Lausanne & Vevey at a glance
Lausanne is a cultural treasure trove, home to the fascinating Olympic Museum along with many other museums, theatres and galleries. The newer, lively district of ‘Flon,’ where people meet for shopping, relaxing or clubbing is in the heart of the city. The metro makes Flon and Ouchy, a former fishing village on the shore of the lake, easily accessible.
Vevey is an elegant resort nestling among the foothills that roll down to the shore of Lake Geneva. Its medieval old town is a maze of narrow, cobbled streets and pretty squares, and there is a regular trolley bus service linking the town with nearby Montreux. Two weekly markets and open-air cafés and restaurants provide a bustling atmosphere, and in high summer there is a crafts market with wine tasting and traditional music.
Highlights
Walking & Hiking
In Lausanne you can join guided walks or download themed tours to your MP3 player (available at the tourist office). The Vuachère trail leads directly from the city into the countryside, and there are more challenging mountain hikes further afield. From both locations local vineyards can be discovered on foot.
Lausanne Old Town
Lausanne’s history stretches back to Roman times, and its beautiful old town features dozens of historic buildings, including the towering medieval cathedral from the 16th century and stately 17th century Town Hall.
Olympic Museum
Lausanne is headquarters of the Olympic movement, and this fascinating museum recounts the story of the games through its permanent collection and family-friendly temporary exhibitions. The museum’s panoramic terrace restaurant is an ideal spot for lunch.
Vevey Markets
The town’s large and colourful market is held every Tuesday and Saturday morning, and from mid-July to the end of August the Marches Folkloriques market attracts thousands of visits to try local wines and foods, watch local craftsmen and work and listen to traditional folk music.
ADDED VALUE
Lausanne Transport Card: Free visitors card available from your hotel offers free access to selected public transport in the city.
Free Half Fare Card: When you book a full package to Lausanne or Vevey (including rail transfers) which entitles you to half or reduced price travel on the Swiss transport network.
EXPLORE
Golden Pass Train to Gstaad
Board the Golden Pass train from nearby Montreux for a scenic rail journey in panoramic viewing cars or in old-fashioned luxury in Pullman carriages.
Wine Tasting
Visit sun-blessed vineyards for guided tours and an opportunity to sample and buy fine local wines at source.
Chateau d'Aigle
This picturesque castle is set in a traditional village with an interesting wine museum.
Lake Geneva cruise to Evian
Take an atmospheric old paddle steamers cruise across the lake to the famous French town.
Montreux
Take the trolley bus from Vevey to this fashionable lakeside resort.
Activities & excursions are operated by independent local companies outside of Neilson’s control. Unless stated otherwise (with our Book Now logo), activities & excursions cannot be booked through us.