Lausanne: Old Town Guided Walking Tour

Explore the history and charm of Lausanne’s Old Town on this guided walking tour. Discover the city’s medieval heritage, from the majestic Château Saint-Maire to the impressive Palais de Justice. Along the way, you’ll enjoy panoramic views and gain insights into the local culture. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a captivating experience, this tour promises an immersive journey through Lausanne’s past. Prepare to be enchanted as you uncover the secrets of this remarkable Swiss city.

Key Points

• The Old Town Guided Walking Tour in Lausanne offers a 1-hour immersive experience exploring the city’s rich heritage, including a medieval fortress and Palais de Justice.
• The tour is available in English, French, and German, with flexible starting times and a meeting point at the Château Saint-Maire.
• Participants can expect to enjoy panoramic views and stunning architecture, catering to history enthusiasts and those seeking local ambiance.
• The tour is not recommended for children under 5 or individuals with mobility impairments, and participants should wear comfortable walking shoes.
• The tour has a price of €93.91 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Old Town Guided Walking Tour in Lausanne offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s historic center. Priced at €93.91 per person, the 1-hour tour is available in English, French, and German.

Private group options are offered, and there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance. Participants can reserve and pay later.

Private group options available, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, reserve and pay later.

The tour starts at Château Saint-Maire and covers highlights like the medieval fortress, Palais de Justice, Old Town streets, and Montbenon Park.

Comfortable shoes, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Restrictions apply for children under 5, individuals with mobility issues, and those over 95 years old.

Itinerary and Highlights

Starting at the iconic Château Saint-Maire, the Old Town Guided Walking Tour takes visitors on a journey through Lausanne’s historic center.

Stroll past the grand Palais de Justice and explore the charming Old Town streets. Marvel at the iconic clock tower at lively Place de la Palud.

The tour culminates with panoramic views from the tranquil Montbenon Park.

Highlights include discovering the medieval Château Saint-Maire fortress and admiring the city’s stunning architecture.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking to soak in the local ambiance, this guided tour offers an immersive glimpse into Lausanne’s rich heritage.

Meeting Point and Directions

Visitors meet at the Statue of Mayor Davel in front of Château Saint-Maire, the starting point for the Old Town Guided Walking Tour.

From there, they’ll explore the historic city center’s highlights with their knowledgeable guide. Participants should check availability for the starting times, as the tour operates on a flexible schedule.

Visitors will explore the historic city center’s highlights with a knowledgeable guide, as the tour operates on a flexible schedule.

The meeting location provides easy access to the tour’s main stops, including the medieval fortress, the Palais de Justice, and the lively Place de la Palud.

With the guide’s expertise, visitors can look forward to an insightful and engaging journey through Lausanne’s charming Old Town.

What to Bring and Wear

Comfortable shoes, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended for participants on the Old Town Guided Walking Tour.

The tour covers several kilometers of walking, so proper footwear is essential. A camera will allow you to capture the stunning architecture and panoramic views along the way.

As the weather in Lausanne can be unpredictable, dressing in layers is advised. The tour takes place rain or shine, so pack accordingly.

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Camera

• Weather-appropriate clothing (layers)

• No smoking allowed during the tour

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Participant Restrictions

Although the Old Town Guided Walking Tour is suitable for most participants, there are a few restrictions to consider.

The tour isn’t recommended for children under 5 years old or individuals with mobility impairments, as it involves walking and exploring uneven terrain.

Plus, participants over 95 years old may find the pace and physical demands of the tour challenging.

The tour provider wants to ensure all guests have a safe and enjoyable experience.

If you have any concerns about your ability to participate, it’s best to consult with the tour staff before booking.

Otherwise, the tour is open to adults of most fitness levels.

Exploring Château Saint-Maire

The tour begins at the impressive Château Saint-Maire, a medieval fortress that dominates the skyline of Lausanne’s Old Town.

As you enter the castle grounds, you’ll discover:

• Intricate architectural details dating back to the 13th century

• Panoramic views overlooking the city and Lake Geneva

• Informative exhibits showcasing the castle’s rich history

• Guided explanations about the significance of this historic landmark

Exploring Château Saint-Maire sets the stage for an immersive journey through Lausanne’s past, blending medieval grandeur with modern vibrancy.

This iconic starting point lays the foundation for the walking tour’s captivating discoveries.

Admiring Palais De Justice Architecture

From Château Saint-Maire, the walking tour leads participants to the striking Palais de Justice, a testament to Lausanne’s impressive architectural heritage.

This 19th-century neo-Renaissance building houses the city’s courts and boasts an ornate façade adorned with intricate carvings, columns, and pediments.

Visitors can admire the building’s grandiose design and attention to detail, which reflects the significance of the judicial system in Swiss society.

The tour guide will provide insightful commentary on the Palais de Justice’s history and architectural significance, allowing participants to fully appreciate this iconic Lausanne landmark.

Strolling Through Old Town Streets

Leaving the grandeur of the Palais de Justice behind, the walking tour now guides participants through the charming streets of Lausanne’s Old Town.

Winding cobblestone paths lead through a quaint residential area, with centuries-old buildings adorned with flowered window boxes and wrought-iron balconies.

Visitors can:

• Admire the intricate architectural details

• Peek into local boutiques and artisan workshops

• Discover hidden courtyards and pedestrian-only alleys

• Soak in the lively yet relaxed atmosphere of this historic neighborhood

This intimate stroll allows guests to enjoy the authentic character of Lausanne’s vibrant Old Town.

Ask Away

Are Children Under 12 Allowed to Join the Tour?

No, children under 5 years old are not allowed to join the tour. The tour is also not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or people over 95 years old.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the Old Town Guided Walking Tour. The tour is designed for a small group experience, and the presence of pets could disrupt the flow and enjoyment of the tour for other participants.

Is the Tour Guide Licensed or Certified?

The tour guide is licensed and certified. They have expertise in leading Old Town walking tours and providing historical and cultural insights to participants throughout the experience.

Do You Offer Discounts for Senior Citizens?

Yes, the tour offers discounts for senior citizens aged 65 and above. Seniors receive a 10% discount on the standard tour price. The discount is automatically applied at the time of booking.

Is the Meeting Point Wheelchair Accessible?

The meeting point at the Statue of Mayor Davel isn’t wheelchair accessible. However, the tour provider offers a private group option that can accommodate guests with mobility impairments by adjusting the meeting location and route.

Final Words

The Old Town Guided Walking Tour in Lausanne offers a captivating journey through the city’s rich history. Explore key landmarks like the medieval Château Saint-Maire and the impressive Palais de Justice, while enjoying stunning views. With knowledgeable guides, this immersive experience is perfect for history enthusiasts and those seeking to enjoy Lausanne’s local ambiance. Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather to fully enjoy this enchanting adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: