Start Your Walk at Place de la Palud

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The square hosts a lively market every Wednesday and Saturday. Local vendors sell fresh cheese, bread, and flowers. If you arrive on the hour, watch the mechanical clock. It tells the history of the Vaud region with moving figures. This is the best place for walking from Place de la Palud toward the heights.

Look toward the back of the square near the fountain. You will see a narrow opening between the historic buildings. This leads directly to the famous covered wooden staircase. Most tourists miss this entrance on their first visit. Take a moment to enjoy the atmosphere of the lower town first.

The walk from here is steep but very direct. You will find several small boutiques in this area. They sell unique Swiss crafts and local souvenirs. Grab a bottle of water before you start the climb. The next section of the walk is the most famous part.

Navigating the Escaliers du Marché Steps

The Escaliers du Marché are the most iconic stairs in Switzerland. These covered wooden steps date back to the 13th century. They connect the lower market square to the cathedral hill. This is the best route to Lausanne Cathedral steps for history lovers. The wooden roof protects you from rain or sun.

There are approximately 150 steps to reach the very top. The incline is steady but manageable for most people. Take breaks at the small landings to catch your breath. You will see charming cafes tucked into the hillside buildings. These spots offer great views of the red rooftops below.

Halfway up, you will pass a small terrace area. This is a popular spot for local students to relax. The view of the city begins to open up here. You can see the spire of the cathedral rising above you. Keep your camera ready for the unique angles of the wood.

The steps end at the Place de la Cathédrale. You will emerge onto a wide, paved square. The massive Gothic entrance will be directly in front of you. This route takes about ten minutes if you walk slowly. It is the most direct way to reach the historic Cité district.

Alternative Paths to the Cathedral Cité

Not everyone wants to climb hundreds of steep wooden stairs. Lausanne offers several easier ways to reach the cathedral. You can use the modern public elevator located at Pont Bessières. This lift is free and saves your legs from the climb. It places you just a short walk from the cathedral doors.

Another option is to follow the Rue de la Barre. This street has a much gentler slope than the stairs. It is better for travelers with heavy luggage or strollers. You will pass the historic Town Hall along this route. It is a longer walk but much easier on the knees.

The M2 metro line is also a great resource. Take the train to the Bessières station. From there, you only have to walk across the high bridge. This path is almost entirely flat once you exit the station. You can learn how to navigate Lausanne steep streets using public transport effectively.

In 2026, the city has improved many of these access points. New signage makes it easier to find the elevators. Look for the blue and white signs marked 'Cité' or 'Cathédrale'. These paths ensure that everyone can enjoy the historic views. Choose the route that best fits your physical comfort level.

Practical Tips for Your 2026 Visit

Wearing the right shoes is vital for any Lausanne walking tour. The cobblestones can be very slippery when it is raining. Choose sturdy sneakers or hiking shoes with good grip. Avoid high heels or thin sandals for this specific climb. Your feet will thank you after a day of exploring.

The Lausanne Cathedral is open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM. Entry to the main nave is free for all visitors. However, climbing the bell tower requires a small fee of five francs. The tower offers the best 360-degree views of Lake Geneva. It is a must-do activity for any scenic walks in Lausanne 2026 itinerary.

Check the weather forecast before you plan your walking route. The wooden steps can get chilly in the winter months. Summer afternoons can be quite hot on the steep inclines. Morning walks are usually the most comfortable for the climb. You will also find fewer crowds before 10 AM.

Carry a small map or use a GPS app. The winding streets of the Old Town can be confusing. Many alleys look similar but lead to different levels. Stay focused on the cathedral spire to keep your bearings. This landmark is visible from almost everywhere in the upper city.