Lausanne – The Olympic Capital

Lausanne is also known as the Olympic Capital, but has a lot more to offer than just sports.

Lausanne is the second largest city in the French-speaking part of Switzerland. The city particularly excels in the following 4 areas:

• Sports
• Sustainable development
• Culture
• Research and education

Despite its relatively small size (around 130,000 inhabitants), Lausanne offers a wealth of attractions, gastronomy and culture. There are also plenty of opportunities for shopping, wellness and sport, as well as a vibrant nightlife.

View of Lausanne from Mont Tendre

Being in Lausanne as a Tourist

One of the first things you’ll notice about Lausanne is its stunning Gothic architecture. Take a stroll through the historic Old Town, where you’ll find cobblestone streets, charming cafes, and medieval buildings dating back to the 15th century. Be sure to visit the Lausanne Cathedral, a stunning Gothic masterpiece that offers breathtaking views of the city from its bell tower.

Another must-see attraction in Lausanne is the Olympic Museum. This museum, dedicated to the Olympic movement, features interactive exhibits and displays on the history of the Olympic games, as well as artifacts from past Olympic events. If you’re a sports fan, this is definitely a must-visit destination.

Of course, no visit to Lausanne is complete without a stroll along the shores of Lake Geneva. Take a leisurely walk along the promenade, or rent a paddleboat to explore the lake at your own pace. You can also take a boat tour to explore the surrounding area and take in the stunning views of the Swiss Alps.

If you’re interested in art, be sure to check out the Collection de l’Art Brut. This museum showcases works of art created by people who have not received formal training in the arts, such as mental patients, prisoners, and others. It’s a unique and fascinating look at the creative process, and it’s sure to leave you with a new appreciation for the power of art.

For foodies, Lausanne has a lot to offer as well. The city is known for its chocolate, and you can find a variety of local chocolatiers throughout the city. There are also many delicious restaurants serving up traditional Swiss cuisine, as well as international dishes. Be sure to try the cheese fondue, a local favorite.

Overall, Lausanne is a fantastic travel destination with something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, sports, or just taking in the stunning scenery, this city has it all. So why not plan your next trip to Lausanne and experience all that this Swiss gem has to offer?

Accommodation in Lausanne

With more than 5,000 beds from 1 to 5 stars in just over 60 hotels and hostels, there are plenty of accommodation options in Lausanne. However, you should be aware that prices for overnight stays in Switzerland are generally among the highest in Europe, which of course can also be felt in Lausanne. See a more or less complete list of hotels in Lausanne here

Most exclusive accommodation

The 3 most exclusive hotels in Lausanne are:

• Hôtel Beau-Rivage Palace
• Lausanne Palace et Spa
• Château d’Ouchy

Cheapest accommodation

The absolute cheapest accommodation is available at the 3 campsites:

• Camping de Vidy (the most central – recommended)
• Camping de Pra-Collet
• Camping la Carillère

Transport

anne is located in the heart of Europe, which offers numerous options for traveling to and from the city. Lausanne is also less than an hour’s drive from Geneva International Airport, making the city very easily accessible from distant destinations. Locally, Lausanne’s location is also quite favorable, for example:

• Sail to Evian in France in 39 min
• Travel by train or car to the nearest ski resort in 1 hour (there are more than 10 ski resorts that are less than 2 hours drive from Lausanne)
• Be in Milan, Italy in 3 hours and 21 minutes (via train)
• Be in Paris, France in 3 hours and 42 minutes (via train)
• Get to the German-speaking part of Switzerland in under 40 minutes (by car or train)

Read more about the possibilities on sbb.ch

Public transport

The public transport network in Lausanne is very dense and constantly evolving. The city’s second metro line, the M2, was completed in 2008 and is quite unique in global public transport, being able to travel up gradients of up to 12%. If you are staying in a hotel, you can ask for a Lausanne Transport Card at reception, which gives you free access to public transport for the duration of your stay.

Early in the morning or late at night, you can also call for taxi buses, which are cheaper than regular taxis. There is also the rentrez futé service, where a driver will take you home in your own car if, for example, you are too tired or have had a few drinks. Finally, of course, there is also Über.

