Photo Elysée travel guide

The Musée de l'Elysée, situated in Lausanne, is one of the leading museums in Europe dedicated to photography. It was established in 1985 in a beautiful 18th-century mansion known as the Elysée Palace, which overlooks the stunning Lake Geneva.

The museum was founded with the mission to preserve and showcase photographic works, offering a platform for both historical and contemporary photography. Its collection spans over 100,000 prints, including works by iconic photographers such as Robert Capa, Henri Cartier-Bresson, and Sebastião Salgado.

The Musée de l'Elysée has played a significant role in the international photography scene through its exhibitions, publications, and educational programs. In 2019, the museum began preparations to move to a new location within the PLATEFORME 10 arts district, aiming to provide more space and modern facilities for its growing collection and visitor needs.

Throughout its history, the museum has been committed to fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the photographic medium, making it a must-visit destination for art and photography enthusiasts.

Musée de l'Elysée stands out with its focus on photography, offering a unique blend of historical and contemporary works. One of its distinctive features is the extensive collection of over 100,000 prints, including rare and iconic photographs that span the history of the medium. The museum also frequently hosts cutting-edge temporary exhibitions, showcasing the works of both renowned and emerging photographers from around the world.

Another notable aspect is its commitment to digital innovation; the museum has pioneered several digital initiatives, providing virtual access to its collections and interactive online experiences. Additionally, the Musée de l'Elysée is housed in a beautiful 18th-century mansion, providing a striking contrast between the classical architecture and the modern art it displays.

The museum's educational programs are also exceptional, featuring workshops, lectures, and guided tours that delve into the art and science of photography. These programs are designed to engage visitors of all ages and skill levels, making the museum a dynamic and inclusive cultural hub.

Musée de l'Elysée, renowned for its dedication to photography, houses over one million photographic prints and negatives, making it one of the most significant photography museums globally. The museum's collection includes images from the 19th century to the present day, with notable works by photographic pioneers and contemporary artists. It is also the custodian of the Charlie Chaplin photographic collection, offering a rare glimpse into the life of the iconic actor. The museum is known for its innovative exhibitions, often blending technology and traditional photography to create immersive experiences. Additionally, the museum's current location in the Plateforme 10 arts district marks a new era, as it shares space with other prominent art institutions, fostering a vibrant cultural hub in Lausanne.

Discover Photo Elysée, a prime feature of Lausanne, in the vibrant Lausanne. Photo Elysée is situated at Pl. De la Gare 17, 1003 Lausanne, Switzerland, just a short distance from Casino de Montbenon and Esplanade de Montbenon, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Photo Elysée, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Lausanne, a city in Switzerland rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Lausanne travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

The best time to explore Musée de l'Elysée is during the spring and early autumn months, specifically from April to June and September to October. During these periods, Lausanne enjoys mild weather, making it ideal for strolling around the city and visiting its cultural landmarks. Springtime brings a refreshing atmosphere with blooming flowers, while early autumn offers pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage. These seasons also tend to have moderate crowd levels, allowing for a more relaxed and intimate museum experience.

If you aim to avoid larger crowds, weekdays are preferable over weekends regardless of the season. Additionally, Musée de l'Elysée often hosts special exhibitions and events that can significantly enhance your visit. Keep an eye on their official website for updated schedules of unique activities and temporary exhibits that coincide with your travel dates.

Winter, while colder, is also a great time for photography enthusiasts as the museum typically features special exhibitions, and the serene ambiance can be quite captivating. However, for the most comfortable and enriching visit, spring and early autumn are undoubtedly the best times to explore Musée de l'Elysée.

Photo Elysée is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Lausanne, Switzerland. If you're flying in, Geneva Airport is approximately 31.3 miles (50.3 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Photo Elysée by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Lausanne, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Photo Elysée, which is located 0.5 miles (0.8 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Pl. De la Gare 17, 1003 Lausanne, Switzerland.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Photo Elysée!

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Lausanne, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Photo Elysée.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic museum in Switzerland.

Upon arriving at Geneva Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Lausanne.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Lausanne.

Choosing the right accommodation near Photo Elysée from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Lausanne can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Photo Elysée, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Photo Elysée, Lausanne boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From museum to park, the top attractions in Lausanne offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

This well-known museum enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Lausanne Cathedral is worth seeing when you're in Lausanne. It's a popular church that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Pl. De la Cathédrale 1, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Esplanade de Montbenon completes any trip to Lausanne. This park draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at All. Ernest-Ansermet 3, 1003 Lausanne, Switzerland, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Lausanne below to discover even more incredible places to explore.