

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Lausanne, providing a convenient and often cost-effective way to get around the city.

Many of Lausanne's attractions are within walking distance of each other, particularly in the city center. The city's compact size and pedestrian-friendly streets make walking a pleasant and practical way to explore.

Lausanne is located on the shores of Lake Geneva, and ferry services are available to various destinations around the lake. This can be a scenic and enjoyable way to travel, particularly in good weather.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

CurrencyCHF CHF

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 144; Fire: 118; Police: 117

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type J

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Lausanne, Switzerland as a first time visitor

1

Lausanne is located in the French-speaking part of Switzerland, so it would be beneficial to know some basic French phrases.

2

The currency used in Lausanne is the Swiss Franc (CHF), although many places also accept Euro.

3

Credit cards are widely accepted in Lausanne, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or street vendors.

4

Tipping is not obligatory in Switzerland as service charge is included in the bill, but it's common to round up to the nearest franc for good service.

5

Lausanne has a temperate climate. Summers (June to August) are warm with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C), while winters (December to February) can be cold with temperatures ranging from 28°F to 45°F (-2°C to 7°C).

6

Lausanne is a very walkable city, but it also has an efficient public transportation system including buses, trams, and a metro.

7

Switzerland uses type J plugs, so you may need a power adapter if your devices use different plug types.

8

Switzerland is known for its punctuality, so it's important to be on time for any appointments or reservations.

9

Lausanne is a safe city, but like any other city, it's always important to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

10

Lausanne is located on the shores of Lake Geneva, so it's a good idea to pack a swimsuit if you plan to visit during the warmer months.

11

Switzerland has strict recycling laws, so make sure to separate your waste accordingly.

12

Tap water in Lausanne is safe to drink and of high quality.

13

Smoking is banned in all indoor public places in Lausanne, including restaurants and bars.

14

Lausanne is a hilly city, so comfortable walking shoes are a must.

15

Lausanne is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is UTC +1.

16

Lausanne has a high cost of living, so be prepared for higher prices, especially for dining and accommodation.

17

Lausanne is home to many international organizations and hosts a diverse, multicultural population.

18

The legal drinking age in Lausanne is 16 for beer and wine, and 18 for spirits.

19

Lausanne has a vibrant nightlife with many bars, clubs, and live music venues.

20

Lausanne is known for its high-quality local produce, including cheese, chocolate, and wine, so don't miss out on trying these.

Basic French to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Bonjour

bohn-zhoor

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Au revoir

oh ruh-vwahr

Saying goodbye

Please

S'il vous plaît

see voo play

Making a request

Thank you

Merci

mehr-see

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Oui

wee

Agreeing or confirming

No

Non

non

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Excusez-moi

ex-koo-zay mwah

Getting attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

Je suis désolé

zhuh swee day-zoh-lay

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

Parlez-vous anglais?

par-lay voo ahn-glay

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

Je ne comprends pas

zhuh nuh kom-prahn pah

Expressing confusion

Where is...?

Où est...?

oo eh

Asking for directions

Bathroom

Toilettes

twah-let

Asking for the restroom

Help

Aide

ed

In case of emergency

Call the police

Appelez la police

ah-peh-lay la po-lease

In case of emergency

I'm lost

Je suis perdu

zhuh swee pehr-doo

When you're lost

How much does it cost?

Combien ça coûte?

kohm-byen sah koot

Asking for the price

Can I have the bill, please?

Puis-je avoir l'addition, s'il vous plaît?

pwee-zhuh ah-vwahr lah-dee-syon, see voo play

Asking for the bill at a restaurant

Water

Eau

oh

Ordering water

Beer

Bière

byehr

Ordering beer

Wine

Vin

van

Ordering wine

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear (4 pairs)

  • Socks (4 pairs)

  • T-Shirts (4)

  • Pants/Jeans (2 pairs)

  • Sweater or Jacket

  • Sleepwear

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Swimsuit

  • Hat/Cap for sun protection

  • Gloves and Scarf (if winter)

  • Rain jacket or umbrella

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and Toothpaste

  • Shampoo and Conditioner

  • Body wash or Soap

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and Shaving Cream

  • Makeup and Makeup Remover

  • Sunscreen

  • Lip Balm

  • Travel-sized First Aid Kit

  • Prescription Medications

  • Hand Sanitizer

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport/ID

  • Airline Tickets

  • Hotel Reservation Confirmation

  • Travel Insurance Documents

  • Emergency Contacts and Addresses

  • Credit/Debit Cards

  • Cash in local currency (Swiss Franc)

  • Guidebook or Map

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for Smartphone

  • Universal Travel Adapter

  • Camera

  • Charger for Camera

  • Portable Power Bank

  • Headphones or Earbuds

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks

  • Bottled Water

  • Travel Pillow and Eye Mask

  • Books or Magazines for entertainment

  • Reusable Shopping Bag

  • Travel-sized Laundry Detergent

  • Ziplock Bags for storing toiletries

  • Notepad and Pen

Weather Conditions

Lausanne, Switzerland, is a beautiful city with a temperate climate. The weather can vary greatly, so it's important to be prepared for different conditions depending on when you plan to visit. During the winter months, from December to February, temperatures can drop as low as 28°F (-2°C), so pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. Snowfall is common, which can make for beautiful scenery but also slippery conditions. Be sure to wear sturdy, waterproof footwear if you plan on exploring the city on foot. Spring, from March to May, and fall, from September to November, are generally mild with temperatures ranging from 46°F (8°C) to 64°F (18°C). These seasons are perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing, so pack layers and comfortable walking shoes. Rain showers are common during these seasons, so don't forget your umbrella or raincoat. Summer, from June to August, is the warmest season with temperatures ranging from 64°F (18°C) to 77°F (25°C). However, it can occasionally get hotter, so lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended. Also, remember to stay hydrated, especially if you're out and about during the hottest part of the day. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip. This will help you pack appropriately and plan your activities. And remember, the weather can change quickly in Switzerland, so always be prepared for a sudden shift in conditions. Enjoy your visit to Lausanne!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

6° / -1°

January is the coldest month in Lausanne, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a great time for winter sports enthusiasts, but make sure to pack warm clothes.

February

7° / -1°

February is still quite cold, with a chance of snow. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy winter activities.

March

13° / 1°

March sees the start of spring, with temperatures starting to rise. However, there can still be some chilly days, so pack layers.

April

16° / 4°

April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. It's a great time to explore the city and the surrounding countryside.

May

20° / 8°

May is a beautiful month in Lausanne, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's a great time to visit the lake and enjoy outdoor activities.

June

24° / 11°

June is the start of summer, with long, sunny days. It's a perfect time for hiking, swimming, and other outdoor activities.

July

26° / 14°

July is the warmest month in Lausanne, with temperatures often reaching the mid-20s. It's a great time to visit the lake and enjoy the city's summer festivals.

August

26° / 14°

August is another warm month, perfect for outdoor activities. It's also a great time to enjoy the city's cafes and restaurants.

September

22° / 10°

September sees the start of autumn, with temperatures starting to drop. However, it's still a great time to visit, with beautiful fall colors in the countryside.

October

16° / 6°

October is a cool month, with temperatures dropping further. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy the fall colors and quieter tourist spots.

November

10° / 2°

November is a chilly month, with temperatures often dropping below freezing at night. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy winter activities and quieter tourist spots.

December

6° / -1°

December is a cold month, with a high chance of snow. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy winter sports and Christmas markets.

Did you know?

Did you know that Lausanne is the fourth largest city in Switzerland and the capital of the canton of Vaud?

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