Lausanne

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Lausanne, Switzerland

Located on the shores of Lake Geneva, Lausanne is a stunning city in western Switzerland that offers a unique blend of French and Swiss cultures. With its picturesque old town, vibrant cultural scene, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lake, Lausanne is an ideal destination for travelers seeking a mix of history, culture, and outdoor adventure.

Places to Go

1. Old Town (Vieille Ville)

Lausanne’s charming Old Town is a must-visit, with its narrow cobblestone streets, picturesque squares, and beautiful medieval buildings. Be sure to explore the Cathédrale de Notre-Dame, the Palais de Rumine, and the Hôtel de Ville.

2. Lake Geneva (Lac Léman)

Take a stroll along the shores of Lake Geneva, enjoy a boat ride, or simply sit back and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

3. Olympic Museum (Musée Olympique)

Dedicated to the history of the Olympic Games, this museum is a must-visit for sports enthusiasts.

4. Cathedral of Notre-Dame (Cathédrale de Notre-Dame)

This stunning Gothic cathedral dates back to the 12th century and offers breathtaking views of the city from its tower.

5. Palais de Rumine

This beautiful 18th-century palace is now home to several museums, including the Cantonal Museum of Fine Arts and the Cantonal Museum of Archaeology and History.

6. Flon District (Quartier du Flon)

This trendy neighborhood is known for its street art, independent shops, and lively nightlife.

7. Sauvabelin Forest (Forêt de Sauvabelin)

Just outside the city center, this beautiful forest offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

8. Lausanne Cathedral (Cathédrale de Lausanne)

This stunning cathedral dates back to the 12th century and features an impressive organ and beautiful stained-glass windows.

9. Musée de design et d’arts appliqués contemporains (mudac)

This museum is dedicated to contemporary design and applied arts, with a focus on Swiss and international designers.

10. Le Port d’Ouchy

This charming harbor area offers stunning views of the lake, as well as several restaurants, bars, and shops.

Activities

1. Take a Boat Ride on Lake Geneva

Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Lake Geneva, with options ranging from short trips to full-day excursions.

2. Hike in the Sauvabelin Forest

Explore the beautiful trails of the Sauvabelin Forest, with options ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes.

3. Visit the Lausanne Market (Marché de Lausanne)

Every Thursday and Saturday, the Lausanne Market offers a wide range of local produce, crafts, and souvenirs.

4. Take a Wine Tasting Tour

The Lausanne region is famous for its wine production, with several vineyards offering wine tastings and tours.

5. Go Skiing or Snowboarding in the Jura Mountains

Just an hour from Lausanne, the Jura Mountains offer world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities.

6. Attend a Festival or Event

Lausanne hosts a wide range of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Lausanne Film Festival, the Jazz Festival, and the Fête des Lumières (Festival of Lights).

7. Take a Day Trip to Geneva or Montreux

Both Geneva and Montreux are easily accessible by train from Lausanne, offering a range of cultural and outdoor activities.

8. Go Cycling in the Surrounding Countryside

The Lausanne region offers several cycling routes, ranging from easy rides along the lake shore to more challenging mountain trails.

Where to Eat

1. Le Chalet Suisse (Swiss Cuisine)

This cozy restaurant serves up traditional Swiss dishes, including fondue and raclette.

2. L’Accademia (Italian Cuisine)

For a taste of Italy in Lausanne, head to L’Accademia, which offers a range of pasta dishes, pizzas, and risottos.

3. Le Jardin Gourmand (French Cuisine)

This elegant restaurant serves up refined French cuisine, with a focus on seasonal ingredients and beautiful presentation.

4. Café de l’Évêché (Café and Pastry)

This charming café is located in the heart of the Old Town and offers a range of delicious pastries, sandwiches, and coffee.

5. Le Baroque (International Cuisine)

For a more modern take on Swiss cuisine, head to Le Baroque, which offers a range of international dishes and cocktails.

Where to Stay

1. Lausanne Palace & Spa

This luxurious hotel is located in the heart of the city, with stunning views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding mountains.

2. Hotel des Voyageurs

This charming hotel is located in the Old Town, with cozy rooms and a warm welcome.

3. Ibis Lausanne Centre

For budget-friendly accommodation, head to the Ibis Lausanne Centre, which offers comfortable rooms and a convenient location.

4. Hostel 102

This modern hostel is located in the heart of the city, with dorms and private rooms available at affordable prices.

Things to Know

1. Language

While many locals speak English, French is the predominant language spoken in Lausanne. Consider learning a few basic phrases before your trip.

2. Currency

The Swiss franc (CHF) is the local currency, although euros are widely accepted.

3. Weather

Lausanne experiences a temperate climate, with warm summers and cold winters. Be sure to pack accordingly.

4. Safety

Lausanne is generally a very safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Transportation

1. By Air

The closest airport is Geneva International Airport (GVA), which offers connections to Lausanne by train or bus.

2. By Train

Lausanne has excellent rail connections to the rest of Switzerland, as well as international trains to France and Italy.

3. By Bus

Several bus companies offer routes connecting Lausanne to surrounding towns and cities.

4. On Foot

Lausanne is a very walkable city, with many attractions located within easy reach of each other.

5. By Bike

Consider renting a bike to explore the city and surrounding countryside.

Tips

1. Buy a Lausanne Transport Card

This card offers unlimited public transportation in Lausanne, as well as discounts on several attractions and activities.

2. Explore Beyond the City Center

While the Old Town is charming, be sure to explore beyond the city center to discover hidden gems and stunning views.

3. Take Advantage of Free Attractions

Lausanne offers several free attractions, including the Cathédrale de Notre-Dame and the Palais de Rumine.

4. Learn About Swiss Culture

Take some time to learn about Swiss culture and history, which will enrich your experience in Lausanne.

5. Be Prepared for Hills

Lausanne is a hilly city, so be prepared for some steep climbs and wear comfortable shoes.

Other Things of Interest

1. The View from the Cathedral Tower

For stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains, climb to the top of the Cathedral tower.

2. The Flea Market (Marché aux Puces)

Every Saturday, the Flea Market offers a wide range of second-hand goods, antiques, and souvenirs.

3. The Lausanne Botanical Gardens (Jardin Botanique de Lausanne)

These beautiful gardens offer a peaceful retreat from the city center, with several plant species and a tranquil atmosphere.

4. The Museum of Contemporary Design and Applied Arts (mudac)

This museum is dedicated to contemporary design and applied arts, with a focus on Swiss and international designers.

5. The Lausanne Jazz Festival

Every summer, the Lausanne Jazz Festival brings together some of the world’s top jazz musicians for several days of live music and performances.

With its stunning location, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene, Lausanne is an ideal destination for travelers seeking a unique blend of French and Swiss cultures. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor adventure, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, Lausanne has something to offer everyone.