Lausanne Vacation Rentals
Tips on renting in Lausanne
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Welcome to Lausanne, a vibrant gem in Switzerland’s Lake Geneva Region, where families are invited to discover the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Imagine your mornings beginning with gentle walks along the sparkling shores of Lake Geneva, where the Alps rise in the distance and the city’s elegant Belle Époque architecture frames every view. The Ouchy Promenade, with its playgrounds and shaded picnic spots, is a favorite for children, while parents can enjoy lakeside cafés and the soothing sound of water lapping at the docks.
Explore the heart of Lausanne together, wandering through the cobbled streets of the Old Town or visiting the Olympic Museum, which offers hands-on exhibits for curious young minds. The nearby Sauvabelin Tower rewards your family with panoramic views after a climb through peaceful forest trails, and the Lausanne Cathedral’s grand towers invite you to step back in time. Every corner of the city feels welcoming, with open parks, lively markets, and family-friendly restaurants serving Swiss chocolate treats.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Lausanne is a gateway to year-round adventure in the Lake Geneva Region. In summer, you can paddleboard or swim at Vidy Beach, or cycle the scenic Lavaux Vineyard Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site with gentle paths for all ages. Winter brings snowy fun in the nearby Vaud Alps, just a short drive away. Whether you crave lakeside picnics, mountain hikes, or simply want to share a sunset over Lake Geneva, Lausanne offers every family a chance to make lasting memories together.
Nearby cities
Pully
Discover Pully in the Lake Geneva Region—where your family can picnic by sparkling waters, bike leafy trails, and enjoy lakeside fun all year round.
Morges
Discover Morges in the Lake Geneva Region—where your family can picnic by sparkling waters, bike lakeside paths, and explore colorful flower-filled parks together.
Le Mont-Pèlerin
Discover Le Mont-Pèlerin in the Lake Geneva Region—where your family can hike green hills, picnic by sparkling waters, and explore breathtaking Swiss views together.
St-Gingolph
Discover St-Gingolph in the Lake Geneva Region—where your family can picnic by sparkling waters, explore sunny trails, and enjoy lakeside fun for all ages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Lausanne has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Lausanne, Switzerland, captivates families who love the outdoors with its stunning location on the shores of Lake Geneva, offering panoramic views of the Alps and Jura mountains. Families can explore the lush parks of Ouchy, enjoy lakeside promenades, and take scenic boat rides. The Olympic Museum provides interactive exhibits for all ages, while the Sauvabelin Forest and its wooden tower offer treetop adventures and breathtaking vistas, making every moment an opportunity for discovery and active fun.
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To create a balanced itinerary in Lausanne, start your day exploring the historic Old Town, where you can admire the Lausanne Cathedral and stroll through Place de la Palud. After soaking in the city’s vibrant café culture and perhaps visiting the Olympic Museum along Lake Geneva, head outdoors for some adventure. The nearby Sauvabelin Forest offers scenic walking trails and the wooden Sauvabelin Tower, providing panoramic views of the city, the lake, and the distant Alps.
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Families visiting Lausanne will appreciate the spacious suites and apartments at Château d’Ouchy, where many units offer private terraces overlooking Lake Geneva or access to lush landscaped gardens perfect for relaxing after a day exploring the Olympic Museum. The Mövenpick Hotel Lausanne also provides family rooms with balconies and views of the Alps, while the nearby Beau-Rivage Palace boasts sprawling lawns and elegant patios, giving families plenty of outdoor space for children to play and adults to unwind.
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A week in Lausanne offers a rich blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Start by exploring the Olympic Museum and the lively Ouchy lakeside, then wander through the medieval old town to admire Lausanne Cathedral. Venture to Lavaux, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for vineyard walks and wine tasting with panoramic views of Lake Geneva. Take a day trip to Château de Chillon near Montreux and another to the charming town of Gruyères for cheese and chocolate. End your week with a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Geneva, soaking in the stunning Alpine scenery.
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During summer, Plage de Vidy in Lausanne is one of the most popular spots where lifeguards are on duty, making it a safe and vibrant option for swimmers and families. Located along the shores of Lake Geneva, Vidy Beach offers a lively atmosphere with grassy areas, volleyball courts, and scenic views of the Alps. The nearby Parc Bourget also features a supervised swimming area, ensuring peace of mind while you enjoy the refreshing lake waters and local amenities.
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Absolutely, Lausanne is a fantastic base for cross-country skiing enthusiasts. Just a short drive from the city, the Jura Mountains offer meticulously groomed trails through the Parc Jura vaudois, where skiers can glide past snow-dusted pine forests and enjoy panoramic views of Lake Geneva. In winter, the Col du Marchairuz and Vallée de Joux become especially popular, providing both classic and skating tracks for all skill levels, making it easy to experience the Swiss Alps’ winter magic.
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For a memorable 3-day stay in Lausanne for two adults, budgeting around 900 to 1,200 Swiss francs is reasonable, covering mid-range accommodation, meals at local bistros, public transport, and entry to attractions like the Olympic Museum and the Collection de l’Art Brut. Enjoy a stroll along Ouchy’s lakeside promenade and perhaps a boat cruise on Lake Geneva, with some funds set aside for Swiss chocolate or souvenirs in the charming old town.