Lyon: A accommodation guide to France's cultural and gastronomic capital

Lyon, France's third-largest city, is a blend of cultural heritage, modern urban character, and gastronomic delights. It's famous for its historic centre, recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, and its stunning monuments such as the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, the old Roman amphitheatre and beautiful squares like Place Bellecour.

Its most well-known attractions include:

• Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, dominating the Fourvière hill and offering panoramic views of the city.
• Roman Amphitheatre of the Three Gauls, where cultural festivals and events are often organised.
• Place Bellecour, one of Europe's largest pedestrian squares, featuring an impressive statue of Louis XIV.
• Old Lyon (Vieux Lyon), with its narrow streets, “traboules” (secret passageways) and beautiful Renaissance buildings.
• Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon, which houses an excellent collection of works from the medieval period to contemporary art.
• Parc de la Tête d'Or, a huge public green space with lakes, botanical gardens, and a wonderful zoo.

A stroll through its traditional neighbourhoods will allow visitors to discover its traditional architecture, the “traboules” (secret passageways), and taste some of the finest dishes of French cuisine.

If you adore gastronomy, Lyon is the ideal place for you. The city is considered France's gastronomic capital, with many award-winning restaurants and local specialities that will win you over. Also, art and culture lovers will find many art galleries, museums, and cultural events that make Lyon a vibrant and interesting city.

With easy access to the French Alps and many other picturesque regions, Lyon is an ideal base for exploring both the city and the surrounding area.

The 5 best areas to stay in Lyon

1. Vieux Lyon (Old Town) – Stay in the heart of Vieux Lyon's historic charm

Vieux Lyon is the heart of historic Lyon and one of the city's most picturesque areas. Located below the Fourvière hill, it's a labyrinth of cobbled streets, Renaissance buildings, and narrow passageways known as “traboules”, which connect the houses. Here you can discover the Roman amphitheatre, the impressive Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière and the Saint-Jean Cathedral. The area is rich in museums, cafes, and traditional restaurants known as bouchons, where you can sample local delicacies.

This location is ideal for history and architecture enthusiasts, offering easy access to some of Lyon's most impressive monuments. At the same time, it's the perfect choice for those who want to explore on foot and enjoy the city's romantic atmosphere.

Advantages:

• Beautiful historic setting with Renaissance buildings.
• Close to museums, historical monuments, and gastronomic restaurants.

Disadvantages:

• Accommodation prices are higher due to the location.
• The narrow streets can get crowded with tourists, especially during the summer.

Accommodation suggestions:

Cour des Loges

Cour des Loges is a luxury boutique hotel that combines traditional Lyonnaise architecture with modern amenities. It offers a spa, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and elegant accommodation. Located in the heart of Vieux Lyon, it's ideal for guests seeking a five-star experience.

Average cost: 350€ per night

Collège Hôtel

Collège Hôtel stands out with its unique old-school-themed decor and excellent location, just a few steps from the main attractions of Vieux Lyon. It features a rooftop bar with stunning city views and offers a unique accommodation experience.

• Average cost: 180€ per night.

Saint-Paul Hôtel

Saint-Paul Hôtel is located in the centre of Vieux Lyon and offers traditionally decorated rooms with a vintage feel. It's ideal for those who want to enjoy the authentic charm of the area, at more affordable prices.

Average cost: 120€ per night.

Le Phenix Hôtel

Le Phenix Hôtel offers boutique accommodation by the River Saône, with easy access to museums and historical monuments. The rooms have a modern style, and some offer wonderful river views.

Average cost: 140€ per night.

2. Presqu'île – The centre of luxury and vibrancy

Presqu'île is the central and lively heart of Lyon, built between the Saône and Rhône rivers. This area is known for its luxury shops, restaurants, and historical monuments. Attractions such as Place Bellecour, the Hôtel de Ville, and the Opéra de Lyon are located here, making the area ideal for those who want to stay close to all the important points of interest.

Presqu'île is full of life and activity around the clock. From elegant cafes and restaurants to high-fashion shops, it's the hub of the city's cultural and social events. If you want access to everything, this area is the right choice.

Advantages:

• Central location, ideal for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
• Close to all main attractions and public transport.

Disadvantages:

• Busy and crowded, especially during peak hours.
• Accommodation prices are quite high due to the area's centrality.

