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Visit the Lausanne Cathedral’s stunning Gothic architecture, climb the tower for panoramic views of the city and the Alps, and admire the intricate stained glass windows. Don't miss the nightly light show that illuminates the facade of the cathedral.
The Cathedral of Our Lady of Lausanne is located in Lausanne, Switzerland. Construction began in the mid-12th century and took over 80 years to complete. Its beautiful interior attracts numerous tourists and worshippers. From the summit, visitors can overlook Lake Geneva and the old town of Lausanne. It is considered the most beautiful and magnificent church in Switzerland. The exterior of the church is well-preserved, in the Gothic style, with exquisite carvings and a magnificent rose window. It is the last church in Switzerland to retain a watchman, whose call to the hour can be heard every night from 10 PM to 2 AM.
Temperate maritime climate, suitable for all seasons
Lake Geneva and Lausanne Old Town, 1-3 hours
Sunday - Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM;
The Lausanne Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, was built between the 12th and 13th centuries. It is one of the most impressive landmarks in Switzerland and serves as the seat of the Bishop of Lausanne. The cathedral is known for its architectural beauty and historical significance in the religious and cultural life of the region.
The Lausanne Cathedral is located in the heart of Lausanne's Old Town. You can reach it by taking Metro Line 1 to the "Lausanne, Gare" station, followed by a 15-minute walk up the hill to the cathedral. Buses also run regularly from the city center.
The cathedral is generally open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, avoiding peak tourist hours, especially on weekends.
Entrance to the cathedral is free, but there is a small fee (around CHF 5) to access the tower. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the cathedral or online for guided tours.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended if you want to join a guided tour or climb the tower, especially during peak tourist seasons. Tickets for the tower can be booked a day or two in advance.
Plan for about 1-1.5 hours to explore the cathedral, including a visit to the tower. If you want to learn more about its history, consider taking a guided tour which may take an additional 30 minutes.
The main highlights include the impressive altar, the beautiful stained glass windows, and the intricate carvings throughout the interior. The tower offers a spectacular panoramic view of Lausanne and the surrounding area.
Yes, guided tours are available in several languages including English, French, German, and Italian. Audio guides are also offered for a self-paced experience.
The best photography spot is from the top of the tower, offering stunning views over Lausanne and the nearby Lake Geneva. The cathedral’s exterior also offers great photo opportunities, especially at sunset when the light highlights the Gothic details.
Start by visiting the nave and the main altar, then explore the stained glass windows and the crypt. Afterward, climb the tower for the best views of Lausanne and the Alps. Finish your visit with a stroll through the surrounding Old Town.
The cathedral has a beautiful light show that illuminates its facade at night, making it a popular time for photographers. Special night tours or events may also be offered during certain times of the year.
The cathedral can get crowded, especially during weekends and in the summer. The least crowded times are early mornings or weekdays, particularly on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
There are restrooms inside the cathedral and nearby cafes. While there are no restaurants inside the cathedral, you can find a variety of dining options in the surrounding Old Town.
Yes, the cathedral is generally accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with ramps available for easy access to the main level. However, the tower is not accessible for people with mobility impairments due to its steep steps.
Both cash and cards are accepted for ticket purchases and donations. Mobile payments like Apple Pay are also widely accepted at nearby cafes and shops.
Nearby restaurants include Café de l'Ouest, offering traditional Swiss fare, and Le Café de la Cathédrale, located just outside the cathedral, where you can enjoy coffee or light meals while overlooking the cathedral.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at many nearby restaurants, including Café de l'Ouest. Halal food options may be more limited but can be found in the broader Lausanne area.
Some nearby hotels include the Hôtel de la Paix, located along the lake, and the Hôtel du Marché, both offering convenient access to the cathedral and the Old Town.
Nearby attractions include the Olympic Museum, the Lausanne Historical Museum, and the beautiful parks around Lake Geneva. These can all be combined in a day trip.
There are several souvenir shops near the cathedral selling religious items, postcards, and Swiss-themed gifts such as watches, chocolates, and traditional crafts.
The best way to continue your trip is by taking the metro, with several lines that connect the cathedral to other parts of the city and to the Lausanne train station. Taxis and buses are also readily available.
