Lyon, France: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2025

In the heart of the city, the Presqu’île district stands out for its central location and vibrant atmosphere. Here, you’ll find Hotel Carlton Lyon - MGallery Collection, a blend of classic elegance and modern comfort. Another excellent choice is Hotel des Artistes, known for its proximity to cultural landmarks and the Saône River.

For those seeking a historical ambiance, Vieux Lyon offers cobblestone streets and Renaissance architecture. Cour des Loges provides a luxurious stay within a cluster of restored medieval buildings. Alternatively, Villa Florentine offers panoramic views of the city from its hillside location.

Travelers interested in contemporary design might consider the Confluence district. Mob Hotel Lyon Confluence offers a trendy atmosphere with modern amenities. In the nearby La Part-Dieu area, Okko Hotels Lyon Pont Lafayette provides sleek accommodations near the city’s business hub.

For a more bohemian experience, the Croix-Rousse district is known for its artistic vibe. Hotel de la Croix-Rousse offers a cozy stay amidst local markets and artisan shops. Alternatively, Hotel Silky by HappyCulture combines vintage charm with modern comforts in a lively neighborhood.

Budget-conscious travelers might explore the Guillotière area, known for its multicultural flair. Hotel de Noailles offers affordable accommodations with easy access to public transportation. Another option is Ibis Lyon Centre, providing reliable comfort without breaking the bank.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Lyon. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Visiting Lyon in Spring

Spring is a wonderful time to visit Lyon. From March to May, the city begins to bloom with fresh greenery and mild temperatures. The outdoor markets come to life, café terraces fill with locals, and the parks are especially beautiful during this time. It’s ideal for walking around and enjoying sights like the old town and the riverside without the summer crowds.

Visiting Lyon in Summer

Summer in Lyon, from June to August, is warm and lively. While it can get hot, especially in July, it’s also when the city hosts several cultural events and festivals, like the famous Nuits de Fourvière. Outdoor dining, evening strolls, and river cruises are all popular activities. Keep in mind that it’s a busier season, so booking ahead is a good idea.

Visiting Lyon in Autumn

Autumn, from September to November, is arguably one of the best times to visit Lyon. The weather is still pleasant, the summer crowds have thinned out, and the fall colors add a lovely atmosphere to the city’s already picturesque streets. It’s also a great time for food lovers, as local markets and restaurants showcase seasonal dishes and regional wines.

Visiting Lyon in Winter

Winter in Lyon, from December to February, is quiet and cozy. Temperatures can be chilly, but the city takes on a magical feel, especially during December’s Festival of Lights (Fête des Lumières). If you enjoy a slower pace and fewer tourists, winter offers a more intimate experience of Lyon, perfect for exploring museums, indoor markets, and warm local cuisine.

How to Visit Lyon

Planning a trip to Lyon is fairly straightforward, with multiple travel options depending on where you’re coming from and how you prefer to travel. Here’s a breakdown of how to get there and how to move around once you arrive.

Getting to Lyon by Air

Lyon is served by its own airport, Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport, which receives both domestic and international flights. From the airport, you can reach the city center in about 30 minutes via the Rhônexpress tram, taxi, or rental car.

Getting to Lyon by Train

Lyon is well-connected by train, especially from major cities in France and neighboring countries. High-speed TGV trains run regularly from Paris, Marseille, Geneva, and other cities, arriving at either Lyon Part-Dieu or Lyon Perrache stations, both centrally located and linked to public transport.

Getting to Lyon by Car

If you prefer driving, Lyon is accessible via major highways and offers several entry points depending on your direction of travel. There are public parking lots in and around the city, though traffic in the historic center can be tight—so it’s often better to park and explore on foot or by public transit.

Getting to Lyon by Bus

Budget travelers can also reach Lyon by long-distance buses. Several companies, like FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus, operate routes from across Europe and within France. Buses typically arrive at Perrache station or nearby hubs, making it easy to connect to local transport.

Getting Around Lyon

Once in Lyon, getting around is simple thanks to the city’s efficient public transportation system, which includes metro lines, trams, and buses. Walking is a great way to see the historic districts, and bike rentals are widely available for those who want to explore at a slower pace. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also easy to find throughout the city.