Perched on the northern shore of Lake Geneva, Lausanne is a city that blends centuries of history with a strong cultural identity. It served as a Roman military camp called Lousanna before evolving into a key medieval settlement. Today, visitors can still climb the tower of Lausanne Cathedral, widely regarded as the most impressive Gothic structure in Switzerland. From the top, the view stretches over the rooftops of the Old Town to the vineyards of Lavaux and across the lake to the French Alps.

The city is home to the Olympic Museum, a fitting location given that Lausanne has been the headquarters of the International Olympic Committee since 1915. The museum isn’t just about medals and memorabilia, it explores the intersection of sports, politics, and global culture through immersive exhibitions and multimedia. The surrounding park, with sculptures and panoramic terraces, makes it a popular stop for both tourists and locals.

Lausanne is also known for its layered geography. Built on three hills, the city’s neighborhoods are connected by steep streets, winding staircases, and the only fully automated metro system in Switzerland. The Flon district, once an industrial warehouse zone, has been repurposed into a creative hub filled with galleries, cafés, boutiques, and cinemas. By contrast, the lakeside area of Ouchy offers wide promenades, paddle steamers, and shady gardens just minutes from the city center.