Lausanne is a city that offers more than just its lakeside charm. It’s a hub for excursions into Swiss culture, nature, and history, with a variety of tours that suit different interests and fitness levels. Whether you want to walk through UNESCO-listed vineyards, explore the Olympic legacy, or take a scenic mountain trip, Lausanne’s diverse offerings will leave you with memorable stories to tell—and plenty of photos. Our favorites include the Vine Stories: Lavaux & Lutry wine walk, which combines stunning terraces with local wines, and the Glacier 3000 day trip, perfect for mountain lovers craving breathtaking views.
Lausanne’s tour scene is rich with options, from cultural visits like the Olympic Museum to scenic cruises along Lake Geneva. No matter your interest, you’ll find a tour that fits your schedule, budget, and curiosity.
1. Vine Stories: Lavaux & Lutry wine walk
At number 1 on our list, the Vine Stories: Lavaux & Lutry wine walk offers an immersive experience in one of Switzerland’s most iconic landscapes. This 3.5-hour leisurely walk takes you through the 600-year-old UNESCO World Heritage site of Lavaux, famous for its terraced vineyards that cascade down to Lake Geneva. The tour includes visits to local wineries where you’ll sample crisp, sought-after wines and learn the nuances of wine tasting from passionate winemakers. What makes this tour stand out is the combination of scenic views, engaging storytelling, and personalized wine tastings in unique settings, all led by an expert guide.
Guests consistently praise guides like Marc for their knowledge and personable approach, with reviews highlighting the incredible views and the art of wine appreciation. This tour is ideal for those who love wine, scenic walking, and authentic local stories. For a relaxed, insightful, and delicious afternoon, this walk is hard to beat.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine lovers and those wanting a scenic, cultural experience that combines walking, tasting, and storytelling.
2. The Olympic Museum Entrance Ticket in Lausanne
Number 2 on our list is the Olympic Museum, a must-visit for sports fans and curious minds alike. Priced at just under $25, this interactive museum invites visitors to explore the stories of legendary Olympians, the evolution of the Games, and the values that drive athletes to push limits. The museum spans three floors, including a sculpture park and a panoramic restaurant with views of Lake Geneva.
What makes this tour special is the self-paced exploration with engaging exhibits, from Olympic torches to historic uniforms. The museum is wheelchair accessible and offers a vibrant, educational experience that’s both fun and thought-provoking. Reviewers love how interactive and comprehensive the displays are, saying it was “the best museum” they’ve visited with “a wealth of information.”
Bottom Line: Great for families and sports enthusiasts wanting a lively, educational experience that captures the spirit of the Olympics.
3. Lausanne: The Olympic Museum Entry Ticket
This ticket provides access to the entire Olympic Museum for a full day of discovery. Located in the heart of Lausanne, the museum offers a permanent exhibition, Olympic Park, and a panoramic restaurant. The free audio guide in 9 languages enhances your understanding as you navigate exhibits about the Olympic values, past Games, and the impact on society.
Rated 4.7/5 based on 83 reviews, visitors appreciate the comprehensive display of Olympic history and the beautiful setting. It’s a flexible option for those wanting a deeper dive into the Olympic legacy, with plenty of time to enjoy the sculptures and outdoor spaces.
Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors seeking a cultural and educational experience that’s accessible and engaging.
4. Riviera Col du Pillon & Glacier 3000 from Lausanne
For those craving mountain vistas and outdoor adventure, the Riviera Col du Pillon & Glacier 3000 trip is a standout. This 9-hour journey whisks you from Lausanne to Les Diablerets, where you board the cable car up to Glacier 3000. The highlight is the Peak Walk, a suspended bridge offering sweeping views of over 200 peaks. Guests rave about the breathtaking scenery, the ease of pre-booked tickets, and the chance to explore at your own pace.
The tour also includes free time in Montreux, so you can stroll along the lakeside or browse local shops. The trip is best suited for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone eager to experience the Swiss Alps with minimal planning. Reviewers describe it as “spectacular” and “breathtaking,” making it a top choice for mountain lovers.
Bottom Line: A full-day alpine adventure that combines scenic cable cars, mountain walks, and lakeside relaxation.
