Enchanting Old Town of Lausanne: A Journey Through Time

• HelloGrüezi
  [groo-et-zee]
• GoodbyeUf Widerluege
  [oof vee-der-loo-geh]
• YesJa
  [yah]
• NoNei
  [nye]
• Please/You're welcomeBitte
  [bit-teh]
• Thank youMerci vilmal
  [mer-see feel-mahl]
• Excuse me/SorryEntschuldigung
  [ent-shool-di-gung]
• How are you?Wie gohts dir?
  [vee gohts deer]
• Fine. And you?Guat. Und dir?
  [gwat. oond deer]
• Do you speak English?Redsch du Englisch?
  [red-sh doo ang-gleesh]
• I don't understandIch verstand das ned
  [eech fer-shtahnd duss nayd]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIch möcht gärn d'Menu aluege
  [eech merkht gern d'meh-noo ah-loo-geh]
• I don't eat meatIch esse kein Fleisch
  [eech ess-eh kine flysh]
• Cheers!Proscht!
  [proh-sht]
• I would like to pay, pleaseIch möchte bitte zahle
  [eech merkht-eh bit-teh tsah-luh]

• Help!Hilf!
  [hilf]
• Go away!Gang weg!
  [gang vehg]
• Call the Police!Ruef d'Polizei!
  [roof dee-poh-lee-tsey]
• Call a doctor!Ruef en Arzt!
  [roof en ahr-tst]
• I'm lostIch ha mi verlaufe
  [eech hah mee fer-low-fuh]
• I'm illIch bin krank
  [eech been krahng]

• I'd like to buy...Ich möcht kaufe...
  [eech merkht cow-fuh]
• I'm just lookingIch luege nur
  [eech loo-geh noor]
• How much is it?Wieviel kostet das?
  [vee-feel kaw-stet duss]
• That's too expensiveDas isch zviel tüür
  [duss eesh tfeel tewr]
• Can you lower the price?Chönd Sie de Priis chürze?
  [chohnd zee deh prees choor-tseh]

• What time is it?Wieviel Uhr isch es?
  [vee-feel oor eesh es]
• It's one o'clockEs isch eini
  [es eesh eye-nee]
• Half past (10)Halb zehni
  [hahlb tsey-nee]
• MorningMorga
  [mor-gah]
• AfternoonNamitag
  [nah-mee-tahg]
• EveningAbe
  [ah-buh]
• YesterdayGestere
  [geh-steh-ruh]
• TodayHüt
  [hoot]
• TomorrowMorn
  [morn]
• 1Eis
  [ice]
• 2Zwei
  [ts-vy]
• 3Drei
  [dry]
• 4Vier
  [feer]
• 5Fünf
  [foonf]
• 6Sechs
  [zex]
• 7Siebe
  [zee-buh]
• 8Acht
  [ahkt]
• 9Nün
  [noon]
• 10Zäh
  [tseh]

• Where's a/the...?Wo isch es...?
  [voh eesh es]
• What's the address?Was isch d'Adresse?
  [vahs eesh dah-dreh-suh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Chönd Sie mir zeige (uf em Plan)?
  [chohnd zee meer ts-eye-guh (oof em plahn)]
• When's the next (bus)?Wänn fahrt de nächscht (Bus)?
  [ven fahrt deh nayk-sht (boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)E Billett (nach ....)
  [eh bee-let (nahk)]

The history of Old Town in Lausanne can be traced back to its founding in Roman times, when it was known as 'Lousonna'. This settlement was strategically located on a hilltop overlooking Lake Geneva, making it a pivotal point for trade and military activities. The remnants of Roman walls and the ancient theater still bear testimony to its illustrious past.

In the 12th century, the Counts of Lausanne gained prominence, establishing the city as a significant center of power. The construction of the Cathedral of Notre-Dame, which began in 1170, marked a key development in the architectural landscape of Old Town. This Gothic masterpiece, often regarded as the symbol of Lausanne, showcases the city's medieval heritage.

The Protestant Reformation in the 16th century brought profound changes to Old Town. Figures like Guillaume Farel and later John Calvin played crucial roles in shaping the religious and cultural identity of the region. The transformation of the Cathedral into a Protestant place of worship reflected these ideological shifts, which significantly influenced the city's educational and cultural institutions.

The 19th century saw significant urban expansion in Lausanne, influenced by industrialization and the rise of the railway. This period led to the development of new neighborhoods, while Old Town retained its historical charm. The construction of the Palais de Rumine in 1906 further emphasized the city’s commitment to culture, housing museums and libraries that are still vital to Lausanne's cultural life.

In recent years, there has been a concerted effort to preserve the historical integrity of Old Town. Local authorities have implemented restoration projects to maintain its medieval architecture, including the picturesque streets, squares, and buildings. These initiatives not only protect the heritage but also enhance the neighborhood’s appeal as a vibrant cultural hub, attracting both tourists and residents alike.

Old Town is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Lausanne. From the Lausanne train station, you can take Metro Line M2 towards Ouchy and disembark at the Flon station. From there, it is a short walk uphill to reach Old Town. Alternatively, local buses (such as Line 1 and Line 21) also connect the station to the area. If you're coming from Ouchy, enjoy a pleasant 20-minute walk along the lakefront to reach Old Town.

Old Town is a pedestrian-friendly area, perfect for exploring on foot. The winding streets and historic architecture make walking the best way to experience the charm of the neighborhood. Public transportation, including buses and the metro, can be utilized for trips to other parts of Lausanne. Bicycles can also be rented at various locations throughout the city, with bike lanes connecting to Old Town.

Old Town is generally safe for tourists; however, common-sense precautions should be taken. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places. While crime rates are low, petty thefts can occur, particularly in tourist-heavy spots. Areas such as the square around the Cathedral can be busy; remain vigilant in such locales.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance in Switzerland. For police help, call 117, and for fire emergencies, dial 118. The local hospital, CHUV, provides comprehensive medical services. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues, and many carry English-speaking staff.

Fashion: Do dress appropriately, especially when visiting churches. Smart-casual attire is generally acceptable. Religion: Do respect local customs, particularly in religious sites. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding; don’t attempt to travel without a valid ticket, as fines are strict. Greetings: Do greet with a friendly 'Bonjour' and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like fondue; don’t eat or drink while walking in Old Town to respect the ambiance.

To experience Old Town like a local, start your day with a coffee at one of the quaint cafés in Place de la Palud. Explore the local boutiques for unique souvenirs, and don’t miss the Saturday market for fresh produce and artisanal goods. For an authentic dining experience, try a traditional Swiss restaurant away from the main tourist spots. Engage with locals; they often share hidden gems and recommendations off the beaten path.