Lyon, with its rich history, culinary reputation, and beautiful landscapes, is a city that truly captivates the soul. From the charming Old Town (Vieux Lyon) to the vibrant modern districts, Lyon has so much to offer, and I couldn’t wait to dive in. But as with any trip, planning ahead is key, especially if you want to make the most of your time and money. During my visit, I learned a few valuable tricks that helped me save both, and I’m excited to share them with you.
1. Use Lyon’s Efficient Public Transportation System
Lyon’s public transportation network is well-organized and affordable, making it easy to get around the city without breaking the bank. One of the best ways to travel around Lyon is by using the Lyon City Card, which offers unlimited access to buses, trams, and metro lines for a set number of days. I opted for a 3-day pass, which not only saved me time but also reduced the overall cost of transportation.
For instance, traveling from my accommodation in the city center to the famous Parc de la Tête d’Or was a breeze with the metro. The trains are punctual, and the stations are easily navigable. If you’re planning to visit several attractions across the city, this card will help you avoid costly taxis or the hassle of renting a car. The Lyon City Card also grants discounts on various tours and museums, so it’s worth considering if you plan on exploring a lot.
For shorter trips, don’t forget the Velov bike-sharing service. I used it several times to explore the city at my own pace, especially in the quieter neighborhoods of Croix-Rousse. Velov bikes are available at stations all over the city and are a quick and eco-friendly way to save money while seeing more of Lyon.
2. Stay in Centrally Located Accommodation
Accommodation in Lyon can range from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. During my trip, I decided to book a mid-range hotel in the Presqu’île district, which was both affordable and centrally located. By staying in the heart of the city, I was able to walk to most of the major attractions, saving both time and money on transportation.
If you’re looking for more budget-friendly options, consider booking through local websites or Airbnb, where you can find a variety of choices, from small apartments to guesthouses, often at lower prices than international hotel chains. Staying near a metro station or within walking distance of the main attractions will help cut down on transportation costs, leaving you with more budget for meals and activities.
3. Explore Free or Low-Cost Attractions
Lyon offers a variety of attractions that are either free or require a very affordable entrance fee. One of my favorite experiences was walking around the Parc de la Tête d’Or, one of the largest urban parks in France. It’s free to enter, and you can easily spend an entire day exploring its botanical gardens, lake, and even its small zoo. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll, especially if you’re on a budget.
If you’re into history and culture, don’t miss Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon), a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can easily explore the cobbled streets and picturesque squares without spending a dime. While you’re there, don’t forget to visit the Traboules—hidden passageways that connect buildings and courtyards in the old district. These passageways are free to access and offer a unique glimpse into Lyon’s architectural history.
4. Dine Smart: Embrace Lyon’s Street Food and Bouchons
Lyon is renowned for its gastronomy, but eating at high-end restaurants can quickly add up. To save money without compromising on quality, I opted for the more affordable yet delicious street food and bouchons, traditional Lyonnais eateries that offer local dishes at a reasonable price.
One of the best ways to enjoy Lyon’s food scene is to visit a bouchon. These casual, family-owned restaurants serve hearty Lyonnaise specialties like quenelles, salade lyonnaise, and andouillette sausage. While some of the fancier bouchons can be pricey, I found that several places in the Old Town offered a great meal for around 20 to 25 euros.
For a more budget-friendly option, head to Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, the city’s famous covered market. While it’s a bit of a tourist hotspot, you can still find some great deals on fresh local produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods. I grabbed a delicious brioche and a cup of coffee here for under 5 euros one morning. If you’re keen on a quick bite, grab a tarte aux pralines (a local pastry) from one of the bakeries or a kebab from one of the street vendors. Lyon’s street food scene is thriving, and you can easily have a delicious meal without spending much.
5. Take Advantage of Free Walking Tours
Many cities around the world offer free walking tours, and Lyon is no exception. I decided to join one of these tours during my first day in the city, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I made. The guides are usually locals who know the ins and outs of the city, and they often offer their tours on a tips-only basis, meaning you can decide how much to pay based on how much you enjoyed the experience.
During the tour, I learned a lot about Lyon’s rich history, from its Roman past to its role in the silk trade. The guide took us through areas I probably wouldn’t have discovered on my own, including hidden courtyards and small alleyways. Plus, it was a great way to get an introduction to the city’s layout, which helped me navigate Lyon more efficiently during the rest of my stay.
6. Timing is Everything: Visit During Off-Peak Seasons
One of the biggest ways to save both time and money is by visiting Lyon during the off-peak seasons. I visited in late autumn, just before the holiday crowds started to arrive. Hotel rates were lower, and popular attractions were less crowded. I also noticed that some museums and attractions offered reduced prices for admission during this time.
If you can, avoid traveling during peak tourist season (typically June to August), when prices for accommodation and activities tend to spike. By visiting during the shoulder seasons, you can enjoy a more relaxed experience without sacrificing too much in terms of weather or activities.
7. Buy Attraction Passes for Major Museums and Attractions
Lyon has a wealth of museums and cultural attractions, and while many of them are free or low-cost, some do charge a fee for entry. If you’re planning to visit a number of museums, buying an attraction pass can be a smart way to save money. For example, I purchased a Museum Pass, which granted me access to several top attractions, including the Musée des Beaux-Arts (Fine Arts Museum) and the Musée Gadagne (Museum of the History of Lyon), at a discounted rate.
The pass also offers the added benefit of skipping long lines, which helped me save valuable time. If you’re not sure whether it’s worth the investment, do some quick math on the individual entrance fees to see if you’ll save money by purchasing the pass.
8. Walk Everywhere to Maximize Your Experience
Lyon is an incredibly walkable city, and by sticking to the streets, you can not only save money on transportation but also get the full experience of the city. I spent hours wandering through the Presqu’île, exploring the historic districts of Vieux Lyon, and even trekking up to Fourvière Hill for panoramic views of the city. Walking everywhere allowed me to stumble upon hidden gems that I might have missed if I had stuck to public transportation.
It’s easy to walk from the city center to most of the major sights, and the walk itself is part of the adventure. Whether it’s exploring the vibrant markets or discovering quirky shops and cafes, walking lets you absorb the city’s atmosphere in a way that no other mode of transportation can.
9. Be Strategic About Souvenirs
No trip to Lyon would be complete without picking up a few souvenirs. But buying souvenirs can easily become a costly part of your trip if you’re not careful. I learned that the best way to score a great deal is to visit local artisan shops or markets, rather than tourist-centric stores that often charge inflated prices.
At Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, I found some great local delicacies like Lyonnaise chocolates and local wines at reasonable prices. For something a bit more unique, head to the Place des Terreaux, where I found a variety of handmade goods, from ceramics to silk scarves, at much lower prices than those sold in more touristy areas. Always ask about the price before buying, and don’t be afraid to bargain a little, especially in markets.
By following these tips, I was able to enjoy Lyon on a budget without feeling like I was sacrificing any of the city’s charm or beauty. The key is to plan ahead, make use of local services, and enjoy the city’s rich culture and history in a way that doesn’t break the bank. Lyon truly is a city that rewards those who know where to look.
