Basic information Lausanne

Lausanne, the second-largest city on Lake Geneva, combines the character of a dynamic city of commerce with the location of a holiday resort. The capital of the canton of Vaud is also a lively university city and a popular trade fair venue. The Olympic Capital naturally places a great deal of emphasis on sport and culture as well. The city was built on three hills, surrounded by vineyards with Lake Geneva at its feet. Opposite Lausanne, the Savoie Alps rise up imposingly from the French side of the lake. The old town is largely car-free and certainly worth a visit. Narrow alleys lined up with cafés and boutiques characterize the city's medieval core.