Lausanne: An Olympic Journey of Swiss Art, Wine & Wellness

Winetasting on Lake Geneva: Less than 30 minutes from Central Lausanne, vineyards dot the Lavaux, a region that stretches to Montreux in the east. Originally planted by Cistercian monks in the 11th century, these Terrasses Viticoles de Lavaux-Cully were named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.

Lavaux Vinorama: An excellent introduction to the area wines and its signature grape, Chasselas. This is an education center and tasting room. The award-winning documentary “One Anne Vigneronne” is screened hourly. Open daily May–October.Part of the Lavaux Train Heritage Tour.

The Olympic Museum: Dedicated to the history and philosophy of the Olympic Games, located in central Lausanne, the museum holds the largest collection of items dedicated to the Olympics, including every Olympic Torch since 1936. It looks out onto Lake Geneva through a sculpture garden that celebrates the physicality of sport.

Aquatis Aquarium and Vivarium: The largest freshwater aquarium in Europe featuring fish, reptiles, and amphibians in a modern science center that takes a tour through the world’s aquatic realms. It is attached to a hotel and spa, making it a great place for family tours.

Collection de l’Art Brut: Outsider art gallery featuring “Raw Art” by contemporary visual artists. The gallery is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2026, with special events dedicated to Art Brut and its connection to film, theater, and other disciplines. Free the first Saturday of the month. Tickets are good for three days after to visit the Roman Museum and the Historical Museums, both in central Lausanne.

The Montreux Jazz Festival: This year, the famed international gathering of jazz aficionados is celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2026 from July 3–18. Check out the lineup at www.montreuxjazzfestival.com.

Tout un Monde Cafe at Terrasses de Lavaux: A la cart menu and a gorgeous view of the historic vineyards at Grandvaux. Great for groups with a range of dishes from locally sourced alpine ingredients.

Auberge du Vigneron (The Winegrower’s Inn): This beautiful wine-country restaurant is out of town in the heart of the Bourg-en-Lavaux. Featuring fine alpine cuisine and an extensive local wine list, it has been recognized for excellence by the French restaurant guide Gault and Millau.

Brasserie de Monbenon: Gorgeous restaurant on the edge of the Esplanade de Montbenon, a beautiful historic park that includes the Casino de Montbenon and La Cinematographe movie house. Walk-ins encouraged. Very festive atmosphere inside one of the great tiled halls of the old casino.

Creperie d’Ouchy: For walks around the city, this casual creperie near the Olympic Museum is a great place for people watching on the Ouchy Promenade in central Lausanne. Menu features a range of crepe fillings, craft beers, and ciders. Open seven days a week for lunch, dinner, and afternoon tea.