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Switzerland Switzerland

Lausanne

It is the capital of the canton of Vaud on Lake Geneva, in French-speaking Switzerland, and preserves a rich history dating back to Roman times. As a cultural hub known for hosting international conferences, the city exudes the charm of a world-class tourist destination at every turn.

Updated August 15, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Lausanne
Gateway airport
Geneva International Airport (GVA)
Best season
May–Oct
Time zone
Europe/Zurich
Sights covered
45 places

Sights worth seeing

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Lake Geneva

Nature

Lake Geneva

A lake straddling the border between Switzerland and France, one of the largest lakes in Central Europe. From May to September, a fountain shoots high into the sky, making it a nice place to stop for a stroll.

Olympic Museum

Museums & galleries

Olympic Museum

Located in the lakeside Ouchy district of Lausanne, Switzerland, this museum is dedicated to sport and the Olympics. Its collection of over ten thousand exhibits traces the history and stories of the modern Olympic Games.

Lausanne Cathedral

Temples & religious sites

Lausanne Cathedral

A Reformed cathedral in Lausanne, Switzerland, belonging to the Evangelical Reformed Church of the Canton of Vaud. It stands as one of the city's defining landmarks, with historic architecture visitors can explore up close.

Palais de Beaulieu

Culture & venues

Palais de Beaulieu

A large convention and exhibition center in Lausanne, home to Switzerland's largest theater, the Théâtre de Beaulieu. It's a great place to catch performances, including the Prix de Lausanne ballet competition.

Palais de Rumine

Castles & palaces

Palais de Rumine

A late 19th-century building in downtown Lausanne, striking for its grand Florentine Renaissance facade. It's well worth a look while strolling through the city center.

Château Saint-Maire

Castles & palaces

Château Saint-Maire

A castle in Lausanne that now serves as the seat of the Vaud cantonal government. It's recognized as a Swiss heritage site of national significance for its historical value.

Collection de l'art brut

Museums & galleries

Collection de l'art brut

The Collection de l'art brut in Lausanne is a museum dedicated to outsider art. It showcases the highly original work of self-taught artists without formal art training.

Mont de Gourze

Nature

Mont de Gourze

A mountain in the canton of Vaud, Switzerland, overlooking Lake Geneva. It's a great spot to relax and take in the open lake views.

How many days do you need?

Routes grouped by travel distance so each day stays comfortable.

Average temperature by month

5-year average

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
13° May
18° Jun
20° Jul
20° Aug
16° Sep
12° Oct
Nov
Dec

Getting there

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Getting around the city

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Where to stay

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