Fun and entertainment Switzerland

The Oriental-Vevey is a former chapel that was transformed into a theatre at the end of the 19th century, then into a cinema in 1915. Since 2001, the Oriental-Vevey association has been managing this space for shows and creation in the fields of music and theatre. The programme is centred primarily on professional Swiss artists, on the performing arts (theatre and dance) and contemporary music. The programme highlights the performing arts and encourages collaboration between the different artistic forms.

Surprising and original, the decoration of this hotel combines classic elegance with very contemporary fabrics and objects. A little eclectic, a little too much in terms of decorum, but you either like it or you don't. In the summer of 2024, the hotel's swimming pool and garden will be based on the concept of the renowned Bouddha Bar in Paris. The lakeside terrace, as always, offers a view well worth the trip. The oriental salon would undoubtedly have appealed to ^19th-century Romantic writers such as Pierre Loti.

Here is a very nice wine cellar, design version with a zinc counter. In the summer, you pass behind it to sit on the terrace (which is nothing more than the school playground during the day), ideally placed facing the lake. A real pleasure at aperitif time, especially for tasting different vintages by the glass of the Saint-Saphorin and Dézaley appellations. This tasting centre also offers a take-away sale, so that you can go home with the wines you like.

To get your fishing going and energise your week, this thirty-year-old sports pub, well known to the people of Lausanne, is a good remedy. Flags on the ceiling, many screens to follow the matches, a large choice of English and Irish beers, sticky parquet flooring, everything is there! You will generally find a lot of people there in the evenings and especially during the weekend. If you want to have a seat, it is strongly recommended to come half an hour before the start of a match. If the pub is resolutely rock, various special evenings are organised.

The Church of St. Francis has become one of the city's musical centers, and there's no end in sight. Four organs are housed in this church, which has become one of Europe's leading organ centers. Attending a concert here is well worth the detour, especially as the program is so varied. In addition to classical music, there are also jazz and world music concerts, with a rich program and excellent acoustics.

A unique sound, an equally unique conception: in conclusion, let's go to a recital! When you visit the cathedral, you'll notice the imposing organs. With 7,396 pipes, 6 manuals, 2 pedalboards and some 100 stops, they were designed to faithfully reproduce French classical and symphonic music, or German romantic and baroque. A masterpiece of technology, offering a juxtaposition of styles to be appreciated while listening to a concert, given regularly throughout the year, in exceptional acoustics.

The MSC is dedicated to the promotion of contemporary music by favouring Swiss composers and performers. She organises concerts in the Grand Hall of the Conservatory and at the Grange de Dorigny (metro M 1, station Mouline).

A young professional orchestra, the Sinfonietta de Lausanne takes place mainly in the Metropolis Hall and in the Paderewski room (Casino casino). He specializes in theme concerts, which are very popular with children. In summer, it offers free outdoor concerts in Mon-Repos park.

The OCL, founded in 1942, gives over a hundred concerts a year, in Switzerland and abroad, including ten subscription concerts on Monday and Tuesday evenings at the orchestra's home, the Salle Métropole, eight Sunday concerts at 11:15 and three concerts for young audiences on Wednesdays at 17:00, and eight Entractes concerts on Tuesdays at 12:30. Comprising some forty musicians, the orchestra covers a rich repertoire spanning nearly four centuries of music, from Baroque to contemporary.

Specialising in early music, the association des Goûts réunis organises concerts in the church of Villamont (avenue de Villamont 13), whose organ favours the German baroque, instrumental and vocal repertoire; but also in the church of Saint-Laurent, which lends itself well to listening to works with a double choir; as well as in the lounge of the historical museum of Lausanne, for a more intimate atmosphere. The concert season takes place from January to June, so don't hesitate to visit the site to see the concerts on offer.

The V.O and the Ar'Lov Jazz Café form both a bar and a jazz scene very popular with the lausannois public. Open late, they can enjoy a drink in a relaxed atmosphere. On weekends, jazz often fades for DJ evenings. Jam-sessions every week also.

