Activities for children in Lausanne
Capital of the canton of Vaud and Olympic capital, Lausanne gently unfolds above Lake Geneva. From the train station to the Ouchy district by the water, the city offers an exceptional setting for families: one moves from the lively streets of the center to the shores of the lake, passing by the great Sauvabelin forest that overlooks the city.
Here, there is plenty to keep all ages and interests occupied. For a Wednesday afternoon, a rainy weekend, or a week of vacation, one can find exciting museums, animal parks, aquariums, playgrounds, and sports activities. Both toddlers and teenagers will find something to enjoy, whether the weather is nice or if one is looking for an idea indoors.
Lausanne is very easy to access by train from all over the Romandy region, and its metro and bus network (the TL) allows most places to be reached without a car. This page brings together a selection of activities for children in Lausanne to help you find inspiration for your next family outing.
Our selection of family activities to do in Lausanne
43 activities for children
Malley-Pyramides playground: the big slide of Lausanne
What if you offered your children the longest slide in Lausanne? At Malley-Pyramides, a giant slide of 24 meters winds down at the foot of a wooded hill, surrounded by swings and a vine carousel. A recent playground, free and accessible by metro. Shall we take you there?
Playground of Lake Sauvabelin: the largest playground in Lausanne
Want a great outdoor outing just steps from the center of Lausanne? The playground at Lake Sauvabelin, nestled at the edge of the forest by the lake, is the largest in the city. A tubular slide, zip line, nest swing, and trunk structures await children, all for free.
Vidy Playground (fishing village): the adventure by the shores of Lake Geneva in Lausanne
What if your children became fishermen for an afternoon? In Lausanne, by Lake Geneva, the Vidy playground features a real little fishing village with its stilt huts and sand. A free outdoor outing designed for the little ones.
Milan playground: the cat tower and the water games that bring joy to Lausanne families
Are you looking for a playground that keeps children entertained for hours without spending a dime? The playground in Milan, located in the heart of the Milan park in Lausanne, ticks all the boxes: an iconic cat tower, endless water and sand games, hammocks, and a slackline.
Montchoisi Pool in Lausanne: swimming with real waves
And what if, without leaving Lausanne, your children could jump into real waves? At Montchoisi, the outdoor pool activates its wave machine several times each afternoon, in a large 50 m pool. Between the wading pool for the little ones and the lawn for picnicking, you can easily spend the day there with your family.
Le Capitole Cinema in Lausanne: the biggest screen in Switzerland, for families
What if you took your children to the largest cinema still in operation in Switzerland? Le Capitole, a 1928 Art Deco gem renovated and reopened in 2024, is the “House of Cinema” of the Cinémathèque suisse, right in the heart of Lausanne. A cultural, awe-inspiring outing, magical in any weather.
Pathé Flon Cinema in Lausanne: big films, 3D and a children’s club
Fancy a big film as a family, in the heart of the trendy Flon district? The Pathé Flon, the only 3D cinema in Lausanne with its seven screens, shows the big hits of the moment and even hosts the La Lanterne Magique club for children. On the most central metro stop, perfect in any weather.
Pathé Les Galeries Cinema in Lausanne: the cinema between station and centre
Fancy a cinema outing a stone’s throw from the station, right in the centre of Lausanne? The Pathé Les Galeries, with its eight screens, gives pride of place to original-version films and major titles from every country. Easy to reach on foot, perfect for a family screening in any weather.
Zinéma in Lausanne: the city’s smallest cinema, child-sized
Fancy a truly intimate cinema screening, far from the big multiplexes? The Zinéma, the smallest cinema in Lausanne with its two tiny screens and its café-bar, cultivates a living-room feel. An independent neighbourhood cinema, to discover as a family for a change from the big halls.
Cinéma Bellevaux in Lausanne: neighbourhood art-house with Ciné-Junior
Fancy a warm neighbourhood cinema that also programmes for children? Cinéma Bellevaux, an association-run art-house cinema since 1959, offers films off the beaten track and a young-audience date, Ciné-Junior, during the school holidays. A lovely address, in any weather.
Playground of the Vallée de la Jeunesse in Lausanne: the legendary tunnel slides
Are you looking for a large free playground in Lausanne, outdoors and just a stone's throw from the lake? The Vallée de la Jeunesse features its famous tunnel slides on hills, a maritime corner for the little ones, and a rose garden to stroll through. There's plenty to keep the whole family occupied for a good part of the afternoon.
Plage de la Voile d'Or: the quiet corner of Lake Geneva in Lausanne, on the Vidy side
Are you looking for a quieter spot by the shore than the large beach of Vidy to lay down your towel with family? The Plage de la Voile d'Or, in Lausanne, on the west side of Bellerive and very close to the Théâtre de Vidy, offers a lawn by the lake and free swimming in Lake Geneva, just a stone's throw from the city.
