Top Day Trips from Lausanne, Switzerland
One of the best things about the Swiss city of Lausanne is its brilliant location. Nestled in the heart of Europe on the shore of beautiful Lake Geneva, and just a short distance from both the Alps and the Jura, it serves as the ideal base for numerous day trips. Whether you’re looking for cultural experiences, outdoor activities, or peaceful retreats, Lausanne offers a wealth of options.
Exploring Chaplin’s house, witnessing traditional cheesemaking, hiking up a mountain, sailing to France, or spending a day relaxing in thermal waters—these are just a few of the incredible excursions within 90 minutes of Lausanne.
1. See Lake Geneva from on high at Rochers-de-Naye
Travel time: 1 hour 17 minutes
Among the many mountain excursions easily accessible from Lausanne, the 2042m (6700ft) Rochers-de-Naye is a must-visit. From the summit train station, it’s a short walk to the highest point, where you can witness breathtaking views of Lac Léman (Lake Geneva) stretching below. The area features a restaurant, chirping marmots, and an alpine flower garden. If you prefer a more adventurous outing, get off the train two stops before the summit at Jaman and hike along marked trails. The path to the neighboring peak Dent de Jaman offers impressive panoramas, while Rochers-de-Naye’s challenging via ferrata rewards experienced climbers with stunning cliff-edge experiences.
Getting there: Located about 40km (24 miles) from Lausanne, Rochers-de-Naye is best reached by train. Transfer at Montreux for the Golden Pass cogwheel railway that ascends to the summit station. Alternatively, parking is available at Col de Jaman if you are driving.
2. Follow in Charlie Chaplin’s footsteps in Vevey
Travel time: 30 minutes
British silent film star Charlie Chaplin spent the last 25 years of his life at Manoir de Ban, an expansive home overlooking the charming town of Vevey. This site now hosts Chaplin’s World, an engaging museum dedicated to his life and work. Visitors can explore restored rooms featuring lifelike wax figures of Chaplin and his famous guests, alongside clips from his most celebrated films. After your visit, pay respects at Chaplin’s grave in the cemetery of Corsier-sur-Vevey and stroll along Vevey’s lakeshore, which is lined with cozy bars and restaurants.
Getting there: Vevey is just 18km (11 miles) away from Lausanne, accessible via a quick 15-minute train ride or a scenic one-hour boat journey. Bus 212 provides transport from Vevey train station to the ‘Chaplin’ stop in Corsier-sur-Vevey.
3. Taste the culinary specialties of Gruyères
Travel time: 50 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes
Gruyères is officially one of the prettiest villages in Switzerland, renowned for its exquisite cheese, Le Gruyère AOP. Visitors can observe cheese production at the Maison du Gruyère cheese factory or explore traditional production methods at nearby Moléson. Many local restaurants serve fondue, with the moitiés-moités mix of Gruyère and Vacherin Fribourgeois being a favorite. Meringues with Gruyère cream offer a sweet treat to accompany your meal.
For a post-lunch activity, wander through the medieval Château de Gruyères and visit the HR Giger Museum, where the unique décor reflects the vision of the Oscar-winning Swiss designer known for his work on the film Alien.
Getting there: Gruyères is roughly 57km (35 miles) from Lausanne, with access most efficiently achieved by car. Alternatively, take the train with a transfer at Palézieux, though a bus (260) from the station can also ease the journey into the village.
4. Relax in the mountain village of Villars-sur-Ollon
Travel time: 1 hour to 1 hour 20 minutes
Located in the Vaud Alps, Villars-sur-Ollon attracts visitors throughout the year. In winter, it is favored for its family-friendly ski runs and meandering snowshoe trails, while summer brings peaceful hiking opportunities. A straightforward route is from Col-de-Bretaye train station to Lac des Chavonnes, where looping trails allure hikers back to the lakeside for a well-deserved meal at the local hotel restaurant.
Getting there: Villars is 59km (37 miles) away from Lausanne, easily reachable by car or by train to Aigle followed by a connecting bus. The mountain railway from Villars train station to Col-de-Bretaye takes about 20 minutes, granting access to hiking and skiing trails.
5. Sail to France for lunch in Yvoire
Travel time: 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes
Lausanne’s location by Lake Geneva allows for effortless excursions across the border to France. Yvoire, a picturesque medieval village, showcases cobbled streets and vibrant flowers. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, savoring dishes like filets de perches, before unwinding at the small beach with crystal-clear waters that invite a refreshing dip.
Getting there: In the summer, ferries run from Lausanne-Ouchy to Yvoire in about 1 hour 30 minutes. Alternatively, a train to Nyon followed by a year-round ferry to Yvoire (20 minutes) offers another route.
6. Hang out in a spa with a view at Les Bains de Lavey
Travel time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Switzerland is known for its delightful spas, and Les Bains de Lavey is among those that offer an enjoyable experience without exclusivity. Situated in the Rhône valley near St. Maurice, this extensive complex comes with multiple indoor and outdoor thermal pools, whirlpools, and relaxation areas. Enjoy the breathtaking mountain views while soaking in the warm waters during dusk for a magical evening.
Getting there: Les Bains de Lavey is located in Lavey-les-Bains, approximately 58km (36 miles) from Lausanne. Take a train to St. Maurice followed by bus 192 to reach the spa.