Inaugurated in September 2005, this second rock club after Le Gatherings attracts an increasing audience and more famous artists. Located in the Sévelin district, close to the Nis, and more precisely next to the Sévelin 36 theatre, the Docks Hall opens its stage to contemporary music: rock, pop, French song, songwriters, hip hop and urban beats.

Located under the park of Mon-Repos, this jazz club is a very friendly address where the greatest musicians can be seen as less well-known groups. First, there is a first room where the bar and a few tables are located before the concert begins. Simple, rather Italian cuisine (salads, pasta, cheese plates, cheese plates, etc.) at any time. Often installed at the next table, the musicians then climb on the stage, while the spectators descend some steps and take place around the tables by commanding a glass of wine. Always very interactive and almost the impression of being part of their family… at least the time of a concert!

Geneva is home to the Alliance Française, a cultural association that promotes the French language and culture. The Alliance Française de Genève offers a variety of activities and courses for people interested in the French-speaking world. The Alliance Française de Genève is part of a wider network of Alliances Françaises in Switzerland, with branches in Basel, Bern, Fribourg, Locarno, Lucerne, St. Gallen and Zurich.

Situated in the middle of magnificent gardens, the Paderewski room of the Casino de Montbenon, built in 1908 and renovated in 1981, is renowned for its acoustics. Today it is a multi-purpose venue that hosts concerts of contemporary music, jazz (notably the Jazz Onze plus festival), as well as recitals thanks to its complete equipment. It is even sometimes used for conferences, congresses or cinema screenings, depending on the events on offer.

In the heart of the old Planches district, you'll discover this beautiful comedy theater. An old Bernese-style building, the Maison Visinand houses Montreux's cultural center and, in the basement, the Montreux-Riviera theater. Its small auditorium, in a cellar, offers excellent acoustics. The program is excellent and rich, offering both classic plays and comedy shows. After the show, you can meet the actors, from both Swiss and French troupes.

Built in 1973 and enlarged in 1981, the Montreux Music and Convention Centre took its final shape, all in transparent glass, in 1993 with the inauguration of the prestigious Stravinsky Concert Hall and Auditorium. It has several halls that can accommodate up to 3,000 people. It is here that most of the paid concerts and headliners of the Jazz Festival take place, as well as the Festival du Rire and many other shows.

In 1995 choreographer Philippe The opened his company's new place of residence in Lausanne, the Theatre of Sévelin 36. Each year, this space hosts different events devoted exclusively to contemporary dance, including the Lausanne International Dance Festival and the Festival Les Printemps de Sévelin.

It is possible to discover in advance the shows that the famous company of 35 dancers, created by Maurice Béjart, will give all around the world. You can also simply attend the company and school shows, most often in the Metropolis room.

The Société de développement de Saint-Sulpice is fortunate to have two sites that are particularly well-suited to concerts: the Romanesque church, a unique site with acoustics well-suited to classical music, and the foyer paroissial des Pâquis, an auditorium that can accommodate concerts with larger audiences. Five Sundays a year, the Romanesque church of Saint-Sulpice hosts chamber music concerts. This is an opportunity to discover young musicians and enjoy a stroll in the area.

At the edge of the forests of the Jorat, about ten kilometres north of Lausanne, Montheron was chosen by Cistercian monks to establish a monastery on the edge of the Talent. It was then replaced, from 1536, by a reformed temple, restored in 2006. Now we have concerts, Gregorian chant in modern times, with a predilection for choral, vocal and organ music.

Inaugurated in 1954, the Théâtre de Beaulieu is the Swiss Hall with the largest seating area, with 1 845 seats. Many prestigious orchestras and theatre troops such as the Comédie-Française took place on this scene, as did Maurice Béjart, who presented his 1964 th century ballet (then based in Brussels) for the first time in. Today the Théâtre de Beaulieu welcomes concerts, operas, ballets and shows of varieties, as well as the Prix de Lausanne. He also presents the Opera shows, with the building being renovated until at least 2011.

