Lausanne, Switzerland: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Lausanne, Switzerland? If you're planning to go to Lausanne, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Lausanne, Switzerland

Based on the climate and weather in Lausanne, Switzerland, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Lausanne, Switzerland

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Lausanne, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Lausanne, Switzerland by month

January

January in Lausanne is pretty cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C), with a few days below 0 F (10+ below zero C). There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lausanne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Take care to choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you plan to see the must-see Notre Dame cathedral, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Olympic Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February in Lausanne can be brisk. Temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) during the day. There is frost about a third of the time. It rains or snows a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lausanne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Ensure that you pick the correct type. Many adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

If you plan to see the must-see Notre Dame cathedral, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Olympic Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March in Lausanne can be brisk. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) to high 40s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lausanne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Make sure to get the right type. Many adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you plan to see the must-see Notre Dame cathedral, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Olympic Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April in Lausanne can be chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lausanne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Check that you find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

If you plan to see the must-see Notre Dame cathedral, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Olympic Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

If you visit Lausanne during May, you are likely to see that it is chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lausanne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. It's important that you pick the right kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you plan to see the must-see Notre Dame cathedral, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Olympic Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

In June, Lausanne is balmy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (low 20s C) and about a third of the time jump into the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Lausanne, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lausanne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Make sure to pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you plan to see the must-see Notre Dame cathedral, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Olympic Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

July in Lausanne is warm. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lausanne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Be careful to find the correct type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you plan to see the must-see Notre Dame cathedral, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Olympic Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

If you visit Lausanne during August, you might notice that it is warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lausanne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Ensure that you pick the correct kind. Most adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you plan to see the must-see Notre Dame cathedral, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Olympic Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September in Lausanne is balmy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lausanne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Be careful to pick the right type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

If you plan to see the must-see Notre Dame cathedral, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Olympic Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

October in Lausanne is crisp. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) to high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lausanne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Take care to get the right kind. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to see the must-see Notre Dame cathedral, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Olympic Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

If you vacation in Lausanne during November, you will probably notice that it can be very chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly. There is frost occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lausanne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Be careful to choose the necessary kind. Most adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you plan to see the must-see Notre Dame cathedral, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Olympic Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December here is brisk. Temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits C) during the day. There is frost about half of the time. It rains or snows regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lausanne. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Be careful to pick the right type. A lot of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you plan to see the must-see Notre Dame cathedral, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Olympic Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Lausanne, Switzerland

Lausanne, Switzerland, situated on the banks of Lake Geneva, is known for its stunning landscapes, historic architecture, and cultural heritage. It is a city that never fails to leave a lasting impression on any visitor. Lausanne is also a commercial, cultural, and recreational hub that offers visitors a range of attractions to explore. In this article, we will be discussing the top tourist attractions in Lausanne.

1) The Olympic Museum

The Olympic Museum was founded in 1993 by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and is a must-visit for any sports enthusiast. The museum showcases the history of the Olympic Games, from its inception in ancient Greece to modern-day games. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, see a range of Olympic artifacts, and learn about the athletes who have made history in the games. This museum is beautifully situated on the shores of Lake Geneva and provides stunning views.

2) Lausanne Cathedral

The Lausanne Cathedral is a gothic-style building that dates back to the 12th century. It is one of the best-preserved examples of Gothic architecture in Switzerland. The cathedral is also famous for its stained glass windows, which were designed in the 13th century. Visitors can explore the cathedral, climb its towers, and see the stunning views of Lausanne from the top.

3) Lake Geneva

No trip to Lausanne would be complete without a visit to Lake Geneva. This picturesque lake has a stunning backdrop of the Swiss Alps and is known for its crystal-clear waters. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake, go swimming, or simply relax on the lake's shores while enjoying the stunning views.

4) The Espace des Inventions

The Espace des Inventions is an interactive science museum that is perfect for visitors of all ages. The museum has a range of exhibits that allow visitors to explore scientific concepts in a fun and interactive way. There are displays about electricity, magnetism, and even a weather station that predicts the weather for the entire region.

5) The Old Town

Lausanne's Old Town is a charming medieval district that is full of narrow streets, historic houses, and stunning buildings. It is a great place to stroll around and explore the local shops and cafes. Visitors can also see the 13th century castle known as the Chateau Saint-Maire and the Place de la Palud, a picturesque square that is home to the famous city hall.

In conclusion, Lausanne is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you are a history buff, a sports enthusiast, or simply enjoy stunning natural scenery, Lausanne has the perfect attraction awaiting you. With so many tourist attractions in Lausanne, visitors will have a hard time trying to fit everything into their itinerary. So, make sure to add these top attractions to your list and experience the best of what Lausanne has to offer!

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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