Landmark
Place de la Palud
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Place de la Palud is the vibrant heart of Lausanne's old town, a cobblestone square that has been a gathering place for centuries. Dominated by the ornate 16th-century fountain of Justice, the square is flanked by the Gothic-style Town Hall (Hôtel de Ville) and colorful historic buildings. The square hosts a lively market on Wednesday and Saturday mornings, where locals buy fresh produce, flowers, and artisan goods. Visitors can sit at outdoor cafés, watch street performers, or admire the intricate clock on the Town Hall facade, which features animated figures at certain hours. The square's elevated position offers glimpses of the surrounding rooftops and the lake beyond, making it a picturesque spot for photography.
Don't miss
- Fountain of Justice with its statue of Lady Justice
- Gothic Town Hall with its animated clock
- Wednesday and Saturday morning markets
- Nearby Escaliers du Marché, a historic covered staircase
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Place de la Palud
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inLausanne Self-Guided City Walking Tour & Scavenger Hunt4.5★ · 15 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$6 per personSee dates →
Most bookedThe Olympic Museum Entrance Ticket in Lausanne4.6★ · 220 travelers1–2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$25 per personSee dates →More attractions in Lausanne