L'Octogone théâtre de Pully offers 25 different shows a year, concerts and plays mainly from Paris, but it is above all one of the first institutions in French-speaking Switzerland to have reserved a special place for contemporary dance. For more than 15 years, it has boasted the presence of the greatest international choreographers such as Carolyn Carlson and William Forsythe. It also contributes to the promotion of local creations and offers the Linga company a residence within its walls.

Funplanet is a beautiful destination for spending a good time with your family, a huge leisure centre with a multitude of indoor activities, such as bowling, karting, fluorescent mini golf, billiards and various video games. Theme DJ parties are organized every week. In 2021, Funplanet returns after a complete renovation, with two new restaurants and a lounge bar at your disposal every evening. New activities are planned, including an area entirely dedicated to children under 12 years old: Funplanet Kids.

A very nice local bar, the Grenzwert is never empty! With its lounge music, the atmosphere is friendly. You can play table football, sit on the armchairs and sofas at the entrance, at the counter, or in the wooden area at the back of the bar. For the adventurous, you can find the Sonnendeck (from June to August from 6pm when the sun is shining) with the Grenzwert team on the grounds of the NT Areal, an alternative and cultural space set up on the grounds of a disused goods station, at number 80 of the Ufferstrasse.

Founded in the 1970s by Hansjörg Bürgin, Schluggstube is a family-run business. In the space of fifteen years, it has grown from a modest antiques store to an unusual bar and institution. Nestled in the heart of the city center, the Schluggstube is an Ali Baba's cave brimming with treasures for sale, each with its own story and price. It's a popular spot for Cliques during Basel's famous Carnival, imbued with the festive soul of this age-old tradition.

Welcome to Café-Bar Elisabethen, a unique place in the heart of the city, nestled in a church. Enjoy a full range of traditional beverages in a spiritual setting. The sun's rays illuminate the Elisabethenkirche, creating a warm atmosphere. Enjoy a cappuccino as early as 7am. Even in winter, enjoy espressos and Italian sweets. For lunch, enjoy soups and fresh dishes. In the evening, enjoy an aperitif: prosecco, wine or beer.

The Bücheli Caffé Bar Lounge is a trendy meeting place for Basel's nightlife. Right in the heart of the city, this bar welcomes you in a large space with high tables and stools, not forgetting a lounge area with leather sofas and coffee tables. The immensity of the bar makes you dizzy, as does the generous cocktail menu, which is also sold by the liter! In summer, large tables with southern accents welcome you to the pedestrian area. A warm place to try out with friends when you're in Basel. Cheerful, friendly waiters.

A historic tower that houses a nouvelle cuisine style restaurant. One can say that the entrance to the city is well guarded! Built in old stones and on five floors, its ascent will make you discover small universes favourable to the tasting of wines of the canton. The Molard Tower offers a new concept: it originated in China with the baozi, the famous and delicious steamed bun, to give birth to the bao burger. Based on rice flour and tapioca, we create bao burgers, meat or vegetarian.

To spend a very relaxed evening with friends, dance until the end of the night on disco air on the piano bar or rather "house" on the disco side with its DJ, the Trois-eight offers many possibilities for a mix of styles, ages and tastes. Vosu can also accompany the pianist with a live karaoke. The entrance to the night club and piano bar is free for the guests of the restaurant next to the nightclub. Free parking.

The Bird's Eye is a must for all jazz fans! This club has a very good reputation, not only in Basel, but in a very wide area around the city, and even beyond its borders. Housed in an old vaulted cellar dating from the Middle Ages, the venue boasts excellent acoustics, and you can enjoy the atmosphere over a drink. During the week, small jazz groups perform here, with Thursdays reserved for more unusual styles. At weekends, it's the place to go to hear the biggest names on the international jazz scene.

