5 Day Lyon Adventure: Budget-Friendly Fun!

Savor the taste of Lyon on a budget-friendly adventure.

21 June 2023

A trip to Lyon, France on a limited budget offers many affordable options. Visitors can enjoy exploring the city's historic sights, including its many museums and landmarks, while also taking advantage of inexpensive food options, including traditional French cuisine. To save money on lodging, affordable rental apartments or budget-friendly hotels are available throughout the city.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival and Exploration

  • Check into the Hotel des Celestins, a budget-friendly option located in the trendy Presqu'île neighborhood.
  • Visit the breathtaking Notre-Dame de Fourvière Basilica and take in panoramic views of the city.
  • Head down to the Vieux Lyon neighborhood to wander through the quaint, winding streets and admire the Renaissance architecture.
  • Indulge in a traditional Lyonnaise meal at Café Comptoir Abel, where locals have been dining for over a century.
  • Sip on cocktails at Le Sucre, a unique rooftop club with stunning views of the Saône river.
Day 2

History and Culture

  • Start the day with a croissant and coffee from Gontran Cherrier bakery.
  • Marvel at the stunning Gallo-Roman ruins at the Théâtre Antique de Lyon.
  • Get lost in the Musée de la Civilization Gallo-Romaine, which features fascinating exhibits on ancient Lyon.
  • Take a stroll along the banks of the Saône and enjoy the street performers and artists.
  • Sample local cheeses and charcuterie at Les Halles de Lyon, a popular indoor market.
Day 3

Parks and Gardens

  • Take a morning jog through the Parc de la Tête d'Or, one of the largest urban parks in Europe.
  • Have a picnic in the Jardin des Chartreux, an idyllic green space with a quaint pond.
  • Immerse yourself in the world of contemporary art at the Museum of Contemporary Art.
  • Dine at the charming bistro, Les Fines Gueules, and enjoy traditional Lyonnaise delicacies.
  • Catch a concert or comedy show at the cozy and intimate Le Kraspek Myzik venue.
Day 4

Wine and Dine

  • Meet for coffee and pastries at Les Cafetiers, a cozy and quaint coffee shop.
  • Take a wine tasting tour through the Rhône Valley at La Maison M. Chapoutier.
  • Enjoy a scenic and romantic dinner at the Michelin-starred Les Loges, set in a 14th-century building.
  • Experience the bustling nightlife scene of Croix-Rousse, with its many bars and music venues.
  • Cap off the evening with a nightcap at The Monkey Club, a speakeasy-style bar.
Day 5

Shopping and Sightseeing

  • Browse unique boutiques and shops in the trendy Montplaisir neighborhood.
  • Take a boat tour of the Rhône and Saône rivers to admire the city from a different perspective.
  • Visit the jaw-droppingly beautiful Musée des Confluences, which showcases science, art, and history exhibits.
  • Take a stroll through Lyon's many squares and plazas, soaking up the city's vibrant energy.
  • End the day with dinner at Le Bistrot du Potager, a hidden gem known for their delicious, locally-sourced fare.

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

More travel plans

Lyon on a Budget: A Day Trip Delight

A trip to Lyon, France on a limited budget can still be enjoyable and exciting. With affordable accommodations in the city center, cheap eats from street vendors and local bakeries, and free activities such as exploring the historic Old Town and visiting the Parc de la Tête d'Or, travelers can experience the charm and beauty of Lyon without breaking the bank. Don't miss the chance to try the local cuisine, including Lyon's famous bouchons, traditional restaurants offering hearty meals and local wines at reasonable prices.

The Ultimate 5-Day Lyon Adventure Guide

As a tourist in Lyon, France, you will be treated to a unique blend of historical and modern attractions. Explore old town alleys, shop in designer boutiques, enjoy fine dining, and witness some of the most well-preserved Roman architectures all in one trip. Take a stroll along the banks of the Rhône and Saône rivers or climb up the Fourvière hill to the Lyon cathedral for an unforgettable panoramic view of the city.

Lyon's Luscious Day Trip Delights.

Lyon is a cultural and gastronomic treasure trove, with its historic old town and world-renowned cuisine. Known as the “Capital of Gastronomy,” visitors can indulge in local delicacies, such as coq au vin and quenelles, and even take cooking classes. The city also offers a vibrant arts scene, including the Museum of Fine Arts and the Musée des Confluences.

Fall in love: A long weekend in Lyon

Lyon, France is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. From the charming old town to the stunning architecture and the delicious local cuisine, there's plenty to enjoy. Whether you're strolling hand-in-hand along the banks of the Rhône or savoring a candlelit dinner in a cozy bistro, Lyon is sure to leave you feeling love-struck.