Dijon to Lausanne Road Trip Guide: Best Stops & Scenic Drives

The A36 and A39 highways connect Dijon to Lausanne in about 2 hours and 15 minutes (170 km), but the true value lies in the detours. Did you know the route roughly follows the ancient Roman road Via Agrippa, which linked Lyon to the Rhine? Today, drivers cross the Jura foothills and the Rhône corridor, a landscape shaped by millennia of trade and conflict.

This guide answers your key questions: best stops Dijon to Lausanne, how long to drive Dijon to Lausanne, and is it worth driving Dijon to Lausanne? For more on uncovering offbeat stops, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Below is a quick reference for the route:

Geographical Shifts

The drive transitions from Burgundy's rolling vineyards (Côte de Nuits) to the limestone peaks of the Jura near Pontarlier, then descends into the Swiss Plateau overlooking Lake Geneva. The most dramatic point is the Col de la Givrine (1,211 m), where the road crosses the border.

• Vineyards: Before Dole, stop at the village of Gevrey-Chambertin for a view of the Clos de Bèze.
• Jura Cliffs: Near Les Hôpitaux-Vieux, look east for the ridge of Mont d'Or.

Local Commerce and Culture

Regional specialties worth buying: Dijon mustard (Maille shop in Dijon), Comté cheese from a fruitière (dairy cooperative) in the Jura, and Swiss chocolate in Lausanne. In Pontarlier, try absinthe; the town is its historic birthplace.

• Best roadside stalls: Near Nozerolles, a farmer sells honey and goat cheese at the junction of D67.
• Traditional restaurants: Le Cèdre in Dole (sautéed frogs' legs), and Chez Pierrot in Mouthe (60 km from Dole, for Jura trout).

Climatic Conditions and Route Aesthetics

Best sunset viewpoint: Just after the Col de la Givrine, pull over at the viewpoint 'Belvédère des 3 Lacs' (signposted) for a panorama of Lake Geneva and the Alps. Weather: Summer temperatures 25°C in Dijon, 18°C at the col; winter heavy snow possible between December and March.

Hidden Off-Route Spots

Within 5 minutes off the A39 at exit 5, visit the abandoned Château de Belmont (40°N 6.5°E), a 16th-century ruin with panoramic views. Also, the village of La Rivière-Drugeon (near Pontarlier) has a 12th-century chapel and tiny artisan bakery.

Fuel and Route Economics

Fuel costs for a sedan (7L/100km) at current prices (€1.80/L in France, CHF 1.70/L in Switzerland) average €21-€25 for the 170 km. Use the A39 (toll from Dijon to Dole: €4.50) to save time.

• Total toll cost: €4.50 (A39) + Swiss vignette (CHF 40, valid for year). Consider buying at border.
• Fuel stations: Well-distributed in Dijon, Dole, Pontarlier, and near border. Last French station before Col de la Givrine (5 km from border) is Gévezier.
• Fuel efficiency tip: Maintain 110 km/h on A39; steep climbs near the Jura reduce efficiency by 15%.

Road Surface and Toll Gates

The A39 is well-maintained, with smooth asphalt and clear signage. The D67 through the Jura is two-lane, with some winding sections requiring caution at night. Toll gates at A39 exit 2 (Dole) accept credit cards.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

None directly on the route, but a 30-minute detour east of Dole leads to the Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans (UNESCO), an 18th-century industrial complex. Also, the historic center of Dijon (UNESCO) is worth exploring before departure.

Infrastructure Safety and Road Quality

The A39 has median barriers and emergency phones every 2 km. The D67 in France has limited lighting; use headlights even by day in the Jura. Swiss roads are excellently maintained. Night driving is safe but watch for deer in the Jura at dawn/dusk.

Family and Child Suitability

Perfect for families: stop at Grottes de la Balme (30 min detour near Montagnieu) for cave tours, or Parc Polaire in Pontarlier (mini zoo with Arctic animals). Rest areas on A39 have playgrounds; the aire de la Chassagne (km 20) has slides and picnic tables.

Pet-Friendly Framework

Most A39 rest areas allow dogs on leads. In Pontarlier, the Café des Arcades (Grand Rue) welcomes dogs with water bowls. The Jura hiking trails near the border are excellent for a short walk.

Fatigue Management and Rest Zones

Ideal nap spots: After toll booth at A39 exit 2, the aire de la Saône (parking under trees) is quiet. In Switzerland, the rest area 'Vallorbe' (just after customs) has shaded benches. Avoid stopping on the D67 shoulder; use designated pull-offs.

Other Stops for Things to Do Between Dijon and Lausanne

• Dole: Visit the birthplace of Louis Pasteur (museum) and the Collégiale Notre-Dame.
• Pontarlier: Absinthe museum and the Château de Joux (15th-century fortress).
• Border area: Hike at Crêt de la Givrine (1.5 km trail).