Lausanne 3 Day Itinerary

Lausanne 3-Day Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the City Centre

Morning: Arrival & Ouchy

  • Arrive at Lausanne’s airport or train station and make your way to the city centre.
  • Rent a bike (highly recommended for easy navigation) or take the M1 metro line to Ouchy.
  • Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the lakeside promenade, soak in the beautiful views of Lake Geneva and the Alps.

Afternoon: Lausanne Olympic Museum & Old Town

  • Head back to the city centre and visit the Lausanne Olympic Museum. Discover the history and spirit of the Olympic Games.
  • Explore the charming Old Town (Vieux-Lausanne) with its cobblestone streets, medieval houses, and lively squares.
  • Don’t miss the Gothic Cathedral (Eglise Saint-Ours), a stunning example of Lausanne’s architectural heritage.

Evening: Dinner at Le Bourg-de-Four

  • For dinner, head to the picturesque Le Bourg-de-Four. This district is home to numerous restaurants offering Swiss and international cuisines.
  • Try some local dishes such as Fondue, Raclette, or Swiss specialty, Perch (fish).

Tips for Day 1:

  • Purchase the Lausanne Transport Pass if you plan on using public transport throughout your stay.
  • Remember to tip approximately 10-15% in restaurants and round up when paying small bills.
  • Be sure to visit the Olympic Museum before 6 pm as it closes earlier on weekdays.

Day 2: Mountain Adventures

Morning: Montreux & Château de Chillon

  • Take a scenic train ride from Lausanne’s main station to Montreux (approx. 30 min journey).
  • Visit the iconic Château de Chillon, an impressive medieval fortress on Lake Geneva.
  • Explore Montreux’s lakeside promenade and browse through the town’s unique shops.

Afternoon: Rochers-de-Naye & Cheese Fondue

  • Return to Lausanne and head up to Rochers-de-Naye by train (approx. 1h30 journey). Enjoy breathtaking views of the Alps and Lake Geneva.
  • Enjoy a traditional Swiss cheese fondue at one of the mountain restaurants, such as Alpineum.

Evening: Relaxation & Dinner

  • Return to Lausanne in the evening and take a dip in Naturalia, Lausanne’s thermal bath complex (if open).
  • For dinner, try local cuisine at one of the following restaurants: Le Pont du Bouveret, La Casserole, or L’Etrave.

Tips for Day 2:

  • Buy your train tickets to Montreux and Rochers-de-Naye in advance as prices may increase on the day of travel.
  • Check opening hours and availability for Château de Chillon, thermal baths, and restaurants before visiting.

Day 3: Lake Geneva & Olympic Park

Morning: Lausanne Olympic Park & Beach Volleyball

  • Head to Lausanne Olympic Park and watch a beach volleyball match if the season allows (free admission).
  • Explore the park’s various attractions, including the Swiss Technology & Innovation Museum, Olympic Museum Annexe, and Olympic House.

Afternoon: Lavaux Vineyard Terraces & Cruise on Lake Geneva

  • Take a short train ride to Lavaux (approx. 20 min journey) and explore the beautiful vineyard terraces listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Embark on a scenic cruise along Lake Geneva for stunning views of the surrounding mountains, castles, and charming villages.

Evening: Farewell Dinner at La Cave du Manoir

  • For your final dinner in Lausanne, visit La Cave du Manoir, a renowned restaurant offering an extensive wine list and delicious Swiss cuisine.
  • Reflect on your memorable experiences during the past three days.

Tips for Day 3:

  • Book your cruise ticket in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak season.
  • Check the weather forecast for your beach volleyball visit and consider bringing sunscreen or rain gear if needed.
  • Make reservations at La Cave du Manoir to secure a table for your farewell dinner.