5. From Lausanne: Montreux, Chaplin, and Chillon Castle Tour
This 8 to 8.5-hour tour offers a delightful mix of cultural sights and stunning landscapes. Starting with a visit to Chaplin’s World, you’ll step into the legendary actor’s universe and see where his movies came to life. Then, enjoy a scenic drive through UNESCO-listed Lavaux vineyards before exploring Chillon Castle, a medieval fortress on Lake Geneva. The tour wraps up with free time in Montreux and Vevey for photos and leisure.
Reviewers appreciate how well the tour balances guided commentary and free exploration, with many mentioning their guide’s helpfulness and the beautiful scenery. It’s perfect for lovers of film history, castles, and Swiss lakeside towns. The value comes from seeing multiple top attractions in one well-organized day.
Bottom Line: Suitable for cultural explorers and those wanting a comprehensive Swiss Riviera experience in a day.
6. Lausanne: 3-Hour Riviera and Lavaux Region Cruise
For a relaxing way to see Lake Geneva’s scenic coastlines, this 3-hour cruise offers a chance to glide past Chillon Castle, Montreux, and Vevey aboard a historic paddle steamer. The cruise provides panoramic views of vineyards and mountains, especially if you upgrade to First Class seats for more comfort and better vistas. Reviewers mention the “gorgeous scenery,” “well-organized trip,” and the “beauty of the vintage boat.”
This tour is ideal for those who prefer relaxed sightseeing from the water rather than walking, and it’s suitable for families or anyone looking to savor the landscape from a different angle. The price offers good value considering the length and views.
Bottom Line: A scenic, laid-back cruise perfect for a gentle introduction to the lakeside scenery.
7. From Lausanne: Glacier 3000 Experience Tour
This 8 to 9-hour tour is perfect if you want to see Glacier 3000 without the hassle of planning transport. The trip includes exploring Les Diablerets village, riding the cable car to the glacier, and enjoying stunning mountain vistas. The highlight is the Peak Walk, a suspended bridge offering expansive views of the Alps. Guest reviews emphasize the breath-taking scenery, the knowledgeable guide, and the overall value for money.
It’s suited for travelers comfortable with moderate outdoor activity and those eager to experience a famous Swiss glacier. The tour’s focus on scenic views and alpine exploration makes it a top choice for mountain enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: A well-organized day trip for mountain views, glacier exploration, and scenic walking.
8. Gourmet Food and Wine Tasting Walk in Lavaux
For food and wine connoisseurs, the Gourmet Food and Wine Tasting Walk offers an indulgent 4.75-hour journey through Lavaux’s UNESCO vineyards. The tour includes a luxurious two-course lunch overlooking the vines, visits to local wineries, and a stop in the medieval village of Lutry for a exclusive wine tasting. Reviewers describe it as “the best wine experience” and highlight the star winemakers and stellar wines tasted along the way.
This is a more premium tour, suited for those willing to spend extra for intimate tastings, gourmet food, and storytelling. It’s perfect for visitors who want to combine culinary delights with scenic walks and local culture.
Bottom Line: High-end experience ideal for serious food and wine lovers wanting an exclusive, in-depth tasting.
9. Panoramic Wine Tour From Lausanne
This private group tour offers stunning mountain and vineyard views during a 4-hour trip from Lausanne. Limited to 8 people, it provides a personalized experience of regional wines at Domaine du Daley. The tour emphasizes scenic drives and tasting sessions complemented by local snacks. Guests praise the knowledgeable guide and the exceptional landscape.
Ideal for travelers seeking an intimate, scenic, and wine-focused experience, this tour balances beautiful vistas with the chance to taste Swiss wines in a relaxed setting.
Bottom Line: Best suited for wine enthusiasts who enjoy personal attention and picturesque drives.
10. From Lausanne: Gruyères Tour with Train, Chocolate & Cheese
A Swiss classic, this 8.5-hour tour combines chocolate, cheese, and medieval charm. You’ll visit Maison Cailler for chocolate tasting, then explore La Maison du Gruyère, famous for its cheese. The scenic Golden Express train takes you through lush landscapes to Gruyères village, where you can visit the castle and enjoy authentic Swiss fondue. Reviewers love the delicious tastings and stunning scenery, describing the day as “fun and flavorful.”
