The Olympic Museum sits in Ouchy on the shore of Lake Geneva, in Lausanne, the city that hosts the International Olympic Committee. Its exhibitions trace the Games from ancient Greece to the present, with Olympic torches, medals, posters, and athletes' equipment and clothing on show across about 3,000 square metres. Films and screens bring back famous ceremonies and moments, and interactive displays let you test your own speed, coordination and memory. Allow a few hours inside, then walk the lakeside grounds, where sculptures of Olympic sports line the terraces.
Lausanne and the Olympic movement
Lausanne has been home to the International Olympic Committee for more than a century, and the museum grew out of that connection. Pierre de Coubertin, the French founder of the modern Games, moved the committee to the city during the First World War to keep it safe.
The museum opened in 1993 and was renovated in 2013. It is the only museum in the world founded by the committee, and it holds one of the largest collections of Olympic material anywhere.
Inside the exhibitions
The main exhibition is organised around three themes: the Olympic World, the Games themselves and the Olympic spirit. The displays start in ancient Greece and move through to recent competitions.
Among the objects are Olympic torches, medals, programmes, posters, and equipment and clothing worn by athletes. The galleries also cover the achievements of athletes such as Jesse Owens and Carl Lewis.
Video recreates memorable moments and opening ceremonies, and the museum traces how sports technology and clothing design have changed over time. Around 150 screens are spread through the building.
Interactive activities
Many displays ask you to take part. You can test your speed, coordination and memory, and some activities let you measure yourself against Olympic record-setting times. A 100-metre track lets you race friends.
Children can try on the role of an athlete through the hands-on activities, which is one reason the museum suits families.
The grounds and Olympic Park
The outdoor park is free to explore. Sculptures of Olympic sports stand among landscaped terraces that slope down to the lake, and the grounds include a running track.
Parc Olympique lies next to the museum. The Olympic flame can be seen on the museum grounds. The park makes a good break between floors of exhibits, or a stop after your visit.
Food, access and facilities
The TOM Café is a panoramic restaurant with a terrace over Lake Geneva and the Alps, and the restaurant serves brunch on Sundays.
The entrance, elevator, restroom and parking lot are wheelchair accessible. The museum also has changing tables, a restroom, a museum shop and a cloakroom.
Perguntas frequentes
Is there an entry fee?
Yes, the museum charges admission. Tickets can be bought in advance, which is recommended. Some temporary exhibitions may be free, so check the museum website.
How long do you need?
Plan at least two hours to see the main exhibition, with time for the temporary shows and the outdoor grounds.
Is the museum good for children?
Yes. It is family-friendly, has interactive activities for children, and offers changing tables.
Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The entrance, elevator, restroom and parking lot are wheelchair accessible.
