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.

Located in the dynamic Lausanne, the popular Photo Elysée is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Lausanne or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Switzerland.

Lausanne is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Lausanne offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Lausanne and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable The Olympic Museum, Lausanne Cathedral, Esplanade de Montbenon, Sauvabelin Tower, and Place de la Palud.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Lausanne has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Lausanne, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Switzerland!

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 Lausanne. 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. You can also rent a car and drive to Photo Elysée, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. 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!

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Photo Elysée and other top attractions in Lausanne than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Lausanne include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Photo Elysée's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Photo Elysée and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of this one-of-a-kind art museum in Switzerland.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Photo Elysée and Switzerland's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Geneva Airport and the city of Lausanne, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Switzerland cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Lausanne and beyond.

Conveniently explore Photo Elysée and plenty more captivating attractions in Lausanne by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Photo Elysée and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Lausanne has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Photo Elysée below.

Aside from Photo Elysée, Lausanne is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Lausanne, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely The Olympic Museum, Lausanne Cathedral, and Esplanade de Montbenon.

The Olympic Museum is a bucket-list museum and top attraction in Lausanne, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,700 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of The Olympic Museum is Quai d'Ouchy 1, 1006 Lausanne, Switzerland.

Another appreciated attraction in Lausanne is Lausanne Cathedral. Like The Olympic Museum, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars among 5,800 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this church is Pl. De la Cathédrale 1, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland.

Esplanade de Montbenon is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Lausanne. This park and top attraction in Lausanne has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,700 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of All. Ernest-Ansermet 3, 1003 Lausanne, Switzerland.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Lausanne below.