Lyon
Western Europe · France
Did you know?
- Bouchons serve quenelle de brochet and andouillette.
- The Fête des Lumières brings December light displays and heavy crowds.
- Fourvière combines a basilica visit with nearby Roman theatres.
See also
Overview
Lyon offers Roman ruins and Renaissance traboules within its UNESCO-listed historic setting. Dining is a major part of the city's appeal.
Languages: French
Why go?
Lyon is a UNESCO World Heritage city and the gastronomic heart of France, offering Roman ruins, Renaissance traboules, and world-class dining. It's a vibrant, walkable metropolis with affordable bouchons and free attractions like churches and parks.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Getting in
Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS) is 25 km east, with flights from European hubs. TGV trains from Paris take about 2 hours to Gare de Lyon-Part-Dieu or Gare de Lyon-Perrache. Gare de Saint-Exupéry TGV serves the airport.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Getting around
The metro, tram, and bus network TCL covers the city. A vélo'v bike rental costs €29/day or €119/week. Taxis are available (Allo Taxi, Taxi-Radio). Walking is best for Old Lyon and Presqu'île.
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When to go
Spring and early autumn are most pleasant. Summer can be hot (up to 35°C), winters cold but rarely below -5°C. The Fête des Lumières in December is spectacular but crowds are heavy.
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Where to stay
Vieux Lyon and Presqu'île are central. The youth hostel (Auberge de Jeunesse de Vieux Lyon) offers dorms from €21 including breakfast. Mid-range options like Hôtel Vaubecour (double €89) or Hotel Saint Paul (doubles €66-80) are good value. Booking essential during Fête des Lumières.
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Food and drink
Lyon is famed for its bouchons serving local dishes like salade lyonnaise, quenelle de brochet, and andouillette. Expect mains €15-24 at Brasserie Georges. For cheap eats, Pitaya Thaï Street Food offers wok dishes. The signature souvenir is praline rose. Wine bars like La Cave des Voyageurs offer glasses from €3.
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Things to do
Walk the traboules of Vieux Lyon, visit Fourvière basilica and Roman theatres (free), explore the Museum of Fine Arts (€6), or relax in Parc de la Tête d'Or (free). The Lyon City Card (€29-59) covers transport and museums.
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Stay safe
The city centre is generally safe. Avoid Rue Ste Catherine late at night due to drunken crowds. Beware of charity scams on Rue de la République. Suburbs like Guillotière, Gerland, and Villeurbanne have higher crime rates.
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Connectivity
Lyon has 5G from all French carriers. Free Wi-Fi in many public places. Internet cafés are in Guillotière and near Place des Terreaux. The main post office is at Place Antonin Poncet.
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Budget
A daily backpacker budget might be around €50-70: dorm €21, bouchon meal €15-25, metro ticket €1.80, museum entry €6-9. Street food and self-catering can reduce costs.
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Day trips
Explore Beaujolais wine country, the medieval village of Pérouges, or the Roman site at Vienne. Regional trains (TER) make these easy.
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Go next
Lyon is a hub for exploring southeastern France: Geneva, Grenoble, and the Alps are within 2 hours by train or car.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Field guide adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0. Text has been adapted and organized for this guide. About our sources.
Places to know
A few starting points from the guide. Check current hours and prices before you go.
- do
ASVEL
The Villeurbanne basketball team has a long history as one of the major clubs in the country.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- buy
Antic Wine
This tiny shop has an exceptional selection of wines from all over the world. Very interesting selection of Rhône valley wines, amazing collection of old Burgundies. Very reasonable prices. Also a must-see for port amateurs, with the largest selection in France and prices ranging from €12 to €3,000.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- do
Auditorium
The Lyon National Orchestra plays in this impressive, modern concert hall which also hosts some jazz and world music concerts.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- buy
Bahadourian
A large Oriental shop, with all kinds of exotic foods, especially North African. In the heart of the picturesque Guillotière neighbourhood.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- do
CNP
Two independent cinemas; the Bellecour branch has the most avant-garde programme. All foreign movies in original version.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- buy
Carré de Soie
Shopping mall with fashion stores, restaurants and a cinema multiplex, in a developing suburban area.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- do
Comoedia
After a few years of closure followed by refurbishment works, this independent cinema is now very comfortable and has a relatively avant-garde programme. All foreign movies are shown in original version.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- do
Complexe du Rire
Two rooms and talented young comedians.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
Before you go
Connectivity
Free Wi-Fi in many public areas and cafés; 5G coverage is excellent.
Culture
Learn a few French phrases; locals appreciate the effort. Meal times are 12:00-14:00 and 19:30-22:00.
Health
Tap water is safe to drink; no special vaccinations required.
Language
French is the main language; English is spoken in tourist areas but not universally.
Local transport
Metro runs 05:00-00:30; tickets can be used on all TCL modes within 1 hour.
Money
Credit cards widely accepted; ATMs abundant. Tipping not expected but appreciated for good service.
Safety
Generally safe, but beware of pickpockets in crowded areas and drunk crowds on Rue Ste Catherine late at night.
Transport
TCL metro/tram/bus network efficient; single ticket €1.80. Vélo'v bike rental €29/day.
Visa context
Visa rules depend on passport; check current entry requirements before booking.
Water
Tap water is safe; ask for a carafe in restaurants.