Lausanne can also be visited on foot or by bike, although you should be prepared for some gear changes due to the city’s many hills. There are also city bikes that can be borrowed free of charge.

The Metro line M2 in Lausanne – here at Pont Bessières

Gastronomy

In Lausanne, there are around 320 restaurants in total, offering cuisine from almost every corner of the world. Local products (produits du terroir) are generally very much used in Lausanne restaurants and although it is mainly the older establishments that devote themselves to these products, depending on the time of year, they are often found in many places. An example of this is the famous dandelion salad, Salade Dent-de-lion, which is only available in spring around May. With food, it is recommended to try one of the many local wines (especially white wines are recommended) such as a chasselas from one of the local vineyards in Lavaux or La Côte, or from one of the town’s 5 vineyards (Château Rochefort, Abbaye de Mont, Clos des Moines, Burignon or Clos des Abbayes). Most restaurants serve hot food between 11.30 – 14.00 and 18.30 – 23.00. Since September 15, 2009, smoking has been banned in all of the city’s pubs, although some establishments have smoking rooms or terraces for this purpose.

Michelin stars

Lausanne is home to 3 Michelin-starred restaurants:

• Restaurant de l’Hôtel de Ville (3 stars)
• Anne-Sophie Pic (2 stars)
• La Table d’Edgard (1 stars)

Also worth a mention for its traditional cuisine and atmosphere is the Pinte Besson, founded in 1780 and still operating as a restaurant and bar.

The cathedral in Lausanne

Lausanne nightlife

Since the 90s, the phenomenon of clubbing (which really just means going out/going to a disco) has been an essential part of Lausanne’s nightlife. There is a relatively large variety of bars, discos, lounges, concert halls and other music venues in Lausanne. The legendary MAD club attracts DJs and musicians from all over the world and was voted the best disco in Switzerland in 2010. On Place Benjamin-Constant, the 3 bars L’étoile blanche, Café Saint Pierre and Happy Days create a great synergy during the evening and night hours. In addition, the Flon neighborhood with its many bars, restaurants, galleries and discos (including the MAD club mentioned above) is worth a visit. There are also over 30 night buses (Le Service Pyjama) from the city center every Friday and Saturday night (including 31.12).

Place Palud in Lausanne where the Hotel de la ville is located

Shopping and markets

Lausanne is a great place for shopping; the old town as well as the newer parts are packed with all kinds of shops and boutiques. In recent years, the small district of Flon – originally a river and later an industrial district with warehouses – has become a modern shopping district. In addition to shops, Flon is home to restaurants, bars, discos, cinemas, galleries and other businesses. There are also a number of markets in Lausanne:

• Permanent market: every Wednesday and Saturday from 8:00 to 14:30, the streets of the city center are transformed into long markets where you can buy local products (especially flowers, fruit and vegetables, bread, cheese, sausages and meat)
• Christmas market: Throughout the month of December, there is also a Christmas market, with its small wooden huts spread over several of the small streets and squares in the city center. Other markets in the city
• Flea market: Every Thursday from 9:00 to 19:30, there is a flea market in Place Chauderon
• Craft market: The first Friday of every month from March to November and the first 3 Fridays of December, there is a craft market in Place de la Palud from 9.30 to 19.00
• By the lake: Every Sunday from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm from March 31 to September 29, there is a market in Ouchy
• Pully: Every Friday morning from 6:00 to 13:00 there is a market in the district of Pully

Culture in Lausanne

The density, diversity and range of cultural institutions and events in Lausanne far exceeds the size of the city. Today there are 23 museums, 22 galleries, as well as numerous theaters, art scenes, art and dance schools, etc. The newly renovated opera, the Béjart Ballet Lausanne, and the BD-fil comic strip festival also help to highlight the city’s cultural side. The Lausanne Estivale and Festival de la Cité events also offer around 600 different shows, most of which are free.

