Lausanne Travel Guide

In the heart of the metropolitan area of Lausanne-Morges, Lausanne, located on the shores of Lake Geneva is the capital of the Canton of Vaud which extends from the border at Geneva along the La Côte vinyards, Nyon, Morges, through Lausanne, Pully, Lutry and then continuing along the Lavaux vineyards (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) past Cully and shoreline to Montreux and the famous Chateau de Chillon (all French speaking). Lausanne has been in full development for many years in terms of the economy, urban planning, public transportation, higher education and many other areas. This delightful extended "town" is the 4th largest city in Switzerland with a population of about 130'000 persons and is particularly appreciated for its higher educational opportunities, cultural activities, historical buildings and its role in hosting the Olympic committee and the Olympic Museum. It is also one of the most gorgeous areas in Europe with  spectacular scenic beauty. Located on what is known in Switzerland as the "Swiss Riviera", the city begins on the shores of Lake Geneva and goes straight up (with a few narrow valleys) and offers views from just about everywhere in town of the placid and mystical "Lac leman" (the largest lake in Western Europe) and the snow and glacier-capped Swiss and French Alps.

Being a modest sized city with a variety of topographical neighborhoods, there is a strong sense of community and quality of life in Lausanne that is not always found in larger cities. When in the center of Lausanne, one always seems to run into at least someone they know even though there are many coming into town from the countryside for shopping and cultural activities.

-Sonja Holverson, Nileguide Local Expert

Where to Go in Lausanne