10 Most Instagrammable Viewpoints in Lausanne 2026
Lausanne offers stunning scenery across the blue waters of Lake Geneva and the snowy Swiss Alps. The city sits on steep hills that create many amazing photo spots for all global visitors. Travelers seeking the most instagrammable viewpoints in Lausanne 2026 will find many beautiful and unique options. This comprehensive guide highlights the best locations for your social media feed and travel memories.
Iconic Views from Lausanne Cathedral
The Cathedral of Notre Dame stands high above the historic old town streets in central Lausanne. You can capture the red rooftops against the deep blue lake waters during the bright morning. The gothic architecture provides a dramatic frame for every photo you take at this site.
Climb the ancient bell tower for a small fee of five Swiss Francs per person today. The golden hour provides the best sunset views from Lausanne Cathedral during your next visit. You will see the entire city stretching out toward the mountains in the far distance.
- Tower Cost: 5 CHF per adult
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM
- Best Time: Late afternoon for soft light
The cathedral is open from nine in the morning until five thirty in the late afternoon. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the grand gothic architecture and the vast landscape beyond it. This location remains a favorite for photographers visiting Switzerland during the year 2026.
Best Instagrammable Viewpoints in Lausanne 2026
Sauvabelin Tower is a unique wooden structure located in a lush forest near the city center. It stands thirty-five meters tall and offers a full three hundred and sixty degree panoramic view. The spiral staircase inside creates a very cool geometric pattern for your artistic interior shots.
This location is one of the most instagrammable viewpoints in Lausanne 2026 for nature lovers everywhere. You must climb one hundred and fifty-one steps to reach the top wooden observation deck safely. The view from the summit includes the Jura mountains and the sparkling Lake Geneva waters.
The entry is completely free and the park stays open daily from dawn until late dusk. Read our guide on how to reach Sauvabelin Tower view to plan your trip this year. It is the perfect spot for a quiet morning shoot away from the busy crowds.
Nature Shots at Crêt de Montriond
Crêt de Montriond is a peaceful park located very close to the main Lausanne train station. It features a large semicircular terrace overlooking the calm lake and the distant French mountain peaks. This hidden gem offers a quiet place to capture the natural beauty of the region.
Local people love this spot for evening picnics and quiet sunset photography sessions with their friends. The botanical gardens nearby offer extra floral shots for your social media grid during the spring. You can find unique plant species and colorful blooms that make every photo stand out.
You can explore the Crêt de Montriond walking path guide to find the summit and the terrace. The park is open twenty-four hours a day and there is no cost for any visitor. It is an ideal location for those who enjoy combining hiking with professional travel photography.
Waterfront Magic at Ouchy Promenade
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The Ouchy district sits right on the scenic shores of Lake Geneva in the southern city area. Walk along the flowery paths to see the famous Olympic Museum and its beautiful outdoor statues. The lakeside vibe is perfect for bright and airy photos that showcase the Swiss lifestyle.
The view of the French Alps across the water is truly breathtaking during the clear summer months. Early morning light creates a calm and glassy look on the lake for perfect landscape photos. You can often see white swans swimming near the shore which adds a magical touch.
- The Olympic Rings statue
- Haldimand Tower ruins
- The Thai Pavilion garden
Try the Ouchy lakeside promenade walks Lausanne to find the best angles for your camera. The promenade is free to visit and offers many benches for resting while you enjoy the view. It is the most popular spot for a relaxing Sunday stroll with a camera.
Urban Style at Esplanade de Montbenon
Esplanade de Montbenon offers a wide grassy area with grand historic buildings and very tall trees. The Palais de Justice provides a majestic backdrop for your photos in this very elegant city park. It is a great place to capture the mix of history and modern Swiss life.
You will see the lake framed by classic architecture and vibrant green spaces during your walk. This spot is perfect for capturing the sophisticated and urban side of Lausanne for your followers. The wide open spaces allow for great depth in your portrait and landscape shots.
Visit during the spring season to see the colorful flower beds in full bloom across the park. The terrace is located near the Flon district and stays open all day for public access. It remains one of the best spots for a quick photo session in the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
🌟 Local Expert Tip: Get the most out of your Lausanne visit with guided tours!
Where are the free panoramic viewpoints in Lausanne?
You can find free views at Sauvabelin Tower, Crêt de Montriond, and the Esplanade de Montbenon park. These spots offer amazing vistas of the lake and mountains without any entry fees for visitors. Most public parks in Lausanne are open all day for everyone to enjoy the scenery.
What is the best time for photography in Lausanne?
The golden hour before sunset offers the best lighting for your photos in the city of Lausanne. Morning light is also great for capturing the lake when the water is very still and clear. Spring and fall provide the most colorful natural backgrounds for your social media travel posts.
Is Lausanne Cathedral free to enter?
Entry to the main part of Lausanne Cathedral is free for all visitors during regular opening hours. However, you must pay a small fee of five Swiss Francs to climb the bell tower stairs. The tower offers some of the highest and best views over the entire old town.
Lausanne is a city full of beauty and many stunning vistas for every type of modern traveler. Be sure to visit the most instagrammable viewpoints in Lausanne 2026 during your next Swiss holiday. Pack your camera and start exploring these amazing locations to capture the magic of the lake. Check our local guides for more tips on making the most of your time in Switzerland.
