We at City Pop usually focus our efforts on large European cities: yet, Lausanne has nothing to envy to the big cities, since it embodies a series of peculiarities that make it appealing and abreast of the largest capitals.
Indeed, in 2020, Monocle’s global network of correspondents, editors, and researches has compiled the ‘Small Cities Index’, coming up with a list of the world’s best small cities.
The goal was to show how small-city living isn’t just about comfort, but also mental and physical wellbeing: in fact, as opposite to big cities – which often cause loneliness – small cities make people feel more relaxed and happy to socialize!
So, it’s no surprise that the Swiss city of Lausanne ranked first, according to criteria such as:
- Natural setting and reduced pollution;
- High-quality public transport and airport connections;
- Universities, business, and technology;
- Progressive local government;
- Low crime rates and high life expectancy;
- Welcoming residents and socialization opportunities.
- Let’s discover more!
7 reasons why Lausanne is the best small city in the world
1. Plenty of life opportunities
Lausanne – Switzerland’s fourth-largest city – is located between Geneva and Zurich, on the north bank of Lake Geneva.
With its 140,000 inhabitants, it’s small enough to feel immediately at home, but also big enough to let you make new friends and start valuable experiences at every life stage, such as innovative university courses and business possibilities!
2. Elegant and Mediterranean vibes
What’s more, the charming stone buildings, shops, streets, and green venues give Lausanne an elegant and almost-Mediterranean vibe!
3. Culture and sport activities
As we’ve already seen, the city offers plenty of cultural and outdoor activities, going from the Vaud Museum of Fine Arts to Plateforme 10, or sport events like Lausanne-sur-Mer and the Lausanne Marathon.
4. Efficient public transport
While, if you love travelling, you can easily reach the lake and mountains near the city to marvel at their breathtaking views, as well as:
- Discover Lausanne by metro – as it’s the smallest city in the world to have one;
- Taking a flight at the Geneva Airport, a 45-minute train ride away;
- Trying the direct rail connections to Milan and Paris, both under four hours.
5. International atmosphere
Another successful ranking factor has been Lausanne’s international environment: in fact, more than 40% of the population is foreign, and citizens can speak German, French, Italian, or English.
What’s more, the city houses several international companies and federations, and owns the title of international Olympic Capital since 1994!
6. Fun activities
Then, if you’re a night owl, you should know that the city offers numerous clubs and music venues – as we’ve already seen in a previous article, – strong of its low crime rates.
7. Sustainability
Last but not least, also sustainability has played a crucial role.
Lausanne, in fact, is famous for investing in renewable energy sources, housing 350 hectares of parks and gardens, and being one of the most eco-friendly cities in the world!
