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Olympic Museum
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Landmark
The Olympic Museum in Lausanne, opened in 1993 under the initiative of former IOC President Juan Antonio Samaranch, is the world's largest repository of information on the Olympic Games. Located on the scenic shores of Lake Geneva in the Ouchy district, it is surrounded by a sprawling park filled with sports-themed sculptures and an eternal Olympic flame. Following a major renovation in 2013, the museum now features state-of-the-art interactive exhibits across three floors, divided into 'The Olympic World', 'The Olympic Games', and 'The Olympic Spirit'. Visitors can view historical torches, medals, and personal equipment from legendary athletes while learning about the evolution of the games from ancient Greece to the modern era through audiovisual displays. Lausanne has been the official 'Olympic Capital' since 1994, hosting the headquarters of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The museum serves to educate the public on the core values of Olympism, excellence, friendship, and respect, and remains a key destination for global sports fans.
- Location: Switzerland, Switzerland
- Top sights: The Olympic Museum · Eglise de la Croix d'Ouchy · Parc du Denantou
- Nearby: Montreux (23 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -1 | 0 | 4 | 9 | 12 | 17 | 19 | 18 | 14 | 10 | 4 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 96 | 75 | 92 | 82 | 117 | 107 | 101 | 107 | 80 | 103 | 100 | 109 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Olympic Museum is open to the public and can be visited indoors. The permanent exhibition features interactive displays and historical artifacts from the Olympic Games.
Typical hours
The museum is typically open daily from 9am to 6pm, with extended hours in summer. It is closed on certain public holidays, so check the official website in advance.
Photography
Photography is allowed inside the museum, but flash and tripods are usually prohibited. The outdoor areas, including the Olympic cauldron and park, offer great photo opportunities.
Time needed
Most visitors spend 2 to 3 hours exploring the exhibits. If you also want to walk through the park and lakeside, plan an additional hour.
Combine with
Combine your visit with a stroll along the Lake Geneva promenade and a stop at the Olympic Park. The old town of Lausanne with its cathedral is also nearby.
Getting there
The museum is easily accessible by metro line M2 to Ouchy station or by bus. From Lausanne train station, it's a short taxi ride or a scenic walk downhill.
Insider tip
Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially in peak season. A combined ticket for the museum and Olympic Park saves money and time.
Geography
Facts
- The museum was founded in 1993 and received the European Museum of the Year Award in 1995.
- It underwent a massive 22-month renovation, reopening in December 2013.
- The permanent exhibition covers approximately 3,000 square meters of floor space.
- The site features a panoramic restaurant with views over Lake Geneva and the Alps.
- The collection includes over 1,500 artifacts and tens of thousands of documents.
- Lausanne is the world's only city to hold the title of 'Olympic Capital'.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Olympic Museum (10)
Thai Pavilion
Thai-style pavilion in Lausanne.
Christ Church Lausanne
Church building in Lausanne in the canton of Vaud, Switzerland.
Tour Haldimand
Neo-Gothic romantic tower, a fake ruin.
Plage Haldimand - Rives du Lac
Beach on Lake Geneva in Lausanne.
Galerie Nane Cailler
Gallery in Lausanne.
Point extrême sud de Lausanne
Southernmost point of Lausanne, marked by a lighthouse.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Olympic Museum located?
It is located in Lausanne, on the shores of Lake Geneva in the Ouchy district.
What can you see in the museum?
Exhibits on the history of the Olympic Games, torches, medals, and sports equipment from famous athletes.
Is there a park at the museum?
Yes, the Olympic Park around the museum contains numerous sports sculptures and is free to access.
Is the museum interactive?
Yes, there are many interactive stations where you can test your own athletic skills.
Is there a restaurant in the museum?
Yes, the 'TOM Café' on the top floor has a magnificent view of the lake and the Alps.
Olympic Museum: where is it located?
Olympic Museum is located in Switzerland, Switzerland.
Olympic Museum: what is there to see?
Highlights include The Olympic Museum, Eglise de la Croix d'Ouchy, Parc du Denantou.
Olympic Museum: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Olympic Museum: why is it worth visiting?
The Olympic Museum in Lausanne, opened in 1993 under the initiative of former IOC President Juan Antonio Samaranch, is the world's largest repository of information on the Olympic Games.
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