Layers of Lausanne: A Self-Guided Tour
Once the site of a Roman military fort called Lausanna and now part of Switzerland for over two centuries, Lausanne is often called the world’s best small city. On this self-guided walking tour, you’ll explore the history and culture of this dynamic Swiss city nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva.
The tour starts at the Neo-Renaissance Palais de Rumine, where I’ll tell you about its fascinating origins as a gift to the city and its historical significance as the site where the Treaty of Lausanne was signed in 1923. You’ll go on to climb the 70 stairs to Lausanne Cathedral with its magnificent Gothic architecture and impressive 13th-century rose window containing 105 medallions depicting the medieval worldview.
You'll make your way to the Palace of Justice, and discover why the Swiss Federal Supreme Court is located in Lausanne rather than the capital, Bern. The tour ends at the Esplanade de Montbenon with its spectacular lake views.
Options
Layers of Lausanne: A Self-Guided Tour
What's included in Layers of Lausanne: A Self-Guided Tour
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Palais de RuminePass-by Only
You’ll catch a glimpse of the Palais de Rumine, a striking late 19th-century building that houses several museums and a grand reading room. Please note that entry to the Palais and its exhibitions is not included in this tour.
Townhall of LausannePass-by Only
You’ll pass by the Townhall of Lausanne, an elegant historic building that serves as the seat of the city’s government. Please note that entry to the Townhall is not included in this tour.
Esplanade de MontbenonPass-by Only
You’ll visit the Esplanade de Montbenon, a scenic park offering panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the Alps. Any costs related to visiting the area are not covered in this tour.
Inclusions
- Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
- Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
- App for Android and iOS
- Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
- Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
- Smartphone and headphones
- Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route
- Food and drink
- Transportation
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting Points
- This tour starts at Pl. de la Riponne 6. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.
End Points
- The tour ends at the Esplanade de Montbenon
Redeem
Ticket Redemption
VOICEMAP CODE ─── Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour. This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code. DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS ─── Once you've received your code, please follow these steps: Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app Create an account Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes Enter your code then select Download Now PLEASE NOTE ─── You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point. This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next. When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point. Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour. SUPPORT ─── For technical support and other queries, please email [email protected]
