Lausanne Hotels

Lucky Lausanne

Life in Lausanne is almost like Grandma threw off her dressing gown, took you out into town for the usual church visit… then stuffed you full of beer and cheese before shouting you drinks at an underground club. The medieval centre of Lausanne is a grand old dame and the Gothic Lausanne Cathedral is just one of her ancient gems.

The beautiful Lake Geneva setting lends itself to the grand museums Musée de l’Elyséeand the Musée Historique de Lausanne (plus 22 others), as well as to slow walks, more cathedrals and picnics. But the real draw card is the arts scene. You’ll find underground bars playing jazz at all hours, tiny restaurants with the best food in the city and pop-up galleries run by students and locals. So get on your restored vintage bike, grab a beer and get involved. Age is no excuse.

LAUSANNE’S TOP 10

LAUSANNE EVENTS

Ballroom-dancing enthusiasts flock to Prix de Lausanne in early February, where dancers compete to win a prestigious scholarship.

April sees the Carnaval de Lausanne take over the city with parties, rides, entertainment, music and local fare to nosh on.

June gives tourists what they want at the Fête de la Biere et des Musiques Festives. Sample over 200 types of Swiss beer at this traditional summer beer festival.

Outdoor Movies by the Lake sees July take advantage of Lausanne’s stunning backdrop. This is a rare chance to enjoy Hollywood on a big scale, alfresco-style.

New Year’s Eve is a huge celebration across Switzerland. Lausanne parties as hard as anyone, with booze, events and fireworks.

WHEN TO GO

• July and August are the hottest months, with average temperatures of around 25°C (77°F) during the day and 14°C (57ºF) at night. The daylight hours are longer, which sees restaurants and bars open late.
• Temperatures drop to around 17ºC (63ºF) in September and October.
• Although the winter months get chilly, there’s a festive glow about the city and far fewer tourists.

GETTING AROUND

• Walking is a great way to get around the city centre.
• The metro has its hub at the Flon Metro Station, and tickets are fairly cheap as long as you work out where you’re going first.
• Bikes can be hired for very reasonable rates. Be prepared, though – there are lots of hills!

HotelClub Blog

Top Rail Passes to Explore Europe