Things to Do in Lausanne in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Lausanne
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect hiking weather - temperatures ideal for 500-1000m (1,640-3,280 ft) elevation trails without overheating, plus snow-free mountain paths
- Lake Geneva reaches 16°C (61°F) by late May, making waterfront dining and boat trips comfortable without summer tourist crowds
- Spring blooms peak in Lavaux vineyards - terraced vines show fresh green growth against Lake Geneva backdrop, best photo conditions
- Hotel rates 30-40% lower than July-August peak season, with easy restaurant reservations and uncrowded train connections to Alps
Considerations
- Rain gear essential - 12 rainy days with sudden afternoon showers that can last 1-2 hours, disrupting outdoor plans
- Evening temperatures drop to 11°C (52°F) requiring layers - many outdoor terraces close by 9pm due to chill
- Some higher altitude Alpine excursions still closed - passes above 2,000m (6,560 ft) may have snow, limiting hiking options
Best Activities in May
Lavaux Vineyard Hiking Trails
May offers perfect conditions for UNESCO World Heritage vineyard walks - comfortable 18-20°C (64-68°F) temperatures, spring vine growth creating vibrant green terraces, and clear Lake Geneva views before summer haze. Trails are dry after April snow melt but before summer heat makes midday hiking uncomfortable.
Lake Geneva Boat Excursions
Lake temperature reaches swimmable 16°C (61°F) by late May, and spring clarity offers best Alpine views across to Mont Blanc. CGN steamers run full schedules starting mid-May with heated indoor sections for cooler days. Perfect timing before summer crowds pack boats.
Olympic Museum and Waterfront Walking
May's mild temperatures make the 2km (1.2 mile) lakefront promenade from Ouchy to Olympic Museum ideal for extended outdoor exploration. Museum's outdoor sculptures and gardens are at peak spring condition, with comfortable walking weather avoiding summer's heat and winter's ice.
Lausanne Food Market Tours
Spring produce peaks in May at Marché de la Riponne - asparagus, early berries, and regional cheeses at optimal quality. Pleasant 18°C (64°F) mornings make market walking comfortable, plus local restaurant terraces reopen with seasonal menus featuring spring ingredients.
Glacier 3000 Day Trips
May marks the reopening of high-altitude Alpine experiences - Glacier 3000 lifts resume full operations after winter maintenance, offering spring skiing and glacier walks. Perfect timing for snow activities without extreme winter cold, plus extended daylight hours until 8pm.
Gruyères Medieval Village Excursions
One hour from Lausanne, May weather makes Gruyères castle and village exploration comfortable without summer heat. Cheese-making demonstrations resume full schedule, and countryside hiking trails around the village are snow-free but not yet crowded with peak season visitors.
May Events & Festivals
Lausanne Marathon Weekend
Major international running event drawing 25,000+ participants with course through city center, lakefront, and vineyard areas. Creates festive atmosphere but impacts traffic and hotel availability. Course showcases spring Lausanne at its most photogenic.
Festival de la Cité Street Theater
Free outdoor performances begin preview shows in May before June main festival. Street artists, musicians, and theater groups perform in old town squares and parks, taking advantage of mild spring weather perfect for outdoor entertainment.