Starting at Place de la Palud

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• Admire the Fountain of Justice in the center of the square.
• Watch the animated clock perform at the top of every hour.
• Visit the local market on Wednesday or Saturday for fresh Swiss goods.

The local market happens here every Wednesday and Saturday morning throughout the entire year. Local farmers sell fresh cheese, crusty bread, and beautiful seasonal flowers to the local residents. You can experience the authentic Swiss atmosphere during these busy and very lively market hours. Grab a quick coffee before heading up the steep hills toward the ancient city center.

The Town Hall dates back to the 17th century and features stunning Renaissance architecture. It showcases beautiful stone carvings and a very distinctive clock tower that people love. Take a moment to admire the detailed carvings found on the massive wooden front doors. This building remains an active center for local government and civic life in Lausanne.

Lausanne Old Town Walking Routes via Escaliers du Marché

The Escaliers du Marché are famous covered wooden stairs that connect the city hills. They connect the lower market square to the historic Cathedral located high above the city. Climbing these steps is a highlight of all Lausanne Old Town walking routes. The stairs offer a sheltered path with plenty of character and history for every visitor.

Look out for the small boutiques located along the scenic staircase path during your climb. These tiny shops sell unique crafts and local Swiss souvenirs for you to take home. The wooden roof protects you from rain or sun while you climb up the hill. Take your time to enjoy the historic feel of this ancient and very narrow passage.

The climb requires a moderate level of physical fitness for most travelers visiting the city. You will find small wooden benches along the way for taking short and relaxing breaks. These stairs provide the most direct and scenic route to the historic Cité district. Always wear comfortable shoes to handle the uneven wooden steps and the steep incline.

Exploring the Cathedral and Cité District

The Lausanne Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a symbol of the city. It dominates the skyline with its impressive towers and beautiful stained glass window displays. Entry is free for all visitors during standard opening hours in the year 2026. Check the schedule for evening organ concerts or special musical events during your Swiss stay.

The Cité district surrounds the Cathedral with many narrow medieval alleys and old stone houses. You can find several historical landmarks in Lausanne Old Town within this area. The Old Bishop's Palace now houses a fascinating local history museum for curious international visitors. Wander through these streets to feel the medieval spirit of Lausanne during your afternoon walk.

Visit the terrace behind the Cathedral for incredible urban views of the surrounding Swiss landscape. You can see the blue lake and the French Alps in the far distance today. This spot is one of the top panoramic viewpoints in Lausanne for photography. The light is especially beautiful during the late afternoon hours for taking your travel photos.

Discovering Rue de Bourg and Saint-François

Rue de Bourg is the main shopping street found in the heart of the Old Town. It features luxury brands housed in beautifully preserved historic buildings along the wide pedestrian street. The street is pedestrian-only, making it very safe for walking with your family and friends. Window shopping here is a popular activity for both locals and tourists visiting the city.

• Shop for luxury Swiss watches and fashion on Rue de Bourg.
• Visit the historic Church of Saint-François for a moment of quiet peace.
• Taste handmade Swiss chocolate from the many local artisan shops in town.

Continue your walk down toward the Church of Saint-François located in the lower town area. This 13th-century church sits in a busy square of the same name and history. It is a peaceful oasis amidst the modern city bustle and the loud traffic noise. The square is a major hub for the local bus network and the metro system.

You will find many high-end chocolate shops in this specific area of the Old Town. Swiss chocolate makes for a perfect mid-walk energy boost during your long day of exploring. Try a few truffles from a local artisan shop for a truly delicious Swiss treat. This section of the route blends ancient history with modern luxury and fine Swiss dining.

Essential Tips for Navigating Lausanne's Streets

The city of Lausanne is famous for having very steep hills and incredibly hilly terrain. Learning how to navigate Lausanne steep streets will save your energy. Use the public elevators and the metro system to skip the hardest and steepest climbs. Many hotels provide a free transport card for all guests staying in the city overnight.

Wear sturdy walking shoes with good grip for the slippery cobblestones on the rainy days. The stones can become quite slippery during rainy days in the cold winter months here. Bring a reusable water bottle to use the city's many public fountains during your walk. The water in Lausanne is clean, cold, and safe to drink for every thirsty traveler.

Plan your route to go downhill whenever it is possible for a more relaxed experience. Start at the top of the hill and walk down toward the beautiful blue lake. This strategy makes exploring much more enjoyable for your legs during your long Swiss holiday. Most scenic walks in Lausanne 2026 follow this downward path.