Things To Do
in Renens

Renens is a picturesque suburb located in the Lausanne district of Switzerland, known for its vibrant community and easy access to Lake Geneva. It is characterized by modern architecture, green parks, and a rich cultural scene, including art galleries and theaters. The city's close proximity to Lausanne makes it an ideal base for exploring the region.

Renens is also home to a diverse population, contributing to a dynamic atmosphere and a variety of culinary experiences.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Renens
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Parc de l'Indépendance, a beautiful green space perfect for a morning stroll. Grab a coffee at a local café.

afternoon
:

Explore the local shops and boutiques along Avenue du Mont d'Or. Don't miss the stunning architecture of the nearby Église de Renens.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Swiss restaurant, and take a leisurely walk around the illuminated streets.

day 2
Day 2: Day Trip to Lausanne
morning
:

Take a short train ride to Lausanne and visit the Olympic Museum, which showcases the history of the Olympic Games.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the old town, visiting the Lausanne Cathedral and the Collection de l'Art Brut. Stop for lunch at a local bistro.

evening
:

Return to Renens and enjoy a relaxing evening at a wine bar, sampling local wines.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$25
Coffee$4
🍕Pizza$16
🚌Public Transport Ticket$3
🏨Night in a hotel$150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings, including Lake Geneva and nearby mountains.
  • Rich cultural scene with art, music, and local events.
  • Easy access to public transportation connecting to larger cities.
  • Nightlife may be quieter compared to larger cities.
  • Cost of living can be high, especially dining out.
  • Limited shopping options compared to nearby Lausanne.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?

Places to Visit in Renens

Visit one of these nice places.

Parc de l'Indépendance

A serene park perfect for capturing nature and local life, especially during spring and summer.

Lausanne Cathedral

Located nearby, this stunning Gothic cathedral provides excellent photo opportunities, especially at sunset.

Lake Geneva Promenade

The scenic lakeside promenade offers picturesque views of the lake and the Alps, ideal for evening photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Renens

Renens offers a delightful culinary landscape that reflects the diverse culture of the region, with options ranging from traditional Swiss dishes to international cuisine.

Renens Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fondue

A classic Swiss dish made with melted cheese, served with bread for dipping.

Must-Try!

Rösti

A crispy potato dish, often served as a side or topped with various ingredients.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Renens Market

A local market held weekly, offering fresh produce, artisan cheeses, and baked goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Renens experiences a temperate climate, with four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) can be cold and snowy, with temperatures ranging from -1 to 5°C (30 to 41°F). Summers (June to August) are warm and pleasant, averaging 20 to 25°C (68 to 77°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild, with occasional rainfall and temperatures between 5 to 15°C (41 to 59°F).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Swiss culture values punctuality; being on time for appointments and social gatherings is expected.

Polite Greetings

Always greet with a 'Bonjour' or 'Grüezi' before starting any conversation.

Respect for Nature

Switzerland takes pride in its environment; be respectful by keeping public spaces clean.

Safety Guide

Safety

Renens is generally a safe place for travelers, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Tipping in Renens

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not obligatory in Switzerland, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are common; however, it's advisable to carry some cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures, blossoming flowers, and many outdoor events, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm and sunny weather perfect for enjoying lakeside activities, festivals, and outdoor dining.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures with beautiful fall foliage; a lovely time for hiking and exploring local vineyards.

Winter

Cold and snowy, ideal for winter sports in nearby mountains, with festive holiday markets in town.

Nightlife Guide

Renens at Night

The nightlife in Renens is relatively low-key compared to nearby Lausanne, but there are a few lively bars and pubs. Many locals enjoy socializing at wine bars and craft beer establishments, often featuring live music on weekends. For a more vibrant nightlife experience, a short train ride to Lausanne offers numerous nightclubs, lounges, and cocktail bars.

Hiking in Renens

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentier des Toblerones

This beautiful trail offers scenic views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding mountains, perfect for a day hike.

Trail to Mont Tendre

A moderately challenging hike that leads to the highest point in the Jura Mountains, offering panoramic views.

Airports

How to reach Renens by plane.

Geneva Airport (GVA)

Located about 60 kilometers from Renens, Geneva Airport is the closest international airport, providing extensive connections to major cities around the world.

Getting Around

Walkability

Renens is quite walkable, with pedestrian-friendly sidewalks and well-marked paths. The town's layout allows easy access to parks, shops, and public transportation. Most amenities are within a short walking distance, making it convenient for visitors to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

Many young professionals live in Renens, attracted by its proximity to Lausanne and affordable housing options.

Families

The town is home to many families, due to its safe environment and access to parks and schools.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is widely popular in the region, with local clubs and events drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Skiing

In winter, skiing in the nearby Alps attracts both locals and tourists, with numerous resorts available.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Renens is generally manageable, with good public transportation options including trains and buses. The town is well-connected to Lausanne and other nearby cities, making commuting easy. Bicycles are commonly used, and there are designated cycling paths.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Renens.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Renens offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask for options.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are increasingly available, particularly in larger restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Switzerland has an excellent healthcare system. In Renens, medical facilities are available, including pharmacies and clinics. Emergency services can be reached quickly, and it is advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers medical expenses abroad.

Discover Switzerland

Read more in our Switzerland 2025 Travel Guide.

Switzerland Travel Guide