Why go?

If you’ve ever been to Switzerland, chances are you’ve favoured the bigger cities like Zurich or Geneva against Lausanne. But what this city may lack in size it makes up for in personality and beauty. The capital of the canton of Vaud, Lausanne is located in Romandy, the French-speaking part of Switzerland and is situated on the shores of Lake Geneva. Surrounded by vineyards, fir plantations and parkland it’s no surprise that Lausanne is one of the greenest cities in Europe. Climb up the hill of the old city and you can capture views of the red roofs and elegant architecture. Visit in June and head to the Lausanne Estivale which brings together more than 300 cultural shows across the city.

What to do

Lausanne is split into two areas, the waterfront area of Ouchy and the historic old town which are linked by a funicular railway that makes the tiresome ascent up the steep hills a thing of the past. Get off at Flon and you’ll come to a cultural crossroads where the old town meets the trendy, new area known for its nightlife. The city’s gothic cathedral is the biggest in Switzerland and features a rose window with 78 original panels from the 13th century. Directly opposite, the Mudac museum (mudac.ch) houses all kinds of contemporary art including an exhibition of glass sculptures. The city’s Lausanne History Museum is housed next door in the Bishop’s Palace. Inside, don’t miss an impressive model depicting what the city looked like in the 17th century. Turn left from the museums and you’ll come to the Escaliers du Marché, the market stairs linking the cathedral to the Place de la Palud. Here you’ll find the town hall and the city’s oldest fountain. For a slightly slower pace, head to Ouchy and visit the Olympic museum exhibitions which are currently being housed in a boat on the lake. Nearby, the Lavaux vineyard terraces overlook the lake with some dating back to the 11th century. If you’re feeling ambitious you can follow some of the scenic walking trails that lead you along the vineyards, stopping off for wine tasting and picnics along the way.

Where to stay

The neo-gothic Chateau d’Ouchy (00 41 21 331 32 32, chateaudouchy.ch) is perched by the beautiful blue expanse of the lake so you’ll be waking up to striking scenes each morning. Rooms retain many period features including exposed brickwork and some even come with four-poster beds which are quite befitting of this former medieval castle. Opened in the Belle Epoque, the Lausanne Palace and Spa (00 41 21 331 31 31, lausannepalace.com) is a unique hotel in the heart of the city. Rooms come with marble bathrooms and views of the cathedral.

Where to eat and drink

You’ll find the family run restaurant with rooms, Auberge de la Gare (00 41 21 799 26 86, aubergegrandvaux.ch) in the heart of the Lavaux vineyards. Enjoy views of the Alps as you try specialities including perch fillets, steak and a glass of gamay. At the Lausanne Palace (00 41 21 331 31 31, lausannepalace.com) Michelin-starred La Table d’Edgard serves up French-inspired cuisine including Pyrenean suckling lamb with chilli and thyme or stuffed saddle of rabbit. Larger parties can book the table d’hôte in the kitchen where you can watch the chefs prepare dishes. Back in Flon, Nomade (00 41 21 320 13 13, restaurantnomade.ch) looks more like something you would find in London. Heaving with young, stylish locals on weekends, expect interesting combinations like chicken breast with maple syrup and foie gras with gingerbread. The Pinte Besson (00 44 21 312 59 69 pintebesson.com) has been in business since 1780 and the menu features typical Swiss dishes including cheese fondue and the local specialty papet vaudois, a popular leek and potato dish served with cabbage sausage.

Time running out?

Enjoy the lake by boat and take in views of the snow-capped Alps and surrounding area.

Travel Information

Travel Information

Currency is the Swiss Franc (CHF). Lausanne is an hour ahead of GMT. It is a one-hour, 35-minute flight from London to Geneva, from which Lausanne is a one-hour train journey.

Getting There

Easyjet (easyjet.com) flies to Geneva from London Gatwick.
Swiss Travel System (swisstravelsystem.ch) operates a regular train service from Geneva to Lausanne.

Resources

Lausanne Tourist Office (lausannetourisme.ch) provides general information on visiting the city.