Nestled at the foot of the majestic Johanniterbrücke, the Cargo Bar embodies the cultural essence of Basel. More than just a meeting place, it's a sanctuary where friends share aperitifs and memorable evenings. Don't miss the oyster evenings, taste the Isigny specials with a glass of muscadet or crémant d'Alsace. Experience vibrant evenings, with DJs and artists on hand to create an unrivalled atmosphere of Good Vibes. Claude Gaçon and his dynamic team make Le Cargo one of Basel's most popular establishments.

The Borderline (formerly the Stahlwerk club) is THE place to be for electro sounds in the Sankt Johann district. Switzerland's best underground club, it offers a diversified program and doesn't hesitate to program emerging styles while remaining true to its original spirit. The experience is incredible! With several spaces, a breathtaking sound system and a brilliant staff, this is the place to dance for tech house fans. Open every weekend, it's best to visit the site to get an idea of the program. Sensations guaranteed!

Discover art and culture in a modern building offering a rich program of operas, ballets and captivating plays. Guided tours explore the intricacies of behind-the-scenes productions. From September to June, 600 performances, including 40 new productions, enliven three exceptional stages. The Stadttheater has won awards both locally and internationally. Active support for young people and experimental artistic projects.

Close to the Tinguely Fountain, the Stadtkino Basel is the very essence of Swiss art cinema. In a sober atmosphere, it showcases national and international directors. Films are in VO with subtitles where necessary, offering an authentic experience. The Stadtkino Basel offers events, conferences, congresses and festivals for film enthusiasts. It is committed to film education for young people. Every year, around 300 films are shown, six times a week, with a capacity of 99 spectators.

Discover Basel's Music Theater, a contemporary haven dedicated to the arts. Directed by Freddy Burger Management since 1998, it seats 1,557 in a 900^m2 space. Vibrant program of concerts, musicals and exceptional shows. Five bars before the show. Perfect acoustics transport you into the world of music. 270^m2 stage for infinite scenic possibilities. Experience emotion alongside internationally renowned artists. Step through the doors and enter a world where art and emotion merge for unforgettable moments.

Set sail for the Navy for a culinary voyage of Swiss and Italian inspiration. In the heart of the old town and adjacent to the Syracuse pizzeria, the Navy-Syracuse is the anchorage of many Genevans. It is even a real institution! We suggest a trip to the land of local gastronomy. Dishes to be savoured on land, but in an all-wooden, old-rigged style decoration created in the 1950s. Here, we invite you to cast off for a nice time! It's cosy, convivial and comfortable.

A little corner of paradise on the lake with a magnificent view of the Jura. It is an ideal spot to relax, paddle (rented at the restaurant) and especially to eat on the natural terrace. Next to the restaurant, the Ripper is set up in a wooden hut and surrounded by palm trees. Almost like in the tropics! Pizzas, burgers, salads and house cocktails are served in a relaxed atmosphere. Theme nights and live music in summer.

A modern-day guinguette spirit, ideally installed on the left bank of the Rhône in fine weather. Floral ornaments are omnipresent, and you can sit back and contemplate the lake in this urban setting. It's the place to be for afterworks. The ephemeral long bar offers a range of snacks, including sandwiches and salads , and tastings of Geneva wines. The atmosphere is very peaceful, without being stuffy. It's a very pleasant spot on the riverbank, and very popular in summer for aperitifs!

Jazznojazz is Switzerland's leading jazz event, with around twenty concerts a year. November 2024 will see the ^24th edition of this long-awaited festival at the Gessnerallee and the ZKB club. On the program: jazz and pop names, established artists and promising youngsters. Some of the biggest names in music have already come to Zurich: John McLaughlin, Ashley Henry... For a bite to eat, you'll find the Reithall Gessnerallee restaurant, offering creative cuisine in a warm atmosphere.

Since 1997, the bQm has been part of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich, where you'll find probably the cheapest cocktails in town. It's in a relaxed atmosphere with a superb view over the city that students gather, but not only. The bar welcomes everyone and offers free cultural events twice a week, on Wednesdays and Thursdays: concerts, DJ evenings, quizzes, an open stage... On the à la carte menu, you'll find a nice list of affordable drinks as well as snacks (sandwiches, focaccias, pretzels...).

