Avenches - Through old town from Murtensee Camping

Friday, 30 May 2025 00:00
Written by Portal Editor

It is only a few kilometers from the campsite at Murtensee to the Swiss town of Avenches, which is done by bike within a few minutes.

Avenches has a well-preserved historic old town with a picturesque medieval cityscape, as we were able to experience during our subsequent tour. Lying on a hill that overlooks the Broye valley by about 40 m, you have in addition to the medieval buildings with sometimes almost Mediterranean flair with a wonderful view of the surrounding landscape and the Murtensee from many locations.

The Old Town with its almost rectangular floor plan has an extension of just 300 × 200 m and is clearly reminiscent of the layout of Roman settlements, no wonder actually, because Avenches / Aventicum once was the capital of the Roman province of Helvetia. The old main road from Payerne to Murten today forms the central longitudinal axis.

To the south and north of it, there is a side street, which are interconnected by three cross streets. From the former city fortifications still existing are the Tour de Benneville in the south and the Tour de Vully in the northeast; both date from the 13th century. The city wall was demolished in the 19th century as in many places. Also built in the 11th century tower on the edge of the amphitheater there is huge tower which probably belonged to the ring wall, too. It houses the Musée Romain with a rich collection of archaeological finds from the Roman city of Aventicum since 1838.

Reformed church Sainte-Marie-Madeleine

The Reformed Church of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine was built at the end of the 11th century in the center of the old town and replaced the former Merovingian churches outside the city walls, which gradually fell into decay and was completely demolished in the 17th century. It was rebuilt during the Gothic style epoch from 1709 to 1711. From the original building, just the Romanesque round apsis is preserved.

In the northeast corner of the old town of Avenches stands the castle. It was built in the 13th century as a castle and initially was the seat of the Kastlans, since the bailiff appointed by Bern in 1536. This was from 1565 to 1568 make a fundamental transformation to today's Renaissance Castle. It has a rich interior design and today houses the city library. The three-storey Hôtel de Ville, built in 1753, which freely is translatable with Town Hall, sculpted pediment and arcades, the Hôtel de la Couronne and the Tour de Montauban, a polygonal staircase tower from a 15th-century manor house, are also worth a visit , The Grand-Rue is lined with numerous stately late Gothic citizen and patrician houses from the 16th to the 18th century.

Ernest Failloubaz - a Swiss aviation pioneer from Avenches.

On May 10, 1910 Failloubaz was first to fly with a machine of Swiss design, which had been designed by René Grandjean. Due to his youthful age, Failloubazle was called the "gamin volant" (the flying child) and Grandjean himself attempted a flight on May 15. However, on 28 September 1910 Failloubaz undertook a flight from Avenches to Payerne With this 6-minute flight, Failloubaz managed the first inland flight from city to city on 2 October, followed by a flight day at the newly founded aerodrome in Avenches and a meeting on 8-10 October in Bern, where Failloubaz received first Swiss pilot license.

In September 1911, the Swiss army conducted the first reconnaissance flights. On the fifth mission, Failloubaz and observer Gustave Lecoultre had to make an emergency landing on the rented Dufaux plane. The attempt to show the benefits of aerial reconnaissance had failed for the time being. For health reasons, Failloubaz was not recruited and deployed as a military pilot during the First World War.

A monument of the Swiss aviation pioneer stands in the center of Avenches.

Old Town of Avenches – A Historic Gem near Lake Murten - more details

Introduction: Why Avenches is an Insider's Tip

Charming Avenches, a town with Roman roots, a pretty old town, and a relaxed atmosphere, lies in the heart of the canton of Vaud. Those camping on Lake Murten can experience not only nature but also over 2,000 years of history on a leisurely stroll – all without the stress and crowds of tourists.

Where is Avenches?

Avenches is located in the French-speaking part of Switzerland, in the canton of Vaud, near Murten and Payerne. From the campsite on Lake Murten, the town centre is easily accessible in just a few kilometres – on foot, by bike, or by car.

Roman Heritage: Aventicum, the Capital of Helvetia

What is now called Avenches was once Aventicum, the most important Roman city on Helvetian soil. As the capital of the Helvetii, it was home to up to 20,000 inhabitants – this is still evident today in the impressive ruins, columns, and historical remains.

From the campsite on Lake Murten into history

The campsite on Lake Murten is a perfect starting point for an exploration. After a short walk along green paths, the view of the city opens up, and you feel as if you've been transported back to a time steeped in history.

Charming Old Town – A Walk Through Time

The old town of Avenches is small but beautiful. Cobbled streets, lovingly preserved houses, old city gates – time seems to have stood still here. Those who stroll attentively through the alleys will continually discover new details: ancient inscriptions, wrought-iron balconies, and historic fountains.

The Amphitheatre of Avenches

A real highlight is the well-preserved Roman amphitheatre. It seats around 16,000 spectators and is still used for concerts and festivals today. The town literally vibrates with history – a must-see for anyone interested in antiquity.

Roman Museum – A Journey of Discovery for the Curious

At the Musée Romain d'Avenches, right next to the amphitheatre, visitors can marvel at finds from Roman times: coins, jewellery, ceramics, and interactive exhibitions make the visit exciting, even for children.

City Walls, Towers, and Medieval Alleys

Avenches is more than just a Roman town. The well-preserved city walls, towers, and the structure of the medieval old town also tell of later life in the region. Particularly worth seeing are the Tour de Benneville and the city tower near the old town hall.

Culture and Events: Open-Air Events in the Amphitheatre

In the summer months, Avenches becomes a cultural hotspot. Whether opera, classical music, pop, or open-air cinema – the amphitheatre transforms into an atmospheric open-air stage guaranteed to give you goosebumps.

Culinary Delights in the Old Town – Café Culture Meets Swiss Specialties

After a stroll through the city, small bistros, crêperies, and restaurants invite you to linger. Enjoy a glass of Vaud wine, accompanied by a cheese platter or rösti – regional, fresh, and delicious.

The Ideal Route from the Campsite to the Centre

Start directly at the lakeshore, follow the footpath through the green surroundings, past fruit trees and meadows. After about 20–30 minutes of leisurely walking, you'll reach the amphitheatre and, shortly afterwards, the old town.

Avenches for Families – Combining Nature and History

The town is ideal for a day trip with children: The amphitheatre invites them to run around, the museum offers child-friendly information, and you can even admire farm animals along the way. Picnic areas are plentiful.

Best Time to Visit and Weather Tips

Avenches is particularly beautiful in spring and summer, when flowers bloom and events take place. Autumn brings colourful leaves and peaceful strolls, while winter plunges the town into contemplative silence.

Sights around Avenches

Lake Murten: Swimming, boating, relaxing
Murten: Picturesque town with old town
Payerne Abbey: Romanesque church art
Vully wine region: Perfect for wine lovers

Conclusion: History meets quality of life

Avenches offers a unique blend of Roman antiquity, medieval romance, and modern joie de vivre. Whether you're coming from Lake Murten or stopping through, every step is worth it. The town is manageable, relaxed, and full of surprises—a real highlight off the beaten track.