Lausanne

Lausanne, in the canton of Vaud, lies about 65 km northeast of Geneva on the north shore of Lake Geneva, and the direct SBB train takes around 45 minutes with departures roughly every 15 minutes from Geneva Cornavin. A single fare costs about CHF 25, and the seasonal CGN steamer offers a slower, scenic alternative at CHF 40-60. Known as the Olympic capital because it hosts the International Olympic Committee, the city climbs steeply from the lakeside district of Ouchy to the Old Town on the hill. The Cathédrale de Lausanne, a Gothic building dating from the 12th and 13th centuries, is the main sight, and its tower gives wide views over the roofs, the lake and the French Alps beyond. Near the lake, the Olympic Museum in Ouchy has exhibits on the history of the Games and a terraced park with sculptures. The Flon district, a former warehouse zone, now holds restaurants, bars and shops, and the M2 metro line links the station, the Old Town and Ouchy in minutes, which saves legs on the hills. A simple day starts with the train, then a walk up through the Old Town to the cathedral and the Place de la Palud with its fountain, followed by lunch in the Flon or one of the Old Town bistros, where perch fillets from the lake and Vaud wines are typical orders. After lunch the metro descends to Ouchy for the Olympic Museum and the lakeside promenade, ending with a drink on the quay before an evening train back. April to October gives the best weather for walking the waterfront, while winter suits the museums. Visitors who plan to travel more widely in Switzerland may find a Swiss Half Fare Card or a day pass worthwhile. Expect to spend CHF 60-110 for the day including transport and a meal.