The capital Lausanne
How to discover the beauty of the landscapes of the canton of Vaud?
The flame is yours
The multifaceted world of the Games will reveal its secrets to you. The Museum offers 3,000m2 of exhibition space, over 1,500 objects, 150 screens and our passion, which combine to create a unique immersive experience. From the Olympic Park to TOM Café, you will have some great stories to tell.
Lausanne Cathedral
Ballons Château-d'Oex
Every year, the International Balloon Festival is organized in this commune of the Vaud Pre-Alps.
Beautiful Lavaux wine region at Lake Geneva
Lavaux is a wine-growing region in the canton of Vaud (Switzerland), known for its terraced vineyards on the shores of Lake Geneva. On June 28, 2007, Lavaux entered the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Chillon Castle
Chillon Castle is located on the shores of Lake Geneva, in Veytaux in Switzerland. Oblong in shape, the castle measures 110 meters long and 50 meters wide, the keep rises to 25 meters. It is a major tourist attraction

Vaud

WELCOM TO VAUD

phonexion-2

Entry Into Confederation

Vaud joined the Swiss Confederation as an independent canton in 1803.

Capital and largest city
Lausanne
AREA
3,211.94 km2
POPULATION (2019)
805,098
official language
French

Popular

Our Selection of Tourist Attractions

Information about the canton's tourist attractions, including popular destinations, events, and activities.

Best Geography & Famous Tourist Attractions

Lausanne Cathedral

Lausanne Cathedral is a historic gothic cathedral located in Lausanne, Switzerland. The cathedral features tall spires, intricate stained glass windows, and a rich history dating back to the 12th century. It is one of the largest religious buildings in Switzerland and a popular tourist destination. Visitors can admire the stunning architecture, visit the crypt and climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the city.

Lavaux Vineyard Terraces

Lavaux Vineyard Terraces are a UNESCO World Heritage site in Switzerland. The terraces feature stunning vineyards along the shores of Lake Geneva, offering breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The vineyards have been in use for over a thousand years and produce some of Switzerland's finest wines. Visitors can take guided tours, sample the local wines, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the region.

Château de Chillon

Château de Chillon is a well-preserved medieval castle located on the shores of Lake Geneva in Switzerland. The castle has a rich history, dating back to the 11th century, and is one of the most visited castles in Switzerland. Visitors can admire its beautiful architecture, including impressive battlements, towers, and halls, and explore its rich history through exhibits and guided tours.

Political

Economy and Government

The economy of Vaud, a canton in Switzerland, is characterized by a strong service sector, high-tech industries, and a growing tourism industry. The canton is home to several multinational corporations, including Nestle and Roche, and has a thriving start-up ecosystem. The government of Vaud plays an active role in supporting the local economy through investment in infrastructure, education, and research and development.

Vaud has a parliamentary system of government, with a Grand Council and a Council of State as its legislative and executive branches. The Grand Council, made up of members elected by the people, is responsible for passing laws and setting the budget. The Council of State, composed of seven members elected by the Grand Council, is responsible for implementing the laws and policies approved by the Grand Council.

The government of Vaud places a strong emphasis on environmental protection, and has implemented several initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable development. It also invests heavily in education, with a focus on providing high-quality, accessible education for all residents of the canton. Overall, the government of Vaud is committed to promoting the well-being and prosperity of its citizens and supporting the local economy.

History

History and Culture

Vaud is a canton in western Switzerland with a rich and diverse history and culture. The region was originally inhabited by Celtic tribes and later became part of the Roman Empire. During the Middle Ages, the canton was a center of power for the Dukes of Savoy, and later became part of the Swiss Confederation in the late 19th century.

Vaud has a vibrant cultural heritage, reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and traditional festivals. The canton is known for its picturesque villages, such as Vevey and Lausanne, which boast stunning historical buildings and stunning lakefront views. Vaud's cuisine is renowned for its local specialties, such as raclette and fondue, and its vineyards produce some of Switzerland's finest wines.

The canton is also famous for its cultural events, such as the Montreux Jazz Festival, which attracts music lovers from around the world each year. The Festival de la Cité in Lausanne is another popular event, featuring performances by local and international artists. In addition, Vaud is home to a number of museums, including the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, which celebrates the history of the Olympic Games.

In conclusion, Vaud's rich history and vibrant culture make it a unique and exciting place to visit and explore. From its stunning lakefront views and historical architecture, to its delicious cuisine and cultural events, the canton offers something for everyone. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or a music lover, Vaud is a destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

HOTELS​

Beau-Rivage Palace, Lausanne

This 5-star luxury hotel offers breathtaking views of Lake Geneva and the Swiss Alps, as well as elegant rooms and suites with antique furnishings and modern amenities.

Royal Evian Resort, Evian-les-Bains

This 5-star resort is located on the shores of Lake Geneva and features a spa, an outdoor pool, and beautiful rooms with balconies overlooking the lake.

Hotel Royal Savoy, Lausanne

This 5-star hotel features a spa, a restaurant, and elegant rooms and suites with views of Lake Geneva and the city of Lausanne. The hotel is located in the heart of Lausanne, making it an ideal base for exploring the city.

RESTAURANTS​

Le Mirador Resort & Spa, Montreux

This 5-star resort features several dining options, including the Michelin-starred restaurant Le Montreux Palace. The restaurant offers a menu of contemporary French cuisine made with local and seasonal ingredients.

Les Trois Couronnes, Vevey

This historic hotel and restaurant, located on the shores of Lake Geneva, offers a menu of traditional Swiss cuisine, with a focus on seafood dishes. The restaurant is known for its beautiful views of the lake and its elegant atmosphere.

L'Ermitage, Lausanne

This fine dining restaurant is located in a historic building and offers a menu of contemporary French cuisine, with a focus on seasonal and local ingredients. The restaurant is known for its elegant atmosphere and exceptional service.