Lausanne is a fantastic base for exploring Swiss wine, thanks to the proximity of the Lavaux vineyards—a UNESCO World Heritage site. This hillside region offers more than just beautiful views; it’s a place where winemaking has thrived for over 600 years. Whether you’re a casual sipper or a serious wine enthusiast, Lausanne’s wine tours provide a range of experiences that blend stunning scenery, local stories, and, of course, excellent wines. Personally, I love the Vine Stories: Lavaux & Lutry wine walk for its balance of easy walking and in-depth tasting, making it ideal for those wanting to combine gentle exercise with authentic flavor. If you’re craving a more indulgent day, the Gourmet Food and Wine Tasting Walk in Lavaux elevates the experience with a sumptuous lunch and exclusive tastings. For those with a group and a taste for panoramic scenery, the Panoramic Wine Tour from Lausanne delivers a scenic journey with wine tastings amid mountain views.
Quick Overview
This list highlights three top options: a relaxed vineyard walk with local tales and tastings, a comprehensive food and wine experience including a multi-course lunch, and a private scenic tour with mountain panoramas and wine tasting. Each offers a unique way to experience Lavaux and beyond. For more details, explore these tours: Vine Stories: Lavaux & Lutry wine walk, Gourmet Food and Wine Tasting Walk in Lavaux, and Panoramic Wine Tour From Lausanne.
1. Vine Stories: Lavaux & Lutry wine walk
At number one is the Vine Stories: Lavaux & Lutry wine walk, which offers a relaxed, informative stroll through one of Switzerland’s most iconic vineyard regions. The tour lasts around 3½ hours and takes you through the terraces of Lavaux, a UNESCO site famous for its steep, vine-covered slopes descending to Lake Geneva. This tour is perfect for those who want a taste of local culture without a hike that leaves them exhausted.
The guide shares engaging stories about the area’s 600-year-old winemaking tradition and the landscape’s unique terracing. You’ll sample wines directly from local winemakers, learning how to appreciate their nuances along the way. The itinerary includes stops in Grandvaux, where your walk includes tasting in intimate settings, making it a memorable experience. The tour is well-reviewed, with a 5.0/5 rating based on 60 reviews, and visitors praise the guide’s knowledge and the spectacular views.
What makes this tour stand out is its blend of easy walking, storytelling, and wine-tasting, all set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Geneva. The only potential downside? It’s priced at $289.78 per person, but the quality of the experience and the intimate setting justify the cost. This tour is ideal for those who want a relaxed, educational day with plenty of chances to sample local wines in beautiful surroundings.
Bottom Line: A top choice for wine lovers who enjoy stories and scenery, and who prefer an easy walk with tastings from passionate local winemakers.
2. Gourmet Food and Wine Tasting Walk in Lavaux
Second on our list is the Gourmet Food and Wine Tasting Walk in Lavaux, which takes the experience a step further by combining gastronomy with wine. This approximately 4¾-hour tour is designed for foodies and wine lovers alike, with multiple tasting stops and a special lunch. The tour begins in Epesses, a renowned wine village, where you walk the historic streets and enjoy conversations with winemakers. The highlight here is a two-course lunch overlooking the vineyards, paired with regional wines, giving you a delicious taste of local cuisine.
From there, you’ll explore the vineyard terraces starting at Cully, with panoramic views at every turn, and then visit Lutry, a medieval village rich in stories and wine tastings. The final stop is a scenic 1-hour stroll through Riex’s terraced vineyards, with opportunities to savor more views and wines. The guide’s depth of knowledge and the exclusive access to star winemakers make this tour stand out. Its 5.0/5 rating from 10 reviews indicates a consistently high level of enjoyment, especially for those wanting a full, memorable day.
Given the price (~$545 per person), this experience is best suited for travelers who prioritize food and wine over sheer affordability. The included lunch and tastings make it a good value for those looking for a rich, immersive day with a focus on culinary and wine excellence.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a gourmet experience, combining wine, regional cuisine, and storytelling in an intimate vineyard setting.
3. Panoramic Wine Tour From Lausanne
Finally, for groups or those seeking a scenic, private experience, the Panoramic Wine Tour from Lausanne offers a luxurious way to see the Swiss landscape while tasting regional wines. This roughly 4-hour tour costs around $1,977 for up to 8 people, making it ideal for small groups or couples. The tour departs from Montreux and takes you through the mountains on an open-top vehicle, offering spectacular views at every turn.
Your main stop is Domaine de La Crausaz, where you taste wines crafted exclusively in the region, complemented by snacks, in a personal setting. The tour’s strength lies in its scenic drive and exclusivity—you’re limited to only eight travelers, which means plenty of personalized attention. The 5/5 reviews praise the professionalism of guides and the “extraordinary” scenery combined with high-quality wines.
This tour is best suited for those who want to combine mountain vistas, wine tasting, and a private, hassle-free experience. The downside may be the higher price, but for a special occasion or a small group, it’s a memorable way to explore Lausanne’s wine scene with ease.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those seeking a luxury, scenic, and private wine tasting experience in the Swiss mountains.
How to Choose the Right Wine Tour in Lausanne
When deciding between these options, consider your priorities: Do you prefer a simple, scenic walk with local stories (Vine Stories)? Or are you more interested in gourmet food paired with wine and a full-day experience (Gourmet Food Walk)? Maybe your group values privacy and panoramic views on a scenic drive (Panoramic Tour).
Budget is also a factor—while the vineyard walk is more affordable, the gourmet experience offers a more indulgent day, and the panoramic tour provides a luxurious, intimate outing. Think about your fitness level; the vineyard walk is easy, but the panoramic vehicle tour requires minimal walking.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and group size. Also, consider combining a wine tour with other activities in Lausanne or Montreux for a well-rounded trip.
Final Thoughts
Lausanne’s wine tours offer something for every style and interest—from laid-back vineyard walks to gourmet lunches and private mountain excursions. The Vine Stories tour is a fantastic choice for those wanting an authentic, relaxed experience. If food and wine pairings are your passion, the Gourmet Food Walk will delight your palate. For a special, intimate adventure with panoramic scenery, the Panoramic Tour delivers a memorable outing.
Whatever your choice, these tours provide a wonderful way to experience the region’s stunning landscapes and rich winemaking tradition. Be sure to book early, especially during busy months, and enjoy discovering Switzerland’s best wines in style and comfort.