The five-apse Romanesque Abbatiale de Payerne has been at the heart of religion and culture in the region since the 11th century, and frequently hosts exhibitions and concerts beneath its fine frescoes and broad sandstone arches. At the time of writing, the abbey was undergoing extensive structural renovations and access was limited. It is expected to re-open fully in 2018.
Abbatiale de Payerne
Fribourg, Drei-Seen-Land and The Jura
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
28.27 MILES
If ever a castle could fit the fairy-tale bill, the dashingly handsome Château de Chillon would be it, with its moat, double ramparts and riot of turrets…
26.86 MILES
Bern’s answer to the Guggenheim, Renzo Piano’s architecturally bold, 150m-long wave-like edifice houses an exhibition space that showcases rotating works…
25.58 MILES
Bern’s flag-bedecked medieval centre has 6km of covered arcades and cellar shops and bars descending from the streets. After a devastating fire in 1405,…
24.37 MILES
This engaging museum celebrates the life and work of iconic London-born film star Charlie Chaplin. Split between the neoclassical Manoir de Ban – the…
25.57 MILES
Nestlé’s headquarters have been in Vevey since 1814, hence its presence in the form of this museum dedicated to nutrition and all things edible, past and…
13.08 MILES
About 14km east of Môtiers, a short walk leads to the enormous abyss known as the Creux du Van (Rocky Hole) – van is a word of Celtic origin meaning 'rock…
Cathédrale St Nicolas de Fribourg
10.78 MILES
Before entering this brooding 13th-century Gothic cathedral, contemplate the main portal with its 15th-century sculptured portrayal of the Last Judgment…
25.65 MILES
Bern’s most famous Old Town sight, this ornate clock tower once formed part of the city’s western gate (1191–1256). Crowds congregate to watch its…
Nearby Fribourg, Drei-Seen-Land and The Jura attractions
1.88 MILES
This small aviation museum has exhibits on the little-known Swiss air force and the planes manufactured in the area.
4.59 MILES
Estavayer-le-Lac's sweet 'frog museum' is a tribute to the town's obsession with our little green friends and is loved by adults and children alike for…
6.39 MILES
The 1st-century Roman amphitheatre is as impressive as it is unexpected to find in a small Swiss village. Used throughout the year for occasional outdoor…
6.42 MILES
This collection of Roman ruins – the foundations of former structures, buildings and fortifications just outside Avenches' medieval Old Town – is best…
6.43 MILES
This small museum evokes the Roman glory days of Avenches, ancient capital of Celtic tribe Helvetii.
10.11 MILES
Two-hour brewery tours demonstrate how water, malt and hops are turned into nine different types of Cardinal beer and include a guided tour of the Musée…
10.59 MILES
Fribourg’s art and history museum, with an excellent collection of late Gothic sculpture and painting, is housed in the Renaissance Hôtel Ratzé. Gothic…
10.64 MILES
For an inspiring dose of contemporary art, head to this old red-brick seminary for some excellent temporary exhibitions. Late-night opening on Thursday…