Accommodation suggestions:

Hôtel Carlton Lyon – MGallery

The Hôtel Carlton Lyon is one of the city's most elegant and luxurious hotels, offering a unique accommodation experience in classic French style. It features a spa and a restaurant, and is located right in the centre of Presqu'île, with easy access to attractions.

Average cost: 250€ per night.

Okko Hotels Lyon Pont Lafayette

Okko Hotels is ideal for modern travellers seeking high aesthetics and amenities. The hotel features a rooftop bar, gym, and sauna, making it an excellent choice for couples and business travellers.

Average cost: 190€ per night.

Mercure Lyon Centre Beaux-Arts

The Mercure Lyon Centre Beaux-Arts is a classic hotel with modern amenities, located near Place Bellecour and ideal for families and business travellers seeking central accommodation.

Average cost: 170€ per night.

Grand Hôtel des Terreaux

The Grand Hôtel des Terreaux offers a luxurious accommodation experience in a historic building, with amenities such as an indoor pool and unique decor. It is very close to the Opéra de Lyon and is an excellent choice for cultural visitors.

Average cost: 200€ per night.

Hôtel Silky by HappyCulture

Hôtel Silky combines historic architecture with contemporary style and is ideally located, offering easy access to the area's shops and restaurants.

Average cost: 160€ per night.

3. La Croix-Rousse – Artistic atmosphere and authentic charm

La Croix-Rousse is one of Lyon's most charming and authentic neighbourhoods, known for its artistic vibe and industrial heritage. Located on the Croix-Rousse hill, it was once the centre of the city's silk industry. Today, it retains its authentic character with the narrow dwellings of the silk weavers and workshops converted into art galleries, cafes, and boutiques.

La Croix-Rousse offers a quiet and relaxed atmosphere, ideal for those who want to enjoy local daily life away from the bustling city centre. The area is also famous for its outdoor markets, where you can find local produce, fresh fruits, and vegetables. With stunning city views, La Croix-Rousse is an excellent choice for those seeking a more relaxed and artistic environment.

Advantages:

• Quiet area with an artistic atmosphere.
• Magnificent city views from the hill.
• Many art galleries, markets, and traditional shops.

Disadvantages:

• Distance from the city centre (though access is easy by public transport).
• The hills can be challenging for those not accustomed to walking.

Accommodation suggestions:

Hôtel de la Croix-Rousse

This hotel offers affordable accommodation in the heart of La Croix-Rousse, with comfortable rooms and lovely city views. It's ideal for visitors who want to experience Lyon's authentic side.

Average cost: 100€ per night.

Lyon Marriott Hôtel La Part-Dieu

A modern and comfortable hotel near La Croix-Rousse, ideal for business trips and family holidays. It offers luxurious amenities and excellent service.

Average cost: 180€ per night.

Villa Maïa

Luxury hotel with amazing views of Lyon, an outdoor pool, and a spa. It's located a few minutes from the Croix-Rousse hill, offering peace and luxury.

Average cost: 400€ per night.

Hôtel Saint Vincent

Traditional hotel with modern amenities, offering comfort and tranquility near the artistic side of Croix-Rousse.

Average cost: 150€ per night.

4. Part-Dieu – Business centre and ideal choice for professionals

The Part-Dieu area is known as Lyon's business centre and hosts the city's largest railway station, making it ideal for travellers seeking easy access to public transport. Besides the railway station, Part-Dieu also houses the city's largest shopping centre, which attracts visitors from all over the region for shopping and dining.

The area is also known for its modern skyscrapers and business centres, making it ideal for professionals and families looking for comfort and modern amenities. At the same time, Part-Dieu offers excellent accommodation options with hotels to suit all budgets, from economical choices to luxurious solutions.

Advantages:

• Central location with easy access to public transport.
• Ideal for business trips and shopping.
• Modern hotels and amenities.

Disadvantages:

• Lack of historical and cultural character.
• More industrial atmosphere compared to other areas.

Accommodation suggestions:

Radisson Blu Hotel Lyon

The Radisson Blu offers luxurious accommodation with panoramic city views from the upper floors of the skyscraper. It features a restaurant, gym, and business facilities, ideal for professionals.

Average cost: 220€ per night.

Ibis Lyon Part Dieu Les Halles

An economical hotel with basic amenities, suitable for travellers seeking easy access to public transport and the area's shopping centre.

Average cost: 80€ per night.