Pedal Boats in Lausanne (Ouchy and Vidy): a family outing on Lake Geneva
Want to get the whole family out on the lake in Lausanne? At Ouchy and Vidy, pedalo rental puts you on Lake Geneva within minutes: you pedal, sometimes slide down a little chute, and the children love taking the helm. A simple, refreshing summer outing — no booking required.
Vidy Beach: the large free beach of Lausanne by Lake Geneva
Are you looking for a lakeside spot to lay down your towel without spending a dime? Vidy Beach, in the heart of Louis Bourget Park in Lausanne, is the largest free beach on Lake Geneva: sand, large shaded lawns, and swimming for the whole family, just a stone's throw from the city.
Skatepark Sévelin – HS36 in Lausanne: the indoor that makes you want to ride
An indoor skatepark in the heart of Lausanne, perfect for discovering or progressing in skateboarding, scootering, or BMX, sheltered from the weather. Urban, safe, and family-friendly atmosphere.
The Door – escape game in Romandy, Switzerland with family
Looking for a team challenge with your kids? The Door offers immersive escape games, perfect for cooperating, thinking, and laughing together, no matter the weather.
Bowl de Vidy in Lausanne: outdoor skatepark by Lake Geneva
On the shores of Lake Geneva, the Vidy Bowl is a legendary outdoor skatepark in Lausanne. A free spot for scooters, skateboards, and rollerblades, perfect for moving around with family in dry weather.
Tour de Sauvabelin in Lausanne: family panorama
A wooden tower in the heart of the Sauvabelin forest, steps that climb up, and at the top, a breathtaking view of Lausanne, Lake Geneva, and the Alps. Free, simple, and memorable.
The P’tit train de Lausanne-Vidy at Parc Bourget
A little train under the trees of Vidy, by Lake Geneva. A simple and joyful outing to make children's eyes shine and enjoy the park as a family.
Bellerive Mini Golf (Lausanne): an outing by the lake
By the shores of Lake Geneva, the Bellerive Mini Golf in Lausanne offers a simple and joyful break. A friendly course amidst greenery, perfect for an hour outdoors with the kids.
Bubble Action: Bubble Football in Lausanne
Want to experience a completely offbeat soccer game in Lausanne? With Bubble Action, we play protected in large bubbles. A fun, sporty, and safe moment for children aged 8 and up, all year round.
Pédalino in Lausanne: pedal boats, kayaks, and SUP with family in Ouchy
Want to glide on Lake Geneva with the kids? Pédalino in Lausanne offers pedal boats, kayaks, and paddles, simple and fun, departing from Ouchy. A fresh, active outing that’s 100% lake.
Roman Museum of Lausanne-Vidy: a dive into Lousonna with family
Just steps away from the lake, the Roman Museum of Lausanne-Vidy brings Lousonna back to life. An ideal outing to spark children's curiosity with objects, models, and an archaeological park.
Photo Elysée in Lausanne: photography at child’s height
At the heart of PLATEFORME 10, Photo Elysée invites families to explore photography in a different way. Visual exhibitions, workshops, and quiet moments, just a stone's throw from Lausanne train station.
Collection of Outsider Art in Lausanne: a visit that awakens curiosity
A museum unlike any other in Lausanne, where unique works intrigue, spark conversation, and inspire creativity. Perfect for a quiet outing with curious children.
UNIL-CHUV Hand Museum in Lausanne: science and health for the family
An interactive museum in Lausanne where families explore the body, health, and sciences. Fun exhibits, workshops, and hands-on activities to awaken curiosity and critical thinking.
Platform 10 in Lausanne: an arts district to explore with family
Just steps away from the Lausanne train station, Plateforme 10 brings together three museums and a large esplanade. A vibrant cultural space where you can stroll, learn, and marvel with children.
Naturéum – zoology department at the Palais de Rumine (Lausanne)
At the heart of the Palais de Rumine in Lausanne, the zoology department of the Naturéum invites families to explore animals, skeletons, and curiosities of the living world. A curious visit, suitable for ages 3 and up, available year-round.
Sauvabelin in Lausanne: animal park, lake, and wooden tower
North of Lausanne, the Sauvabelin site features a lake, a wildlife park, and a wooden panoramic tower. A nature outing, free and accessible, perfect for children.
The Jump Spot – Trampoline park in Lausanne
A large indoor trampoline park in Lausanne where children can safely expend their energy. Ideal for rainy weather or after school, with time slots for younger ones.
