Lausanne: A nostalgic and charming Riviera

Resting quietly on the high hills overlooking Lake Geneva, Lausanne has a holiday atmosphere all of its own. Switzerland's fourth-largest city, it was founded in Roman times and built on three hills. Geographically, it stretches over a height difference of around 500 metres to the north of Lake Geneva.

Over the course of the 20th century, the city underwent a dynamic expansion, giving rise to some modern architecture that makes life easier for tourists. Sometimes nicknamed the San Francisco of Switzerland (due to its sloping streets), Lausanne is known for its peaceful quality of life.

Far from attracting crowds of tourists, the city is pleasant all year round. The nightlife is also intense, thanks in particular to the presence of students, and is concentrated in particular in the trendy districts of Flon, Saint-Pierre and Place du Tunnel.

When you think of Lausanne, you can't help but think of the Place Saint-François, the Place de la Palud and its fountain, the Château d'Ouchy and the Beau-Rivage Palace. However, the city's major attraction is its imposing Gothic cathedral, which dates back to 1080. Dominating the whole city, its construction was spread over several centuries, which explains the different pieces from different periods. Finally, to soak up the charming and rather local atmosphere of Lausanne, you really must come on market days (Wednesday or Saturday).

Generously spoilt for culture and sport, Lausanne scatters its nuggets in every neighbourhood: Plateforme 10 (home to three museums), the Palais de Rumine (a veritable archaeological relic that is also home to a number of curiosities), the Théâtre de Vidy and the Olympic Museum. Speaking of sports... The capital of the canton of Vaud is famous the world over for being the headquarters of the International Olympic Committee, the highest authority on the Olympic Games, responsible for designating the host cities. The city is also home to the headquarters of a dozen international sports federations, making it a leading sports city.

Lausanne would be sad without Lake Geneva... This body of water, which is both Swiss and French, has left its mark on the city's landscape. All along its shores, you'll find a variety of places to go for lovely walks, day or night. If you want to go even further afield, a number of shipping companies offer a variety of cruises aboard charming vintage boats on the lake.

Nature is everywhere. Parks, gardens, hills, forests and plains surround the city. Lausanne offers a gentle way of life. And for lovers of wide open spaces and breathtaking panoramas, head for the heights to admire the horizons, from the city across the lake to the Vaud Alps.