Lausanne Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
General Planning & Logistics
Q: Is Lausanne a good base for exploring Switzerland?
A: Yes, Lausanne is a great base, especially for Western Switzerland and Lake Geneva region, with good train connections.
Q: How many days are enough for Lausanne?
A: A day or a weekend is enough for the city itself. For exploring the surrounding areas like Lavaux or Chillon, consider 3-5 days.
Q: Is Lausanne expensive?
A: Yes, Switzerland, and Lausanne in particular, is known for being expensive. Dining out and hotels can be costly.
Q: What’s the best time of year to visit Lausanne?
A: Summer offers pleasant weather for lake activities and outdoor excursions. Spring (for narcissus trails) and autumn (for vineyards) are also popular.
Q: Is Lausanne safe?
A: Yes, Lausanne, like the rest of Switzerland, is considered very safe.
Q: What currency is used in Lausanne?
A: Swiss Franc (CHF). Euros are sometimes accepted in tourist areas but change will be given in CHF.
Q: Do people speak English in Lausanne?
A: French is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and by younger generations.
Q: What about bringing cash?
A: While credit cards are widely accepted, it’s good to have some cash for smaller purchases or local markets.
Q: How do I get from Geneva Airport to Lausanne?
A: You can take a direct train from Geneva Airport to Lausanne.
Q: Is it possible to live in Lausanne without a car?
A: Absolutely, Lausanne has excellent public transportation.
Accommodation
Q: What are the best luxury hotels in Lausanne?
A: Hôtel Beau-Rivage Palace, Lausanne Palace, and Royal Savoy Hotel & Spa are highly recommended for luxury.
Q: Are there good mid-range hotel options?
A: Hotels like Hotel Angleterre, Hotel Continental, and Hotel Victoria are often suggested for good quality at a slightly lower price point than the top luxury hotels.
Q: Any recommendations for budget-friendly hotels or hostels?
A: Lausanne Youth Hostel Jeunotel, Swiss Chocolate Lausanne by Fassbind, and ibis Lausanne Centre are good budget options.
Q: Which neighborhoods are best for staying?
A: Lausanne Center and Ouchy are popular for tourists due to their proximity to attractions and transportation.
Q: Are hotels by the lake convenient?
A: Hotels in Ouchy (by the lake) offer beautiful views and access to the lakeside promenade, but the city center is uphill, requiring a metro ride or a walk.
Q: Do hotels offer a free transport card?
A: Many hotels in Lausanne provide guests with a Lausanne Transport Card, offering free public transport within zones. Check with your accommodation.
Q: Are there hotels with good views?
A: Hotels in Ouchy and some higher-up city hotels (like the Royal Savoy’s rooftop bar) offer great views of Lake Geneva and the Alps.
Q: What’s the best hotel for a classy experience?
A: Hôtel Beau-Rivage Palace is often cited as very classy and historical.
Q: Any hotels with good spa and pool facilities?
A: Royal Savoy is noted for its excellent pool and spa.
Q: Are there family-friendly hotels in Lausanne?
A: Many hotels cater to families, and locations near parks or the lake (Ouchy) can be good. Aquatis Hotel is also mentioned.
Things to Do & Attractions
Q: What is the must-see attraction in Lausanne?
A: The Olympic Museum is consistently ranked as a top attraction.
Q: What are other main landmarks?
A: Lausanne Cathedral, Port d’Ouchy, Place de la Palud, and Escaliers du Marché.
Q: Is the Olympic Museum worth it?
A: Yes, it’s highly recommended for sports fans and history lovers, with interactive exhibits for all ages.
Q: Can I go inside Lausanne Cathedral?
A: Yes, and you can climb its 160 steps to the top for panoramic views.
Q: What’s there to do in Ouchy?
A: Walk along the lake, visit Olympic Park, enjoy the rose garden, or take a boat cruise on Lake Geneva.
Q: Are there good parks in Lausanne?
A: Parc Olympique, Denantou, Elysée gardens, and Esplanade de Montbenon are beautiful parks for relaxing or picnicking.
