Train Lausanne → Basel

An enlightening city in Switzerland Inhabited since the Stone Age, Lausanne majestically sits on the shores of sparkling Lake Geneva. A mecca for romantic writers (Lord Byron) and enlightenment thinkers (Voltaire) the lake has also drawn its fair share of expats and entertainers (Sophia Loren, Charlie Chaplin) thanks to its air of elegance and grace. And while it retains a level of sophistication, today's Lausanne is more a hotspot for sports enthusiasts and the Olympic spirit. No wonder the International Olympic Committee has its headquarters here along with the official games' museum. Housing permanent and temporary exhibits totaling more than 10,000 pieces, it's the largest archive of its kind in the world. You'll find true works of art here as well, including sculptures by Rodin and a kinetic art piece by Swiss sculpture Jean Tinguely. If you have the spirit of the games, then this museum is pure gold. Nestled in the Lavaux and La Cote Wine region, the city of Lausanne is the fifth largest in Switzerland. With what might be the most efficient rail service in Europe, you can see the other big cities : Lucerne and Zurich in just over two hours. Geneva in only 40 minutes. But don't rush off just yet. The train will do that part, and you can sit back and relax with your Swiss Travel Pass. Learn more about Lausanne

The Olympics of the art World Located on the banks of the Rhine, at the border between Switzerland, France and Germany, Basel is Switzerland’s third largest city. It’s also world-renowned for THE premier international art show for modern and contemporary works. But more on that in just a pointillist dot. Basel should also be well known for its main train station, which is practically a city in its own right. You can enter through the “French” side, go through a winding hall and exit through the “Swiss” side. Up the stairs, you’ll find a bank, grocery store and wine shop (sure, get money, buy wine and cheese, and start living the Swiss way). Downstairs, you’ll find the oddly named McClean area. For a few Swiss Francs you can use these shower facilities that includes a towel, soap and shampoo. This is great for someone who arrives by overnight train and wants to freshen up before heading out into the city. Learn more about Basel