Hop on a train and take a dip in Lake Geneva — just 3h41 away
Nicknamed “Little San Francisco” or “The Pearl of Lake Geneva”, Lausanne is first and foremost its own kind of city. It’s full of cosy local restaurants and elegant venues where you can share a coffee or a glass of regional wine. Wondering where to go in Switzerland? Facing the Alps, Lausanne welcomes all who enjoy the good life. Take the train and discover the city
Things to do in Lausanne
After less than four hours by train, you’ll find yourself in Lausanne.
First stop: coffee. Head to the old town, where you can wander freely — it’s entirely pedestrian. Stroll along Rue de Bourg, walk down the Market Stairs to Place de la Palud, and sip a hot drink on a terrace in front of Lausanne’s famous clock.
Coffee finished? Time to head to the cathedral. Climb the 224 steps to take in the panoramic view of all Lausanne — Lake Geneva, the Alpine range, the entire landscape unfolding from the most beautiful Gothic building in Switzerland.
If you’re glued to your screen during the Olympic Games or just love a good 100-metre sprint, you’re in the right place — Lausanne is an Olympic city! Walk (or run!) down to the museum dedicated to the Games, right on the lakefront, and enjoy a unique interactive experience. Perfect for a family weekend in Switzerland.
When the weather’s warm, head to Ouchy’s lakeside promenade. Choose your favourite way to get around — bike, rollerblades, scooter, or trainers — then follow the shoreline and treat yourself to a delicious chocolate ice cream at Veneta, a family-run gelateria since 1935. Approved by our whole team!
Got three days in Switzerland? After exploring Lausanne, head into the Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the winegrowing heart of the canton of Vaud. Epicureans, take note — visit the estates and taste wines that are 100% local.
📆 When to Visit Lausanne
🗓 Events
- October - Lausanne's Marathon. In a natural environment, one of the best running races in Europe.
- November / December - Lausanne Lights' Festival. Illuminated creations of international artists sublimates the city.
- January / February - Lausanne's Award. World-renowned competition for young dancers.
- April - Cully Jazz Festival. Just a stone's throw from Lausanne, a must for jazz enthusiasts.
- July - City Festival. Artistic performances organised all over the city with free entry.
⛅ The climate in Lausanne
Lausanne shines in every season.
In summer, the temperatures are mild — often a few degrees warmer by the lake (yes, Lausanne is built on a hill!), perfect for a refreshing dip.
In winter, admire the snow-covered Alps and warm up in one of Lausanne’s many cosy cafés and restaurants.
A tip for winter weekends: pack a good windbreaker — the bise (cold northern wind) often sweeps through at this time of year!
💡 Our Little Secrets About Lausanne
Lausanne is home to the only metro in Switzerland — both underground and on an incline. Perfect if you’d rather skip the uphill walk!
The cathedral still has a traditional night watchman who calls out the hours from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., every single night of the year.
Lausanne in figures
3 hills on which Lausanne is built. | 2 Lausanne is the 2nd biggest city in Romandie (French-speaking part of Western Switzerland). |