Getting Around, Lausanne Travel, Transport and Car Rental

(Lausanne, Vaud, Switzerland)

One of the very best ways to travel around central Lausanne is to simply walk. For most short journeys, walking is always preferable when it comes to public transport and makes good sense, since many sights are extremely close together. However, do be warned that some of the streets in Lausanne are quite hilly and can be a little steep at times, such as the pedestrianised Rue du Petit Chêne.

If you intend to travel a little further or are simply short of time, then underground metro trains, bus transport and electric trolleybuses are all on hand to transport you throughout Lausanne and its suburbs, for very little outlay. When you arrive at your hotel, check whether you are eligible for a free bus and metro travel pass first, which is usually valid for a fortnight.

Geneva Cointrin International Airport (GVA)

Address: 29 Route de Pre-Bois, Cointrin, CH-1215, Switzerland, CH
Tel: +41 022 717 7111
Geneva Airport is the closest air facility to Lausanne and is actually only 60 km / 37 miles to the south-west, a travel time of less than one hour by car or bus. Train transport also links this airport with Lausanne's CFF railway station and these trains run every 30 minutes during the daytime and for much of the night. Those looking for the sheer convenience of a taxi will find plenty gathered directly outside of the arrivals area.

Car Rental

Hiring a car is a popular travel option at Geneva Cointrin Airport and it is simple to reach a range of Swiss destinations from around Lausanne. The N1 motorway links Lausanne with both Yverdon and Geneva, while the N9 runs to Martigny and joins the N12 to Berne. Driving in the city centre is not usually too much of a problem, although is can become busy first thing in the morning, and again later in the afternoon, at the end of the working day. You are able to park free for up to one hour within blue zones (using a time disk), although most white zones features metered parking. If you are lucky you may be able to find some parking spaces along with Avenue des Bains, which are completed free of charge.

Bus and Trolleybus

Buses and trolleybuses travel to a range of destinations around Lausanne, with bus stops dotted all over the city.

Offering one of the city's cheapest public transport options, it is quite likely that you will never be more than just a short walk from an actual bus route or stop, with most routes operating well into the night. If you are holidaying here on a tight budget, buses are likely to be your best choice.

Train and Metro

Trains are a favourite mode of transport for day trippers in Lausanne. Geneva is linked by three trains every hour, which reach this popular city in under 45 minutes, while slightly less frequent trains also travel to Berne and Yverdon, amongst other locations. However, if you are intending to travel around central Lausanne, the underground metro trains are worth considering. Both speedy and easy on the pocket, the metro trains run on two lines and are operated by the Transports Publics de la Région Lausannoise, converging at Flon Station.

Taxis

Taxis are a fairly expensive form of transport and cannot be hailed from the street. They are most suited to short trips and can be found queued outside of stations, prominent hotels or close to central squares. Alternatively, they can be ordered by telephone, with a list of reputable companies available at most metro and train stations.