The Heart of Lausanne: Place Saint-François
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Place Saint-François in Lausanne, a cultural hub filled with charming architecture and lively local events.
A brief summary to Place Saint-François
- Lausanne, CH
Nestled in the heart of Lausanne, Place Saint-François is a captivating town square that seamlessly blends history, culture, and community. Surrounded by stunning architecture that reflects the city’s rich heritage, this square is not just a place to pass through; it is a destination in itself. Visitors are welcomed by the charming ambiance, where locals gather to socialize, shop, or simply enjoy a moment of leisure. Throughout the year, Place Saint-François hosts various events and markets, showcasing regional products and artisanal crafts, making it an ideal spot to immerse yourself in the local culture. As you stroll through the square, take a moment to appreciate the intricate details of the surrounding buildings, which tell the story of Lausanne’s evolution over the centuries. The square is also home to several cafes and restaurants, offering visitors a taste of Swiss cuisine and a chance to relax while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Be sure to explore the nearby streets, where boutique shops and galleries await, offering unique souvenirs and art pieces that capture the essence of your travels. Whether you are looking to engage with the local community, enjoy a leisurely afternoon, or simply admire the beauty of Lausanne, Place Saint-François is a quintessential stop that promises to enrich your travel experience. Its central location makes it easily accessible, allowing you to seamlessly integrate it into your exploration of this enchanting city.
Local tips
- Visit during the weekend to experience the local markets and vibrant street life.
- Grab a coffee at one of the nearby cafes and enjoy people-watching in the square.
- Explore the surrounding streets for unique shops and local crafts.
- Check the local event calendar for festivals or cultural activities taking place in the square.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving to Place Saint-François in Lausanne, take the A1 highway towards Lausanne. Take the exit towards Lausanne-Vennes. Continue on Route de Genève, and follow the signs for 'Centre Ville'. Once you reach the city center, look for signs indicating 'Place Saint-François'. There is limited parking in the area, so be prepared to search for available spaces, or consider using a nearby parking garage. Expect to pay around CHF 2-3 per hour for parking.
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Train
To reach Place Saint-François by train, head to the nearest train station in your location. If you're in Geneva, take a train from Geneva's main station (Gare Cornavin) to Lausanne. The journey takes approximately 35 minutes. Once you arrive at Lausanne train station, exit the station and head towards the Metro station (M2). Take the Metro line M2 towards Ouchy and get off at the 'Lausanne, Saint-François' stop. From the Metro station, it's just a short walk to the square. The cost of the train ticket will typically be around CHF 10-15.
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Public Transportation (Bus/Metro)
If you are already in Lausanne, you can use the Lausanne Metro system. Take the M2 Metro line towards Ouchy and get off at the 'Lausanne, Saint-François' stop. The journey is quick and should take around 5-10 minutes. You will need a ticket, which costs approximately CHF 2.50 for a single journey within the city.
Attractions Nearby to Place Saint-François
- Église réformée Saint-François
- Escalier des Petites-Roches
- Horloge de la Palud
- La Fontaine de la Justice (Place de la Palud, Lausanne)
- Brunnen Place de la Louve
- Café du Grütli
- Place de la Palud
- Townhall of Lausanne
- galerie du marché
- La fresque de Titeuf
- Escaliers du Marché
- Fontaine de la Justice / Fountain of Justice
- Promenade Derrière-Bourg
- Lausanne History Museum
- Lausanne Cathedral
Landmarks nearby to Place Saint-François
- Place Pépinet
- Place des Pionnières
- Maison Mercier
- Fontaine de la Justice
- Place de l'Europe
- Fontaine "Au Beau Pays de Vaud"
- Pont Bessières
- Lausanne Opera
- Terrasse Jean-Monnet
- Escaliers du Flon
- Tour Bel-Air Lausanne
- Fontaine Instruments de Musique / Unplugged
- Palace of Justice
- Statue de GUILLAUME TELL
- Church of England