A Travel Price Comparison for Switzerland Lausanne vs. Geneva for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Lausanne or Geneva?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Lausanne or Geneva, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Lausanne

Lausanne is a diverse, vibrant, and cultural city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Geneva

Geneva is a professional, classy, and diverse city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Lausanne and Geneva: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Lausanne or Geneva?

You'll generally find more things to do in Geneva than Lausanne. Geneva is bigger than Lausanne, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Geneva is more touristy than Lausanne and is known for its role as a global hub for the United Nations, the Red Cross, and the World Health Organization. Also, Geneva is famous for The Geneva Water Fountain (The Jet d'Eau). Lausanne is well known for being the home of the International Olympic Committee headquarters.

How is Lausanne different from Geneva?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Geneva and Lausanne. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lausanne or Geneva?

Lausanne
Geneva

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Lausanne or Geneva.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Lausanne can be an interesting and educational experience. You'll find many great museums around town that cover a range of topics. The Olympic Museum is very interesting. You should also check out the Cathedral of Notre-Dame, and the Hermitage Foundation.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Geneva. Famous sights and landmarks include the spectacular Water Jet, St Pierre Cathedral, and the Palais des Nations. There are also impressive art and history museums in the city.


Is the Food Better in Lausanne or Geneva? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lausanne
Geneva

Foodies will find both Lausanne and Geneva both to be great destinations.

Dining out in Lausanne is an experience not to be missed. The city is filled with delicious chocolate, cheese, and wine. Fondue is a favorite, but you'll also find cured meats on most menus. While food can be expensive, it's also high quality and usually locally produced.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Geneva. The city has an amazing mix of traditional Swiss restaurants as well as diverse ethnic options. Traditional dishes include fondue and raclette, both of which involve the decadent Swiss cheese.

Is Lausanne or Geneva Better for Nightlife?

Lausanne
Geneva

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Lausanne and Geneva.

Lausanne has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are a surprising number of clubs around town and it's not hard to find somewhere to party. The large student population and the international vibe make this a fascinating place for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Geneva has a few options to choose from. During the day the city is all business, but at night the professionals, interns, students, and NGO workers all come together to enjoy a drink at a bar or dance at one of the city's diverse clubs.

Is Lausanne or Geneva Better for its Old Town?

Lausanne
Geneva

Lausanne and Geneva both have notable historical old towns that attract visitors.

Lausanne offers a nice historic old town area. There's a relatively large historic section that has a Gothic cathedral and many quaint shops.

Geneva is a good destination for visiting its old town. The Old Town offers a number of charming streets where you can wander as well as historical buildings including St. Pierre Cathedral.


Is the Shopping Better in Lausanne or Geneva?

Lausanne
Geneva

Geneva is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Lausanne is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Geneva is a world class destination for shoppers. Famous for its posh shops and luxury brands, this city is a popular shopping destination. From chic boutiques to deluxe toy stores, you'll find something for everyone. In particular, the city is known for its Swiss watches, Swiss Army knives, chocolate, and wine.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lausanne. You'll find luxury Swiss watch brands, jewelry, chocolate, and many other interesting things to buy. Prices can be high, but so is the quality. It's fun to look, even if you're not planning to purchase.

Is Lausanne or Geneva Better for Families?

Lausanne
Geneva

Lausanne and Geneva are both notable destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Lausanne. There are kid-friendly museums, petting zoos, and other fun activities in town. You can also take a boat ride or let the kids run around one of the parks in town.

Geneva offers lots of family activities. This diverse city has a number of chocolate shops, toy stores, and parks where kids can play. They'll be impressed by the Water Jet and there are few places where you can swim in the lake when the weather is warm.

Is Lausanne or Geneva Better for Couples?

Lausanne
Geneva

Lausanne and Geneva are both notable to visit as a couple.

Lausanne is a good city for couples to visit. The medieval old city is fun to explore. The lakefront setting also offers fun activities like boating. There are also a number of museums in town to explore.

Geneva is a nice destination for couples. Wandering Old Town, sampling Swiss chocolate, and enjoying one of the many ethnic restaurants around town all make for great date activities. Fondue in a traditional restaurant is also a not to be missed experience.


Is Lausanne or Geneva Better for Students?

Lausanne
Geneva

Lausanne and Geneva are great places to visit for students.

Lausanne is a great city to visit as a student. There are 11 institutes for higher learning in town, so students make up a significant percentage of the population. The city is also full of culture, making it a very livable city.

Students come from all over to stay in Geneva. The University of Geneva attracts many international students and the city is quite diverse. It feels like a mixing bowl of cultures, so students will feel very welcomed and comfortable here.

Is Lausanne or Geneva Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lausanne
Geneva

Geneva is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Lausanne is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Geneva can get you around easily. The very comprehensive system includes trams, buses, and boats.

While Lausanne offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a comprehensive network of transportation options available in town including buses and boats.

