Lausanne sometimes seems over-run with department stores, but this one is a bit more upmarket than the rest. Like Globus, the building itself is not particularly appealing, but once you enter, though, you feel right at home. While not as extravagant as Harrods or Harvey Nichols, you still feel like you have walked into someone's flat. The store's elegance is subtle and understated yet there are enough enticing displays to remind you that you are there to shop. With designers such as Max Mara and Armani every age range is catered to. The BG Cafe is located on the third floor where customers love to relax after an evening of shopping.

As "the" department store in Lausanne to visit, Globus boasts six floors of goods from fashion to sports equipment, hi-fi's to perfume. Much of what is on offer is what you would expect, but the food section is somewhat better than the rest. Food stalls at every entrance entice you off the streets and once through the dull facade, the interiors are well laid out and spacious. The store's stationary department mixes fun and practicality, and their array of shoes is fantastic. One could spend hours in here.

Manor is one of the main department stores in the center of town. You can find everything here, from clothes to stationary and electronic goods. There is also a general bookshop. In the basement, a supermarket offers a wide range of fresh produce (fish, meat and vegetables), together with all the usual products. There is also a desk called the Ticket Corner, which sells tickets for various shows throughout Switzerland.