- Flight time from London: 1 hour 35 min
- Geneva Airport: 61km from the city centre; transfer time about 45 min
- Currency: Swiss franc
Switzerland's forth-largest city enjoys a stunning location. Lausanne is situated on south-facing slopes down to Lake Geneva which vary in height from one side of the city to the other by an astonishing 600m. This allows for some breathtaking views over the lake and the region. The medieval Old Town, with its many historical sights, is dominated by one of the country's grandest Gothic cathedrals. Small alleyways with cafés and boutiques shape the mostly car-free city centre. Also worth a visit are the many colourful parks and gardens bursting with sub-Mediterranean vegetation.
If you wish to stay elsewhere in the Lake Geneva area, we also have hotels in Montreux available.
Built in separate stages, starting in 1170, the Gothic cathedral stands tall over the historic Old Town. There are many other interesting buildings found on these cobbled streets and every Saturday a farmers' market takes place.
As Lausanne is the official Olympic capital of the world, it seems apt to visit this interesting museum. The permanent exhibition looks at how the Olympic Games started, offers information of Olympians through the years and discusses what is meant by the Olympic spirit.
These UNESCO protected vineyards line the slopes beside Lake Geneva. It is thought that wine has been grown here since Roman times and this is your chance to taste some of today's offerings.
Housing a collection of rebellious artworks, the Art Brut museum highlights non-conformity and unique pieces that stem from a movement created in 1945 by Jean Dubuffet.
This museum of fine art can be found in a beautiful hilltop location overlooking the city. The building is a perfect example of a luxurious 19th-century residence and features works by artists such as Marie Laurencin, René Magritte and François Bocion.
If you want to experience a true Lausanne tradition that has been in place since the Middle Ages, listen to the watchman mark the hours between 10pm and 2am from the cathedral belfry.
Located a couple of hours outside of Lausanne, this ski resort offers a wide range of winter sports throughout the year.
These charming steamboats have been sailing across the blue waters of Lake Geneve for over 140 years and will transport you back to the Belle Epoque era. Choose from a wide range of trips, including a winemakers cruise to Chillon Castle or a short hop to one of the quaint villages on the lakeside.
The locals enjoy nothing more than indulging in the French tradition of L’apéro. Head to one of the lakeside restaurants, such as La Jetée de la Compagnie, and enjoy an aperitif and a light snack in the sun.
This 3.5-mile walk will talk you from the Sauvabelin Tower, in the north of the city, to Montriond Hillcrest on the shores of Lake Geneva. Along the way, you will stop at ten of the most beautiful viewpoints, overlooking the glistening water and the fantastic countryside all around.
© Fred. Olsen Travel 2024.
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