Q: Any unique or hidden gems in Lausanne?
A: The buried river at Flon (viewable from the parking garage), Le Silure binch room for rare beers, La colline du Languedoc (small park with vineyard views), and the “wartavern” ship.
Q: What about art and culture?
A: Collection de l’Art Brut, Fondation de l’Hermitage (art museum), and Plateforme 10 (new arts district with several museums) are key cultural spots.
Q: Is AQUATIS Aquarium-Vivarium worth visiting?
A: Yes, it’s a popular attraction for families, offering a journey through five continents to discover aquatic life.
Q: What’s the Rolex Learning Center? Is it open to visitors?
A: It’s a striking architectural building on the EPFL campus, a multi-function student center. You can visit and admire its design.
Q: Can I go swimming in Lake Geneva near Lausanne?
A: Yes, the “pyramids” are mentioned as having the best water quality for swimming. Vidy Beach is also popular.
Q: What are the main shopping areas in Lausanne?
A: The city center offers a variety of shops within easy walking distance.
Q: Any good spots for reading a book?
A: A quiet garden with a bench near Place de la Palud is suggested.
Q: Where can I get a great view of the city?
A: Sauvabelin Tower offers amazing views of the surrounding area and the Alps. The Coop City restaurant on the top floor also has a good view.
Q: What about free activities?
A: Walking along the lake, exploring the old town, climbing the Cathedral for views (small fee for the tower), and relaxing in parks are free.
Food & Drink
Q: Where can I try traditional Swiss fondue or raclette?
A: Chalet Suisse and Café Romand are popular choices for traditional Swiss dishes. Pinte Besson is also very traditional but small.
Q: Any recommendations for high-end dining?
A: Chez Girardet (Hôtel de ville de Crissier) is a world-renowned, very expensive option. Anne-Sophie Pic’s restaurant in Beau-Rivage also offers excellent French cuisine.
Q: What are good casual lunch or dinner spots?
A: The Lacustre (on the lake), Cafe de Grancy, and Cafe des Avenues are good for casual meals.
Q: Where can I find good burgers?
A: Holy Cow, Inglewood, Zooburger, or Crazy Wolf are recommended for burgers.
Q: Best Italian restaurants in Lausanne?
A: Fratel (for takeaway pizza), Farmacia Angelucci, Un Po’ Di Più Trattoria, Amici, Luigia (best pizza), and Mario’s Pizza are mentioned.
Q: Are there good Asian restaurants?
A: Umamido Grancy (ramen), Itoya (Japanese Sushi), Thai Orchidée, Les Rues de Saïgon (Asian), Hokkaido (sushi take-out), and Oy Isan Thai Food are suggested.
Q: What about international cuisine?
A: Pré-Fleuri (Georgian), La Parada or La Esquina (Mexican), Le Nil Bleu (Ethiopian), Herat (Afghani), and Eatme (world on small dishes) offer diverse options.
Q: Any good breakfast or brunch spots?
A: Bakeries, Coop/Migros for croissants. Le Pointu is known for incredible weekend brunches.
Q: How can I eat on a budget in Lausanne?
A: Coop and Migros supermarkets have prepared salads, hot deli items, and even in-store restaurants that are affordable. Holy Cow is a good fast-food option.
Q: Where can I find good coffee shops?
A: Java is mentioned as a coffee shop.
Q: Any vegetarian-friendly options?
A: Tibits at the Central Station is mentioned as a good vegetarian option.
Q: What’s the dining scene like in Ouchy?
A: There are many good restaurants along the lake at Ouchy.
Q: Are there places to try local Vaudois specialties?
A: Café Romand and Le Vaudois are known for traditional Vaudois cuisine.
Q: What’s “Le Fraisier”?
A: A tiny, hidden restaurant near Manor, praised for simple, fresh, and tasty food.
Q: Is there a good place for cocktails with a view?
A: The bar at the top of the Royal Savoy Hotel & Spa offers magnificent views.
Public Transportation
Q: How does public transport work in Lausanne?
