Lyon on a Budget: A Day Trip Delight

Discover the charming city of Lyon without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring Old Lyon on a Budget

  • Start your day with a croissant from a local bakery
  • Take a stroll through the charming streets of Vieux Lyon
  • Visit Notre-Dame de Fourvière, a stunning basilica with panoramic views of the city
  • Stop by the traboules, hidden passageways that date back to the Renaissance
  • Lunch at Le Bistrot de l'Ecole des Plantes, a vegetarian restaurant with delicious dishes at affordable prices
  • End the day with a walk along the banks of the Saône River, admiring the sunset and the historic architecture of Lyon.

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.

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A family friendly trip to Lyon, France offers a delightful combination of history, culture, and fun activities for all ages. Explore Lyon's charming Old Town with its cobblestone streets, Renaissance buildings, and lively markets. Enjoy a boat ride along the Rhône and Saône rivers, visit the interactive-designed Mini World Lyon, and savor delicious Lyonnaise cuisine at family-friendly restaurants, making for an unforgettable trip filled with art, history, and gastronomic delights.

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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.

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