Top reasons to visit Lausanne
- Scenic Lake Geneva: Enjoy breathtaking views and outdoor activities along the shores of Lake Geneva, perfect for sailing and leisurely strolls.
- Cultural Attractions: Visit notable sites such as the stunning cathedral and the Olympic Museum, showcasing Lausanne's rich heritage.
- Charming Downtown: Experience vibrant shopping, dining, and striking city views in the heart of Lausanne.
- Outdoor Adventures: Engage in skiing and other outdoor pursuits in the surrounding scenic landscapes.
- Welcoming Neighbourhoods: Explore friendly areas like La Sallaz, ideal for relaxing excursions and local experiences.
Find great hotels in Lausanne
Lausanne offers a delightful array of accommodation options, from charming hotels to inviting bed and breakfasts, catering to every traveller's needs. Whether you're seeking a pet-friendly retreat, a convenient base for business travel, or a family-friendly escape, you will find an excellent selection of hotels in Lausanne. Discover the best Lausanne hotels that promise a memorable stay amidst the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of this beautiful Swiss city.
- ibis Lausanne Centre: Situated in the heart of Lausanne, the ibis Lausanne Centre offers a budget-friendly option for travellers seeking a city-themed getaway. With a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, this hotel is known for its pet-friendly policy, allowing guests to bring their furry companions along for the adventure. The property features essential amenities and a welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate the convenience of being in the city centre without breaking the bank.
- Agora Swiss Night by Fassbind: Earning a commendable guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, Agora Swiss Night by Fassbind is a contemporary 4-star hotel that combines comfort with a touch of Swiss elegance. This accommodation is especially suited for travellers who wish to enjoy a pet-friendly environment. With amenities tailored for both leisure and relaxation, guests can expect a stylish ambiance complemented by thoughtful services. Its location in Lausanne ensures easy access to local attractions, making it a great base for exploration.
- De la Paix: With a stellar guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, De la Paix is a distinguished 4-star hotel that caters to families and ski enthusiasts alike. Located conveniently for access to ski shuttles and lifts, this property embraces a family-friendly atmosphere with dedicated amenities for children, including babysitting services. The blend of luxury and functionality creates a welcoming environment, making it an excellent choice for those seeking both adventure and relaxation during their stay in Lausanne.
Where to stay in and around Lausanne
Lausanne, a picturesque city nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva, offers a delightful blend of adventure and romance. Explore the vibrant downtown, where you can indulge in a unique shopping experience and marvel at stunning city views. Nearby neighbourhoods like La Sallaz invite you to enjoy a friendly atmosphere perfect for relaxing excursions. Whether you seek business vibes or family-friendly outings, Lausanne promises an unforgettable vacation filled with charm and excitement.
- Lausanne Center: Nestled in the heart of Lausanne, this vibrant neighbourhood serves as a hub for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The area's geographical location offers stunning views of the nearby lake, making it a picturesque spot for exploration. With a peak in visitors from July to September, you can experience a variety of activities including skiing and hiking. Notable attractions such as the picturesque harbour and marina provide a perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls and outdoor activities.
- Ouchy: Ouchy is a charming lakeside neighbourhood that promises a delightful family-friendly atmosphere. Located along the shores of Lake Geneva, it boasts scenic views and a sandy beach, ideal for relaxation and recreation. Visitor numbers peak during the summer months, drawing families looking to enjoy the outdoors. Here, you can take advantage of activities such as cable car rides and explore the local urban parks. The vibrant harbour area is perfect for a leisurely afternoon, offering stunning sunsets over the lake.
- Pully: Just a short distance from Lausanne, Pully is a romantic city known for its enchanting ambiance and entertainment options. With a peak in visitors during April, July, and September, this charming locale invites couples and families alike to revel in its outdoor pursuits. The proximity to the lake and marina enhances its appeal, while the local hot springs offer a unique relaxation experience. Don't miss the chance to explore the ski fields nearby, making Pully a perfect blend of leisure and adventure.
