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How to Get to Lausanne

How to Get to Lausanne

Lausanne Vaud, Switzerland Travel Guide

Major Airports & Connections

Geneva Airport GVA

Located approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) to the southwest of Lausanne, Geneva Airport is the closest in distance and most convenient international airport.

Airlines & Routes

  • Serviced by major European carriers like Swiss International Air Lines, easyJet, Lufthansa, France's National airline, Ba, and KLM.
  • Some intercontinental flights, including those from United Airlines and Emirates.
  • Direct trains from GVA to Lausanne Gare take 45-60 minutes.

Zurich Airport ZRH

Situated about 220 kilometers (137 miles) to the northeast of Lausanne, Zurich Airport is Switzerland's largest and busiest airport.

Airlines & Routes

  • Main hub for Swiss International Air Lines, offering an extensive global network.
  • Many international airlines also operate flights to and from Zurich.
  • Trains without changes from ZRH to Lausanne take about 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Flight Availability

Flight prices generally increase during peak summer months (June to August) and around major holidays. Booking flights well in advance is suggested, especially for high season travel. Use Dollar Flight Club for deals.

Seasonal Pricing

Shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) often give more for your money and increased availability, with enjoyable weather conditions. Check Skyscanner for options.

Airport Facilities

Both GVA and ZRH have extensive facilities: duty-free shops, restaurants, car rental services, integrated train stations, airline lounges, baggage services, and VAT refund desks.

Airport Transfer Options

Train

  • Most efficient and recommended option from both GVA and ZRH.
  • Trains are punctual and comfortable. Seamless connections to urban areas.
  • From GVA to Lausanne: ~45-60 min. From ZRH to Lausanne: ~2h 15min.
  • Swiss Travel Pass is an excellent choice for extensive train travel.

Other Transfers

  • Bus: Bus services in the area connect to nearby areas, but train is faster to Lausanne.
  • Taxi/Ride-sharing: Available outside terminals. Expensive; GVA to Lausanne CHF 150-200+. Uber operates in Geneva and Zurich.
  • Private Transfer: Pre-booked services for convenience, especially for groups or heavy luggage.

Driving Considerations

Requirements

Valid national driving license. Non-EU/EFTA people from... need an IDP. Minimum age 18 (rental companies could be different).

Roads & Vignette

Roads are excellent and well-maintained. Motorways require an annual vignette (CHF 40), typically on rental cars.

Speed Limits

50 km/h in cities, 80 km/h outside urban, 120 km/h motorways. Speed cameras are common.

Train & Bus Travel

Train Network

Switzerland boasts an extensive, highly efficient, and punctual rail system run by SBB (Swiss Federal Railways).

Lausanne as a Hub

  • Lausanne is a major railway center with frequent connections to all major Swiss cities.
  • International train services connect Lausanne directly to Paris (TGV Lyria), Milan, and Lyon.
  • Train travel is often the preferred technique for moving about Switzerland due to its punctuality and comfort.

Bus Options

Long-distance bus alternatives inside Switzerland are limited in comparison with the comprehensive train network.

International Routes

  • FlixBus operates some international flights connecting Lausanne to other European cities.
  • For domestic travel, trains remain the dominant and generally more efficient mode of transport.
  • Border Crossing: Switzerland shares open land borders with Schengen neighbors. Controls are minimal for EU/Schengen citizens.

Road Conditions & Safety

Swiss roads are very safe. Drivers are generally disciplined and follow traffic laws.

Driving Safety

  • Be aware of cyclists and trams in urban areas.
  • During winter, conditions can become snowy or icy, especially in higher elevations.
  • Winter tires are often needed during these months, and Snow chains might be needed for specific mountain passes.

Sea/River Arrivals

While Switzerland is landlocked, Lake Geneva gives an unique 'sea' arrival experience.

Lake Geneva Ferries

  • Regular boat services by CGN connect Lausanne's Ouchy port with towns near The lake Geneva (Montreux, Vevey, Geneva, Evian-les-Bains).
  • A scenic and relaxing way to travel, offering panoramic views of cities, vineyards, and Alps.
  • No major sea or river cruise ports in the traditional sense.

Immigration & Onward Travel

  • Immigration Procedures at Seaports: Rare on Lake Geneva. Most amenities within Schengen. Border checks are very small.
  • For non-Schengen citizens, passport for inspection.
  • Connections to Land Transport: Lausanne's Ouchy port well-connected. M2 metro line runs from Ouchy to Lausanne Gare.
  • Departure Information: No specific exit fees or taxes for air, train, or road.
  • Airport Departure: 2 hours for Europe, 3 hours for intercontinental flights. Check airline specifics.
  • Train Departure: Arrive 10-15 minutes before departure. Swiss trains provide punctual.

Driving Tip

Parking in Lausanne's city center can be expensive and difficult to find. Using public transport for city exploration is usually more practical. DiscoverCars.com for rental options.

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