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Lausanne, a breathtaking lakeside gem in the French-speaking canton of Vaud, sits gracefully along the northern shores of Lake Geneva (Lac Léman). Nestled among rolling vineyard-covered hills, this vibrant city is where Alpine charm meets cosmopolitan culture.

Divided across three scenic hills and surrounded by terraced vineyards, Lausanne offers not only spectacular lake and mountain views, but also a unique blend of elegance, youthfulness, and tradition. It is home to two prestigious universities and is proud to host the International Olympic Committee, earning its title as the Olympic Capital.

Where Sport, Culture & Nature Meet

At the heart of Lausanne lies the Olympic Museum, an unmissable attraction that honours the legacy of global sport. Set within the beautifully landscaped Olympic Park, this lakeside destination invites visitors to explore interactive exhibits, Olympic history, and inspiring art installations.

Lausanne’s role as a dynamic centre of sports, education, business and leisure has made it a top destination for discerning travellers.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a nature lover, or a gourmet explorer, Lausanne promises enriching experiences all year round.

Festival City by the Lake

Lausanne’s calendar is rich with cultural festivities:

• 🎷 Jazz Onze+ Festival – a magnet for international jazz legends and music lovers.
• 🌟 Lausanne Festival of Lights (Lumières) – a magical winter event from November to December, when local artists transform the city into a glowing open-air gallery.

Historic Charm & Timeless Elegance

Stroll through the medieval, car-free Old Town, with its winding alleyways, tulip-lined walkways, and charming boutiques. Rising above it all is the Cathedral of Notre-Dame of Lausanne, one of the most significant early Gothic landmarks in Switzerland. Climb its bell tower for sweeping views over the terracotta rooftops and glittering Lake Geneva.

Continue your journey to the Château d’Ouchy, a 12th-century lakeside castle that now stands as a luxury hotel and historic icon. The Ouchy promenade, with its palm trees, parks and cafés, is the perfect place to watch the sunset over the Alps.

Lausanne for Culture Lovers

Culture thrives in Lausanne, thanks to its exceptional museums and world-class artistic institutions:

• 🖼 Musée de l’Art Brut – showcasing powerful and imaginative works by self-taught outsider artists.
• 📸 Musée de l’Elysée – a world-renowned photography museum featuring everything from Charlie Chaplin retrospectives to modern visual storytelling.
• 💃 Béjart Ballet Lausanne – an internationally acclaimed dance theatre with unforgettable performances.

Nature, Wellness & Local Delights

For outdoor explorers, Lausanne is full of lakeside paths and lush parks. Wander the Alpine Botanical Garden with its Mediterranean flora, or visit the cutting-edge Aquatis Aquarium-Vivarium—the largest freshwater-themed centre in Europe.

After a day of exploration, enjoy a treat like the local favourite: Nutella pizza on the lakeside promenade, accompanied by panoramic Alpine views that feel straight out of a painting.

Top Attractions & Things to Do in Lausanne

• 🏛 Olympic Museum & Park
• 🕍 Château d’Ouchy
• 🏰 Cathedral of Notre-Dame of Lausanne
• 🐠 Aquatis Aquarium-Vivarium
• 🎨 Musée de l’Art Brut
• 📷 Musée de l’Elysée
• 🕯 Festival of Lights (Nov–Dec)
• ⛪ Saint François Church – a Gothic treasure since 1260
• 🎭 Palais de Beaulieu & Palais de Rumine

🖼 Cantonal Museum of Fine Arts