Lausanne is one of Switzerland’s most walkable cities, with its compact Old Town, lakeside charm, and scenic vineyards just a stroll away. What makes Lausanne a standout walking destination is its mix of cultural landmarks, breathtaking views, and authentic local experiences. Whether you’re a lover of wine, a history enthusiast, or simply want to capture Instagram-worthy shots, Lausanne offers a variety of guided walks that let you see the city at a relaxed pace. We particularly like the Vine Stories: Lavaux & Lutry wine walk, which combines spectacular vineyard terraces with engaging storytelling about local winemaking traditions. If you’re a foodie, the Gourmet Food and Wine Tasting Walk in Lavaux offers a delightful mix of culinary treats and wine pairing—perfect for a leisurely afternoon. With so many options, Lausanne caters to all interests and activity levels, making it a top choice for memorable city explorations.
Quick Overview
Our list of the best walking tours in Lausanne covers wine tastings in UNESCO vineyards, cultural and historical city walks, private guided tours, and even Instagram-worthy strolls. Each experience offers something different—some focus on gastronomy and local stories, like the Gourmet Food and Wine Tasting Walk, while others highlight historic landmarks such as the Old Town Guided Walking Tour. For more personalized options, there are private tours, including the Private Historic Walking Tour, which can be tailored to your interests. To keep things fun and casual, the Insta-Perfect Walk with a Local is ideal for capturing the city’s best photo spots in a short timeframe.
1. Vine Stories: Lavaux & Lutry wine walk
At number 1, the Vine Stories: Lavaux & Lutry wine walk takes you through the iconic vineyard terraces of Lavaux, a UNESCO World Heritage site that stretches along Lake Geneva. This roughly 3.5-hour walk invites you to stroll through terraced vineyards that have been cultivated for over 600 years. The tour includes stops at Grandvaux and other villages where you’ll hear tales of winemaking and local legends, making it more than just a stroll. The highlight is tasting wines directly from local winemakers, with expert guidance on wine appreciation. The guide’s stories about the history of the vineyards add depth, turning a simple walk into a rich sensory experience.
Guests praise the guide, Marc, for his knowledge and engaging storytelling, and the views over Lake Geneva are stunning, especially at sunset. The tour is considered excellent value for the price, especially given the wine tastings and snacks included. It’s perfect for those who love wine, scenic landscapes, and authentic local culture. The only drawback might be the moderate physical effort required to navigate the terraces, but overall, it’s an unforgettable way to spend an afternoon.
Bottom Line: An ideal pick for wine lovers and those eager to experience Lavaux’s UNESCO vineyards with expert storytelling.
2. Gourmet Food and Wine Tasting Walk in Lavaux
Second on our list, the Gourmet Food and Wine Tasting Walk in Lavaux is designed for those who want a full sensory experience. Over nearly five hours, you’ll explore the vines, villages, and culinary delights of Lavaux. The tour starts in Epesses, where you’ll enjoy intimate visits with star winemakers and indulge in a sumptuous two-course lunch overlooking the vineyards. The focus on pairing wines with local dishes makes this tour stand out, especially if you’re keen to understand how Swiss wines complement regional cuisine.
Throughout the walk, you’ll stop in Lutry, a charming medieval village, and explore the terraced vineyards starting from Cully. The tour’s emphasis on storytelling and tasting makes it a favorite among foodies. Guests appreciate the personalized attention from guides like Marc, who are passionate about the region’s history and wine. The inclusion of a lunch with panoramic views adds great value, though the price might be high for budget travelers.
Bottom Line: This tour appeals most to culinary enthusiasts and those wanting an immersive experience combining wine, history, and Swiss gastronomy.
3. Lausanne: Cultural and Historical Guided Walking Tour
Number 3 brings us into the heart of Lausanne’s city center with the Cultural and Historical Guided Walking Tour. Lasting about 3 hours, this tour covers major landmarks like the Lausanne Cathedral, Place de la Riponne, and the Tour de l’Ale, giving a solid overview of the city’s architectural highlights and stories. Your guide shares insights about Lausanne’s medieval past, including tales behind the city’s most historic sites.
Reviews mention that Liliane, the guide, “showed us all the secrets of Lausanne,” making it a very personalized experience. This tour is especially suited for those who want a compact, informative overview without too much walking or commitment. The focus on city landmarks makes it accessible and engaging, especially for first-timers or those with limited time.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for a concise, well-rounded introduction to Lausanne’s culture and history.
4. Lausanne – Private Historic Walking Tour
For those seeking a more personalized experience, the Private Historic Walking Tour offers a flexible 2-hour exploration. The guide customizes the route based on your interests, taking you from Saint-Maire Castle to Rumine Palace and beyond. This private tour is ideal if you want to focus on specific sights or learn about Lausanne’s lesser-known stories.
Guests mention the tour’s intimate setting and tailored approach, which is perfect for small groups or couples. It’s a bit pricier per group but offers a more in-depth experience compared to larger group walks. The guide’s focus on local insights helps you discover hidden corners of the city.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a flexible, personalized tour that fits their specific interests.
