Step into Lausanne’s rich history in its captivating Old Town, where centuries-old charm blends seamlessly with vibrant modern life. Explore the 13th-century Saint-Maire Castle - an official Swiss Heritage Site, the stunning Florentine Renaissance Rumine Palace – where the Treaty of Lausanne, which shaped the modern borders of Turkey and Greece, was signed – and the 11th-century Gothic masterpiece, Lausanne Cathedral. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Riponne Square, home to colorful traditional markets, the picturesque Escaliers du Marché Staircase, and the bustling Bourg Street, Lausanne’s largest shopping avenue. Finally, unwind at Montbenon Esplanade Park, savoring delicious refreshments while enjoying breathtaking views over Lake Geneva.
Start at Saint-Maire Castle, an official Swiss Heritage Site and the Seat of the Council of State of Vaud. The 13th-century structure perched on an ideal vantage point looking over the city’s valley will give you a glimpse into Lausanne’s marvellous military engineering and turbulent medieval history.
Just a stone’s throw away, encounter another stunning building of historical importance: Rumine Palace. The Florentine Renaissance gem dominating the western edge of Lausanne's Old Town witnessed the history-making Treaty of Lausanne. It’s a good idea to come back to the library inside sometime for the largest collection by the Vaud artists!
Right in front of the solemn palace lies the vibrant Riponne Square. Hosting colorful farmers’ markets and enthralling flea markets, the city’s social hub is where you can rub shoulders with locals and watch the busy daily life unfolding. Fun fact: you can still see and hear the river that the square actually covers through a special window on its underground carpark!
You will make your own way to the meeting points