A City of Levels and Legends: My Journey Through Lausanne
by Veronica Reyes, June 19, 2025
Lausanne—a somehow overseen, elegant yet urban, treasure on the shores of Lake Geneva. This beautiful city is a real hit for experienced travelers looking for off-the-beaten-path destinations with character, history, and soul.
A City Split in Levels
Historically, Lausanne was built on three hills, with deep valleys carved by rivers in between. That’s why the city still has a unique layout today, with bridges and staircases connecting different parts of town. I really loved the interesting (and slightly cardio-challenging!) layout of Lausanne. The city is built on a series of hills rising from the lake up toward the Old Town, which gives this city incredible views!
This natural topography has shaped the city into distinct levels, each with its own vibe—from the breezy lakeside Ouchy district to the lively shopping areas of Le Flon, and finally the medieval heart of the city at the very top.
Connecting the lower part of the city to the upper Old Town is the Escaliers du Marché, a covered wooden staircase that dates back to the 13th century. These stairs are not just practical, they’re a historic passageway, leading from the bustling Place de la Palud up to the majestic Lausanne Cathedral. Lined with charming antique buildings and cozy cafés, walking these steps feels like stepping back in time (with a bit of a leg workout!).
The Gothic Crown of Lausanne
Speaking of the Cathedral—Lausanne is home to what might be one of the most beautiful churches in Switzerland, and an interesting fact: it’s the largest in the country! Built in the 12th century, this masterpiece is considered one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in all of Switzerland.
Not being European, this type of architecture impresses me more and more. The soaring ceilings and the colorful stained glass windows that make the light coming through them is a real spectacle for the eyes. Even the bench engineering in this church is super interesting! The day we visited the cathedral, a local girl was practicing the organ, an instrument that completely blew us away. The sound filled the massive space in a way that immediately gave me chills.
One of my favorite little traditions in Lausanne and honestly, something that makes the city feel straight out of a storybook, is the night watchman. Yes, he still exists! Back in the days, his job was to keep watch over the city from the Cathedral, the highest point in town. Today, he continues this centuries-old ritual by calling out the hour from 10PM to 2AM, echoing through the quiet streets like a living piece of history.
The Olympic Capital
It’s no coincidence that Lausanne is home to the world-famous Olympic Museum, this lakeside gem plays a truly significant role in the world of sports. For over a century, Lausanne has been the headquarters of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The committee relocated here during the First World War, in search of a peaceful and neutral location. And what better place than Switzerland, the very symbol of neutrality?
In 1994, Lausanne was officially named the Olympic Capital, not only because it houses the IOC, but also thanks to its ongoing commitment to global sports. The city has hosted countless major events, from the World Gymnaestrada and the Youth Olympic Games to stages of the Tour de France and numerous world and European championships. It’s also home to a range of international sports federations, keeping the Olympic spirit alive all year round.
And of course, a major highlight is the Olympic Museum itself. But this isn’t just a place filled with memories—it’s an inspiring journey through the stories, values, and global impact of the Games. The museum captures the essence of the Olympic movement: excellence, respect, and friendship. Through stunning exhibits, interactive displays, and emotional storytelling, you will do more than learn about Olympic history—you will live it.
So, these are just a few of the things I discovered during my time in Lausanne—but there’s so much more to explore. Both in the city itself and throughout the surrounding region, the possibilities are endless. My colleague Christen shared her own discoveries in this blog post, showing just how much there is for every type of traveler.
After spending time in Lausanne, I realized how easy it is to fall in love with this side of Lake Geneva—the steep cobblestone streets, the cafés full of locals, the views that seem to follow you everywhere. And while many travelers head straight to Montreux (and for good reason), I’ve found that Lausanne offers a more authentic glimpse into everyday lake life.
If you’re exploring this region, the GoldenPass Tour is a beautiful way to experience it all. This scenic journey links lakes, vineyards, and mountain passes in one unforgettable route, ending in Montreux, just a short hop from Lausanne. So you can enjoy the elegance of the Riviera while still retreating to Lausanne’s more local, soulful atmosphere. It’s the perfect blend of iconic Switzerland and the quieter magic I discovered during my stay.
With its fascinating history, vibrant culture, and postcard-perfect setting on Lake Geneva, Lausanne keeps calling you back. It’s one of those places that leaves you curious, inspired, and already dreaming of your next visit—a true marvel in every sense!