cassie15490

Hiya, I'm going to Switzerland in August and planning to start off in Geneva. I just want people's opinions on whether Lausanne makes a good day-trip or if its better to spend a few solid days there?

Cheers!s

PalenQ

One day would be enought for most IMO - not that much there to see - nice town but many would suggest going to Montreux and Chateau Chillon or taking a day trip to say Gruyeres perfectly walled old town, etc. A few days stay in Montreux could be neat - take lake boats around - lots of easy excursions - for info on Swiss trains and where to go around Geneva check www.sbb.ch; BETS-European Rail Experts and www.ricksteves.com. You could also easily day trip to Chamonix by few-hour bus ride and experience awesome glaciers and high Alps.

Yes many and I say base in Montreux not Geneva, a town that few fall in love with though it is a nice town but Montreux or Vevey much more romantic and great bases.

neckervd

As said above, the city of Lausanne and the Olympic Museum can be visited in less than a full day. But Lausanne is a transport hub for whole Western Switzerland and could be a good base for dozens of day trips. So, all depends on your interests.

suze

I'm not a fan of Geneva so much. I'd switch it around and do a day trip to Geneva's Old Town, and spend the rest of the time & stay out in Lausanne, or better yet Vevey or Montreux.

PalenQ

Montreux is about as good as Lausanne for day trips - just a few minutes train ride away and some of the best excursions start from it - like Chocolate Train to Gruyeres and Broc Chocolate factory and mountain train to Rochers-de-Naye. Be sure to take a boat ride on lovely Lake Geneva - like over to Evian-les-Bains, France for a taste of fresh Evian water and a famous spa town and casino to replenish dwindling trip funds.

suze

Since you mention August, and it it's hot, the Montreux Casino has a lakeside swimming pool that you can buy a day pass to. Very "local" and fun thing to do.

PalenQ

That lakeside pool sounds like a good bet! Great for unwinding after flight.

Dukey1

We often stay in Lausanne. I agree a lot depends on what kinds of things you enjoy. It is obvious that some of the people above have never really taken the time to explore the place.

PalenQ

I have stayed in Lausanne and explored all the town - yes and I agree with Dukey - a very pleasant place with trappings of a larger city and a lovely lakefront area - that said I think most would rather have the quieter smaller more romantic towns like Vevey or Montreux. Me, I'd take Lausanne as I like busy towns! And as said Lausanne a great base for many nearby towns.

kja

I'm chiming in a bit late here, but thought both cities well worth some time. I think it really depends on what YOU want to see and do.....