France
Lyon
France
Lyon
Updated Jun 08, 2025
Overview
Lyon captivates visitors with its stunning architecture, from the medieval Vieux Lyon to the modern Confluence district. As France's culinary epicenter, it boasts traditional bouchons and Michelin-starred restaurants. Explore hidden traboules, marvel at Roman ruins, and indulge in world-class museums. Don't miss the vibrant markets, picturesque parks, and the magical Fête des Lumières. Lyon's blend of history, gastronomy, and contemporary art makes it a must-visit destination.
Best time to visit. Visit Lyon in spring (April-June) or fall (September-November) for mild weather and fewer crowds. These seasons offer perfect conditions for exploring the city's outdoor attractions and savoring local cuisine. December's Fête des Lumières is magical but busy, while summer can be hot and crowded.
City stats
Population
513,275
Land area
48 sq. mi.
Currency
Euro
Year founded
43 BCE
Official langauge
French
English speaking
Somewhat spoken, esp. in hospitality
State/Province
Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Timezone
Central European (UTC+1)
Driving side
right
Website
Google Maps link
Quick links
How to get there
Neighborhoods
Getting around
Where to stay
Day trips
Cities within 8 hours
Active pursuits
Leisure activities
Bars, pubs and nightlife
Breakfast and brunch
Lunch and snacks
Dinner restaurants
Laptop friendly places
Where to stay for work trips
Work trip activities
Average weather
Country holidays
Major annual events
Cultural tips
City details
Hotels
Nearby
Nearby
Things to do
Food & restaurants
Work friendly
| Month | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 45°F - 34°F | 42°F - 30°F | Partly Cloudy | 8:15 am | 5:15 pm | 10 days 1.9 in | 3 days 1.0 in | 7 mph |
| February | 48°F - 35°F | 45°F - 31°F | Partly Cloudy | 7:45 am | 6:00 pm | 9 days 1.7 in | 2 days 0.6 in | 7 mph |
| March | 56°F - 40°F | 54°F - 37°F | Partly Cloudy | 7:00 am | 6:45 pm | 9 days 2.0 in | 1 days 0.2 in | 9 mph |
| April | 62°F - 45°F | 61°F - 43°F | Partly Cloudy | 6:15 am | 8:15 pm | 9 days 2.2 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| May | 70°F - 52°F | 70°F - 51°F | Partly Cloudy | 5:45 am | 9:00 pm | 10 days 3.0 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| June | 77°F - 58°F | 78°F - 58°F | Partly Cloudy | 5:30 am | 9:30 pm | 8 days 2.6 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| July | 82°F - 62°F | 84°F - 62°F | Sunny | 5:45 am | 9:15 pm | 6 days 2.0 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| August | 81°F - 61°F | 83°F - 61°F | Sunny | 6:30 am | 8:30 pm | 7 days 2.4 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| September | 74°F - 55°F | 74°F - 54°F | Partly Cloudy | 7:15 am | 7:45 pm | 7 days 2.8 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| October | 64°F - 49°F | 63°F - 47°F | Partly Cloudy | 8:00 am | 6:45 pm | 9 days 3.1 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| November | 52°F - 40°F | 50°F - 37°F | Partly Cloudy | 7:45 am | 5:15 pm | 10 days 2.8 in | 1 days 0.2 in | 7 mph |
| December | 46°F - 35°F | 43°F - 31°F | Partly Cloudy | 8:15 am | 5:00 pm | 10 days 2.2 in | 2 days 0.6 in | 7 mph |
| Name | Date | Description | Travel rating | Closure rating | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Year's Day | January 1 | Celebrates the beginning of the new year. Public holiday with festive atmosphere. | Avoid travel. Most places closed. | ||
| Easter Monday | Varies (March or April) | Christian holiday following Easter Sunday. Day of rest and family gatherings. | Limited services. Plan activities ahead. | ||
| Labor Day | May 1 | Celebrates workers' rights. Public holiday with demonstrations and parades. | Expect closures. Plan alternative activities. | ||
| Victory in Europe Day | May 8 | Commemorates the end of World War II in Europe. Official ceremonies held. | Some closures. Patriotic atmosphere. | ||
| Ascension Day | Varies (May or June) | Christian holiday marking Jesus' ascension. Often creates a long weekend. | Plan for reduced services. Popular travel time. | ||
| Whit Monday | Varies (May or June) | Christian holiday celebrating the Holy Spirit. Often creates a long weekend. | Expect some closures. Plan activities ahead. | ||
| Bastille Day | July 14 | French National Day. Celebrations, parades, and fireworks across the country. | Festive atmosphere. Plan for crowds. | ||
| Assumption of Mary | August 15 | Catholic holiday honoring the Virgin Mary. Religious processions in some areas. | Some closures. Popular vacation time. | ||
| All Saints' Day | November 1 | Honors Catholic saints. Families visit cemeteries to remember loved ones. | Expect some closures. Solemn atmosphere. | ||
| Armistice Day | November 11 | Commemorates the end of World War I. Official ceremonies and remembrances. | Some closures. Patriotic atmosphere. | ||
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Christian holiday celebrating Jesus' birth. Family gatherings and festive spirit. | Avoid travel. Most places closed. |
| Name | Date | Description | Travel rating | Closure rating | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nuits Sonores | May | Electronic music festival showcasing international DJs and artists across various venues in Lyon. | Great time to visit for music lovers. | ||
| Les Nuits de Fourvière | June - July | Multi-disciplinary arts festival featuring theater, music, dance, and circus performances. | Excellent for culture enthusiasts. | ||
| Tout L'Monde Dehors | June - September | Free outdoor cultural events including concerts, films, and performances throughout the city. | Perfect time for budget travelers. | ||
| Fête de la Musique | June 21 | Citywide music celebration with free concerts and performances in streets and venues. | Lively atmosphere, great for music fans. | ||
| Biennale de Lyon | September - January (odd-numbered years) | Major contemporary art exhibition held every two years, showcasing international artists. | Ideal for art enthusiasts. | ||
| Lyon Street Food Festival | September | Culinary event featuring local and international street food, chef demonstrations, and workshops. | Great for foodies and culinary explorers. | ||
| Festival Lumière | October | Film festival celebrating cinema history with screenings, exhibitions, and special events. | Perfect for film buffs and cinephiles. | ||
| Fête des Lumières | December 8 - 11 | Spectacular light festival transforming Lyon's buildings and streets with illuminations. | Crowded but magical; book early. |
1 | Learn basic French phrases like 'Bonjour' and 'Merci'. Always greet shopkeepers with 'Bonjour' when entering and 'Au revoir' when leaving. It's considered rude not to do so. |
2 | Dress neatly in public. Avoid athletic wear, shorts, or flip-flops in cities. French people tend to dress more formally, even for casual outings. Blend in to avoid looking like a tourist. |
3 | Don't assume everyone speaks English. Start conversations in French, even if it's just to ask if they speak English. This shows respect for the local language and culture. |
4 | Keep your voice down in public spaces. French people generally speak more softly in public. Loud conversations, especially in restaurants or on public transport, are frowned upon. |
5 | Embrace the leisurely pace of meals. Lunch and dinner are social events that can last hours. Don't rush through your meal or ask for the check until you're ready to leave. |
6 | Tipping is not expected as service is included in the bill. However, it's common to round up or leave small change for good service in cafes and restaurants. |
7 | Always say 'Excusez-moi' (Excuse me) before asking for help or directions. The French appreciate politeness and good manners in social interactions. |
8 | Learn about French cuisine and try local specialties. Avoid asking for menu substitutions; it's often seen as rude. Instead, embrace the chef's creations as they are. |
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