Where to Stay in Lyon, France
Budget to Luxury
Lyon is primarily known as France’s gastronomical capital, but the city has so much more to offer. From the picturesque Old Town with hidden alleyways, to Roman Ruins and bustling markets, Lyon is an underrated gem in France. If you are currently planning your trip to Lyon and wondering where to best stay, this is the guide for you.
I had a quick stopover in Lyon on my way from France to Italy and though I wasn’t sure what to expect, had the best time. It’s a beautiful city with the perfect mix of attractions, delicious food and lots of events on.
So, if you are considering adding Lyon to your France bucketlist, this is your sign to do so. And for those currently planning their trip to Lyon, here is exactly where to stay and my hostel/hotel recommendations:
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Where to stay in Lyon, France for any traveller:
Lyon is a pretty big city, though it does have a great public transport network and most of the main attractions are within walkable distance.
I think Presqu’ile and Vieux Lyon are great areas for those looking to be super close to the main attractions, whereas the areas around La Part-Dieu are still close and offer more budget-friendly stays.
Affordable hostels in Lyon
Yasi Hostel – I stayed in this hostel and really enjoyed it. It has breakfast included, the beds are really comfortable and there is a WhatsApp Group for all guests if you want to socialise. It is a little further out, but still walkable and with great public transport connections.
Pilo Hôtel – a capsule hotel/hostel hybrid with stellar reviews and lots of privacy
Hotels at different price points in Lyon:
$ Hôtel Chromatics – a more budget-friendly option, this hotel is well-located and has small but clean rooms
$ Hôtel Edmond W. Lyon La Part-Dieu – Located a bit further out by Brotteaux station, this hotel offers beautiful rooms at good prices.
$$ Hotel de l’Abbaye – on the pricier side, this hotel is beautiful, within walking distance to the main sights and has staff that will make sure you have the best stay possible
$$ Hôtel Bayard Bellecour – With an unbeatable location in the heart of Presqu’ile, this hotel offers traditionally decorated rooms with all the modern amenities.
$$$ Cour des Loges Lyon – If you are looking to be in the right spot for sightseeing, this is the hotel for you. The rooms are beautiful and staff lovely, making it a great stay.
$$$ Villa Maïa – also right in Vieux Lyon, this hotel boosts incredible service, rooms and views over Lyon.
How to get to Lyon?
If you are flying, Lyon has its own airport Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport. There are a couple of ways to get to the city center from the airport:
- The cheapest way is by public transport which will cost you 2-4 €. It takes around an hour but is way cheaper than the Rhônexpress which is the “official” transport from the airport to the city. I recommend using Google Maps to get the best option for your exact time, but the buses 47 until Les Marches du Rhône and then 1E to Mermoz – Pinel will connect you to the metro line.
- BlaBlaCar is an intercity bus but also offers rideshares. You can often find ones from the airport to Lyon for just 4€, though the times are limited to what is on offer.
- Rhônexpress is the tramway connection that claims to get you to the center in 30 minutes. It is the most convenient way but will set you back 15.20€ one-way or 26.70€ return.
- You can also get an Uber or Taxi starting at about 40€.
If you are coming by bus (Flixbus or BlaBlaCar), you will be dropped at Gare Routière Lyon-Perrache. From there, you can get a metro or tram to your accommodation – more on that below.
You can also get a Eurostar to Lyon from London which will get you there in around 6 hours and set you back 150€ upwards. I think if you get a good deal and have lots of luggage, this would be a valid option.
How many days in Lyon?
You can see the main sights in Lyon in one day, though I would recommend two days for a more relaxed experience and maybe a museum or tour.
If you are interested in exploring more of Lyon’s surroundings and maybe doing a wine tour in the Northern Rhône Valley, you may want to add another day or two to your itinerary.
Hi, I'm Bell
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