Family outings in Lausanne
Lausanne rises up from the shore of Lake Geneva, between the harbour of Ouchy below and the cathedral above, with the metro linking the two. Kids will find quays, gardens, the Olympic Museum and, a few minutes from the centre, an animal park and a forest. Spring and summer suit lakeside strolls; autumn brings lovely colours on the hillsides. Wear good shoes: the city goes up and down, which tires little legs and strollers alike. The M2 metro links the lake and the centre very quickly, and a short ride gets you from the shore to the old town. The Alps across the water make every walk feel special.
Must-do activities
Olympic Museum and park
A museum devoted to the Olympic Games, with interactive areas, and a sculpture park facing the lake to burn off energy. A good plan for sporty kids.
Ouchy quays
A lakeside promenade with play areas, ice cream and views of the Alps. A free, easy outing at any hour.
Sauvabelin Park
A lake, a forest, a wooden tower and an animal park a few minutes from the centre: a nature escape easy to reach by bus.
Plateforme 10
A cultural district beside the station with several museums, including workshops for kids. Check ahead before you visit.
Lake Geneva boats
CGN boats leave from Ouchy to explore the lake and the Lavaux vineyards. For families who love the water.
Cathedral and old town
A climb up cobbled lanes to the Gothic cathedral, with a lovely view over the city. A route for older kids.
Free parks and playgrounds near Lausanne
- 🌳 Promenade Mary-Widmer-Curtat
- 📚 Bibliothèque Sonore Romande
- 🛝 Promenade de Messidor
- 💦 Piscine du Vieux-Moulin
- 🌲 Biotope
- 🏖️ Plage Haldimand - Rives du Lac
- 🌳 Esplanade de Montbenon
- 📚 Ejmathèque
- 🛝 Square d'Echallens
- 💦 Piscine de Bellevaux
- 🌲 Réserve Forestière des Vieux-Chênes
- 🏖️ Plage de Shiraz
Making the most of Lausanne as a family
Whether you live in Lausanne or are just visiting for the weekend, there is no shortage of family outings: parks, playgrounds, libraries, museums and seasonal events are often free or low cost. FamiSwipe gathers these ideas in one place so you can stop searching.
To choose well, think about your children's ages, the weather and the travel time. A park with a splash pad suits hot days, while a library or community centre saves rainy or freezing ones. Pack a snack, water and a change of clothes.
Tip: swipe through the suggestions in the app, keep your favourites and share the shortlist with the other parent. Free activities are perfect for trying something new without pressure, and short trips close to home spare everyone a long car ride.
Bookable activities in Lausanne
Tours, attractions and tickets in and around Lausanne, often with free cancellation.
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Family outings not to miss
→ Discover activities in Lausanne on FamiSwipe
FAQ
What can kids do in Lausanne when it rains?
The Olympic Museum, Plateforme 10 and public libraries are good shelters. The metro links the centre and the lakeside quickly.
What are the free family activities in Lausanne?
The Ouchy quays, Sauvabelin Park, the city gardens and lakeside walks cost nothing. FamiSwipe shows parks and playgrounds around you with the real distance.
Is Lausanne easy with a stroller?
The lakeshore is flat, but the upper town is steep. The metro and buses help you avoid the climbs.
Can you swim in the lake in Lausanne?
Yes, several beaches and lakeside pools welcome swimmers in summer, notably near Vidy. Follow local guidance and supervise children.