Swiss Bliss on a Budget: Lausanne in 5 Days

Experience the beauty of Lausanne without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Lausanne is a charming Swiss city that can be explored even on a shoestring budget. You can take a leisurely walk along the picturesque Lake Geneva, visit historic landmarks like the Cathedral of Notre-Dame, and sample delicious local cuisine in affordable eateries. The city also has free entry to several museums and provides a budget-friendly transportation system, making it a perfect destination for a low-cost trip.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arriving in Lausanne

  • Check into budget-friendly Hotel Elite, located in the heart of Lausanne.
  • Visit the charming medieval Old Town and explore its cobbled streets and historic sights.
  • Enjoy a traditional Swiss meal at Café de Grancy, a cozy bistro serving fondue and raclette.
  • Take a stroll along Lausanne's scenic waterfront, with views of Lake Geneva and the Alps.
  • Grab a drink at Brasserie de Montbenon, a trendy bar housed in a 19th-century pavilion.
Day 2

Art and Culture in Lausanne

  • Start the day by admiring the impressive collection of art at the Musée de l'Elysée.
  • Explore the Olympic Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the Olympic Games.
  • Visit the Lausanne Cathedral, a striking Gothic church and landmark of the city.
  • Have lunch at Café du Grütli, a charming café with a sunny terrace and delicious sandwiches.
  • Catch a performance at the Théâtre de Vidy, one of Switzerland's leading contemporary theaters.
Day 3

Wine Tasting in Lavaux

  • Take a train from Lausanne to Lutry and start a tour of the Lavaux wine region, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with vineyards and charming villages.
  • Visit the Caveau des Vignerons in Epesses, a traditional wine cellar known for its Chasselas wines.
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch in the vineyards, with stunning views of Lake Geneva and the mountains.
  • Visit the charming village of Saint-Saphorin and taste the local wines at Clos des Abbayes.
  • End the day with a scenic boat ride on Lake Geneva, admiring the Swiss Alps from the water.
Day 4

Adventure in the Swiss Alps

  • Take a train from Lausanne to Les Diablerets, a scenic alpine village surrounded by mountains.
  • Ride the cable car to the summit of Glacier 3000 and enjoy views of the Swiss Alps.
  • Try the Alpine Coaster, a thrilling ride that takes you down the mountain.
  • Stop by the Les Aviolats dairy and taste the fresh Swiss cheese.
  • Have dinner at Restaurant La Croix-de-Javernaz, a cozy chalet serving hearty Swiss dishes.
Day 5

Relaxing in Lausanne

  • Start the day with a relaxing morning at the Thermal Baths of Lavey, soaking in the natural hot springs.
  • Visit the Collection de l'Art Brut, a fascinating museum showcasing the art of the mentally ill and other outsiders.
  • Take a leisurely stroll through the Parc de Milan, a lovely park with gardens and fountains.
  • Have lunch at Café de l'Avenir, a popular spot known for its salads and sandwiches.
  • End the day with a sunset picnic on the Lake Geneva waterfront, savoring the beauty of Lausanne.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Lausanne by plane is to fly to Geneva Airport and take a train to Lausanne. The train from Geneva Airport to Lausanne takes approximately 45 minutes.

Car

If you are driving to Lausanne, take the A1 motorway towards Lausanne. It is recommended to use a GPS or map to navigate the streets of the city, as parking can be difficult in the city center.

Train

If you are already in Switzerland, the best way to get to Lausanne by train is to take a Swiss Federal Railways train, which operates throughout Switzerland. Lausanne is a major train hub and can be reached by direct train from cities such as Geneva, Bern, and Zurich.

Boat

Although Lausanne is located on the shores of Lake Geneva, there are no regular boat services from other cities on the lake. However, boat tours of Lake Geneva are a popular attraction in the area and can be booked locally.

Bus

There are several bus companies that operate between major European cities and Lausanne. Eurolines and Flixbus are two popular options. It is best to check timetables and prices online ahead of time and book in advance to ensure availability.

Destination

Lausanne

Nestled between the mountains and the lake, Lausanne is the perfect place to practice your uphill hiking skills and your downhill fondue eating skills. You might just end up rolling down the hill instead of walking down.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Swiss Adventure on a Budget: Lausanne in 3 Days

A trip to Lausanne on a limited budget can still be an exciting venture. Visitors can explore the Old Town and Cathedral for free, take a stroll along Lake Geneva without having to pay, and indulge in Swiss cuisine at affordable eateries. Additionally, staying in hostels or budget-friendly accommodations can provide an opportunity to save money while enjoying the city's breathtaking views.

Cozy and Romantic Lausanne Getaway

Explore the scenic beauty of Lausanne, Switzerland with your partner and indulge in an unforgettable romantic getaway. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming Old Town, sample delicious Swiss chocolates at local chocolatiers, or enjoy a cozy dinner with stunning views of Lake Geneva. Immerse yourself in the unique Swiss culture and take in the breathtaking sights the city has to offer for an unforgettable romantic trip.

Lausanne Adventures: A 5-Day Family Escape on a Budget

Lausanne, Switzerland is the perfect destination for a family-friendly trip with its picturesque location on the shores of Lake Geneva. The city offers a wide range of activities for all ages, from exploring the historic Old Town and its charming cobblestone streets, to visiting the fascinating Olympic Museum. Families can also enjoy outdoor adventures like hiking in the nearby Alps or spending a day at the Aquatis Aquarium and Vivarium.

Lausanne on a Budget: A Day of Adventure!

Lausanne offers plenty of budget-friendly options for travelers, from free outdoor activities like hiking in the surrounding mountains, to affordable eats at local markets and cafés. The city also has a number of museums with discounted admission fees, including the Olympic Museum and the Musée de l'Elysée. Accommodations can be found for a reasonable price by staying in hostels or booking budget hotels in advance.