Lyon: The Complete Guide

When visiting Lyon, some of the best places to stay are in and around Vieux Lyon, Presqu’île, and La Croix-Rousse. Vieux Lyon, the old town, is perfect if you want to stay surrounded by cobblestone streets, Renaissance buildings, and cozy local restaurants. It’s especially great for first-time visitors who want to be close to historical landmarks and the riverside. Presqu’île, the central peninsula between the Rhône and Saône rivers, is ideal for shopping, dining, and nightlife, with easy access to public transport and walkable streets.

For a more local and slightly quieter vibe, La Croix-Rousse offers a village-like feel with scenic views, markets, and a creative atmosphere. This hilltop area is known for its silk-weaving history and artsy cafés. If you’re after something modern and a bit more spacious, Part-Dieu near the main train station offers practical hotels and quick connections, though it’s less charming than the older districts. Overall, staying in or near the city center is best for convenience, walkability, and getting the most out of your time in Lyon.

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.