Lausanne is a city that offers more than just scenic views along Lake Geneva. Its location makes it an ideal base for exploring vineyards, mountains, historic sites, and world-class museums. Among the standout experiences, the Vine Stories: Lavaux & Lutry wine walk offers a charming glimpse into Swiss viticulture with tasting sessions in UNESCO-listed terraces. The Olympic Museum provides a deep dive into sports history, perfect for curious minds and sports fans alike. For those craving mountain adventures, guided trips to Glacier 3000 or Zermatt’s Matterhorn deliver breathtaking alpine scenery and memorable outdoor activities. Whether you’re after wine, culture, or mountain peaks, Lausanne’s diverse tours promise something for every traveler.
Quick Overview
This list covers a wide array of tours, from immersive wine walks in Lavaux (Vine Stories) to fascinating museum visits (Olympic Museum), scenic lake cruises (Riviera and Lavaux Cruise), thrilling mountain excursions (Glacier 3000), and cultural walking tours (Lausanne City Tour). Below, you’ll find detailed insights into each, helping you pick the right experience based on your interests and time.
1. Vine Stories: Lavaux & Lutry wine walk
Walking through Lavaux’s vineyards is an essential Swiss experience, and this tour showcases the stunning UNESCO World Heritage site. Over approximately 3.5 hours, you’ll traverse the terraced vineyards, hearing stories about their 600-year history. The tour includes wine tastings from local winemakers and snacks, making it a delicious way to learn about wine-making. Your guide, Marc, shares engaging tales, making the experience personal and memorable. The easy walk is suitable for most fitness levels, and the views of Lake Geneva and the vineyard terraces are breathtaking, especially at sunset. Reviewers praise Marc’s knowledge and storytelling, describing it as an “unparalleled experience” with “incredible views and delicious wine.” For wine lovers or those wanting a gentle outdoor activity intertwined with Swiss culture, this tour hits the mark.
Bottom Line: A perfect blend of scenic beauty, local wine, and engaging storytelling—ideal for an afternoon escape from city life.
2. The Olympic Museum Entrance Ticket in Lausanne
The Olympic Museum is a must-visit for sports fans or those interested in the spirit of Olympism. This self-guided experience covers three floors of exhibits, from legendary athletes to Olympic history, with interactive displays and sculptures in the park. The museum’s location offers stunning lake views, and the panoramic restaurant provides a great place to unwind afterward. Visitors highlight its engaging, multimedia presentations and the opportunity to learn about Olympians’ inspiring stories. Accessible and family-friendly, the museum offers a comprehensive look at the Olympic movement beyond medals and competitions. At just $24.89, it’s a good value for a couple of hours of immersive learning.
Bottom Line: An educational, engaging, and visually appealing museum experience that sparks inspiration for all ages.
3. Lausanne: The Olympic Museum Entry Ticket
For a more flexible visit, the Olympic Museum (see more) offers access to permanent exhibitions, the Olympic Park, and the restaurant. The audio guides in nine languages make it accessible for international visitors. Reviewers appreciate the well-laid-out displays and the garden’s sculptures, noting that it’s suitable for a leisurely stroll or a focused exploration. This ticket is ideal if you want to spend more than an hour delving into Olympic stories or simply enjoy the museum at your own pace—perfect for families, sports enthusiasts, or anyone curious about the ideals behind the Games.
Bottom Line: A versatile option to explore Olympic history in a beautiful setting, with options for self-paced discovery.
4. From Lausanne: Montreux, Chaplin, and Chillon Castle Tour
This full-day tour takes you from Lausanne to the Swiss Riviera, combining visits to Chaplin’s World, the Chillon Castle, and the lakeside towns of Montreux and Vevey. The tour includes a stop at Chaplin’s World, where you walk through the legendary actor’s home and learn about his life and career. You’ll also stroll the UNESCO-listed Lavaux vineyards and explore the medieval Chillon Castle, with its towers and dungeons. The scenic drive along Lake Geneva offers panoramic views, and guests praise the guide for making the history come alive. It’s a good option for those who want a taste of culture, history, and stunning scenery—all in one day.
Bottom Line: An engaging, diverse tour that combines film history, medieval castles, and vineyard vistas—great for culture and scenery lovers.
5. Lausanne: 3-Hour Riviera and Lavaux Region Cruise
Experience Lake Geneva from the water on this scenic cruise, ideal for those wanting a relaxing afternoon. The historic paddle steamer glides past vineyards, Chillon Castle, and lakeside towns, with the option to upgrade to First Class seats for better comfort. The cruise offers fantastic views of Montreux and Vevey, and passengers rave about the excellent scenery even in light rain. It’s a great way to see the landscape from a different perspective, especially if you’re short on time but want a high-quality, scenic experience. The price is reasonable considering the views and the comfort of the vessel.
Bottom Line: A peaceful way to enjoy Lake Geneva’s beauty, ideal for a laid-back afternoon with spectacular vistas.
6. From Lausanne: Glacier 3000 Experience Tour
This day trip takes you to Glacier 3000, where you can enjoy panoramic views from the peak walk and explore the glacier itself. The tour also includes a stop at Village des Diablerets and a visit to Montreux. The guided experience features stunning vistas of the Leman Lake and the Alps, with options to walk on the glacier and touch the snow. Tour guides like David and Babosa are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the day both informative and fun. The tour is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone eager to see the Swiss mountain scenery up close.
Bottom Line: A scenic, action-packed day in the mountains with opportunities for photo ops and glacier exploration.
