Place Bel-Air, Square in Lausanne, Switzerland

Place Bel-Air is a square in the center of Lausanne, Switzerland. It lies between the Grand-Pont and the road that leads to Chauderon, and is surrounded by tall buildings, including the Bel-Air tower.

The square was created in the mid-19th century after the construction of the Grand-Pont in 1844 and a new road to Chauderon. In the 20th century, the area saw the addition of the Bel-Air tower and the former funicular station, which shaped its current layout.

The square takes its name from the Café Bel-Air, which opened in 1861 and later became a meeting place for a student society. Today, the area is a busy crossing point where people from all walks of life pass through, and the nearby terraces are often filled with shoppers and office workers.

The square is a busy spot with many buses and trams passing through, so be careful when crossing. The sidewalks are narrow in places, especially along the rue des Terreaux, so keep an eye on your belongings and stay aware of your surroundings.

The roof of the former Bel-Air funicular station was used as a parking lot for years, a detail that surprises many visitors. The station itself, nicknamed "La Banane" because of its curved shape, is a reminder of the area's industrial past.