This Olympic city along Lake Geneva is the perfect destination for a short trip with its alpine panorama, the historical old town as well as exciting nightlife.
The heart of the old town, called the Cité, is home to a number of buildings from the Middle Ages. The most famous monument is definitely the cathedral Notre-Dame in Lausanne. It sits high above the city and is considered the most significant Gothic structure in Switzerland. The window rose from the 13th century has become world-famous. And the organ is worth a visit as well. Not only because it contains 7,000 different organ pipes but also because it has a fascinating American-Italian story. Be sure to climb the tower of the cathedral, so as not to miss a beautiful view across Lausanne and Lake Geneva while on your city trip to Lausanne.
The nightlife of the city primarily takes place in the districts of Le Flon and Ouchy. Modern entertainment centres as well as a number of clubs and bars invite visitors to party. For transport across the city while on your mini-break in Lausanne, simply take the underground which is remote controlled. It was expanded by a second line in 2008 and connects the different districts in Lausanne. The metro’s rail network covers a change in altitude of 336 metres with inclines of 12%.
After 20 months of renovations, the Olympic Museum, located in the district Montchoisi, finally opened its doors again. Visitors are invited to marvel at an interactive exhibition about the history and successes of the Olympic Games. Another attraction is the Olympic Park which offers expansive views of Lake Geneva and the Alps. One highlight of the park is the virtual competitive track on which visitors can compete with the current Olympic champions in the 100 yard dash.
The Bois-de-Vaux is considered one of the most beautiful cemeteries in Switzerland and a must for Visitors on a city trip to Lausanne. When the architect Laverrière designed the cemetery, he attempted to provide the atmosphere of a generous park. Famous people like Coco Chanel and Pierre de Coubertin are buried here. Sports enthusiasts are invited to visit the ice-skating stadium Malley in the district Sébillon/Malley. Ice hockey games as well as figure skating events take place here. The stadium has a capacity of 12,000 spectators and houses not only sporting events but also cultural spectacles during which the tracks can be transformed into a stage.
