Lausanne , Switzerland

Walking Tour in Lausanne Switzerland

Active

(13 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The tours in our catalog are fun, interactive, and adaptable. You will receive the standard historical data but also the quirky anecdotes that make a town a home.
Your guide: Native of the French-speaking part of Switzerland, I have been guiding Swiss-curious groups since 2020. I enjoy sharing my joy at hearing new historical anecdotes about places and their people. I can take visitors with me on those journeys in English, French or German.
English has become my natural language, after spending a few years in London, training as a theater technician and working in a cinema. I have also extensively traveled the USA.

Available options

Walking Tour in Lausanne Switzerland

What's included

Professional Guide

Detailed itinerary

Brief visit of the interior of the Cathedral, walking around the déambulatoire, admiring the stain glass windows, the gothic architecture, and the magnificent organ designed by Giugiaro

Crossing the Place de la Riponne, a brief explanation of the role of the building and historical events in it + today's use.
Construction of the building began in September 1898 according to plans by Lyon architect Gaspard André.

A brief walk around the tower with a historical context explanation. Built-in 1340, its primary role was to defend the Faubourg de l'Ale, a district outside the walls that then extended in front of the Porte de Saint-Laurent.

crossing the Chauderon Bridge. Built between 1904 and 1905, is made up of two parallel bridges

Visit the Montbenon Casino and its gardens. Built in 1908, the Casino de Montbenon enjoys a unique location in Lausanne. Contrary to what its name suggests, the “Casino” has never housed a games room.

View of the Grand Pont with historical explanations. Part of the designs by engineer Pichard to avoid the traffic jams in the old town, the Grand Pont is the first in several colossal urban projects. Work began in 1839 and was finished, with much pomp, in 1844 due to safety concerns

visit the train station and up on the platforms. Inaugurated in 1856, the train station changed the urban landscape of Lausanne drastically. The town started to grow South. The building as it is today dates to 1916.

What's not included

usually 1 stop CHF 12.00 total, depending on beverage ordered

Private transportation

Gratuities

good shoes

MHL

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

6 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Participants must be 16 years or older

Not recommended for people with walking disability

Meeting point

We are meeting inside the MHL (if the tour starts between 11am and 5pm) or in front of it. It is South of the Cathedral.

About Lausanne

Lausanne is a picturesque city on the shores of Lake Geneva, known for its stunning views, vibrant cultural scene, and as the home of the International Olympic Committee. It blends historic charm with modern sophistication, offering a rich tapestry of experiences from outdoor activities to world-class museums.

Top Attractions

Olympic Museum

The Olympic Museum is dedicated to the history and spirit of the Olympic Games. It features interactive exhibits, a vast collection of Olympic memorabilia, and stunning views of Lake Geneva.

Museum 2-3 hours CHF 18

Lausanne Cathedral

Lausanne Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Built in the 12th and 13th centuries, it offers panoramic views of the city and lake from its tower.

Historical 1 hour Free (CHF 5 for tower access)

Lavaux Vineyard Terraces

The Lavaux Vineyard Terraces are a UNESCO World Heritage site known for their stunning landscapes and wine production. The terraces offer beautiful views of Lake Geneva and the Alps.

Nature Half-day Free to explore (wine tastings vary in cost)

Château de Chillon

Château de Chillon is a medieval castle on the shores of Lake Geneva. It is one of the most visited historic sites in Switzerland and offers a glimpse into medieval life.

Historical 2-3 hours CHF 14

Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva is a major attraction in Lausanne, offering a variety of water activities, scenic views, and relaxing walks along the shore.

Nature Half-day Free (activities vary in cost)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fondue

A traditional Swiss dish made with melted cheese, served with bread for dipping.

Dinner Vegetarian (check for dairy allergies)

Raclette

A dish where melted raclette cheese is scraped onto potatoes, pickles, and other accompaniments.

Dinner Vegetarian (check for dairy allergies)

Filets de Perche

Fried perch fillets, a local specialty from Lake Geneva.

Dinner Contains fish

Meringues

Light, airy meringues often filled with cream and fruit.

Dessert Vegetarian (check for dairy allergies)

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Alps Skiing in nearby resorts Paragliding over Lake Geneva Boat tours on Lake Geneva Picnicking by the lake Spa treatments Visiting museums Exploring Old Town

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities. The city is lively with festivals and events.

15°C to 28°C 59°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: French
Widely spoken: English, German, Italian
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas

Currency

Swiss Franc (CHF)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Lausanne is a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use reputable taxi services
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with unusual requests

Getting there

By air

Geneva Airport • 60 km

By train

Lausanne Station

By bus

Lausanne Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The metro is efficient and easy to use, with frequent services.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Taxi Lausanne

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town Ouchy Flon Sallaz

Day trips

Montreux

30 km • Half day to full day

Montreux is a charming lakeside town known for its jazz festival, Chillon Castle, and beautiful promenade.

Gruyères

60 km • Full day

Gruyères is a medieval town known for its cheese, Gruyère, and the famous HR Giger Museum.

Geneva

60 km • Full day

Geneva is a major international city known for its jet d'eau, United Nations headquarters, and luxury shopping.

Festivals

Lausanne Jazz Festival • June to July Lausanne International Fireworks Festival • July Christmas Markets • December

Pro tips

Visit the Olympic Museum early in the morning to avoid crowds
Take a boat tour of Lake Geneva for stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains
Explore the Lavaux Vineyard Terraces for a unique wine-tasting experience
Attend a local festival or event for an authentic cultural experience
Try local Swiss specialties like fondue and raclette at a traditional restaurant