This tour is great for food lovers and those who want to experience Swiss culture with minimal effort, as everything is organized for you.
Bottom Line: A tasty, scenic day trip perfect for families and lovers of Swiss cuisine and medieval towns.
11. From Lausanne: Glacier 3000 experience and Montreux
This 10-hour tour pairs Glacier 3000’s panoramic mountain views with a visit to the lakeside town of Montreux. The focus here is on mountain scenery and lake landscapes, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos and enjoy the fresh air. Guests mention the stunning vistas and overall value for a full-day outdoor adventure**.
Ideal for outdoorsy travelers who want to combine mountain exploration with lakeside relaxing, it’s suited for all fitness levels.
Bottom Line: Full-day outdoor experience combining mountains and lakes with scenic stops.
12. Interlaken day trip by bus from Lausanne
If your goal is to see the Swiss Alps and Jungfrau region, this 11-hour trip to Interlaken is a top pick. It includes free time to explore the town, with optional visit to Harder Kulm for panoramic views. Reviewers note the comfortable bus ride, beautiful scenery, and friendly guide. It’s perfect for those who want a guided day with flexibility, without the hassle of organizing transport themselves.
Great for outdoor lovers and those looking for a full mountain experience in a convenient package.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting to see the Swiss Alps without complex logistics.
13. Discover Lausanne’s most Photogenic Spots with a Local
In this 1.5-hour guided walk, a local host takes you through Lausanne’s best photo spots, from the Cathedral to the Quai d’Ouchy. It’s designed for photo enthusiasts and curious explorers who want to see hidden corners and classic sights with expert tips. Reviewers highlight the personalized approach and the chance to learn about Lausanne’s transformation while capturing stunning images.
This tour suits anyone who enjoys city photography and local insights in a short, manageable outing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for photo lovers wanting an insider’s view of Lausanne’s visual highlights.
14. Winter Tour Montreux and Chaplin’s World from Lausanne
This 6-hour winter experience combines Charlie Chaplin’s world with Montreux’s lakeside charm. Visiting Chaplin’s Studio in Corsier sur Vevey, you’ll explore his life and work, then enjoy free time in Montreux. The winter setting adds a special mood, and reviews mention the friendly guide and beautiful scenery. It’s ideal for those wanting a shorter, culturally rich trip with less outdoor strain.
Great for film fans and anyone wanting a cozy winter day by the lake.
Bottom Line: Compact, culturally focused winter tour with a personal touch.
15. Day Tour to Zermatt, Matterhorn & Glacier Paradise
Number 15 is a long, full-day trip to Zermatt, home of the iconic Matterhorn. The tour includes a cable car ride to Glacier Paradise, offering stunning views of the Alps. The village itself is car-free, adding to its charm. Reviewers praise the spectacular mountain scenery and the expert guide who makes the day memorable. It’s suited for those who want a comprehensive mountain experience with a focus on iconic Swiss landscapes.
Bottom Line: An immersive, scenic day for mountain admirers and those wanting to see the Matterhorn up close.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Lausanne
Choosing the best tour depends on your interests, budget, and available time. If you love wine and scenic walks, the Lavaux wine walk offers authentic vineyard views and tastings. For culture and history lovers, the Olympic Museum is both engaging and informative. Outdoor adventurers should consider the Glacier 3000 trip, while foodies will enjoy the Gourmet Food and Wine Tasting Walk.
Think about how much time you have—most tours range from a few hours to full days—and your fitness level. Early booking is recommended for popular trips like the Montreux, Chaplin, and Chillon Castle or the Zermatt Matterhorn, especially in peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
Lausanne’s tours are as diverse as Swiss chocolate and as scenic as the mountain peaks themselves. For a wine lover, the Lavaux wine walk offers a perfect blend of landscape and tasting. Culture vultures will find the Olympic Museum and the Charlie Chaplin experience compelling, while outdoor fans can’t miss the Glacier 3000 adventure or the Interlaken day trip.
Book early if you want to secure a spot on the most popular tours. Whether you’re after the serenity of vineyards, the thrill of mountain peaks, or the charm of Swiss towns, Lausanne’s tour scene has a lot to offer. Now it’s your turn—pick a tour, pack your curiosity, and prepare for a memorable Swiss experience.