The Petit Théâtre de Lausanne: first stage emotions for your children
At the foot of the Cathedral, Le Petit Théâtre offers gentle performances for young audiences. A child-sized room, stories that help you grow, and a warm welcome.
Bois de Sauvabelin – Urban forest & family park in Lausanne
Just a stone's throw from the center of Lausanne, the Bois de Sauvabelin offers a nature walk with a lake, animals, and a playground. A free, simple, and refreshing outing for the whole family.
Color Your Life – Creative Box to Color at Home
A creative box ready to use delivered in French-speaking Switzerland to keep children entertained at home. Simple, fun, and screen-free, perfect for rainy days or for a birthday.
mudac in Lausanne: design that speaks to families
At mudac, just a stone's throw from Lausanne train station, design becomes a game of exploration. Exhibitions, everyday objects, and clever ideas spark children's curiosity.
The Olympic Museum in Lausanne: sports, games, and family discoveries
In Ouchy, the Olympic Museum brings together the history of sport, iconic objects, and an interactive center that gets children moving. A smart, fun, and inspiring outing by the shores of Lake Geneva.
Mon-Repos Swimming Pool in Lausanne: indoor with diving boards
A simple and dynamic idea in the heart of Lausanne: the Mon-Repos indoor swimming pool. Bright pools, diving boards, and a family-friendly atmosphere to move, learn, and have fun all year round.
Palais de Rumine in Lausanne: museums and library with family
In the heart of Lausanne, the Palais de Rumine houses several cantonal museums and a large library. A cultural outing, calm and curious, ideal for children of all ages.
Foundation of the Hermitage in Lausanne: art museum and garden
A manor in the heart of a wooded park, accessible art exhibitions, and a café with a view: the Fondation de l'Hermitage in Lausanne is a gentle and inspiring family outing.
Archaeological Park & Roman Museum of Lausanne-Vidy
Just steps from the lake, explore the remnants of Lousonna and a child-sized museum. An outing that combines a stroll, history, and curiosity, perfect for a family break all year round.
Foxtrail in Lausanne – Urban treasure hunt for families
A life-sized treasure hunt in Lausanne. In teams, you follow clever clues and solve puzzles. Perfect for moving, thinking, and exploring the city with family.
Lasered Lausanne: family escape games and laser tag
Want to move and think as a team? Lasered Lausanne combines laser tag and indoor escape games, perfect for any weather to let the kids blow off steam and stimulate their minds.
Espace des Inventions in Lausanne: the science that makes you want to explore
In the heart of the Valley of Youth, the Space of Inventions invites children to touch, test, and understand science while having fun. A clever, playful, and accessible outing.
AQUATIS – Aquarium-Vivarium in Lausanne: an outing that amazes
Head to AQUATIS in Lausanne: an immersive journey into the heart of the world's rivers and lakes. Perfect with children of all ages, to learn, marvel, and stay warm all year round.
Why choose Lausanne for a family outing?
Lausanne has a rare density of activities for a city of its size. Up in the heights, the Sauvabelin park and tower offer a real breath of fresh air: you can observe the animals in the animal park, climb to the top of the wooden tower for a view of the lake and the Alps, and enjoy the Sauvabelin lake for a peaceful stroll. It's the ideal place when looking to combine nature and the outdoors without leaving the city.
On the museum and culture side, the offerings are particularly rich. The Olympic Museum, one of the emblems of the Olympic capital, immerses families in the history and values of sport in an interactive way. The Plateforme 10 district, near the train station, brings together several museums including Photo Elysée and mudac (design and applied arts), perfect for sparking the curiosity of older children. Over in Vidy, the Lausanne-Vidy Roman Museum tells the ancient history of the city, right on the site of the former city.
For children curious about science and mechanisms, the Espace des Inventions offers hands-on exhibitions that make learning fun. And for an immersion in the world of freshwater, AQUATIS, the largest freshwater aquarium-vivarium in Europe, takes both young and old on a journey through different ecosystems. Two reliable options when the weather invites staying indoors.
When the sun is out, the lakeside at Ouchy becomes an open-air playground. You can rent a Pédalino to pedal on Lake Geneva, enjoy the water play area Pieds dans l'O in summer, or let the kids have fun along the quays. Skateboard enthusiasts also have their spots with the skateparks in Vidy and Sévelin, while The Jump Spot, a trampoline park, allows for indoor fun. The youngest will enjoy a performance at the Petit Théâtre, dedicated to young audiences.
With these few examples, we only scratch the surface of what the city offers: Lausanne has around thirty activities listed on Kidora, providing plenty of variety throughout the seasons. Between culture, nature, sports, and the lakeside, you're sure to find an idea suited to everyone's age and mood of the day. That's the beauty of a big city like Lausanne: you can return without ever having done the same outing twice.
