Lyon, France: A 5-Day Family Adventure on a Budget

Discover Lyon's family fun - culture, cuisine, and memories await!

19 July 2023

Lyon, France is a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip filled with history, culture, and delicious food. Explore the UNESCO-listed old town with its charming cobblestone streets and visit landmarks like the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière or the Lyon Cathedral. Indulge in gastronomic delights at Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Rhône River for a memorable family vacation in Lyon.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Old Lyon

  • Start the day with a flaky, buttery croissant from a charming patisserie
  • Wander through the cobblestone streets of Vieux Lyon, admiring the Renaissance architecture
  • Visit the stunning Saint-Jean Cathedral and marvel at its intricate stained glass windows
  • Discover the ancient secrets of the traboules, hidden passageways that wind through the city
  • Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a bouchon, savoring traditional Lyonnais delicacies like quenelles and coq au vin
  • End the day with a panoramic view of the city from the hilltop at Fourvière Basilica
Day 2

A Stroll Along the Rhône

  • Start the day with a visit to the vibrant Les Halles de Lyon, where you can sample local specialties like saucisson and cheese
  • Take a leisurely walk along the picturesque banks of the Rhône River, lined with lively cafes and quaint bookshops
  • Visit the Musée des Confluences, an architectural marvel showcasing the history of mankind and the natural world
  • Enjoy a delicious riverside picnic with fresh baguettes, ripe Brie, and a bottle of Côtes du Rhône
  • Indulge in some retail therapy at the trendy boutiques of Rue Auguste Comte
  • Treat yourself to a relaxing evening at a spa, where you can unwind with a luxurious massage or soak in a Jacuzzi
Day 3

Culinary Delights of Lyon

  • Start the day with a traditional Lyonnais breakfast of tartine, a crusty baguette topped with butter and jam
  • Embark on a gastronomic adventure at Les Halles Paul Bocuse, a legendary market showcasing the finest local produce
  • Join a cooking class to learn the art of creating Lyonnais delicacies, like the heavenly praline tart
  • Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a Michelin-starred restaurant, savoring exquisite dishes featuring local ingredients
  • Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Croix-Rousse, known for its narrow streets and lively atmosphere
  • Indulge in a decadent chocolate tasting at a boutique chocolaterie, sampling bonbons filled with local liqueurs
Day 4

Hidden Gems of Lyon

  • Begin the day with a visit to the stunning Parc de la Tête d'Or, where you can stroll through lush gardens and encounter exotic animals at the zoo
  • Explore the hidden traboules of the neighborhood of La Guillotière, uncovering the city's secrets
  • Have a leisurely lunch at a bohemian café, savoring the flavors of an Algerian-inspired couscous
  • Discover the Musée Miniature et Cinéma, a mind-boggling collection of intricately detailed miniatures and iconic movie props
  • End the day with a sunset cruise along the Saône River, sipping on a glass of local Beaujolais and taking in the breathtaking views
Day 5

A Day Trip to Beaujolais

  • Embark on a scenic train ride to the vineyard-covered hills of Beaujolais, just a short distance from Lyon
  • Explore the charming wine villages of Brouilly and Fleurie, sampling the region's famous Gamay wines
  • Enjoy a traditional Beaujolais lunch at a cozy bistro, feasting on hearty dishes like coq au vin jaune
  • Take a leisurely hike through the vineyards, enjoying the fresh country air and breathtaking views
  • Visit a local winery for a tasting session, learning about the winemaking process from passionate vintners
  • Return to Lyon in the evening, reminiscing about the day's adventures and toasting to a memorable trip

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Lyon, France by plane is to fly into Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport, which is located about 20 kilometers east of the city center. There are direct flights to Lyon from many major European cities, as well as some destinations in North Africa and the Middle East.

Car

The best way to get to Lyon, France by car is to drive on the A6 motorway, which connects Lyon to Paris in the north and Marseille in the south. However, driving in Lyon can be challenging due to heavy traffic and limited parking options.

Train

The best way to get to Lyon, France by train is to take the TGV high-speed train from Paris. The journey takes just over 2 hours and the train arrives at Lyon Part-Dieu station, which is located in the city center.

Boat

Unfortunately, there is no way to get to Lyon, France by boat as the city is located inland and does not have access to the ocean. The closest port cities are Marseille and Barcelona, which are both located over 300 kilometers away.

Bus

The best way to get to Lyon, France by bus is to take a long-distance bus from a major European city such as Paris, Barcelona, or Milan. There are several bus companies that operate routes to Lyon, including Flixbus and Eurolines.

Destination

Lyon

Looking for a city that'll make your taste buds dance? Look no further than the culinary capital where even the pigeons have Michelin stars. Welcome to Lyon!

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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Lyon on a Budget: 3 Fun-Filled Days

A trip to Lyon, France on a limited budget is possible if you plan well. Firstly, choose budget accommodation options such as hostels or budget hotels in the city center for easy access to attractions. Secondly, explore the city's free or low-cost attractions such as the Old Town, Parc de la Tête d'Or, and Croix-Rousse Hill. Finally, savor the local cuisine at affordable restaurants and cafes, and try local specialties such as quenelles, escargot, and Beaujolais wine without breaking the bank.

Lyon, France: A Romantic 3-Day Getaway

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