Travel to Switzerland

Lausanne's Cathedral

Lausanne's Cathedral is the biggest, most beautiful gothic building in Switzerland. Though inaugurated in 1275, the north tower is still missing! During the day, you can climb to the top of the tower for a magnificent view of the city; and don't miss the stained-glass. From 10p-2a, the town crier shouts out the hour from the four sides of the tower as has been the tradition since the Middle Ages; the last to do so in Europe. The Cathedral often hosts classical concerts.

Bellerive-Plage Swimming Pool/Beach

If you are not able to find a way to enjoy yourself on this gigantic site, then turn around and go back home directly to a head doctor. Sound mean? Perhaps, but Bellerive-Plage is just like an amusement park but more wet! It has an Olympic-size swimming pool, a 10-metre high diving board, access to Lake Geneva, beach-volleyball courts, kids' games, cafes... The pools are supervised so bring the kids along. If you still don't feel like jumping in the water, no problem: you can enjoy something cool at the cafe overlooking the lake and take in the sights. Season: mid-June to late August

Fête de la Musique

One day, 1000 musicians. It is hard to believe 1,000 bands can find places to play in Lausanne, on the same day, but they can and they make it happen! From mid-morning until late evening, concerts of every type imaginable - jazz, rock, folk, house, classical - take place throughout the city, both indoors and out. This festival takes place on one day, in June.

Festival de la Cite

This is an all out, all over town festival that has been going on in Lausanne every year since 1970. The first few times this fest was staged, it was mostly devoted to beer, of all things! Then it was wisely decided to add some culture to the mix and these days, you will find everything from classical music concerts to street performers, taking place both indoors and outdoors, for free and not-so-free. These nine days in July are really a celebration of summer by both artists and the people who live here

Place de la Palud

This quaint cobbled stone square is filled not only by the Town Hall but with the wonderfully colored buildings, each with its own window box of geraniums and pastel colored shutters. The square is home to the Fountain of Justice, whose basin dates from 1557 making it the city's oldest. The original Statue of Justice was made in 1585 but is now replaced by a copy. Every Wednesday and Saturday morning, a market is held on all surrounding pedestrian streets where you can buy fresh fruits and vegetables. The overall atmosphere of the square is very laid back, making it a good place to relax in the outdoor cafes and restaurants.

Montchoisi Swimming Pool and Skating Rink

During the winter, you can skate, and in the summer, bring your bathing suit to enjoy the giant pool. The pool, open from mid-May to the end of August or the first week in September. As with all outdoor pools, opening hours can vary depending on weather and on attendance.

Ecole de Voile d'Ouchy

As there is no actual office for this sailing school, the owner, M. Doll advises you to just go and ask around at the port as everyone knows him.  M. Doll offers private and group lessons and has been known to take people on nighttime rides. You can also rent a boat for week-ends or for a full week.

AquaSplash Renens

Located west of Lausanne but easily accessible by public transport, AquaSplash-type water parks are all the rage in Switzerland. Similar to Six Flags in America, you will enjoy five heated pools, slides for grown-ups and for kids, a 10-metre high diving board and courts for all kinds of activities like volleyball, football and badminton. You can also get a massage and enjoy a proper work-out room. Costs range from Sfr3-5; frequency discounts are available if you just cannot get enough of those slides .

Vivarium de Lausanne

Lausanne's Vivarium is on the outskirts of the Sauvabelin woods, which are placed a few minutes walk from the middle of Lausanne. The Vivarium shelters one of the largest European collections of live reptiles. You can observe 250 animals from all over the world, representing 116 different species. As well as reptiles there are scorpions, spiders, tortoises, amphibians, together with fennecs and raptors .

Fondation de l'Hermitage

This amazing old house has been refurbished and houses exhibitions of paintings in a magnificent setting. The house itself is well worth your time: the floorboards, chimneys and ceilings create an ideal decor for the string of prestigious temporary exhibitions on display. Enjoy the outstanding view of the old Cite quarter as you stroll around the superb park which surrounds this manor. A good cafeteria in the former attic room provides refreshments or a bite to eat. Organised tours are arranged for the tourists.