Experience in Lausanne, Switzerland by Laurent

What is it like to live in Lausanne? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

As a student living in Lausanne I'd say I'm enjoying life fairly well. The level of studies in Switzerland is impeccable (EPFL being ranked top 22nd uni in the world) and people in the french part of Switzerland are super outgoing and generally friendly. The city is super clean, but it comes at a cost.

What is the student lifestyle like in Lausanne?

As mentioned before, if you want the best for your education, Switzerland is the way to go. However, if you're looking to party, pick another place. Going out in Lausanne is trash. The clubs are "meh" and the people here don't know how to let loose. Picking up girls is near impossible and guys are mostly sex-hungry animals. Clubbing here is not fun. However if you like having a beer with local students at a bar or in their shared flats you'll be in for a good times. The most fun you'll have here is at house parties or chilling on a couch with friends. So make sure to talk to everybody and make lots of friends to be invited to those events:)

How much does it cost to live in Lausanne?

Switzerland is super expensive and Lausanne is no exception. My studio apartement for example went for 750.- chf/month and its a joke (13m^2). Lunch here goes for 10 bucks avg. Prepare your wallet if you decide to come live here.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Lausanne? Is there any advice you can give?

Yes it is very difficult. My advice would be to look for student housing and personally contact them saying you desperately need housing. Application procedures for student housings usually take very long and you'll have a slim chance of finding something. If you're looking to rent an apartment as a foreigner you'll have difficulties, unless you know someone who is or your family member is swiss.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Food is alright but expensive. The gastronomy here is very international. You can easily get asian, indian or latin food. Basically anything you want.

Is the nightlife good in Lausanne? Where is good to go?

Nope

What advice would you give future students heading to Lausanne?

Think to yourself if you want to be a student to study or to party.