Best Time to Visit
Best Time to Visit
Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France, is best visited during the spring and autumn seasons. With mild temperatures, these seasons offer pleasant weather for exploring the city's historic sites, parks, and culinary delights.
Lyon experiences high season during the summer months of June to August when tourists flock to the city to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and participate in various outdoor events and festivals.
The shoulder season in Lyon falls in the months of April, May, September, and October. During these months, the weather is still pleasant, and there are fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season.
Lyon's low season occurs during the winter months of November to February. The city experiences colder temperatures and fewer tourists, making it a great time to enjoy the Christmas markets and festive decorations.
During spring, Lyon's parks and gardens come to life with blooming flowers and blossoming trees. The city hosts various cultural events and festivals, including the Nuits Sonores electronic music festival.
Summer in Lyon is filled with outdoor activities, including boat rides along the Rhône River and picnics in the parks. The city's vibrant nightlife and music festivals are also in full swing.
Autumn in Lyon is a picturesque season with colorful foliage adorning the city. The weather remains pleasant, and it's a great time to explore Lyon's historic architecture and indulge in seasonal culinary specialties.
Winter in Lyon brings a festive atmosphere with Christmas markets and ice skating rinks. Cozy up in traditional bouchons to savor hearty Lyonnaise cuisine and warm drinks like vin chaud.
→ -2 to 5 °C (28 to 40 °F)
January in Lyon is chilly, but you can still enjoy the city's indoor attractions, such as museums and art galleries.
→ -2 to 8 °C (29 to 46 °F)
February in Lyon is still cold, but you can warm up with delicious hot chocolate from the city's renowned chocolatiers.
→ 0 to 11 °C (33 to 51 °F)
March in Lyon marks the arrival of spring with blooming flowers and increasing temperatures. Don't miss the Lyon Biennale, an international contemporary art exhibition.
→ 4 to 16 °C (40 to 60 °F)
April in Lyon offers mild temperatures, perfect for strolling along the riverbanks or exploring the Renaissance architecture of Vieux Lyon.
→ 9 to 20 °C (49 to 67 °F)
May in Lyon brings warmer weather, and it's a great time to visit the Parc de la Tête d'Or, one of the largest urban parks in France.
→ 15 to 26 °C (60 to 80 °F)
June in Lyon is the start of summer, with plenty of outdoor activities and festivals, including the Fête de la Musique.
→ 18 to 29 °C (64 to 85 °F)
July in Lyon is full of summer vibes, with open-air concerts, film screenings, and vibrant street performances.
→ 18 to 29 °C (64 to 84 °F)
August in Lyon offers warm weather for exploring the city's hidden traboules and enjoying al fresco dining along the river.
→ 14 to 24 °C (57 to 75 °F)
September in Lyon is ideal for visiting vineyards in the nearby Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône regions.
→ 9 to 17 °C (48 to 63 °F)
October in Lyon is characterized by beautiful autumn foliage and culinary events, including Les Nuits de Fourvière food festival.
→ 3 to 10 °C (37 to 50 °F)
November in Lyon sees the transition to winter, with the opening of the city's charming Christmas markets.
→ 0 to 6 °C (32 to 44 °F)
December in Lyon is festive, with dazzling light displays and traditional Christmas traditions, such as the Festival of Lights.
Lyon offers a wide range of accommodation options, including luxury hotels, boutique guesthouses, and budget-friendly hostels. Stay in the city center to be close to major attractions and dining options.
Lyon's public transportation system is well-developed and efficient, consisting of buses, trams, and a metro network. A single ticket can be used for all modes of transport, making it easy to get around the city.
Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport is the main airport serving Lyon. It is located approximately 20 kilometers east of the city center.
To reach the city center from the airport, you can take the Rhônexpress tram, which provides a direct connection. Taxis and rental cars are also available.
Lyon is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it is always important to take common precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas.
According to the Global Peace Index, France ranks 67th among all countries in the world in 2023. France achieved a score of 1.94 out of 5, based on 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators from highly respected sources.
The best time to visit Lyon is during the spring and autumn seasons when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds.
Best Lyon Visit LengthA 3 to 4-day visit is recommended to explore Lyon's main attractions, including its historic sites, parks, and renowned gastronomy.
Must-See Attractions in LyonMust-see attractions in Lyon include the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon), Parc de la Tête d'Or, and taking a scenic boat ride along the Rhône River.
Lyon Nightlife: What to DoLyon has a vibrant nightlife, especially in the neighborhoods of Vieux Lyon and Presqu'île. Enjoy dinner at a traditional bouchon and then explore the bars and clubs in the area.
Getting Around Lyon EfficientlyGetting around Lyon is easy with the city's well-connected public transportation system. Buses, trams, and the metro offer convenient options for traveling within the city.
Start your day by visiting the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière for panoramic views of Lyon. Explore the historic Vieux Lyon neighborhood, known for its Renaissance architecture. In the evening, indulge in a traditional Lyonnaise dinner at a bouchon.
Spend the morning exploring the Parc de la Tête d'Or, with its beautiful gardens, zoo, and lake. Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts, one of France's largest art museums. In the evening, take a scenic boat ride along the Rhône River.
Start your day by exploring the Croix-Rousse neighborhood, known for its silk industry history. Visit the Théâtre antique de Lyon, an ancient Roman theater. End your visit with a stroll along the scenic Presqu'île area.