Is Lausanne or Geneva a more walkable city?

Lausanne
Geneva

Geneva is well known for its ease of walking around. Also, Lausanne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Geneva is a very walkable destination. Most areas where visitors spend their time can be easily explored on foot.

Lausanne is somewhat walkable. Many parts of the city, including the historic sections, and relatively easy to explore on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Lausanne Worth Visiting? and Is Geneva Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Geneva or Lausanne?

How long in Lausanne or Geneva?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lausanne and Geneva. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Geneva than in Lausanne. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Lausanne, and 1-3 days is enough time in Geneva.

Families should spend more time in Geneva than Lausanne. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Geneva, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Geneva than Lausanne. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Geneva that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Geneva than Lausanne if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Geneva.


  • How many days in Lausanne or Geneva? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lausanne 1-2 
    Geneva 1-3

One day in Lausanne or Geneva?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Lausanne. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Geneva is a big city with plenty to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Lausanne or Geneva?

Lausanne is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Geneva is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Geneva, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Lausanne or Geneva?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lausanne. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Geneva is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Lausanne or Geneva?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant destination of Lausanne. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Geneva is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Switzerland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Switzerland, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Zurich, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Geneva.


Which place is cheaper, Geneva or Lausanne?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Lausanne is $232, while the average daily cost in Geneva is $213. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Lausanne and Geneva in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lausanne $139
    Geneva $147
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lausanne $278
    Geneva $294
Compare Hotels in Lausanne and Geneva

Looking for a hotel in Lausanne or Geneva? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Lausanne


Hotels in Geneva


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Lausanne Hotel Prices and Geneva Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lausanne $41
    Geneva $9.55

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lausanne

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Lausanne:

  • Lausanne accommodation to Geneva Airport (GVA) - Departure Private Transfer: $54
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airport to Évian-les-Bains: $162
  • Taxi, Airport Transfer and Limousine Service in Switzerland: $235

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Geneva

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Geneva:

  • Airport transfer - Geneva city center: $137
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Geneva airport GVA to Geneva City by Luxury Van: $101
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Geneva airport GVA to Geneva City by Minibus: $184
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Aix-les-Bains Resorts - Arrival Transfer: $94
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Aix-les-Bains Resorts-RoundTrip Transfer: $188
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Alpe d'Huez: Arrival Private Transfer: $154
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Chamonix (FR) - Arrival Private Transfer: $132
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Chamonix (FR) - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $264
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Courchevel (FR) Arrival Private Transfer: $176
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Geneva - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $110
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Lausanne - Arrival Private Transfer: $54
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Les Deux Alpes - Arrival Private Transfer: $165

Is it cheaper to fly into Lausanne or Geneva?

Prices for flights to both Geneva and Lausanne change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Lausanne $63
    Geneva $53

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Geneva

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Geneva.

  • Geneva City Tour with Cooking Class: $148

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lausanne $38
    Geneva $30

Tours and Activities in Lausanne

Here are a few actual costs in Lausanne for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Medieval A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Lausanne Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.61
  • Lausanne (City Center) Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • Lausanne Ouchy District City Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • The Olympic Museum Entrance Ticket in Lausanne: $23
  • Chaplin's World Entrance Ticket: $34
  • Round trip cruise from Vevey to Chillon: $35
  • Boat cruise from Lausanne to Evian: $43
  • Walking Tour in Lausanne Switzerland: $43
  • Guided tour of the city of Evian-les-Bains: $55
  • Round trip cruise from Lausanne to Chillon: $63
  • Winter Gruyères, chocolate & cheese tour from Lausanne: $149

Tours and Activities in Geneva

Here are a few actual costs in Geneva for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • From Brunswick Monument to the Botanical Garden: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Geneva (International District) City Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • Best of Geneva City tour with Panoramic Bus: $17
  • Audioguided sightseeing cruise of Geneva: $22
  • (STTG03)Geneva International Quarter & Lakeside Sightseeing Tour: $30
  • (STTG04) - Sightseeing Cruise at Geneva with Wine and Aperitif: $33
  • 2-Hour Small-Group Bike Guided Tour in Geneva: $34
  • The Highlights Tour in a TaxiBike: Geneva : $61
  • Geneva Highlights 2-Hour Introductory Tour: $66
  • Geneva : Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $83
  • Annecy - Venice of the Alps - Tour from Geneva: $85
  • Chamonix Self-guided Sightseeing Tour from Geneva: $90

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lausanne $27
    Geneva $23

Sample the Local Flavors in Lausanne

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Lausanne:

  • Swiss cheese and charcuterie wine tasting: $51


When comparing the travel costs between Lausanne and Geneva, we can see that Lausanne is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Lausanne Expensive? and Is Geneva Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Lausanne or Geneva?

Geneva has a larger population, and is about 58% larger than the population of Lausanne. When comparing the sizes of Lausanne and Geneva, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.