A: Lausanne has an efficient public transport system including metros (M1, M2), buses, and trains.
Q: What is the Lausanne Transport Card?
A: It’s a card often provided by hotels that gives free public transport within specific zones (usually zone 11, the city center).
Q: Can I use the Lausanne Transport Card for day trips outside the city?
A: The card is typically valid for certain zones. For trips beyond those zones (e.g., to Montreux), you’ll need to buy an extension ticket or a separate ticket.
Q: How do I buy tickets for trains and buses?
A: Tickets can be bought at ticket counters, travel agencies, or conveniently through the SBB (Swiss Federal Railways) app.
Q: Is the SBB app useful for travel in Switzerland?
A: Yes, it’s highly recommended for planning routes, checking schedules, and buying tickets for trains and buses across Switzerland.
Q: Can I add my travel pass to the SBB app?
A: Yes, if you have a travel pass (like the Lausanne Transport Card or a Half Fare Card), you can add it to the SBB app to ensure it only charges for zone extensions or specific tickets not covered by your pass.
Q: Is the M2 metro line busy during rush hour?
A: Yes, the M2 can be hectic during rush hour, so it’s advisable to avoid it if you have large luggage.
Q: Is it easy to travel with luggage on public transport?
A: As long as you can manage your luggage and don’t block paths or seats, it’s generally fine outside of peak hours.
Q: What’s the difference between a point-to-point ticket and a zone extension?
A: A point-to-point ticket covers a specific journey. A zone extension ticket allows you to travel within additional zones for a certain period (e.g., 2 hours) when you already have a pass for a base zone.
Q: What’s a Saver Day Pass?
A: A Saver Day Pass can be a cost-effective option for longer day trips, especially if booked in advance, as it allows unlimited travel on public transport for a day within specified areas.
Day Trips from Lausanne
Q: What are the most popular day trips from Lausanne?
A: Montreux/Vevey/Lavaux, Gruyères & Cailler Factory, Chillon Castle, Geneva, and Rochers de Naye are very popular.
Q: How do I get to Lavaux vineyards from Lausanne?
A: You can take a train to a station like Cully or Lutry and then walk or rent e-bikes. Little “trains on wheels” also help with the inclines.
Q: Is it worth visiting Montreux and Vevey?
A: Yes, they are beautiful lakeside towns. Montreux is famous for its Jazz Festival and Fredie Mercury statue, Vevey for its charming old town.
Q: What’s there to see at Gruyères?
A: The medieval town, Gruyères Castle, La Maison du Gruyère (cheese factory), and the HR Giger Museum.
Q: Can I visit the Cailler chocolate factory from Lausanne?
A: Yes, it’s often combined with a trip to Gruyères, as they are relatively close.
Q: Is Chillon Castle a good day trip?
A: Absolutely. It’s a stunning medieval castle right on Lake Geneva, easily accessible from Montreux or Vevey.
Q: What’s Rochers de Naye?
A: A mountain near Montreux with panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the Alps, accessible by cogwheel train.
Q: Is Geneva worth a day trip from Lausanne?
A: Yes, for its international organizations, Jet d’Eau, and Old Town.
Q: What about Bern? Is it too far for a day trip?
A: Bern is doable as a day trip from Lausanne and offers a beautiful UNESCO-listed Old Town.
Q: Can I visit the Gorges du Chauderon?
A: Yes, near Montreux, it offers a beautiful nature hike along a river.
Q: Any other charming towns to visit nearby?
A: Lutry, Morges, Estavayer-le-Lac, Murten (Morat), and Romainmôtier are suggested.
Q: What about going to the mountains? Like Interlaken/Grindelwald?
A: While further, it’s possible to do a day trip to the Jungfrau region (Interlaken, Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen) for classic majestic Swiss views, but it will be a long day. Consider a Half Fare Saver Day Pass.
Q: Are there boat trips on Lake Geneva?
A: Yes, cruises from Ouchy to places like Evian (France), Thonon, or Geneva are a lovely way to spend time.
Q: What’s the Golden Pass Line?
