Photo Elysée in Lausanne: photography at child’s height

A Picture Interlude in the Heart of Lausanne

Just two minutes from the train station, Photo Elysée sparks the curiosity of both children and parents. The museum brings together exhibitions, workshops, and mediation spaces designed for looking, comparing, zooming, and above all, telling stories through images. It’s a calming, bright, easily accessible place where one can take the time to observe without rushing.

What Your Children Will Love

The exhibitions blend historical snapshots and contemporary creations. Children enjoy searching for details, playing image detectives, discovering the behind-the-scenes of a photo, and understanding how light transforms a face, a landscape, an object. The mediations are simple and playful: mini-courses, game booklets, sometimes workshops that involve manipulating light, framing, or collage. It’s aesthetic, sensory, and very accessible, even for those who "know nothing" about photography.

What the Visit Looks Like

The visit is calm and immersive. Expect to spend 60 to 90 minutes depending on the children's interest and the size of the exhibitions. It’s easy to stroll with a stroller, the spaces are wide, and the elevator connects all levels. The activity is primarily educational and contemplative, with moments of hands-on engagement during family workshops.

• Recommended ages: from 5 years old to enjoy the content; teens also find it appealing.
• Reservation: not necessary for the free visit; useful for workshops and busy weekends.
• Tickets: paid entry for adults; frequent discounts and possible free entry for children/teens depending on exhibitions and combined offers at PLATEFORME 10. Check online.
• Accessibility: recent building, stroller access and facilities for people with reduced mobility.
• Public transport: ideal, right next to Lausanne-Gare (trains, metro M2, buses).
• Period: all year round, in all weather (perfect on rainy or heatwave days).

What This Outing Brings Them

• Curiosity and observation skills: learning to read an image, spotting framing and light.
• Creativity: the desire to experiment with angles, portraits, small series.
• Language and expression: narrating what one sees, putting words to emotions.
• Confidence: daring to express opinions on a work, comparing viewpoints.

Before You Go

Bring a water bottle and a small snack for the outing (consumption outside the rooms). Dress the children in layers that are easy to remove: the temperature in the rooms is stable. A small notebook and a pencil can turn the visit into an observation game. For toddlers, a compact stroller or baby carrier makes moving around easier.

Parent Tips

• Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
• Use the game booklets when they are offered: it makes all the difference.
• Set a "photo objective" for the outing: look for three smiling portraits, a reflection, a shadow…
• Take a break at PLATEFORME 10 between two rooms: the air and light refresh attention.
• Combine with another site visit (MCBA or mudac) if your children still have energy.

Useful Information

• Address: PLATEFORME 10, Place de la Gare 17, 1003 Lausanne
• Website: https://www.photoelysee.ch
• Hours: generally from Tuesday to Sunday, closed on Monday. Check the hours and evening openings on the website.
• Weather: ideal in all weather (100% indoor activity).
• Access: walking distance from Lausanne-Gare; metro M2 (Gare), TL buses; paid parking nearby (Gare, Montbenon; neighborhood parking).

Why We Recommend It

Because photography speaks to all ages. Children easily engage with images, ask a thousand questions, and leave with a desire to create. The setting of PLATEFORME 10 is practical and welcoming, the visit is at your own pace, and the family/workshop offerings make the experience even more lively.

In Two Words

A gentle, inspiring, and well-located outing, perfect for opening your children's eyes to the world of images. Looking for more ideas in French-speaking Switzerland? Create your Kidora account or subscribe to the newsletter to not miss anything.