At a glance
Hours and prices checked on 21 October 2026 — always confirm on the official website before your visit.
Place de la Palud
The Place de la Palud has been the civic heart of Lausanne for centuries. Its Town Hall, from the 17th century, displays a large Vaud-style roof, arcades and a Renaissance façade with two copper gargoyles shaped like dragons.
In the centre stands the city’s oldest fountain, topped by a statue of Justice. Nearby, a wall clock presents scenes of Vaud history: its automatons come out every hour from 9:00 to 19:00. On Wednesday and Saturday mornings, the rural market fills the square and the surrounding streets.
Key dates
- Middle Ages
The town grows around the Cité hill, shaped by the Flon and Louve rivers.
- 17th c.
Construction of the present Town Hall.
- Today
Seat of the municipal council and the setting of the market.
Market mornings
On Wednesday and Saturday mornings, producers from the region bring fruit, vegetables, cheese, bread and flowers to the Palud and the pedestrian streets around it. It is the best moment to feel the everyday life of Lausanne.
From the square, the covered wooden Escaliers du Marché climb directly to the cathedral.
Did you know?
Plan your visit
Getting there
- Metro m2, stop Riponne-M. Béjart or Flon, then a few minutes on foot.
- Many bus lines stop at Saint-François and Bel-Air, 5 minutes away.
Our tips
- Be there on the hour to watch the automatons.
- Come on a market morning for the best atmosphere.
- Continue up the Escaliers du Marché to the cathedral.
Frequently asked questions
When is the market?
On Wednesday and Saturday mornings.
When do the automatons appear?
Every hour, on the hour, from 9:00 to 19:00.
Can I visit the Town Hall?
It is the seat of the municipal council; the façade and arcades can be admired from the square.
How do I reach the cathedral from here?
Climb the covered Escaliers du Marché, which start next to the square.
Is it free?
Yes, the square is open to everyone.
Official sources
VisitLausanne.com is an independent guide. Information is provided for planning purposes; the official websites above are the reference.