5-Day Family-Friendly Classic Route to Lausanne
Lausanne is a vertical masterpiece of a city, but don't let the hills intimidate you. When traveling with children, this Swiss gem offers a seamless blend of high-efficiency public transport and breathtaking natural beauty. This itinerary follows our Family Travel Guides philosophy: we prioritize accessible routes, interactive stops, and plenty of open space for little ones to burn off energy without exhausting the parents.
As part of our Classic Routes series, you will experience the essential landmarks of Lausanne, from the Gothic spires of the Old Town to the shimmering waters of Lac Léman. Thanks to the Lausanne Transport Card (provided free by most accommodations), navigating these steep streets is effortless, even with a double stroller in tow.
Day 1: Lausanne, Switzerland - Lakeside Leisure in Ouchy
Promenade d'Ouchy
Begin your trip with a gentle, flat walk along the lakefront. This wide, paved promenade is perfect for strollers and offers stunning views of the French Alps across the water. Let the kids watch the large CGN steamboats dock at the port.
The Olympic Museum
A global icon and a must-see. The museum is incredibly interactive with plenty of tactile exhibits for children. The surrounding Olympic Park is filled with sculptures and a track where kids can race. The museum is fully accessible by elevators.
Parc Denantou
Located at the end of the Ouchy promenade, this park features a Thai Pavilion (a gift to the city) and plenty of grass for a family picnic. There are well-maintained playgrounds nearby where local families gather.
Dinner at Ouchy Port
Enjoy a relaxed dinner at one of the many cafes lining the port. Most restaurants here are accustomed to families and offer high chairs. The area remains lively but safe as the sun sets over the lake.
Day 2: Lausanne, Switzerland - Medieval Heights & Markets
Lausanne Cathedral (Notre-Dame)
Take the M2 metro up to the 'Délices' or 'Bessières' stop to avoid the uphill climb. This 13th-century cathedral is a marvel of Gothic architecture. The square outside offers one of the best panoramic views of the city's red-tiled roofs.
Place de la Palud
A short walk down the hill brings you to this historic square. Every hour, the animated mechanical clock tells the history of the canton. On Wednesdays and Saturdays, this area hosts a vibrant local market with fresh Swiss cheeses and pastries.
Palais de Rumine
This grand building houses several museums, including those dedicated to archaeology and zoology. The Zoology Museum is a hit with kids due to its collection of taxidermy animals, including a giant great white shark. The entrance hall is impressively spacious.
Flon District
Head to the Flon neighborhood, a former warehouse district turned into a pedestrian-only zone. It is modern, stroller-friendly, and filled with family-friendly dining options and a large cinema complex.
Day 3: Lausanne, Switzerland - Wildlife and Woodland Views
Sauvabelin Tower
Take the bus north to the Sauvabelin forest. This wooden tower offers a unique spiral climb to a viewing platform. While the tower itself isn't stroller-friendly (stairs), the surrounding park is beautifully accessible.
Lac de Sauvabelin & Animal Park
Right next to the tower is a small lake where you can rent rowboats. The adjacent animal park features local Swiss breeds of cows, goats, and pigs, making it a favorite for toddlers.
Hermitage Park
Walk or take a short bus ride to the Fondation de l'Hermitage grounds. Even if you don't visit the art museum, the park itself offers a peaceful escape with a majestic view of the cathedral and the lake beyond.
Place de la Riponne Dinner
Return to the city center for a casual evening. There are several child-friendly pizzerias and burger spots in this large open square that allow for quick service and relaxed atmospheres.
Day 4: Lausanne, Switzerland - Vineyards & Vintage Trains
Lutry Village
Take a short 10-minute train ride to Lutry. This charming medieval village marks the start of the UNESCO-listed Lavaux vineyards. The lakeside area has a great playground and a pebble beach.
Lutry-Lavaux Petit Train
A major hit for families! This 'tourist train' on wheels winds through the terraced vineyards, offering spectacular views without the need for a long hike. It’s the easiest way to see the vineyards with small children.
Lavaux Vineyard Walk
Disembark from the train and take a short, paved walk back toward a nearby station. Many paths are paved and suitable for strollers, allowing you to experience the world-famous scenery up close.
Brasserie de Montbenon
Back in Lausanne, dine at this historic brasserie located in a park. It has high ceilings, a grand terrace, and a large grassy area outside where children can play while parents finish their meal.
Day 5: Lausanne, Switzerland - Aquatic Wonders
AQUATIS Aquarium-Vivarium
Located right at the Vennes metro station, this is the largest freshwater aquarium in Europe. It is fully indoor and features immersive environments, from the Alps to the Amazon. It is extremely stroller-accessible and fascinating for all ages.
Plateforme 10
Visit the city’s newest 'Art District' right next to the train station. This large, open concrete plaza is perfect for kids to run around safely. It houses the Cantonal Museum of Fine Arts and the Photo Elysée in stunning modern buildings.
Shopping at Rue de Bourg
Take a slow stroll through Lausanne’s main shopping street. It is mostly pedestrianized. Stop by a Swiss chocolatier like Blondel for a local treat to celebrate the end of your journey.
Farewell Dinner at Pinte Besson
End your trip at the oldest tavern in Lausanne (dating back to 1780). While cozy, they are welcoming and serve traditional Swiss cheese fondue—a fun, interactive dining experience for older children.
Best Time & Weather
The best time to visit Lausanne is from late May to September. During these months, the parks are in full bloom, and the lakefront activities are at their peak. Temperatures are mild (20-25°C), making it comfortable for outdoor exploration with kids. Winters are beautiful but can be chilly and damp, though the city transforms with festive markets in December.
Currency & Money
Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF). While Lausanne is a modern city where credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, it is handy to carry a small amount of cash for smaller bakeries or market stalls. Tipping is not mandatory as a service charge is included in your bill, but rounding up the total is common and appreciated.
Getting Around
Lausanne has an incredible public transport system. The M2 is the world's steepest automated metro, which is an attraction in itself for kids. If you stay in a hotel, hostel, or campsite, you will receive the 'Lausanne Transport Card' for free, giving you unlimited travel on all buses and trains within the city limits. All metro stations and newer buses are fully stroller-accessible.
