This Swiss city on Lake Geneva serves as the seat of the International Olympic Committee, its steep, terraced streets overlooking vineyards and the Alps beyond the water.
Why Visit Lausanne
The Olympic Museum, overlooking Lake Geneva, traces the history of the modern Olympic Games in a city that has served as the International Olympic Committee’s headquarters since 1915. Lausanne’s Gothic cathedral, one of Switzerland’s most important, crowns the old town’s steep, terraced streets that climb from the lakefront. The nearby Lavaux vineyard terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, produce wine on slopes overlooking the lake and have been cultivated since the 11th century.
Top Experiences
- Olympic Museum: An interactive museum tracing the history of the modern Olympic Games, overlooking Lake Geneva.
- Lausanne Cathedral: A Gothic masterpiece and one of Switzerland’s most significant religious buildings.
- Lavaux Vineyard Terraces: UNESCO listed terraced vineyards along Lake Geneva, cultivated since the 11th century.
- Ouchy Waterfront: Lausanne’s lakeside district, with promenades, boat trips, and a medieval castle.
Book these experiences and more through guided tours from Lausanne.
Taste Lausanne – A Full Swiss Food Tour by Do Eat Better
Guided group walking tour of the old town of Lausanne
Private Gruyères Tour Including Cheese and Chocolate Factory Visit from Montreux
Practical Tips
- The Lavaux terraces are best explored on foot via marked hiking trails between lakeside villages.
- Lausanne’s old town is built on a steep hill, comfortable shoes make exploring easier.
- Boat trips from Ouchy offer scenic views of both the Lavaux terraces and the French Alps across the lake.
FAQ
Why is the Olympic Museum in Lausanne?
Lausanne has served as the headquarters of the International Olympic Committee since 1915, making it the natural home for the museum dedicated to Olympic history.
What are the Lavaux vineyard terraces?
They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site of steep terraced vineyards along Lake Geneva near Lausanne, cultivated for wine production since medieval times.
Is Lausanne worth visiting alongside Geneva?
Yes, it offers a distinct lakeside old town and Olympic heritage, and is easily combined with Geneva via a short train ride along the lake.
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