$556.34 per group (up to 15)
5. Lausanne: Insta-Perfect Walk with a Local
Number 5, the Insta-Perfect Walk with a Local, is all about photo opportunities. In just 1.5 hours, your local guide takes you to Lausanne’s most camera-ready spots, from scenic overlooks to colorful alleyways. It’s perfect if you want to capture the city’s beauty for social media or just love taking pictures.
The small group size (up to 8 people) ensures plenty of time for personalized tips on the best angles and local hotspots, plus cultural insights into Lausanne’s everyday life. Reviewers praise Ana for her enthusiasm and knowledge, making it a fun, quick way to get a visual feel for the city.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a casual, photo-focused experience with a friendly local.
6. Lausanne Private Guided Walking Tour
Next, the Private Guided Walking Tour offers a customizable private experience of about 2 hours. You’ll visit main sights like the Cathedral and Sauvabelin Tower, with your guide tailoring the route to your specific interests. This option is perfect for small groups or couples who want more control over what they see and learn.
Guests appreciate the flexibility and personalized attention, especially if they have particular landmarks or stories they want to explore. The tour emphasizes hidden gems alongside classic sights, making it a well-rounded introduction to Lausanne.
Bottom Line: Good choice for those wanting a private, flexible tour that adapts to their curiosity.
7. Lausanne: Express Walk with a Local in 60 minutes
The Express Walk with a Local is perfect if you’re short on time. In just an hour, your guide shows you the city’s key highlights, from Lausanne Cathedral to Ouchy’s lakeside views. It’s a quick but rundown, ideal for travelers with tight schedules.
Reviews note that Thomas, the guide, makes the most of the limited time, offering insider tips and local anecdotes. While it’s a brisk walk, the tour covers enough ground to give a solid sense of Lausanne’s vibe without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: Best for busy travelers wanting a rapid introduction to Lausanne’s main sights.
8. Lausanne: Private Walking Tour with a Local Guide
This private option offers a customized exploration of Lausanne’s hidden secrets and main attractions, run by a licensed Swiss operator. With about 2 hours, you can explore sites like the Sauvabelin Tower or Old Town, depending on your preferences.
Guests value the personalized approach and the opportunity to explore less touristy corners alongside the highlights. It’s a flexible choice for travelers who want to mix landmarks with offbeat sights.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those who appreciate a tailored experience and want to maximize their time with a local guide.
$85 per person
9. Lausanne: Chocolate Tasting and Walking Tour with a Local
Number 9 combines chocolate tasting with a city walk, making it a delight for sweet lovers. Over two hours, you’ll visit several chocolatiers, sampling Swiss chocolates and enjoying the vibrant neighborhoods. The tour ends at a cozy café where you can sip hot chocolate or local beverages.
The experience is highly rated for its authentic tastings and local stories behind Swiss chocolate. It’s ideal for those who want to indulge while discovering Lausanne’s scenic streets. Reviewers say it’s a sweet way to get a taste of the city’s culinary culture.
Bottom Line: Perfect for chocolate fans and those seeking a relaxed, tasty city introduction.
10. Lausanne: Old Town Guided Walking Tour
This 1-hour tour is a quick but thorough walk through Lausanne’s historic Old Town. Starting at Château Saint-Maire, it covers main sights like the Place de la Palud and Montbenon Park. The guide provides insights into Lausanne’s medieval and modern past, making it an efficient way to see the core of the city.
Guests love how Liliane “showed us all the secrets,” making it feel personal despite its short duration. It’s best suited for travelers with limited time who want a solid overview of the historic heart of Lausanne.
Bottom Line: An excellent, time-efficient way to get acquainted with Lausanne’s old town.
$110 per person
11. Lausanne: Walking Tour with Chocolate Tastings & Metro
Finally, the Walking Tour with Chocolate Tastings & Metro offers a 3-hour exploration of Lausanne’s landmarks, complemented by chocolate tastings and a ride on the city’s driverless metro. This combination makes it a fun, engaging experience blending culture, cuisine, and modern transport.
While reviews are mixed, the tour’s highlight is the unique metro ride, offering a glimpse into Lausanne’s innovative side, alongside visits to the Palais de Rumine and Notre-Dame Cathedral. It’s best for those who enjoy multimedia experiences and want to combine sightseeing with tastings.
Bottom Line: Ideal for curious travelers wanting a varied, interactive tour with a taste of Lausanne’s contemporary edge.
How to Choose Your Walking Tour in Lausanne
When selecting a tour, think about your interests, time, and budget. For a deep dive into local wines and scenery, Vine Stories or Gourmet Food and Wine offer immersive experiences. If history or city landmarks are your focus, consider the Old Town Guided Tour or private options for more tailored visits. For quick sightseeing, the Express Walk is a solid choice.
Budget-wise, guided group tours tend to be more affordable, but private and customized tours provide more flexibility. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure preferred times and guides. Also, consider combining a cultural walk with a culinary or wine tour to get a well-rounded experience.
Final Thoughts
Lausanne offers a rich variety of walking experiences that suit every type of traveler—from wine aficionados and foodies to history buffs and Instagram enthusiasts. For an unforgettable journey, consider the Vine Stories for scenic vineyard walks, or the Gourmet Food and Wine Tasting Walk for a true taste of Swiss cuisine. If time is tight, the Insta-Perfect Walk provides a quick, visually rich introduction. Whatever your interests, booking early will ensure you enjoy these memorable walks at your preferred time.