Nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva, Lausanne is a vibrant Swiss city known for its stunning views, rich history, and lively cultural scene. With a blend of modernity and tradition, travelers can explore charming old town streets, indulge in exquisite cuisine, and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities against the backdrop of the Alps.
Choosing the right spa hotel is essential for making the most of your stay, providing you with a tranquil retreat after a day of exploration. In this guide, we’ll highlight the best places to stay, nearby neighborhoods, top attractions, and helpful travel tips to ensure your visit to Lausanne is unforgettable.
| Category | Recommended accommodation |
|---|---|
| 5 star / luxury |
Lausanne Palace Royal Savoy Hotel & Spa Hotel Continental |
| 4 star hotels |
Novotel Lausanne Bussigny Château d'Ouchy Hotel Angleterre |
Accommodations, Pools, Parking, Spa, Romantic, Gites, Pet-friendly, 5-star, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Hot tubs, Places to stay, Family, Accessible hotels
Superb
1484 reviews
Luxury, Cheap, Accommodations, Pools, Parking, Spa, Romantic, Gites, 5-star, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Jacuzzis, Places to stay, Family, Accessible hotels
Superb
2793 reviews
Accommodations, Pools, Parking, Spa, Boutique, Gites, Novotel , Pet-friendly, 4-star, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Places to stay, Family, Accessible hotels
Good
1831 reviews
Accommodations, Parking, Romantic, Gites, 5-star, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Places to stay, Accessible hotels
Fabulous
848 reviews
Accommodations, Pools, Parking, Spa, Romantic, Boutique, Gites, 4-star, Gostinicies, Rooms, Alberghi, Lodgings, Beach, Places to stay, Family, Accessible hotels
Fabulous
982 reviews
Lake Geneva Cruise: Enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Geneva. Visitors can soak in views of the Alps and picturesque lakeside towns while relaxing on the water.
🔗 Check Availability on GetYourGuide
Guided Walking Tour of Old Town: Explore the charming streets of Lausanne’s Old Town with a knowledgeable guide. Discover historical sites and hear local stories along the way.
🔗 Check Availability on GetYourGuide
Vineyard Tour in Lavaux: Visit the UNESCO-listed Lavaux vineyards near Lausanne. Participate in tastings and learn about winemaking in this stunning terraced landscape.
🔗 Check Availability on GetYourGuide
Olympic Museum: Discover the history of the Olympic Games at this engaging museum. Visitor Tip: Plan your visit for an afternoon to enjoy the gardens as well.
Cathédrale de Notre-Dame: This impressive Gothic cathedral offers stunning architecture and panoramic views from its tower. Climb the stairs to see the city from above.
Collection de l'Art Brut: Experience a unique art collection dedicated to outsider art. The museum showcases works by self-taught artists, reflecting creativity beyond traditional boundaries.
The Core Tip: Public transport is the primary way visitors navigate Lausanne, with an efficient network of trams and buses connecting key areas.
The Pro Move: Consider purchasing a Lausanne Transport Card, which provides free access to public transportation during your stay.
The Core Tip: Peak tourist season runs from June to August, when warm weather and local festivals draw larger crowds to attractions like Ouchy Promenade.
The Pro Move: Visit popular sites early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid peak visitor times.
The Core Tip: Lausanne is quite walkable, especially in the city center. Travelers will find that most major attractions are within a reasonable walking distance.
The Pro Move: Use well-marked pedestrian pathways and take advantage of elevated viewpoints for navigating steep areas.
The Core Tip: Most hotels, restaurants, and attractions accept credit cards, but small vendors and local markets may prefer cash.
The Pro Move: Keep some Swiss Francs on hand for smaller purchases or at places that might not accept cards.
The Core Tip: From Geneva Airport, travelers can take the train directly to Lausanne, making it a convenient option to reach the city.
The Pro Move: Check train schedules in advance to minimize waiting time upon arrival.