Top Things to do in Canton of Vaud
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10 Historic Sites in Canton of Vaud That You Shouldn't Miss
Located in the southwestern part of Switzerland, in its French-speaking part between Lake Geneva and Lake Neuchâtel, the Canton of Vaud is a vacation destination where life is good. Easily accessible thanks to the proximity of Geneva international airport and an exceptionally dense public transport network, the region offers all the necessary infrastructures, from five-star palaces to charming guest rooms. The diversity of its landscapes, from the peaks of the Alps, to the lakeside towns of Lausanne and Montreux, to the wide open spaces of the Jura and the authentic charm of the countryside, concentrates all the facets of Switzerland in one territory. The beautiful towns and villages, such as Lausanne, Montreux, Nyon, Morges and Yverdon-les-Bains, are steeped in centuries of history and rich in captivating culture. This region has influenced and inspired artists over the years, from Lord Byron and Audrey Hepburn to Charlie Chaplin and Freddie Mercury. But the region is best known for its art of living. Local or internationally renowned events, outdoor sports activities, regional know-how, typical and high level gastronomy, excellent wines, living traditions, cultural offer... are all elements that seduce visitors.
Restaurants in Canton of Vaud
1. Cathedrale de Lausanne
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,845 reviews
Reviewed By Crvan - Weston, United States
After our tour of the Parc de Mon Repos, we hiked our way uphill to the cathedral; it is quite the workout the way we came as it was all uphill and we had to take a couple breathers before we made it to the top by the cathedral. The cathedral was dedicated in 1275 and is situated in the higher portions of Lausanne; from different vantage points around the cathedral, you have splendid views of Old Town Lausanne and of Lake Geneva. The architecture and the detailed carvings by the main entryway are outstanding and gorgeous. This is definitely one of the more beautiful churches inside and out in Switzerland. The interior is also well appointed and well worth a tour inside to see it and learn more of its history. This is one of the top three must see destinations in Lausanne.
2. Chateau de Chillon
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4,020 reviews
The doors of one of Europe's most fascinating castle are open to you. This thousand year old historical monument is located in an natural setting on the shores of Lake Geneva in at the foot of the Alps in Switzerland. Individual or groups tours, unaccompanied, guided or with an audioguide are available. Chillon also organises exhibitions, artistic and popular performances, as well as concerts throughout the year. Open all year round (except January 1 and December 25).
Reviewed By Martz560 - Montreal, Canada
Really nice castle, you’ll love it! It took us maybe 2 hours for the whole visit, but I could have spent more time there. The different rooms are really nice. I took the audio guide (on an iPod), it was worth it. It gave me a lot of interesting little facts about the site. Of course, the road to the castle around the Lake Geneva (Léman) offers stunning views.
3. Bains Romains
4. Musee du vieux Montreux
5. Prangins Castle
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 111 reviews
Reviewed By 837antjeh - Weinfelden, Switzerland
We first went to the permanent exhibition then had lunch at the café. We never ever had a salad this excellent; fresh from the Castle's own garden with a terrific vinegrette! Service was also very friendly and helpful.
6. Corniche Lavaux Vineyards
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 253 reviews
Reviewed By beatrizm115 - Dortmund, Germany
Beautiful vineyards even during winter, it is worth it if you are in the region of Montreux. My friend took me there with her car and we had a beautiful view of the lake with the vineyards. I am sure it looks even more beautiful when the weather is clear and when they are more green. It was the first week of January.
7. Musee Du Fer Et Du Chemin De Fer
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 46 reviews
Since 1495 the 'Grandes Forges' has been the fire burning at the heart of Vallorbe, contributing greatly to the wealth of the town. Classed a historic monument, this exceptional location has housed a museum dedicated to the ironwork industry and railways, since 1980 (both of which have played a crucial role in the development of the town). To visit the museum, a mobile app' is available in English, German and French. On first visiting the ironworks the picturesque charm of the medieval quarter of Vallorbe is immediately captivating. Drawing closer...attention is quickly diverted by the six magnificent water wheels supplying energy to the workshop machinery. The ancient working forge is the central attraction...mysterious, atmospheric, a scene from times gone by. The dexterity and imagination of the blacksmiths both delight and fascinate. An audio-visual presentation of the history of iron... videos and the superb museum collections, reveal the beauty of the ancient professional crafts of Vallorbe. On the second floor the entire saga of the Simplon Railway Line is told by multi-image presentation on a large cinema screen (in French, German and English). On the second and third floors models scale HO and rail memorabilia are on display. You can also play stationmaster with the collection of working, remote controlled, historical models, scale 'O' on an impressive 277m of track.
8. Roman Amphitheatre
9. Roman Mosaics of Orbe-Bosceaz
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 16 reviews
The most beautiful set of Roman mosaics in the north of the Alps has been uncovered near Orbe, on the Bosceaz site. These unique vestiges of a luxurious villa represent figurative and geometrical scenes.
