The Heart of Lausanne: Place de la Palud
Discover the charm of Place de la Palud, a vibrant cultural hub in Lausanne, showcasing stunning architecture, local markets, and lively events.
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
Nestled in the vibrant city of Lausanne, Place de la Palud serves as a cultural and historical hub that encapsulates the essence of the city. This iconic square is surrounded by striking architecture, including the stunning Hotel de Ville (Town Hall), which dates back to the 18th century, and the charming buildings that reflect the unique character of the region. As you stroll through the square, you’ll find yourself enveloped in the lively atmosphere created by street performers, local vendors, and the vibrant energy of both locals and tourists alike. One of the highlights of Place de la Palud is the impressive fountain, adorned with a striking clock that puts on a captivating show at various intervals throughout the day. This clock not only serves as a timekeeper but also as a symbol of the city’s rich history. The square is also home to a variety of shops and cafes, making it the perfect stop for a leisurely coffee or a delicious pastry while soaking up the local ambiance. Throughout the year, Place de la Palud hosts various events and markets, showcasing local artisans and specialties. Visitors can experience the delightful flavors of Swiss cuisine or shop for unique souvenirs. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the local culture, enjoy the architectural beauty, or simply relax in a picturesque setting, Place de la Palud is a must-visit destination that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modern life.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to experience the square before it gets crowded.
- Try local pastries from nearby cafes for an authentic taste of Lausanne.
- Check the schedule for events or markets happening during your visit to experience local culture.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and vibrant street life.
- Take a moment to enjoy the fountain's clock show, a unique feature of the square.
Getting There
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Walking
From Ouchy, head northeast towards the lakefront promenade, enjoying the scenic views. Walk along the promenade until you reach the Metro station at Ouchy-Olympique. Take the Metro Line M2 (the blue line) in the direction of Épalinges and ride for 4 stops, approximately 10 minutes. Get off at the Flon station. Once you exit the station, follow the signs towards the Place de la Palud. It's about a 5-minute walk from Flon, heading towards the east. You will arrive at Place de la Palud, known for its charming atmosphere and historical significance.
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Metro
Starting from Ouchy, make your way to the Ouchy-Olympique Metro station. Purchase a ticket for a single journey on the Metro Line M2. The fare is typically around CHF 3.50 for a single ticket. Board the train heading towards Épalinges. After 4 stops, disembark at the Flon station. From there, follow the directional signs which will guide you to Place de la Palud. The entire journey should take around 15-20 minutes, including walking time to and from the stations.
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Public Bus
If you prefer, you can take public bus services from Ouchy to reach Place de la Palud. Walk to the nearest bus stop, which is located on the main road near the lake. Look for bus lines heading towards the city center. You can take bus line 21 or 22. After boarding, stay on the bus for about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Get off at the stop 'Belmont' or 'Gare' which are close to Place de la Palud. The fare is also around CHF 3.50 for a single journey. From the bus stop, it’s a short walk to the square.
Attractions Nearby to Place de la Palud
- La Fontaine de la Justice (Place de la Palud, Lausanne)
- Horloge de la Palud
- Townhall of Lausanne
- galerie du marché
- Fontaine de la Justice / Fountain of Justice
- Café du Grütli
- Escaliers du Marché
- Brunnen Place de la Louve
- Escalier des Petites-Roches
- Espace Arlaud
- Fontaine Pierre Viret
- Lausanne History Museum
- Lausanne Cathedral
- Pince de la Riponne
- Église Saint-Laurent
Landmarks nearby to Place de la Palud
- Fontaine de la Justice
- Place Pépinet
- Place des Pionnières
- Place de l'Europe
- Pont Bessières
- Terrasse Jean-Monnet
- Maison Mercier
- Escaliers du Flon
- Tour Bel-Air Lausanne
- Fontaine "Au Beau Pays de Vaud"
- Fontaine Instruments de Musique / Unplugged
- Palace of Justice
- Lausanne Opera
- Statue de GUILLAUME TELL
- Place Chauderon