This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Lausanne.
A Gallo-Roman settlement named Lousonna -- at the site of present-day Lausanne -- was based around the Geneva Lake. At the crossroads of many routes, it was abandoned after the Germanic invasions in the third or fourth century. The city was visited by many pilgrims in the Middle Ages due to its cathedrals. It was taken over by Bern in the sixteenth century and it was under its control for many years before Lausanne became part of today’s Switzerland.
Today, Lausanne is growing rapidly, and with population of more than one hundred and thirty-five thousand, it is the fourth-largest Swiss city. There is not so much to do in the city, but a boat trip on the Geneva Lake is a must. You can also visit the Botanical Garden of Lausanne or the Notre Dame Cathedral of Lausanne, a Gothic-style building from the thirteenth century. The Château d'Ouchy was built in the twelfth century by the Bishop of Lausanne and it is located on the shore of the Geneva Lake. There are other cathedrals, palaces, churches, and museums which are also worth visiting. In Lausanne are located the headquarters of the International Olympic Committee, the University of Lausanne, and the Federal Polytechnic School of Lausanne.
Lausanne is not a tourist destination, and logically, you cannot find many hostels in Lausanne. However, finding a hostel in Lausanne is not too hard and most hostels are located near the train station or near the camping area near the Geneva Lake. Like almost all other cities in Switzerland, Lausanne hostels are very expensive and many people decide not to stay in Lausanne due to their prices. If you can afford the prices, however, you would most probably like your Lausanne hostel as it will offer good conditions. On the other side, do not expect to have a great social life at your Lausanne hostel, as the city is a rather quiet and reserved place.
Written by local enthusiast for Lausanne hostels
George Traveller