Sports

• About a century ago, Pierre de Coubertin founded the headquarters of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in Lausanne
• In 1994, Lausanne was named the Olympic Capital (Capitale Olympique)
• The Olympic Museum in Lausanne attracts more than 200,000 visitors a year
• Lausanne is the headquarters of more than 40 Olympic institutions and sports federations
• Lausanne hosts numerous sporting events (World Gymnaestrada, Athletissima, etc.)

History of Lausanne

Lausanne is a picturesque city located in the French-speaking part of Switzerland. Situated on the shores of Lake Geneva, Lausanne is renowned for its breathtaking views, cultural landmarks, and cosmopolitan atmosphere. But what is the history of this beautiful city?

The earliest traces of human settlement in the area that is now Lausanne date back to the Bronze Age, around 1000 BCE. During the Roman era, the city was an important hub of commerce and trade. It was called Lousonna and served as the capital of the Celtic tribe of the Helvetii.

In the 6th century, Lausanne became part of the Frankish kingdom and later the Holy Roman Empire. During the Middle Ages, it was a thriving center of trade and a popular pilgrimage destination, thanks to its cathedral dedicated to Notre-Dame.

In the 12th century, Lausanne gained its independence from the Holy Roman Empire and became a city-state. It joined the Swiss Confederation in 1803 as part of the newly formed Canton of Vaud. During the 19th century, Lausanne experienced a period of rapid growth and modernization, with the construction of new buildings and infrastructure, including the railway station and the harbor.

Lausanne played a significant role in the development of the Olympic Games. In 1915, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) was founded in Lausanne by Baron Pierre de Coubertin, the father of the modern Olympic Games. The IOC has since been headquartered in Lausanne and has played a crucial role in promoting and developing the Olympic movement worldwide.

During the 20th century, Lausanne continued to grow and prosper, becoming a center of education, research, and innovation. Today, it is home to several renowned universities, research institutions, and multinational corporations. The city is also known for its cultural heritage, with numerous museums, galleries, and festivals showcasing the arts and sciences.

In conclusion, Lausanne’s history is a fascinating journey that spans thousands of years. From its Celtic and Roman origins to its medieval glory and modern prosperity, the city has a rich cultural and historical heritage that is reflected in its architecture, traditions, and way of life. Whether you are interested in sports, art, history, or science, Lausanne has something to offer for everyone.

Top 10 Fun Travel Facts About Lausanne

1. Lausanne is home to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and has been since 1914. This makes it a great destination for sports enthusiasts who want to learn more about the history of the Olympic Games.
2. Lausanne is known for its steep hills and slopes, which make it a great destination for hiking and biking. The city has over 500 kilometers of hiking trails, including the famous “Lavaux Vineyard Terraces,” which have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
3. Lausanne is a city of culture, with over 20 museums and galleries. One of the most popular is the Olympic Museum, which showcases the history of the Olympic Games and includes interactive exhibits.
4. Lausanne is a great destination for foodies, with a range of local and international cuisine on offer. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as cheese fondue, raclette, and vaud sausage.
5. Lausanne has a rich history, with the oldest parts of the city dating back to the Roman era. You can still see remnants of the city’s Roman past in the form of the ancient city walls and the Roman baths.
6. Lausanne is home to the famous Beau-Rivage Palace hotel, where many famous personalities have stayed, including Charlie Chaplin, Coco Chanel, and Victor Hugo.
7. Lausanne is a great destination for wine lovers, with the nearby Lavaux region producing some of the best wines in Switzerland. The region is also home to a number of wine cellars and vineyards that offer tours and tastings.
8. Lausanne is a city of festivals, with a range of cultural and music events throughout the year. One of the most popular is the Lausanne Underground Film & Music Festival, which showcases independent cinema and alternative music.
9. Lausanne is a city of art, with a range of street art and public installations throughout the city. One of the most famous is the “Flon district,” which has been transformed from an industrial area into a vibrant cultural hub.
10. Lausanne is a great destination for families, with a range of activities for children, including the “Swiss Vapeur Parc,” which is a miniature steam train park, and the “Aquatis Aquarium-Vivarium,” which is home to over 10,000 fish and reptiles.