Mercure Lyon Centre Gare Part-Dieu

The Mercure combines comfort with elegance and is located right next to the railway station, offering excellent service and modern amenities.

Average cost: 150€ per night.

Appart'City Lyon Part-Dieu

Self-catering apartments for longer stays, with modern style and a fully equipped kitchen. Ideal for families and extended visits.

Average cost: 110€ per night.

5. Confluence – Modern accommodation in Lyon's most contemporary hub

Confluence is one of Lyon's most modern and developing areas, built at the confluence of the Saône and Rhône rivers. This area has undergone radical redevelopment in recent decades and is now full of modern buildings, luxury residences, and shopping centres. It's ideal for those who want to live in a modern, ecologically designed urban environment.

Confluence is also known for the Musée des Confluences, an impressive natural history and technology museum. The area offers excellent opportunities for shopping and dining, as well as relaxing walks along the river.

Advantages:

• Modern and eco-friendly area with excellent amenities.
• Close to shopping centres and the Musée des Confluences.

Disadvantages:

• Away from Lyon's historic centre.
• May not offer the same historic charm as other areas.

Accommodation suggestions:

Mob Hotel Lyon Confluence

An ecological and modern hotel offering comfortable spaces, a roof garden, and organic dining options. Ideal for lovers of ecology and modern design.

Average cost: 150€ per night.

Novotel Lyon Confluence

Luxury hotel with panoramic river views, spacious rooms, and easy access to shopping centres and the Musée des Confluences.

Average cost: 200€ per night.

Ibis Styles Lyon Confluence

Economical option with modern decor and basic amenities, ideal for couples and families looking for comfort and proximity to attractions.

Average cost: 90€ per night.

Quality Suites Lyon Confluence

Spacious rooms and apartments, with amenities such as a kitchen and gym, ideal for longer stays or families.

Average cost: 130€ per night.

Hôtel Charlemagne

Traditional hotel combining luxury with comfort, ideal for professionals and tourists seeking high-quality accommodation in a quiet neighbourhood.

Average cost: 160€ per night.

How to get to Lyon

Lyon is easily accessible from Greece, with direct flights from both Athens and Thessaloniki. Regular flights are operated throughout the year by major airlines, offering quick and comfortable transport to this beautiful French city. The flight from Athens takes approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes, while from Thessaloniki the duration is about 2 hours and 30 minutes. Upon arrival, you will land at Saint Exupéry Airport, which is 25 kilometres from the centre of Lyon and directly connected to the city via the Rhônexpress tram and buses.

To find the best flight tickets for Lyon, visit travelo.gr and book quickly and easily, enjoying the best offers and suggestions.

Lyon is a city full of surprises, ideal for every type of traveller. Whether you're seeking the historic charm of Vieux Lyon, the vibrancy of Presqu'île, or the modern aesthetics of Confluence, Lyon has something to offer everyone. With our accommodation suggestions in these areas, you can enjoy an unforgettable experience in the city of lights, whether you prefer luxury options or budget-friendly solutions.

Don't forget to check the best hotel deals through our links and book your flight tickets from travelo.gr to ensure the best possible trip to Lyon!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which area is best for accommodation in the destination?

The ideal area depends on the type of trip. If you're looking for vibrancy, restaurants and easy access to attractions, choose the historic centre. For quieter accommodation at a good price, prefer neighbourhoods slightly outside the centre that are served by public transport. Families usually prefer accommodation with space and easy access to parks or beaches.

How many days do I need to visit the destination?

For an initial introduction to the main attractions, 2 to 3 nights are sufficient. If you want to explore the surrounding area, enjoy the gastronomy and truly relax, allow 4 to 5 days. For a base trip with day excursions, a week is ideal.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) usually offer the best combination of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable accommodation prices. Summer is the busiest period, while winter suits those who want an authentic experience without hordes of tourists.

How can I book accommodation at the best price?

Booking through Booking.com offers flexible cancellation policies, genuine guest reviews, and often the best available prices. Book 2-3 months in advance for the peak tourist season and compare prices between neighbourhoods, as a few minutes further from the centre often means significant savings.

Is the destination safe for tourists?

Yes, it is a visitor-friendly destination. As with any trip, it's advisable to be mindful of personal belongings in crowded areas and public transport, and to use reliable means of transport. Highly-rated accommodations are usually located in safe neighbourhoods.