Outdoor Skating at Patinoire de la Pontaise

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The rink usually opens its doors from early November until the middle of March. It provides a large skating surface that accommodates both beginners and more experienced skaters. You can see the beautiful Lausanne skyline while you practice your turns on the ice. This location is also a great spot for taking scenic winter travel photos.

There is a cozy snack bar located right next to the main skating area. You can buy warm hot chocolate or delicious local snacks to stay very warm. The prices at this venue are quite reasonable for most international travelers and locals. It makes for a perfect and affordable winter afternoon in the heart of Switzerland.

Check the outdoor skating details before you plan your visit to this specific rink. The venue often hosts special themed nights with fun music and colorful disco lights. These events are perfect for teenagers or groups of friends looking for evening entertainment. Always check the weather forecast before heading to this outdoor skating location.

Indoor Excellence at the Vaudoise Aréna

The Vaudoise Aréna is a very modern sports complex located in the Malley district. It replaced the old Malley skating rink to provide world-class facilities for the public. This venue hosts professional hockey games and offers many public skating sessions each week. It features a high-quality ice surface that is maintained to professional athletic standards.

Indoor skating is a perfect choice for those very cold or rainy winter days. The temperature inside the arena remains controlled and comfortable for all types of skaters. You do not have to worry about snow or wind while you practice. This makes it an ideal spot for serious training or casual family fun.

You can find several different rinks within this massive and impressive sports complex. Some areas are reserved for public use while others host local skating club practices. You should check the schedule on the official city website for current hours. They offer public sessions almost every single day during the peak winter season.

This arena is located in the Prilly-Malley district and is very easy to reach. You can take a short train or bus ride from the Lausanne city center. It serves as the main hub for indoor skating in Lausanne for 2026. The facility also includes a restaurant where you can eat after your session.

Festive Skating at Lausanne Christmas Markets

Lausanne transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the annual holiday season celebrations. The Bô Noël market often includes a small but charming temporary ice skating rink. This rink is usually located in a central square like the Place Centrale. It adds a wonderful and festive touch to the traditional Swiss holiday market.

Skating here is more about the holiday atmosphere than practicing your professional speed skills. You are surrounded by traditional wooden chalets and thousands of glowing fairy lights. The delicious smell of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts fills the cold air. It is a very romantic setting for couples visiting Lausanne in December.

You should visit the Lausanne Christmas market to find this unique skating experience. The rink is perfect for a quick and fun festive activity between shopping. It is especially popular with young children who are just learning to stand on ice. The central location makes it very easy to find during your city tour.

This seasonal rink usually opens in late November and stays open through December. Make sure to wear very warm gloves and a thick hat for comfort. The evening sessions are especially beautiful when the market lights are fully shining. It is a highlight of the winter season for many visitors to Switzerland.

Planning Your Skating Visit in 2026

Knowing the average costs helps you plan your travel budget for your Swiss trip. Most ice skating rinks in Lausanne charge a small entry fee for all guests. Adults usually pay between five and eight Swiss francs for a single session. Children and students often receive a discounted rate at most of these venues.

You do not need to own your own skates to enjoy these rinks. Every major skating venue in the city offers a professional rental service on-site. You can rent skates easily for a small fee of about five francs. They have many different sizes available for toddlers, children, and all adults.

Safety is very important when you are spending time on the slippery ice. Many rinks offer safety helmets for rent to protect younger or beginner skaters. Beginners should also consider wearing thick clothing or knee pads for extra safety. Always follow the specific rink rules to ensure everyone has a safe time.

Look for updated rink prices before you arrive at the venue in 2026. Some venues offer special season passes for people who plan to skate often. These passes can save you a significant amount of money over several visits. Many rinks also offer family tickets which provide a better overall value.

Family Activities and Skating Lessons

Lausanne is a great place for children to learn how to skate properly. Many local rinks have dedicated areas reserved specifically for very small children. They provide helpful plastic seals or penguins to help kids keep their balance. This makes the process of learning to skate much more fun and safe.

You can also book private or group skating lessons at several city rinks. Local skating clubs often run these programs during the busy winter holiday months. Professional instructors will help you improve your balance and your basic skating technique. It is a wonderful way to build your confidence on the slippery ice.

Some rinks host special kids' skating events throughout the winter of 2026. These events might include fun ice games or visits from popular holiday mascots. Check the local community calendar for these specific family-friendly dates and times. These activities often require a small extra fee or advanced booking.

After your skating session, you can explore other nearby cultural attractions in Lausanne. The Olympic Museum is just a short bus or metro trip away. It is a must-see destination for any sports fan visiting this Olympic city. Many families combine a morning of skating with an afternoon at the museum.