A: A scenic train route. The Montreux-Zweisimmen line is part of it, offering panoramic views. You usually only need a regular SBB ticket; reservations are optional.
Q: Are there any family-friendly day trips?
A: Gruyères (cheese and chocolate), AQUATIS, and lake activities are generally family-friendly.
Activities & Experiences
Q: Are there good hiking opportunities around Lausanne?
A: Yes, particularly in Lavaux, Rochers de Naye, and the Gorges du Chauderon.
Q: Can I rent e-bikes in Lausanne to explore the vineyards?
A: Yes, renting e-bikes for the Lavaux vineyards is a popular way to explore.
Q: What about outdoor activities for families?
A: Swimming in the lake, climbing Sauvabelin Tower, or ziplining at Parc Aventure (nearby) are options.
Q: Is there live music or a good music venue?
A: Les Docks is a well-known music venue. Les Jumeaux is a jazz club. Le Bourg and Le Romandie are also mentioned for concerts/parties.
Q: What’s the nightlife like in Lausanne?
A: Lausanne has a reputation for nightlife, with various bars and clubs, especially in the Flon district. Weekday nightlife can be quieter.
Q: Are there any festivals in Lausanne?
A: Festival de la Cité, fds, Les Urbaines, Luff Festival (October), and Electrosanne are mentioned. There’s also a Chocolate Festival.
Q: Any places for board games?
A: L’Atelier du Jeu or Paradis du Jeu host board game nights, and some bars do too.
Q: Where can I meet locals or other travelers?
A: Board game nights, some bars, or just exploring popular areas like Flon.
Q: Is there a specific area for nightlife?
A: The Flon district is generally the hub for nightlife.
Q: What about LGBT-friendly places?
A: Several mentioned nightlife spots like Espace Autogéré, Pôle Sud, La Fièvre, La Lig, Le Silure, La Bossette, La Brasserie du Chateau, L’Atelier, Le Bourg, and Le Romandie are noted as LGBT-friendly. Vaud Queer also organizes Café Queer events.
Miscellaneous Tips & Advice
Q: Any tips for saving money on food?
A: Utilize supermarkets (Coop, Migros) for groceries, prepared meals, and even in-store restaurants. Pack picnics.
Q: What’s the general cost of living in Lausanne?
A: It’s considered to have an insane cost of living by some locals, especially for housing.
Q: Is tipping customary in Switzerland?
A: Service charges are usually included in the bill, but a small tip for good service is appreciated.
Q: What should I pack for Lausanne?
A: Layers are always good, comfortable walking shoes, and waterproofs depending on the season. Swimwear if planning lake activities.
Q: Are there specific areas to avoid?
A: Lausanne is generally very safe, and there aren’t specific “no-go” areas for tourists.
Q: Is Lausanne family-friendly overall?
A: Yes, with parks, museums, and outdoor activities, it offers plenty for families.
Q: What’s the best way to get around the city?
A: Public transport (metro, bus) is excellent. The city is hilly, so walking can be challenging in some areas.
Q: Are there self-guided walking tours available?
A: Many tourist information websites or apps offer suggested walking routes to key attractions.
Q: What’s the vibe of Lausanne?
A: It’s described as beautiful and safe, with a mix of historical charm, modern amenities, and access to nature.
Q: Can I travel to France (Evian/Thonon) from Lausanne?
A: Yes, by boat across Lake Geneva, which can be a fun half-day trip.
Q: What are the best views from Lausanne?
A: From the Cathedral, Sauvabelin Tower, and various spots along the lakefront.
Q: Is it easy to find good restaurants outside the main tourist areas?
A: Yes, locals often recommend places off the beaten path that offer authentic experiences.
Q: What should I know about dining etiquette?
A: Swiss dining is generally relaxed, but punctuality for reservations is appreciated.
Q: Are there any specific scams to be aware of?
A: Switzerland has very low crime rates, so major scams targeting tourists are rare. Standard travel precautions apply.
Q: Where can I find more detailed information or local advice?
A: Lausanne Tourisme website.