At a glance
Hours and prices checked on 21 October 2026 — always confirm on the official website before your visit.
Grand-Pont
In the 19th century, the hills and valleys of Lausanne made traffic very difficult. Between 1839 and 1862, the cantonal engineer Adrien Pichard built a ring of gently sloping roads around the medieval town; the Grand-Pont, built from 1839 to 1844, and the Tunnel de la Barre were its two key works.
The bridge, 180 metres long and 25 metres high, originally rested on two levels of arches: 5 below and 19 above. When the Flon valley was filled in, the lower row disappeared underground. The Grand-Pont reshaped the south-west edge of the city and became a symbol of modern Lausanne.
Key dates
- 1839–1844
Construction of the Grand-Pont, on two levels of arches.
- 1839–1862
The Pichard ring road is built around the medieval town.
- 1870s
The Flon valley is filled in: the lower row of arches disappears.
- 2022
Closure for renovation from January to November.
The hidden arches
The bridge originally had 5 arches on the lower level and 19 on the upper level. The soil from the tunnels of the Lausanne-Ouchy railway was used to fill the valley: today only the upper arches can be seen from the Flon.
Stand on the Place de l’Europe and look up to imagine the bridge’s original height above the river.
Did you know?
Plan your visit
Getting there
- Metro m1 or m2, stop Lausanne-Flon; climb to the bridge by the stairs or lifts.
- On foot from Saint-François or Bel-Air.
Our tips
- The best view of the arches is from the Flon below.
- Cross it at dusk to see the lights of the Flon.
Frequently asked questions
When was the Grand-Pont built?
Between 1839 and 1844.
How long and high is it?
180 metres long and 25 metres high at its highest point (original dimensions).
Why are some arches missing?
The lower row disappeared when the Flon valley was filled in during the 1870s.
Who designed the ring road?
The cantonal engineer Adrien Pichard.
Where is the best view?
From the Place de l’Europe in the Flon district.
Official sources
VisitLausanne.com is an independent guide. Information is provided for planning purposes; the official websites above are the reference.