Market Stairs, Tourist attraction and stairway in the old town of Lausanne, Switzerland
The Escaliers du Marché are a covered outdoor stairway in the old town of Lausanne, linking the Place de la Palud below to the cathedral above. The path runs between rows of old stone and timber-framed buildings, with small landings and a change in street level along the way.
The stairway dates back to the 13th century, when it served as a direct route up to the cathedral. A new street cut through the middle in 1911, splitting the path in two, but a tunnel built in 1975 joined the two sections again.
Halfway up the stairs, there was once a small market square, which is how this stairway got its name. Today this spot is a quiet passage connecting daily life in the lower town to the old streets near the cathedral.
The climb takes some effort, so comfortable shoes are a good idea, especially if the stones are wet. Market days at the Place de la Palud below make the start of the walk livelier and worth timing your visit around.
At the top of the stairway stands the Pavillon Levade, a small wooden structure built in 1782 by a pastor of the same name. It sits just below the cathedral and offers an open view over the rooftops before you step through the final gate.
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