The Kino Xenix Bar is a wonderful independent cinema where you can discover films from all over the world and retrospectives. The program is extremely varied, and the films are almost always subtitled in French or English. The venue also boasts a cosy bar, nestled in a former kindergarten: a popular playground for Zurich's youth. An atypical bar where you'll feel right at home, especially in summer with its large terrace and the possibility of playing pétanque or ping-pong. Mixed and varied clientele, good spirit.

Located on the shores of Lake Zurich, the Opernhaus is a sublime neo-Baroque building. The reputation of the Zurich Opera House is well established. Over 300 performances are programmed each year, including 70 in-house creations. The institution welcomes many world-renowned opera singers. The Zurich Opera also has its own internationally renowned ballet. An evening in one of its richly decorated halls is an unforgettable experience. Whether on your own, with your family or as a romantic getaway!

One of the most famous cafés in Zurich, the Odéon was Lenin's lair during his stay in the city but also des. There is still an unavoidable place on the sidewalk that cannot be noticed when you leave Bellevue to reach the old town by the Limmatquai. Always full and lively, the hotel features a beautiful Art Nouveau decoration that plunges you with delight in the 1920 s. If you have a small or a big hunger, it is also possible to restore it.

Located not far from Migros, the Museum of Modern Art and 50 m behind the Abaton cinema complex, the huge Billiardino hall is ideal for a relaxing evening. It features 60 billiard tables, darts and video games. Everything you need to have fun with friends before going out, or even to spend the whole evening there. You can also enjoy the bar and its menu of snacks (pizzas, pastas, hot sandwiches...) and cocktails. Please note that we don't take reservations on weekends: first come, first served.

Just a few S-Bahn stops from Zurich's main station, Bowling West offers 16 bowling lanes for bowling enthusiasts. In this entertainment venue, you can also play darts, table football, billiards... In an elevated part of the establishment, there is a bar-restaurant to relax after a wild game. The speciality of the house? The charbonnade (from 6 people). Also on the menu are appetizer boards with burgers, fajitas or cold cuts. To discover with friends.

Looking for Zurich's hippest club? Head for the Zukunft, nicknamed the "Zukki" by its customers. This establishment has rightly proclaimed itself the home of good music! Before entering the club, be prepared to queue. Zukunft has a good reputation and is very busy. Inside, in a crowded room, you can dance to the sound of Afro tech, deep house, Indian music, jazz... All kinds of music are in the spotlight. Good to know: admission to the club is free every Thursday. The program is on the website.

One of the first places in Lausanne where culture replaced industry, in 1979, when theatre-makers gathered around Philippe Mentha founded the Théâtre Kléber-Méleau, which they built with their own hands in the building of a former gas factory in the industrial zone of Renens. As an advocate and promoter of the dramatic arts, the KTM has over the years been able to programme classic plays that attract a growing audience. It also offers a programme of classical and world music throughout the seasons.

Martine Jeanneret and Lova Golovtchiner have been programming top-quality comedy shows since 1970. Numerous Swiss and foreign artists have performed here, including Thierry Romanens, Jean-Luc Bideau and the Mummenschanz. In its more than fifty years of existence, the Boulimie theater has always remained true to its primary vocation: the illustration and defense of humor in all its forms. The theater has staged plays by Eugène Ionesco, Boris Vian and Woody Allen. Book early, as the theater sells out fast.

The Grange de Dorigny is the theatre of the University of Lausanne, a place where art meets academia, a meeting place for the public of the university site and the city. About ten professional theatre performances are presented there each season, as well as a multidisciplinary student festival. The programme is innovative and varied. Students also perform in concerts and there is a bar and exhibition rooms in the foyer (open an hour before and after the performances), all in a very pleasant, airy setting.