Visiting Lyon on a budget: great places to stay and tips
Eat in a real Bouchon for less than €20
It's impossible to leave Lyon without having tasted tablier de sapeur (tripe stew) or quenelle de brochet (pike quenelle). To avoid tourist traps, follow these two golden rules: look for the label ""Bouchon Lyonnais"" and opt for the lunchtime service.
My "Budget Controlled" tips:
- Lunch menu: Most good bouchons offer a set menu of starter + main course + dessert for between €16 and €19. In the evening, prices often double!
- The "hidden gem" address: The Guillotière district or behind the Part-Dieu train station hides authentic bouchons frequented by locals, much cheaper than on the Presqu'île.
- The "Pot" of Lyon: Order a "pot" (46cl) of Beaujolais or Côte-du-Rhône rather than wine by the glass, it's the most economical and convivial option.
Getting around: the City Card vs. Tickets match
Lyon is a very dense city that is easy to get around on foot, but for hills or long journeys, you need to be strategic.
Option 1: The Lyon City Card
Profitable as soon as you do 2 museums + 3 journeys by subway during the day. It also includes a sightseeing cruise!
Option 2: The "24h" Ticket"
At €6.70, it pays for itself after just four trips. Ideal if you're staying outside the city center.
Velo'v tip: Get a 1-day pass for just a few euros. The first 30 minutes of each journey are free! It's the most fun and cheapest way to explore the banks of the Rhône.
Where to stay in Lyon without emptying your savings account?
Housing is often the biggest expense. In Lyon, the trick is to move away from the city center (Presqu'île and Vieux-Lyon) and aim for trendy and well-connected residential areas.
My "Good Deal" neighborhoods:
- Jean Macé (7th): The best compromise. A village atmosphere, lower hotel rates and metro line B which drops you off in the city centre in 5 minutes.
- Gerland / Debourg: Ideal for finding hotel residences or recent hotels at bargain prices, just a few stops from Part-Dieu station.
- Vaise (9th arrondissement): An up-and-coming area, very well served by metro line D, where night prices remain very competitive compared to the historic center.
Expert tip: Also consider the "new generation" hostels (like those in the 7th arrondissement or on the Croix-Rousse hill). They offer private double rooms with a designer look for the price of an entry-level hotel.
✨ Complete your stay for €0
Did you know that you can see giraffes, explore secret passages and admire the most beautiful views of Lyon without spending a penny?
See the "100% Free" guide →
