Why Take the Train to Bô Noël?

For official information, visit Lausanne travel info.

For the most up-to-date details, check Lausanne travel info before you go.

The main railway station sits just below the primary market areas. You can step off your train and reach the festivities within minutes. This convenience allows you more time to enjoy the holiday atmosphere. You can also enjoy a glass of local mulled wine safely. Check the official Lausanne Tourisme website for specific event dates.

Swiss trains are famous for being on time and very clean. They offer plenty of space for your shopping bags and warm winter coats. Traveling by rail is also much better for the environment. It reduces your carbon footprint while you explore the beautiful Swiss scenery. You will arrive feeling relaxed and ready for the holiday cheer.

Navigating from Lausanne Railway Station

The Lausanne train station is a major hub for the entire region. Once you arrive, look for signs pointing toward the city center or "Centre-Ville." You can walk uphill for about ten minutes to reach the first stalls. The walk is steep but offers beautiful views of the historic buildings. Most visitors find the route very easy to follow.

If you prefer not to walk, use the M2 metro line. The station for the metro is located directly inside the main train building. Take the train heading toward "Croisettes" and get off at the "Flon" stop. This puts you right in the heart of the Lausanne Christmas market locations. The metro runs every few minutes during the day.

The station also features elevators and ramps for those with limited mobility. Strollers are easy to bring on both the regional trains and the metro. You will find clear maps posted near every exit of the station. Information desks are available to help you find your way. Staff members usually speak excellent English and are happy to assist you.

Train Connections from Major Swiss Cities

Lausanne is very well connected to other major cities in Switzerland. Trains from Geneva arrive every 15 minutes and take only 35 minutes. This makes it a perfect day trip for those staying near the airport. You can enjoy the lake views during the short journey. The ride is smooth and very scenic in the winter.

Visitors coming from Zurich can expect a journey of about two hours. These trains are direct and offer high-speed service across the country. Bern is even closer, with a travel time of just over an hour. You can check the latest schedules on the Switzerland Tourism portal. Booking your tickets in advance can save you a lot of money.

Regional trains also serve smaller towns around Lake Geneva frequently. These trains are ideal if you are staying in Montreux or Vevey. They run late into the evening during the Bô Noël festival. This allows you to stay for the light shows and late-night snacks. Always check the last train time before you start your evening.

Best Market Hubs Near Train Stops

The Flon district is the most modern part of the Christmas market. It is located right next to the M2 metro stop of the same name. Here, you will find a large ice rink and many food stalls. It is a great place to start your tour of the city. The atmosphere is lively and perfect for families with children.

Another great spot is Place Saint-François, which is a short walk from the station. This area features a large covered market under a beautiful wooden roof. You can find high-quality local food at Bô Noël like fondue and sausages. The historic church provides a stunning backdrop for your holiday photos. It is one of the most popular spots in town.

Do not miss the Platform 10 arts district right next to the tracks. This area hosts modern installations and unique seasonal events in 2026. It is the easiest location to visit if you have a short layover. You can see the Lausanne Lumières Light Festival displays here as well. The proximity to the platforms makes it very convenient for rail travelers.

Essential 2026 Rail Travel Tips

To save money, look for the SBB Saver Day Pass online. These tickets are much cheaper when bought several weeks in advance. They allow unlimited travel on all Swiss trains for a single day. This is perfect for a full day of Christmas market hopping. Make sure to download the SBB mobile app for live updates.

If you stay overnight in a local hotel, you get a special gift. The Lausanne Transport Card provides free travel on all local buses and metros. This includes the ride from the train station to the markets. Ask for your digital card when you check into your accommodation. It is a great way to save on transit costs.

Avoid traveling during the morning and evening rush hours if possible. Trains are most crowded between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM. They also get very busy between 5:00 PM and 6:30 PM. Visiting the markets on a weekday is usually much quieter than weekends. You will have more space to walk and shorter lines for food.