At a glance
Hours and prices checked on 21 October 2026 — always confirm on the official website before your visit.
Escaliers du Marché
The stairs are mentioned as early as the 13th century; their present form dates from 1717–1719. They owe their name to the town market, held on the neighbouring square until the 14th century.
Covered with a wooden roof, the stairs wind alongside a very steep paved street and a row of houses with shops and cafés, some with elements from the 16th century. At the top, the cathedral’s belfry continues the upward movement.
Key dates
- 13th c.
First mention of the stairs.
- Until 14th c.
The town market is held on the neighbouring square — hence the name.
- 1717–1719
The stairs are rebuilt in their present form.
- 1911
Rue Pierre-Viret cuts through the upper part.
- 1975
A passage restores the continuity of the stairs.
A walk through the old town
Start at the Place de la Palud, climb the Escaliers du Marché to the cathedral, then continue to the Château Saint-Maire and the panoramic terrace of the Cité: the whole medieval heart of Lausanne in under an hour.
Take your time on the way up: the shops and cafés along the stairs invite you to stop.
Did you know?
Plan your visit
Getting there
- Start from the Place de la Palud (metro m2, stop Riponne-M. Béjart or Flon).
- At the top you arrive at the cathedral and the Cité.
Our tips
- Wear comfortable shoes: the climb is steep.
- Morning light is beautiful under the wooden roof.
- Not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs — take metro m2 to Bessières instead.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the climb?
About 5 to 10 minutes from the Palud to the cathedral.
Why are they called “Market stairs”?
Because the town market was held on the neighbouring square until the 14th century.
Are they covered?
Yes, a wooden roof covers the stairs.
Are they accessible?
No, they are stairs only; use metro m2 to Bessières for step-free access to the cathedral area.
Is it free?
Yes, open to everyone at any time.
Official sources
VisitLausanne.com is an independent guide. Information is provided for planning purposes; the official websites above are the reference.