THE PERFECT LAUSANNE ITINERARY

Words: José Berrocoso

Lausanne, the second-largest city on Lake Geneva, combines a dynamic commercial town with the locality of a holiday resort. The capital of the canton of Vaud is also a lively university and convention town. Sports and culture are given a high profile in the Olympic capital.

Located in the southwestern part of Switzerland in its French-speaking region between Lake Geneva and Lake Neuchâtel, the region of Vaud is a dream vacation destination. The region is served by Geneva international airport, which is a short 40-minute train ride away from Lausanne. The region boasts a strong infrastructure including luxurious and affordable accommodation and a well-connected transportation system. The region features beautiful towns such as Lausanne, the Olympic Capital and Montreux Riviera, all steeped in centuries of history and culture. It has influenced and inspired many artists over the years from Lord Byron, Audrey Hepburn, Charlie Chaplin to David Bowie and Freddie Mercury. Vaud region is best known for its art of living, local and internationally renowned events, outdoor sports activities, world class gastronomy, traditions, and culture.

If you’re looking for a reason to visit the picturesque city of Lausanne, this is it. Sitting beside Lake Geneva in the region of Vaud, Lausanne’s town center dates back to the Middle Ages. With a rich history, yet modern vibe, the city is surrounded by nature, boasting stunning views of the Alps along with cultural activities, shopping and amazing restaurants.

Set off on panoramic strolls and scenic hikes

Nestled between Lake Geneva and the mountains, Lausanne is filled with stunning walks reaching panoramic views of the city’s surrounding landscape. Visitors can take a stroll to Sauvabelin Tower, a 35-metre tower, with a breathtaking vista of the city, Lake Geneva, the Alps, Jura and the Plateau. After taking in the sights, continue along the majestic forest pathway, and wind your back down to the town.

For those looking for a real dose of nature, the city is just a short train ride to mountain hikes. Grab your backpack, water, hat and maybe a little picnic basket, as you make the climb and discover panoramic views, picturesque waterfalls and relaxing lakes.

Live the green life in this sustainable city

After spending just five minutes in Lausanne, you’ll notice the city’s unwavering insistence on sustainability. There’s Le Local Pop-Up and Terre Vaudoise where travellers can stock up on local and artisanal products including honey, cheese, meats, apple juice, grapes and hops, and many second-hand and vintage boutiques where you can unearth unique gems.

You can even spot residents caring for their own vegetable patches in the middle of the city, as Lausanne continues to increase its total area of neighbourhood allotments by a third in the years to come.

Dine in award-winning restaurants

With more than 300 restaurants, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to dining options. Catering to all tastes and culinary preferences from casual eateries to Michelin-starred restaurants, there is fine food at every turn. Visit the Restaurant de L’Hôtel de Ville led by Frédy Girardet, one of the greatest chefs in the world, for a three Michelin starred feast or La Table du Lausanne Palace with its unique views overlooking the city’s rooftops and daring culinary pairings. The country is known to have the highest density of top-class restaurants, per capita, in the world.

Explore the city’s art and museum district

For your culture fix, wander to the PLATEFORME 10 arts district – a venue dedicated to fine arts and modern architecture. Unique to Switzerland, the new arts neighbourhood has sprung up from a former locomotive repair shed. The district gathers the Cantonal Museum of Fine Arts (MCBA), the Cantonal Museum of Contemporary Design and Applied Arts (mudac) and the Cantonal Museum for Photography (Photo Elysée) all in the one place. Discover the city’s history and artistic soul, as you hop from museum to museum, stopping into restaurants, cafes, arcades and green spaces along the way.

Soak up the Olympic spirit

You won’t have to wait till the 2024 Summer Olympics to soak up the event’s buzz. In 1994, Juan Antonio Samaranch gave Lausanne the title of Olympic Capital. The city was chosen to set up headquarters of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) because it captures the Olympic spirit so perfectly. In fact key institutions related to the Olympic Movement as well as over 50 international sports federations and organizations call Lausanne home.