Things to do near Lausanne
Shopping
Lausanne offers a delightful shopping experience with boutiques like Globus for luxury items and the vibrant Ouchy Promenade market for local crafts. If you're up for a drive, visit the nearby city of Geneva, where you can explore extensive shopping centres such as Balexert and La Praille.
Recreation
The Bains de Lausanne offers a rejuvenating experience with thermal baths and wellness treatments overlooking Lake Geneva. Enjoy the soothing thermal waters, steam rooms, and serene relaxation areas, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring the city.
Les Bains de Lavey features thermal pools set amidst stunning alpine scenery. Visitors can indulge in massages and wellness therapies, all while enveloped in a tranquil atmosphere that promotes relaxation and rejuvenation.
Le Spa by the Hôtel des Trois Couronnes combines luxury with wellness, offering a range of treatments and access to a heated pool and sauna. The stunning views of the lake enhance the sense of calm and relaxation during your visit.
Adventure
The Leysin-Berneuse Gondola offers breathtaking views as you ascend the mountain, perfect for an adventurous day out. Similarly, Parc Aventure Aigle features thrilling ziplines and rope courses amidst beautiful scenery. For more stunning vistas, the Champery-Croix de Culet Cable Car provides an exhilarating ride to the peaks.
Nightlife
Experience Lausanne's vibrant nightlife with a drink at the stylish Café de Grancy. For a more energetic vibe, visit Le Flon, known for its clubs and music venues. Alternatively, enjoy a relaxed evening at the charming Les Arches, where you can savour local wines and snacks.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Lausanne
To save money during your visit to Lausanne, consider travelling in the off-peak months of March to April and November, when accommodation prices are lower. Utilise public transport such as trains, buses, and metros, and enjoy free attractions like the Esplanade de Montbenon. For hotel bookings, aim for a stay on a Monday, as it’s the least expensive day. Booking about a month in advance or exploring last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia can also yield savings. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package may offer additional discounts.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Lausanne are March to April and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Lausanne about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Lausanne is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Lausanne is Friday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To uncover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Lausanne with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Lausanne
Lausanne offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, romantic settings, and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore notable attractions such as the art museum, the stunning cathedral, and the sports museum. For a unique experience, consider a stay at the Lausanne Palace. This charming city caters to families and culture enthusiasts alike, making it an ideal destination for a memorable holiday.
- Espace des Inventions: This engaging science museum in Lausanne invites families to explore interactive exhibits that spark curiosity and creativity. With a focus on innovation and education, it offers a unique opportunity to delve into the wonders of science in a fun, hands-on environment.
- Ouchy Port: Nestled along Lake Geneva, Ouchy Port is a picturesque harbour that boasts stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the serene waters. Visitors can wander along the promenade, relax on the beach, or indulge in local cuisine at waterfront cafés, all while soaking in the tranquil scenery.
- Lausanne Cathedral: A magnificent example of Gothic architecture, Lausanne Cathedral stands as a cultural landmark. Its intricate façade and stunning stained glass windows provide a glimpse into the region's rich history, while the panoramic views from the tower are not to be missed.
Best time to go to Lausanne
The best time to visit Lausanne can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Lausanne falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Lausanne falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Lausanne
Flying into Lausanne is convenient with three major airports nearby. Geneva Airport (GVA-Cointrin Intl.) is approximately 51km away, with luxury hotels such as the InterContinental Geneve, Mandarin Oriental, and The Woodward, all within 3km. Lyon Airport (LYS-Saint-Exupery) is about 150km distant, offering options like NH Lyon Airport, Kyriad Prestige, and DoubleTree by Hilton, ranging from 0.3 to 11km from the terminal. Lastly, Basel Airport (BSL-EuroAirport) is located roughly 138km from Lausanne, with nearby hotels including Mercure Bale Mulhouse and Hotel Villa K, both within 3km. Each airport provides reliable access to these accommodations.