Switzerland · 2026 itinerary
Lausanne 3-Day Itinerary
A day-by-day plan for Lausanne: the best attractions in order, where to eat, how to get around — with free hotel briefings for your stay.
Arrive & Explore the Highlights
Gothic cathedral in the old town with a magnificent painted rose window. Free entry to the nave and side chapels.
🕐 Mon-Sat 9:00-17:30, Sun 13:00-17:30
Free entry💡 Climb the tower for 5 CHF (2025 price) — the view over the lake and vineyards is worth every franc, and it's rarely crowded on weekday mornings.
Hotels near Lausanne Cathedral →Former industrial area turned into a trendy quarter with graffiti art, independent shops, and a giant steep escalator. Free to explore on foot.
🕐 Outdoor area accessible 24/7, shops vary
Free entry💡 Take the 'Escalator du Flon' at Rue de Genève — it runs up the cliffside and gives a sudden reveal of the cathedral above. Free and fun.
Hotels near Flon District →Via Vai · ££
il Bacio · ££
Deeper Into Lausanne
English-style park next to the university, with a pond, ducks, and the neoclassical Villa de Mon Repos (exterior free). Good for a quiet break from the city centre.
🕐 24/7
💡 The footpath along the south edge leads to a little bridge over the river Flon — great for photos of the old town without crowds.
The outdoor sculpture park and gardens around the Olympic Museum, with lake views and sports exhibits. Free to wander anytime.
🕐 24/7
💡 Walk down to the lakeside jetty at sunset for a clear view of the Alps across the water.
Le triangle
L'Union
Final Favourites & Departure
A serene cemetery park with grand old trees, carved tombs, and a quiet atmosphere. Not a tourist site — a local place for a reflective walk.
💡 Bring a picnic. The benches near the war memorial have the best shade and a distant lake view.
Pizzeria des Tuileries
Restaurant des Roches
Getting Around Lausanne
Slightly slower than the train but often half the price. Book on their app and board early for a window seat on the right for lake views.
Buy the supersaver ticket online in advance for half the price. The station's locker room (near Platform 1) is cheap for stashing bags until check-in.
Get a day pass (CHF 8.60) if you'll take more than two trips. The MadHouse is uphill from the station, so use the metro even for short hops rather than walking.
The bus avoids the metro's steep escalators and is slightly closer to the hotel entrance. Tap your contactless card directly on the reader—no need for paper tickets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 3 days enough for Lausanne?
Three days covers the main highlights well. You can see the key attractions like Lausanne Cathedral and get a genuine feel for the city. For a more leisurely pace or to explore neighbourhoods in depth, a 5-day trip is better.
What is the best time to visit Lausanne?
See our full best time to visit Lausanne guide — it covers weather month by month, peak vs. shoulder seasons and how to avoid the crowds.
Where should I stay for this itinerary?
A central location saves transit time between sites. Top options include ibis Styles Lausanne Center MadHouse, Hôtel de la Paix, Hôtel du Port. See the full ranked list with free briefings for each.