Car Rental Lausanne

Situated on the banks of Lake Geneva in Switzerland’s very own ‘Riviera’, Lausanne’s compact size makes it easy to navigate by car. The center is relatively quiet in terms of traffic too, meaning you can expect few delays.

Take to the roads to discover this charming location or head off into the hills for excellent hiking and skiing.

The most scenic routes can be found along the shores of the lake. With major roads skirting along the waters, the landscape here is easily navigated.

Le Port d’Ouchy – a popular lakeside district – can be reached in around eight minutes from Lausanne’s center in your rental car. There is ample parking here, and the port is a great place to take to the waters in a private boat or on one of the larger tour vessels docked in the harbor.

As you might expect from the mountainous landscape of Switzerland, Lausanne has a rather steep incline to several of its major roads, and there is also an extensive tram system to be aware of. Many of the locals cycle and walk around the center too – so be prepared to give way to bikes, pedestrians and trams where necessary.

Find a parking lot and explore the pedestrianized Old Town area on foot. These cobbled-streets are where you’ll find much of Lausanne’s more impressive architecture, as well as a decidedly atmospheric medieval charm. Be sure to sample some traditional treats from the Swiss chocolatiers here or enjoy a coffee and cake in one of the many roadside cafes.

Speed limits in the city differ depending on the area, but typically range from 35km/h to 50km/h (20mph to 30mph) on local roads. Simply check the signs – and be sure to abide by one-way systems where required.

Lausanne serves as a gateway to Switzerland’s superb ski resorts. The waterside town of Montreux is around 35 minutes drive away to the east. Head in the opposite direction along the shores of the lake meanwhile, and you’ll reach the major destination city of Geneva in around an hour.

Lausanne is situated in the French-speaking area of Switzerland and boasts a wonderful blend of French and Swiss culture. Here are just some of the best things to do during your stay.

Sightseeing in Sauvabelin

Enjoy sweeping panoramas over the sparkling waters of Geneva, and tree-top views of the winding alleys and cobbled paths of Lausanne, when you head to Tour de Sauvabelin. This amazing forest tower is around 115 feet high, with a viewing platform at the peak. Constructed of wood from the surrounding treeline, the tower can be found around 15 minutes’ drive to the north of the city.

From atop the viewing platform, you’ll be able to spot the boaters and passenger ships cruising the waters of Lake Geneva, as well as the snowy peaks of the Alps, rising up in the distance.

Take to the lake

Equally stunning views of Lausanne and the surrounding area can also be found from the waters of Lake Geneva itself. Take to the lake in a private boat or join one of the regularly departing tours that leave from various points along the shoreline. Also known as Lac Léman, this famous body of water divides the nations of Switzerland and France. On a clear day, you can even spot the French town of Évian-les-Bains to the south.

This area is Switzerland’s very own ‘Riviera’ and attracts the glitz and glamor of Hollywood celebrities to its picturesque shores. You’ll find superb hiking and skiing opportunities too, with Lausanne acting as a starting point for many of the tours heading up into the Alpine foothills.

Swiss sweets and French treats

Wander around Lausanne’s Old Town and you’ll be greeted by charming cafes and bustling restaurants offering an ideal introduction to Swiss cuisine.

Taking influence from German and French foods, Swiss gastronomy conjures up creamy chocolate and melting cheese fondue. Indeed, you’ll find both delights en masse within Lausanne’s historic center, but be sure to sample a few of the less famous culinary delights as well.

Cured meats and figs with soft French cheese make for an especially rich and delicious snack. Or you could sit down to an alternative cheese feast in the shape of Raclette, with baked potatoes, fried onions and pickled fruit.

Spend a morning in a lakeside café and enjoy a traditional Swiss breakfast of warm croissants, coffee and bircher museli. This breakfast item is now popular the world over, but has its origins in Switzerland in the early 20^th century. A hearty bowl contains roasted oats, apple chunks, mixed nuts and a dash of condensed milk.

Reserve car rental in Lausanne with Hertz to start your Swiss adventure in style. Soon you can be enjoying lakeside drives, historic charm, and Alpine escapes.