Lausanne is the capital and largest city of the Swiss French speaking canton of Vaud. Perched gracefully on the northern shore of Lake Geneva, surrounded by vineyards and the snowy majesty of the Alps, Lausanne is a city where culture and nature blend in perfect harmony. As the capital of the Canton of Vaud, it is both cosmopolitan and intimate — a city of grand theatres, elegant museums, and tranquil lakeside promenades. Every corner seems to breathe creativity, refinement, and the quiet rhythm of Swiss life.

A Stage for the Arts

Lausanne has long been a beacon for dance and theatre lovers. The Opéra de Lausanne, housed in a beautiful neo-baroque building, offers a rich program of opera, classical concerts, and ballet, ranging from Verdi and Puccini to modern works. Nearby, the Théâtre de Beaulieu — one of the largest stages in Switzerland — hosts international musicals, symphonic performances, and dance galas.

The city is also world-famous as the home of the Béjart Ballet Lausanne, founded by the visionary choreographer Maurice Béjart. His bold and expressive approach revolutionized modern dance, and his company continues to bring his legacy to life under the direction of Gil Roman. Performances by the Béjart Ballet draw admirers from across the globe, making Lausanne a pilgrimage site for lovers of contemporary ballet.

For theatre enthusiasts, venues such as the Théâtre Vidy-Lausanne and Théâtre Boulimie offer a dynamic repertoire — from experimental plays and modern drama to comedy and musical storytelling. Each stage in Lausanne captures a different facet of the city’s cultural soul: sophisticated yet daring, traditional yet curious.

Music, Festivals, and Elegance

Music fills Lausanne year-round. The Orchestre de Chambre de Lausanne (OCL) performs with world-renowned soloists in the elegant Salle Métropole and the historic Casino de Montbenon. Classical music fans also flock to the nearby Montreux Jazz Festival, just a short train ride away, or to the Lausanne Chamber Music Festival, which celebrates intimate artistry and new generations of performers.

The city also hosts the Prix de Lausanne, one of the world’s most prestigious ballet competitions, where young dancers from around the world perform for international juries and audiences. This event, held annually at the Théâtre de Beaulieu, transforms Lausanne into a global center of dance excellence.

History and Inspiration

Beyond its stages, Lausanne offers architectural beauty and intellectual depth. The Cathedral of Notre-Dame, a Gothic masterpiece overlooking the city, has watched over centuries of Swiss history. The Olympic Museum, celebrating the spirit of athletic artistry, reflects Lausanne’s role as the headquarters of the International Olympic Committee. Stroll through the Old Town, where medieval streets meet chic cafés, or along the Ouchy promenade, where the lake mirrors the sky — and inspiration seems to flow from the water itself.

A City That Lives Through Art

What makes Lausanne so unforgettable is not only its refined cultural life but its atmosphere — open, poetic, and alive with creativity. Whether you attend a ballet, an opera, or a concert beneath the stars, you’ll find that art here is not a spectacle but a way of being.

Lausanne invites you to experience a city where beauty is both timeless and modern — where every performance, every view, and every note becomes part of your own story.