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Best Picnic Spots in Lausanne Parks: 2026 Guide

December 29, 2025
By Editor
Best Picnic Spots in Lausanne Parks: 2026 Guide

The Best Picnic Spots in Lausanne Parks for 2026

Lausanne is a city defined by its stunning hills and green spaces. Finding the best picnic spots in Lausanne parks is easy for any visitor. You can enjoy local cheese while looking at the Swiss Alps. This guide helps you find the perfect patch of grass in 2026.

Relax at Parc de Milan Near the Station

For the most up-to-date details, check Lausanne Tourisme before you go.

Parc de Milan is a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. It is located just a short walk from the main train station. The park features a massive grassy hill that faces the water. You will find some of the best nature parks in Lausanne right here.

Families love this park because of the large wooden playground. Children can play safely while parents prepare the picnic blanket. There are several flat areas perfect for setting up a meal. You can also visit the botanical garden located on the same grounds.

The views from the top of the hill are truly spectacular. You can see across Lake Geneva all the way to France. It is a very lively place on warm summer afternoons. Try to arrive early to secure the best spot under a tree.

Before you eat, consider exploring the area on foot. The Milan Park walking route for families is a great choice. It guides you through the most scenic parts of the park. This short walk will help everyone build a healthy appetite.

Peaceful Moments at Parc de Mon Repos

Parc de Mon Repos offers a very different atmosphere from other city parks. It is a quiet oasis located in the heart of the city. The park is famous for its elegant landscaping and historical buildings. You will find many secluded corners for a private lunch.

The park features a beautiful neo-Gothic tower that looks like a castle. It provides a very romantic backdrop for a couple's picnic. Large, old trees offer plenty of shade during the hot summer months. You can listen to the birds singing in the nearby aviary.

The lawns here are kept in perfect condition throughout the year. You should bring a thick blanket to stay comfortable on the grass. Public benches are also scattered along the winding gravel paths. It is the perfect place to read a book after eating.

This park is very easy to reach by local bus or metro. It stays open late into the evening during the summer season. Make sure to check out the seasonal flower displays near the entrance. They are always bright and colorful in 2026.

Best Picnic Spots in Lausanne Parks at l'Hermitage

Parc de l'Hermitage is widely known for having the best city views. It sits high on a hill above the old town area. You can see the spire of the Lausanne Cathedral clearly. This makes it one of the best picnic spots in Lausanne parks for photographers.

The park surrounds a famous art museum housed in a grand mansion. The atmosphere here is very calm and quite sophisticated. Many people come here to paint the beautiful landscape on weekends. It is a great place to escape the city noise.

You can find several large meadows that are ideal for group gatherings. The grass is lush and perfect for lounging for several hours. There are also many hidden benches located along the forest edge. These spots offer a bit more privacy and cool air.

We recommend following the Parc de l'Hermitage panoramic walk guide for the best experience. It leads you to the most famous viewpoints in the entire park. You can take amazing photos of the lake and mountains from here. The walk is steep but very rewarding for everyone.

Enjoy the Breeze at Ouchy Lakeside

💡 Pro Tip: Book your Lausanne adventures in advance through Viator for the best deals!

The Ouchy district offers a wonderful lakeside setting for your picnic. You can sit right by the water and watch the boats. The cool breeze from Lake Geneva is very refreshing in July. It is a popular spot for both locals and travelers.

There are several distinct green zones along the main promenade. The area near the Olympic Museum is particularly beautiful and well-kept. You will find plenty of space to spread out your picnic gear. There are also clean public toilets and water fountains nearby.

You can easily buy fresh food at the shops in Ouchy. Many bakeries sell delicious sandwiches and local Swiss pastries for lunch. You can also find small supermarkets for drinks and fresh fruit. This makes planning a last-minute picnic very simple and easy.

Take some time to explore the Ouchy lakeside promenade walks in Lausanne after your meal. The path is flat and offers constant views of the water. You can walk all the way to the old tower. It is a very relaxing way to spend an afternoon.

Planning Your Picnic in Lausanne for 2026

Planning a picnic in Lausanne is a very affordable way to eat. You should visit a local supermarket like Migros or Coop first. They offer high-quality Swiss products at very reasonable prices. You can find everything from local cheese to fresh bread.

Most parks in Lausanne are free to enter for the public. They are open from dawn until dusk throughout the year 2026. Please remember to use the provided bins for all your trash. Keeping the parks clean is very important to the local community.

  • Buy a reusable water bottle to use at public fountains.
  • Check the weather forecast before you head out for the day.
  • Bring a light jacket as the lake breeze can be cool.
  • Use the Lausanne Transport Card for free travel to the parks.

Public transport is the best way to reach these beautiful locations. The metro system is very clean, fast, and easy to navigate. Most parks have a bus stop or metro station nearby. This allows you to visit multiple spots in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are public barbecues allowed in Lausanne parks?

Grilling is only permitted in specific designated areas within certain parks. You must use the official fire pits provided by the city. Most central parks like Mon Repos do not allow open fires. Always check the local signs before starting any fire.

Where can I buy the best picnic food in Lausanne?

The best places for picnic supplies are the local markets and supermarkets. Visit the Coop or Migros near the train station for convenience. For gourmet options, check the weekly market in the Old Town. You will find fresh local cheese and artisanal bread there.

What are the park opening hours in Lausanne for 2026?

Most public parks in Lausanne are open 24 hours a day. However, some smaller gardens may close their gates at sunset. It is best to enjoy your picnic during daylight hours for safety. The lakeside areas remain lively and well-lit late into the evening.

Lausanne offers some of the most beautiful green spaces in Switzerland. From lakeside views to quiet gardens, there is a spot for everyone. Pack your blanket and enjoy the fresh air in 2026. Start exploring these amazing parks on your next visit to the city.