Cuppin’s has the distinction of being a top-notch dessert bakery and cafe and a creative craft boutique. Patterned wallpaper, unusual chandeliers, and some vibrant colors offset by clean white furniture make the bakery just eclectic enough not to be boring. The highlights here are truly the cupcakes, each dolloped with a splash of colorful icing, and the wedding-worthy cakes. However, guests will also find a boutique with artisan bags, jewelry, wallets, stationary, homeware and other carefully selected items for sale. A corner of the bakery has a play area for children. Cuppin’s also hosts crafting classes for all ages.

Situated just behind Lausanne’s main train station, Café du Simplon is a bit of a local institution where young working professionals and students gather for simple, generous meals. It is not an accident that the café is so near a train station: it takes its name from the Venice-Simplon Orient Express, a train line founded in the late 19th Century that still takes passengers on luxurious journeys from London to Istanbul by way of Lausanne. The menu takes cues from the train’s route, with European, North African, and Balkan dishes that make surprising use of seafood. There are vegetarian options, and a nice collection of local craft beers. The café is not luxurious, but offers plenty of comfortable seating and outdoor tables.

Situated on a quiet street in a quaint neighborhood, Cafè de Grancy is one of Lausanne’s most popular cafés, and bustles with activity morning, afternoon, and night. The café is most popular for afternoon drinks and weekend brunches, which include beef tartare, the cheeseburger de Grancy, and some interesting vegetable plates. Cozy and comfortable, the café is perfect for a rainy day reading in a comfortable chair or playing board games. Fondue nights during the week are a particularly good treat. Dinner reservations are recommended.