7. From Lausanne: Gruyères Tour with Train, Chocolate & Cheese
This full-day adventure combines Swiss culinary delights with scenic train rides and medieval charm. You visit Cailler chocolate factory and La Maison du Gruyère cheese dairy, tasting some of the best chocolate and cheese in the world. The Golden Express train carries you through picturesque landscapes, culminating in the medieval village of Gruyères with its castle and cobblestone streets. Tourists love the authentic experience, especially the fondue tasting. The tour is a delicious and scenic way to experience Swiss culture, especially suitable for food lovers and history buffs.
Bottom Line: Indulge in Swiss flavors and history on this well-rounded day trip, perfect for foodies and those wanting a taste of alpine life.
8. From Lausanne: Glacier 3000 experience and Montreux
This extended trip combines a visit to Glacier 3000 with a tour of Montreux, offering incredible mountain panoramas and lakeside charm. The experience includes views from the glacier, with options for outdoor activities in winter or sightseeing in summer. Reviewers highlight the stunning scenery and the ability to combine mountain and lake experiences seamlessly. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a mix of outdoor adventure and cultural exploration in a single day.
Bottom Line: A versatile option for mountain lovers who also want to enjoy lakeside towns with minimal fuss.
9. Lausanne: Day Tour to Zermatt, Matterhorn & Glacier Paradise
This full-day tour takes you to Zermatt, one of Switzerland’s most iconic villages. The highlight is the Matterhorn, with options to ride the Glacier Paradise cable car for sweeping Alpine views. Arriving in Taesch, you’ll explore the car-free village and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Swiss, French, and Italian Alps. Guests praise the guide’s knowledge and the gondola ride’s spectacular views, making this a favorite for mountain photography and alpine adventure. This tour is best for active travelers who want a full day of mountain majesty.
Bottom Line: An unforgettable mountain experience with stunning vistas and charming village life.
10. Lausanne: Cultural and Historical Guided Walking Tour
Explore Lausanne’s historic heart with a guided walking tour highlighting landmarks like the Cathedral, Place de la Riponne, and Tour de l’Ale. The personal guide, Liliane or Ilona, shares stories and secrets that bring the city’s past to life. Reviewers love the engaging storytelling and the opportunity to see lesser-known corners of Lausanne. The 3-hour tour suits travelers interested in culture, architecture, and local tales, offering a compact yet rundown of the city.
Bottom Line: A highly recommended option for newcomers wanting a personal introduction to Lausanne’s rich past.
11. Lausanne (City Center) Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour
For a fun, interactive twist, this self-guided scavenger hunt covers Lausanne’s highlights through riddles and clues. It’s perfect for independent explorers or families, offering the chance to explore at your own pace while solving puzzles on your smartphone. Reviewers say it’s a “great way to see the city with flexibility” and that it made their visit both educational and entertaining. The tour costs just $8.88 per person, making it a budget-friendly option that adds a playful element to sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Ideal for tech-savvy travelers and families looking for a lively, self-paced activity.
12. Glacier 3000: High Level Experience Private Tour
Looking for a personalized experience? This private Glacier 3000 tour offers a custom itinerary, with guides like Normund tailoring the day to your interests. The journey includes breathtaking Alpine views, glacier walks, and free time in Montreux. Past travelers praise the guide’s storytelling and the flexibility of the schedule, making this the ultimate luxury mountain day. The cost reflects the exclusivity, but the tailored experience and private transport make it worthwhile.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a bespoke, high-end Swiss mountain adventure.
13. From Lausanne: Interlaken and Jungfrau Train Experience
This all-day train trip takes you from Lausanne to Interlaken, then up to Jungfraujoch, the “Top of Europe”. It features visits to the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks, and includes stops at the Ice Palace and Sphinx Observatory. Reviewers highlight the magnificent scenery and the efficient logistics, making it an excellent choice for mountain photography and alpine sightseeing. Expect a full 11-hour day, suited for active travelers eager to explore Switzerland’s iconic peaks.
Bottom Line: A memorable, scenic journey into the heart of the Swiss Alps for mountain lovers.
14. Free-Day in Interlaken Village from Lausanne
If you prefer a laid-back day, this free-day trip to Interlaken offers time to explore Höheweg Street, the Aare River, and the lakes. You can wander at your own pace, soaking in the mountain views and charming streets. Reviewers describe the location as “really good,” making it a flexible option for spontaneous plans or leisurely sightseeing.
Bottom Line: A simple, flexible day to relax and soak up the Swiss mountain ambiance at your own pace.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Picking the best experience in Lausanne depends on your interests, budget, and schedule. If you love wine, the Lavaux wine walk (Vine Stories) offers a delightful mix of scenery and tastings. For culture and history enthusiasts, the Olympic Museum (see more) or the guided walking tour (see more) provide immersive experiences. Mountain fans should consider the Glacier 3000 day trip (see more) or the Jungfrau train (see more). Budget travelers might opt for the self-guided scavenger hunt (see more), which is fun and affordable.
When booking, consider the season—many mountain tours are best in summer or winter—and book early for popular options like Glacier 3000 or Zermatt. Also, check availability and local weather forecasts, especially for outdoor activities.
Lausanne offers a wide variety of tours and experiences that cater to nearly every interest. Whether you’re savoring local wines, exploring lakeside castles, or gazing at mountain peaks, you’ll find something memorable. For those craving a mix, options like the Montreux and Chillon Castle tour or the lake cruise provide a perfect blend of scenery and culture. To make the most of your trip, consider your personal interests and time constraints, and remember—early booking often ensures better choices and availability. Enjoy your Swiss adventure!