Avenches: Roman Heritage, Old Town and Nature

A medieval tower rises above the Roman amphitheatre, which houses the Musée romain d’Avenches. The town’s connection to the former Roman capital of Aventicum shapes its attractions. In the museum, mosaics and reliefs tell the story of Aventicum’s history and Romanisation, as well as the private lives of the Helvetii. The golden bust of Emperor Marcus Aurelius is the collection’s highlight.

Discover Roman Heritage on Site

The Arènes romaines d’Avenches date from the early 2nd century AD. The archaeological promenade also showcases Aventicum’s monuments: stereoscopic glasses and the free Erleb-AR app let you explore ancient buildings through three-dimensional reconstructions. The digital visitor aids may be updated. For a sweeping view over the Roman site, head to the Tornallaz tower for a 360-degree panorama. You can also cycle along the Route du Site romain d’Aventicum.

In August, the Arènes romaines host Rock Oz’Arènes, followed by the international military music festival Avenches Tattoo in September. If you are planning your trip around an event, check the current programme for your dates.

Old Town, Château and Culture

In the Vieille Ville, defensive towers, cobbled streets, arcades and gardens shape the townscape. Construction began from the 11th century onwards. A walking tour follows former city walls, fortified gates and medieval towers, and can be combined with a visit to the Château d’Avenches. The château walking tour is approximately 2 km and takes between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours, depending on how long you spend there. Avenches Tourisme also offers a 1.5-hour guided tour of the old town and the Tour de Benneville. Booking in advance may be required.

The Château d’Avenches is classified as a cultural property of national importance and combines medieval and Renaissance architecture. The Galerie du Château hosts five to six exhibitions each year. The adjoining barn houses the Théâtre du Château: the venue has 290 seats, with 220 in the stalls and 70 in the balcony. Cultural performances take place throughout the year; the programme may change.

Horses and Storks at the Haras

The Haras National Suisse is open to the public free of charge all year round; check access arrangements again before your trip. Its educational trail has 33 stations. Training sessions with the horses in the courtyard or indoor riding arena are also open to the public, although training times may change. Freiberger horses are bred and continually developed at the Haras.

Avenches is the only nesting site for storks in French-speaking Switzerland and is home to about 30 pairs each year; the number may vary from year to year. At the Haras, the birds are easy to spot from around mid-February to mid-August. This seasonal window can help you plan if you want to see the storks.

Seasonal Experiences and Regional Orientation

On Lake Murten, the Base Nautique d’Avenches at Camping Plage d’Avenches rents out stand-up paddleboards, kayaks and pedal boats. The service is seasonal. During the summer season, regular stand-up paddle excursions and other board activities are organised there. Check operating dates and the current programme before your trip.

A guided culinary tour is another experience on offer: the “Balade gourmande à la romaine” takes you through Aventicum, with short tasting stops inspired by recipes from Apicius. The programme and booking details may change. The tourist office in the town centre provides information about activities and leisure options in Avenches and the surrounding region.

For further regional orientation, explore the Broye region’s distinctive natural landscapes. Avenches and the surrounding area have hiking trails for beginners, intermediate hikers and experienced walkers. On the Morat–Avenches hiking route, you can take the train back to Morat; check connections and trail conditions in advance. Different seasonal windows are worth keeping in mind when planning your trip: events take place in August and September, storks can be observed at the Haras from around mid-February to mid-August, and water sports are available seasonally.

Discover more destinations: Avenches, Riviera-Pays-D'enhaut, Aubonne, La Vallée, Nyon, Payerne, Aigle, Yverdon.

For the main travel overview: Vaud.