Things To Do
in Renens
Renens is a residential and transport hub just west of Lausanne in the canton of Vaud. It offers easy access to the shores of Lake Geneva and the surrounding vineyards while preserving a calm, neighborhood vibe. The town sits at the heart of a vibrant Swiss-French corridor, making day trips to Lausanne, Montreux, and the Lavaux vineyards effortless.
Visitors should expect a mix of suburban charm, efficient public transport, and proximity to world-class culture and landscapes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh pastries and coffee while soaking in the quaint atmosphere of Renens. After breakfast, take a stroll through the charming streets, admiring the blend of modern architecture and traditional Swiss design. Visit the nearby Parc de l'Indépendance for a peaceful morning walk among the trees and gardens.
In the afternoon, head to the Renens Market to experience local culture and purchase fresh produce, artisan goods, or souvenirs. Afterward, visit the nearby Vaud Museum of Contemporary Arts to immerse yourself in the vibrant local art scene. Enjoy lunch at a bistro nearby, sampling regional specialties and relaxing with locals.
As the sun sets, unwind with a dinner reservation at a renowned restaurant in Renens, where you can enjoy exquisite Swiss cuisine. After dinner, discover the nightlife by visiting a cozy bar for a drink or joining in on live music events at local venues. End your evening with a scenic walk along the nearby shores of Lake Geneva, taking in spectacular views of the mountains and stars.
Start your cultural exploration of Renens with a visit to the historic Church of Renens, a beautiful example of 17th-century architecture. Afterward, indulge in breakfast at a nearby café tucked away in the quaint streets, where you can enjoy homemade jams and fresh bread. Spend some time exploring local artisan shops and galleries showcasing the works of regional artists.
In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the Palais de Rumine in Lausanne, just a short train ride away, to admire its stunning architecture and rich museum collections. Enjoy lunch at a café in Lausanne's Old Town, taking in the lively atmosphere. After eating, wander the charming narrow lanes, discovering boutiques and artisanal chocolate shops.
Experience a taste of local nightlife by attending a performance at the Théâtre de la Grange or a live music venue in the area. Enjoy dinner in one of Renens' diverse restaurants, offering everything from Swiss fondue to international cuisine. Conclude the evening with a nightcap at a nearby wine bar, savoring local wines while reflecting on your day's discoveries.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚆Public transit ticket (one trip) | $4-6 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $120-200 |
| 🧀Local groceries (weekly) | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent access to Lac Léman and the Lavaux vineyards
- Efficient public transport and proximity to Lausanne's culture
- High standard of safety and quality of life
- Rich Swiss-French cuisine and diverse dining options
- Walkable city center with scenic viewpoints
- Renens itself is more residential and quiet than Lausanne, requiring transit for major sights
- Prices for dining and accommodation can be high by international standards
- Crowds in peak tourist seasons around Lavaux and Lausanne can be busy
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Bonsoir" - Good evening
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où sont les toilettes?" - Where are the restrooms?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?
- "L’addition, s’il vous plaît." - The check, please.
- "Je voudrais…" - I would like…
Places to Visit in Renens
Visit one of these nice places.
Gothic architecture with intricate stonework; great for exterior shots from the surrounding squares and during blue hour.
Peaceful lakefront with boats, palm trees, and mountains in the distance—ideal for sunrise or sunset photography.
Terraced vineyards along Lake Geneva; sweeping hillside views and colorful rows, especially stunning at harvest time.
Forest park with a wooden tower offering panoramic views of Lausanne and the lake.
Open spaces with views over the city and lake, plus charming architectural details in the surrounding area.
Food in Renens
Renens Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Vaud dish of leeks and potatoes served with sausage, best enjoyed in a traditional brasserie.
Must-Try!
A crisp, cheesy fritter originating in Vaud—great as a snack or starter in many local eateries.
Fresh perch from Lake Geneva, typically pan-fried and served with potatoes and a lemon-butter sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant Saturday market with fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and regional specialties.
Seasonal food trucks and pop-ups around the Flon district, especially in warmer months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Punctuality is valued in business and social settings; arriving on time is expected.
French is the local language; use greetings like Bonjour or Bonsoir, and thank you with Merci.
Stand in line, be patient, and speak politely; modest personal space is respected in public.
Safety
Tipping in Renens
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charge is typically included in larger establishments. Leaving a small tip (5-10%) for good service is common, but not obligatory. Rounding up the bill is appreciated in casual places.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with long daylight hours; outdoor patios, lake swims, and boat trips are popular. Afternoon thunderstorms can occur; carry a light rain layer and sun protection.
Mild to cool with colorful foliage; harvest season in Lavaux offers beautiful vineyard views and wine tastings.
Cold, with occasional snow in the region; city amenities remain lively, and nearby alpine areas offer day trips for skiing and winter scenery.
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes; great for city parks, lakefront strolls, and outdoor markets.
Renens at Night
Hiking in Renens
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
UNESCO-listed hillside trails with panoramic lake views and vineyard terraces.
Easy forest trails and a wooden tower offering views of the city and lake.
A network of forested trails in the Jorat hills with viewpoints and peaceful landscapes.
Scenic lakeside hike with castle views and punctuated villages along the shore.
Flat, enjoyable routes along the water with frequent photo opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Renens by plane.
Geneva Airport; a major international hub about 60-90 minutes by train to Lausanne area.
Zurich Airport; Switzerland’s largest airport, roughly 2.5-3 hours by train to Renens/Lausanne area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily French-speaking Swiss and long-term residents in the Vaud region, with a mix of expatriates.
Many people commute to Lausanne for work or study, contributing to a dynamic, educated population.
Renens and Lausanne attract families seeking good schools, parks, and access to cultural amenities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in the region with local teams and fan culture, especially in Lausanne.
Widely followed, with matches and grassroots clubs throughout Vaud.
Road and mountain biking are popular, with routes around the lake and in the nearby hills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Renens.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for seasonal vegetable dishes, rösti, cheese and mushroom plates. Sauteed vegetables and risottos are common; inform staff about dairy or egg restrictions when ordering.