Things To Do
in Pully

Pully is a picturesque Swiss town on the edge of Lake Geneva, just east of Lausanne, known for its calm, leafy streets and lake views. It blends residential charm with easy access to vineyards and the Jura foothills. The town serves as a gateway to the Lavaux wine region and offers convenient public transport to the city and the lake.

Visitors will find pleasant walks, scenic vistas, and a relaxed pace while staying close to larger cultural hubs.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Pully
morning
:

Arrive at Geneva Airport and take a scenic train ride to Pully, enjoying views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding mountains. Settle into your hotel and take a moment to gather your belongings. A leisurely walk along the lakefront will be the perfect introduction to the charm of Pully.

afternoon
:

After settling in, explore the local area by visiting the Pully Museum, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region. Enjoy a light lunch at a nearby café, savoring local Swiss delicacies. The peaceful lake surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for an afternoon of relaxation.

evening
:

Dinner at a lakeside restaurant will provide a delightful culinary experience with exquisite Swiss cuisine. As night falls, take a tranquil stroll along the waterfront under the stars. The soothing sounds of the water create a picturesque end to your first day.

day 2
Explore Lausanne
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local bakery, enjoying delicious pastries and coffee. Head to the vibrant city of Lausanne, just a short train ride away. Explore the Olympic Museum, immersing yourself in the history of the Olympic Games.

afternoon
:

After a morning of exploration, indulge in a leisurely lunch at the nearby Ouchy promenade. Enjoy views of the lake while tasting regional specialties. Post-lunch, take a stroll through the charming streets of the Old Town, discovering boutique shops and historic sites.

evening
:

As evening approaches, unwind at a trendy bistro in Lausanne, where you can sample exquisite local wines. A visit to the Cathedral of Notre-Dame will offer stunning views of the city as the sun sets. Finish your day with a delightful dessert at a local chocolate shop.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$18-25
Café coffee$4-6
🛏️Mid-range hotel room$150-230 per night
🚆Public transit monthly pass$70-120
🛍️Grocery bill (weekly)$120-190

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Calm lakeside town with quick access to Lausanne and Lavaux
  • Excellent public transport and safety
  • Scenic vineyard views and easy day trips to the lake
  • Nightlife options are limited in Pully itself
  • High cost of living relative to many destinations
  • Limited direct tourist infrastructure within Pully; requires short trips to Lausanne for some services
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Bonsoir" - Good evening
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Où est la gare ?" - Where is the train station?

Places to Visit in Pully

Visit one of these nice places.

Port d’Ouchy

A classic lakeside promenade with boats, docks, and sunset reflections over Lake Geneva; ideal for wide lakeside shots and silhouettes.

Esplanade de Montbenon

Promenade with sweeping views of the lake and Lausanne skyline; great for panoramic photography and golden hour shots.

Lavaux vineyard terraces

UNESCO-listed terraces along the lake with rows of vines and lookout points; stunning at sunrise or sunset against the water.

Culinary Guide

Food in Pully

Pully and the Lake Geneva region offer a refined yet approachable cuisine rooted in Vaud traditions, with an emphasis on fresh lake fish, seasonal produce, and local wines from Lavaux. Expect crisp wines, hearty cheeses, and dishes that showcase the terroir of the region.

Pully Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Filet de perche du Lac Léman

Pan-seared perch fillet served with lemon, butter, and seasonal vegetables, a regional specialty commonly found along the lake.

Must-Try!

Assiette Vaudoise

A platter of regional meats, sausages, and cheeses representing Vaud culinary traditions.

Fondue or Raclette (seasonal)

Cheese-based fondue or raclette, often enjoyed in mountain-adjacent bistros or during cooler seasons.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Lausanne Marché de Riponne

Weekly market near Lausanne with local produce, cheeses, breads, and street bites; great for tasting regional ingredients.

Lutry and Lavaux vineyard stalls

Seasonal markets and vineyard stalls offering fresh fruit, wines, and regional specialties along the Lavaux terraces.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate is temperate and lake-influenced, with warm summers and cool winters. Rain is possible year-round, with more frequent showers in spring and autumn; the lake moderates temperatures, making evenings by the water pleasant across seasons.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality and greetings

Be punctual for appointments; greet with a polite hello (bonjour) and a handshake in formal settings.

Quiet respect in public spaces

Public spaces are relatively quiet; speak in moderate tones on trains and in restaurants.

Safety Guide

Safety

Pully and the surrounding area are generally very safe with low crime rates. Standard travel precautions apply: keep valuables secure, be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas, and use licensed taxis or public transport at night. In case of emergency, call 112; for medical emergencies call 144; police 117; fire 118.

Tipping in Pully

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Service charge is often included or expected as a small tip for good service; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is common but optional.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash (CHF) is useful in smaller shops and markets. ATMs are plentiful in towns around Pully.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days with long daylight hours; ideal for lake activities, outdoor dining, and terrace wines. Pack sunscreen and light layers for cooler evenings by the water.

Autumn

Harvest season in Lavaux; vibrant vineyard colors and crisp air. Perfect for wine tastings and scenic vineyard walks.

Winter

Cool to cold, with occasional snow in the surrounding hills; cozy indoor dining and alpine day trips nearby. Dress in layers and carry a warm coat.

Spring

Mild and green with blooming trees and flowers; great for lakefront strolls and outdoor markets as markets reopen.

Nightlife Guide

Pully at Night

Pully itself offers a calm, family-friendly scene with lakeside bars and cafés. The nearby city of Lausanne has a vibrant nightlife with bars, live music, and clubs, especially in districts like Flon and Ouchy, offering late-night options and diverse venues.

Hiking in Pully

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Lavaux Vineyard Terraces Trail (Chemin des Vignes)

UNESCO-listed terraces with lake views, connecting village stops from Lutry to Vevey; easy to moderate hiking.

Mont-Pèlerin to Chalet-à-Gontier ridge

Ridge walks above Vevey offering panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the Alps.

Airports

How to reach Pully by plane.

Geneva Airport (GVA)

Major international hub; accessible by train in about 1 to 1.5 hours from Lausanne via the Léman Express.

Zurich Airport (ZRH)

Switzerland's largest international airport; reachable by train in roughly 2.5 to 3.5 hours from Lausanne.

Sion Airport (SIR)

Smaller regional airport serving the Valais region; more limited international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Pully is walkable within the town center, with pleasant lakeside paths. Hilly streets can be steep in places, but connections to Lausanne by train or bus make day trips easy and efficient.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families are drawn to Pully for good schools, parks, and safe neighborhoods.

Students and expats

Proximity to Lausanne attracts students and international residents.

Retirees

Calm environment with accessible healthcare and a scenic setting appeals to retirees.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Sailing and rowing

Common on Lake Geneva; many clubs operate from Ouchy and nearby towns.

Cycling

Flat lakeside routes and hillier valley rides nearby, suitable for all levels.

Skiing and snow sports

Accessible via the Alps within a couple of hours during winter.

Transportation

Traffic

Switzerland offers reliable public transport and well-maintained roads. In Pully, expect light local traffic; major travel often uses trains between Lausanne and surrounding towns. Parking can be limited in dense centers, especially during peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Pully.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for vegetable-focused plates, cheese-based dishes, and mushroom dishes. Swiss cuisine often accommodates vegetarians with salads, rye bread, and seasonal vegetables.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Switzerland provides high-quality healthcare. Residents must have health insurance; nearby facilities include CHUV in Lausanne and private clinics in the region. Always carry your health insurance card when traveling within the country.

Discover Switzerland

Read more in our Switzerland 2025 Travel Guide.

Switzerland Travel Guide