The Vibrant Heart of Lausanne: Place de la Palud
Explore Lausanne's iconic Place de la Palud, a cultural hub filled with stunning architecture, lively cafes, and local events that celebrate Swiss heritage.
Place de la Palud is the beating heart of Lausanne, Switzerland, a picturesque square that beautifully combines history, culture, and vibrant community life. This iconic location is famous for its stunning architecture, including the impressive Town Hall and the historical buildings that surround it, each telling its own story of the city's rich past. The square is not only a visual delight but also a social hub where locals gather, making it an exciting place for tourists to immerse themselves in the Swiss way of life. As you wander through Place de la Palud, you'll encounter a variety of charming cafes and shops that invite you to pause and enjoy the atmosphere. Sample local delicacies and Swiss chocolates at cafes lining the square, or browse boutiques for unique souvenirs. The square is also home to the famous clock tower, which features an animated show that attracts visitors, especially on the hour. Throughout the year, Place de la Palud hosts various events and markets, showcasing local artisans, seasonal produce, and traditional Swiss crafts. These events offer a wonderful opportunity to engage with the local culture and experience the community spirit. Whether you're stopping for a coffee, taking photos of the stunning architecture, or simply enjoying the ambiance, Place de la Palud is a must-visit destination that encapsulates the charm and vibrancy of Lausanne.
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and beautiful lighting for photos.
- Don't miss the animated clock show, which has fascinating historical significance.
- Try local pastries at the nearby cafes to get a taste of authentic Swiss flavors.
- Check for local events or markets happening in the square during your visit for a unique cultural experience.
A brief summary to Place de la Palud
- Pl. de la Palud 1, Lausanne, 1003, CH
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Metro
To reach Place de la Palud, take the M2 metro line from any metro station in Lausanne. If you are starting from Lausanne Gare (the main train station), board the M2 metro towards Ouchy. Travel for 4 stops and get off at the 'Riponne-Maurice Béjart' station. Once you exit the station, follow the signs for 'Place de la Palud', which is just a short 5-minute walk from the metro station.
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Bus
You can also take a bus to Place de la Palud. Find a bus stop nearby and look for the bus lines 1, 2, 5, or 6 that stop at 'Palud'. If you are at Lausanne Gare, you can take bus line 21 towards 'Lausanne, Gare' and get off at the 'Palud' stop. From there, you will be right at the square.
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Walking
If you are in the city center, walking to Place de la Palud is a pleasant option. From the Cathedral of Notre-Dame, head south on Rue de la Cathédrale, then turn left onto Rue du Petit-Chêne. Continue straight until you reach the square. It should take you about 10 minutes.
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Taxi or Rideshare
For a more direct route, you can take a taxi or use a rideshare service like Uber. Simply provide the driver with the address 'Place de la Palud 1, 1003 Lausanne'. The ride will take around 5-10 minutes from most central locations in Lausanne, depending on traffic.
Attractions Nearby to Place de la Palud
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La Fontaine de la Justice (Place de la Palud, Lausanne)
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Horloge de la Palud
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Townhall of Lausanne
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galerie du marché
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Fontaine de la Justice / Fountain of Justice
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Café du Grütli
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Escaliers du Marché
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Brunnen Place de la Louve
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Escalier des Petites-Roches
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Espace Arlaud
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Fontaine Pierre Viret
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Lausanne History Museum
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Lausanne Cathedral
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Pince de la Riponne
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Pl. de la Riponne
Landmarks nearby to Place de la Palud
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Fontaine de la Justice
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Esc. du Marché 1
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Place Pépinet
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Place des Pionnières
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Place de l'Europe
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Pont Charles Bessières 3
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Terrasse Jean-Monnet
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Maison Mercier
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Escaliers du Flon
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Tour Bel-Air Lausanne
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Fontaine "Au Beau Pays de Vaud"
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Fontaine Instruments de Musique / Unplugged
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Palace of Justice
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Statue de GUILLAUME TELL
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Place Chauderon