Traditional Swiss Cheese Specialties at Bô Noël

For the most up-to-date details, check Lonely Planet Lausanne before you go.

For practical details and last-minute changes, use Lavaux, Vineyard Terraces.

Fondue in a bread bowl is another popular choice. This unique format allows you to walk and eat. The mixture usually includes Gruyère and Vacherin Fribourgeois. Look for the giant igloo at Place de l'Europe for this treat.

The aroma of melted cheese fills the cold winter air. It is the ultimate comfort food for a chilly evening. Most stalls open around 11:30 AM for the lunch crowd. Check the opening hours before you visit.

Many stalls also offer local cheese platters for sharing. These include cured meats and pickles from the region. It is a great way to sample different textures. Pair your cheese with a glass of dry white wine.

Savory Vaudois Delights You Must Try

Lausanne is the proud capital of the Vaud region. You should look for the famous Papet Vaudois. This dish features leeks and potatoes cooked into a mash. It is usually served with a large cabbage sausage.

Saucisson Vaudois is a local staple you cannot miss. It has a unique smoky flavor and tender texture. Vendors often serve it in a warm, crusty roll. This makes it a perfect snack while browsing the stalls.

Malakoffs are another regional specialty found at Bô Noël. These are deep-fried cheese balls from the Lake Geneva area. They are crunchy on the outside and gooey inside. Expect to pay around 5 CHF for one piece.

• Papet Vaudois (Traditional leek and potato dish)
• Saucisson Vaudois (Smoked pork sausage)
• Malakoffs (Fried cheese domes)
• Vaudois dried beef (Thinly sliced mountain meat)

Sweet Treats and Festive Holiday Pastries

No visit to the market is complete without dessert. Try the Vin Cuit tart, which is a regional classic. It is made from highly concentrated pear or apple juice. The flavor is rich, dark, and slightly caramelized.

Caracs are small green tarts found in local bakeries. They feature a chocolate ganache filling and green icing. These treats are very popular throughout French-speaking Switzerland. You can find them at many dessert stalls.

Roasted chestnuts are a staple of the winter season. You will find vendors roasting them over open fires. A small bag costs roughly 5 to 7 CHF. They are perfect for keeping your hands warm while walking.

Artisan chocolates are also available in beautiful gift boxes. Local chocolatiers showcase their best work at the market. Look for flavors like honey, sea salt, or dark cocoa. These make excellent souvenirs for friends and family.

Festive Drinks to Warm Your Winter Evenings

Warm drinks are essential for exploring the market at night. Glühwein, or mulled wine, is the most popular choice. It is made with red wine, cinnamon, and star anise. Most stalls offer a white wine version as well.

Hot apple cider is a great non-alcoholic alternative. It is often spiced with cloves and served steaming hot. You can also find rich hot chocolate topped with cream. Some vendors add a splash of local schnapps for warmth.

Local craft beers are also available at the evening spots. Lausanne has a thriving brewery scene that creates seasonal ales. These beers often have notes of ginger or honey. Enjoy a cold pint inside a heated chalet.

For a true local experience, try the hot white wine. It is a specialty of the Vaud wine region. The wine is often infused with local herbs and citrus. It offers a lighter taste than the traditional red version.

Practical Tips for Foodies at Bô Noël 2026

Most food stalls at Bô Noël accept credit cards. However, carrying some Swiss Francs is still a good idea. Small vendors might prefer cash for low-cost items. Budget around 30 to 50 CHF for a full meal.

The market can get very crowded on weekend nights. Visit during the weekday lunch hour for shorter lines. This is the best time to talk to producers. You can learn more about their local ingredients.

Wear warm layers and comfortable shoes for your visit. Most eating areas are outdoors or in semi-open tents. If you prefer a sit-down meal, consider winter restaurants nearby. Many local spots offer festive menus in 2026.

Check the official Lausanne Tourisme website for special food events. Sometimes the market hosts gourmet workshops or tastings. These events provide deeper insights into Swiss culinary traditions. Plan your food route across the different market squares.