Ah, autumn in Lausanne. The leaves are turning, the lake and mountains boast a misty morning glow, and the air turns crisp. It’s arguably one of our favorite seasons here in Switzerland, and there are plenty of fun activities to engage in to take full advantage. Here are our top 10 things to do this autumn in Lausanne.
1. Get a taste of autumn
Either you’ve already caught sight of it, or you’ll begin seeing signs around town proclaiming “la chasse est arrivée!”, which indicates that even if the leaves haven’t turned, Lausanne has mentally entered the season of autumn. Check out our top places to enjoy this autumnal menu in and around Lausanne.
2. Cosy up with a pint
Lausanne is now spoiled with local breweries and wineries, and it’s often in the autumn when breweries especially release their seasonal beers. There’s something about the air turning crisp, and drinking a hoppy brew in a knit sweater that gives us all the feels. We've rounded up our favorite spots to grab a pint in Lausanne here.
3. Spend a rainy afternoon with art
When the autumn weather turns unpredictable, Lausanne’s museums offer plenty of reasons to head indoors. From contemporary art and photography to design, history and everything in between, the city’s cultural scene has something to satisfy just about every curiosity. Keep an eye on the latest exhibitions and events for a little inspiration.
TLG Tip: Most Lausanne museums offer free admission on the first Saturday of every month. A little culture, on the house.
4. Find your new favourite coffee corner
Years ago we would have never believed you if you told us that we’d have our pick of specialty coffee here in Lausanne. Now we’ve got a list that continues to grow – and we aren’t complaining. Go check out one of these spots, order a warm drink, and enjoy. Looking for Lausanne's cosiest cafés? We've got you.
5. Take the Scenic Route Through Lavaux
Is there anything more beautiful than Lavaux in the autumn? Whether you walk the vineyards and find a spot to settle in for a picnic, or take the wine train and climb the hills in search of a taste of some local white, it’s a must-do for the fall. If you’re looking for a self-guided wine walk (complete with tips on where to find the self-service fridges) check out our latest article.
6. Try Brisolée
Speaking of Lavaux, join the winemakers of the region for a harvest-themed celebration or a special seasonal meal (have you ever tried a brisolée? It’s one of our favorite fall traditions!). We always go to Caveau Corto in Grandvaux for the incredible nibbles and best views. Won’t be able to make it to any of the planned brisolée events? Why not create your own?
7. Chase the autumn colours
Get out in nature and enjoy the changing of the seasons while working up a little sweat. We would recommend Dent de Jaman or Les Dent de Midi for sweeping views of the Lake and trees. Or Les Rochers de Naye or le Lac Taney. Also our favourite autumn walks we like as well as these 3 fall foliage forest hikes near Lausanne.
8. Discover Lausanne's local creatives
Make room for a little local creativity this autumn. Tucked inside the new WE ARE space at Place Saint-François 5, The Lausanne Guide's curated corner brings together a rotating selection of Lausanne-based artists, illustrators, designers and makers. From original artworks and prints to thoughtfully crafted objects, it's a small space with plenty to discover. The selection changes every six to eight weeks, so there's always a good reason to pop back in. And who knows? You might just leave with a new favourite local artist.
9. Elevate Your Entertainment
Don’t get us wrong, we love a good Netflix evening…but why not indulge in the cultural offerings of our amazing city once in awhile? Check out the ticket offerings for this season by the Orchestra of Lausanne, the Lausanne Opera, or the Theatre de Beaulieu.
10. Make it a fondue night
Nothing says seasons are shifting like our craving for hot melted cheese. If fondue is your thing, we recommend you go to Cafe L’Eveche (which boasts 13 different fondues to choose from) and have an outdoor fondue on the terrace in the back. Otherwise, our top fondue spots in and around the city are Cafe Grutli, Chalet des Enfants, Chalet Suisse, Cafe Romand, A La Bossette (try their goat cheese or tomato fondue), or Pinte Besson.
