Bern or Lausanne?

Chad,

I've been to both cities, and both have some interesting sights. Of the two you mentioned, I'd probably favour Lausanne, along with a visit to Chateau de Chillon. Of course if you want to add a third city to the choices, Lucerne would be my suggestion.

I loved Bern and felt it was just right for a full day of walking around. I wasn't all that thrilled with Lausanne, I think because the old town is so hilly and separated from the waterfront. That said, its location on the lake is stunning. (Though you can't see it from the old town.) Also, as Ken said you can take a quick train ride to Chateau de Chillion. My suggestion is that you spend your day in Vevey which is between Lausanne and the Chateau and right on the Lake.

Bern is a pretty nice sized walkable town with not a whole lot to see, on a river. Lausaunne is on Lake Geneva, near vineyards. How much do you like water?

Thanks. We'll be starting in Lucerne with some time in the Bernese Oberland, then a day in the Gruyeres area (the chocolate train without the chocolate train). For our remaining day I was planning Lausanne but the more I read the more I'm leaning toward Bern. Likely won't have time for the Chateau either way. I'm sure we would enjoy either place. Thought I would just poll Rick's people. Thanks

The Chateau is very interesting but it's quite large and will take at least a half-day. It's a short train or bus ride outside Montreux.

It would have to Bern, we alway have a lot of fun there, I fell in love with the place 27 years ago and never went home! Early in the morning or late in the evening when the tourist are gone and the locals have time for you, that is the best!