Lyon, known to many as a “mini-Paris”, is a culture buff and foodies absolute heaven!
Although similar to Paris in many ways, Lyon offers a smaller scale and more relaxed way of life. Located close to the Alps, it is a great city escape and filled to the brim with EPIC architecture, historical sights and world-class gastronomy.
However, deciding where to stay in Lyon without knowing the city can be a challenge as each neighborhood (or arrondissement) has its own distinctive character.
I was lucky enough to spend a few months living in this wonderful city and got to venture into every little nook of it. In this guide, I’m going to teach you everything I know about Lyon to help you decide which neighborhood will be best for you.
Without further ado, let’s get started.
Where Is the Best Place to Stay in Lyon?
Lyon is without a doubt one of the best places to stay in France and not one to miss off your list. Packed with culture, history and mouth-watering cuisine – you won’t know what’s hit ya.
Here are my top picks for places to stay in Lyon – no matter your budget or style, there will be something for you!
MOB Hotel Lyon Confluence | Best Budget Hotel in Lyon
The MOB Hotel Lyon is located in the Confluence area and provides modern accommodation in one of the trendiest neighborhoods of the city.
It offers rooms fitted with air conditioning, a bathroom, soundproofing and a private terrace. And for those needing to stay connected – it’s got a super-fast Wi-Fi connection.
Radisson Blu Hotel Lyon | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Lyon
This lovely hotel is located in the iconic building dubbed “the pen” by locals. It is within walking distance from the Part-Dieu shopping centre and the Part-Dieu train station. Each room boasts wonderful views over the city, that can stretch to the Alps on a clear day – UNREAL!
Ho36 Hostel | Best Hostel in Lyon
The Ho36 Hostel is located in the Guillotière area. It has accommodation options for couples, solo travellers and groups. It’s the best cheap hostel in Lyon!
The hostel also has a restaurant serving food all day which is SUPER handy if you just want to relax. It has a bar open at night and an area where guests can hang out. It’s a perfect place to make new friends and from here, explore the city together.
In the heart of Lyon presqu’île | Best Airbnb in Lyon
This small cosy and comfortable Airbnb in France is ideal for first-time visitors in Lyon. It’s particularly great for couples looking for a sweet escape.
It is only a few minutes walk from Place Bellecour in a very charming French neighborhood. Walk down and discover various restaurants, cafes, markets, shops and beautiful sights. You won’t be short of things to do!
Lyon Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Lyon
La Presqu’Ile
La Presqu’Ile is the most central neighbourhood you can stay in Lyon. It includes the area around the city hall all the way down to the Perrache train station.
La Guillotière
The Guillotière neighbourhood is located in the 7th district of Lyon, in between the Rhône river and the business district of Part-Dieu. It is a socially and ethnically mixed area, which means lots of different world food options are available around here!
Vieux Lyon
The Vieux Lyon is the oldest neighbourhood in the city. It was built during the medieval and Renaissance times and has pretty much kept the same shape since.
Confluence
Confluence is a newly built neighbourhood located at the very tip of the Presqu’Ile, where the Rhône and the Saône rivers meet. An old industrial harbour, Confluence is now the coolest place to hang out in Lyon.
Tête d’Or
The Tête d’Or area is located around the 6th district of Lyon and is bordered by the river Rhône. It is an interesting mix of old villas and more modern architecture around the Cité Internationale.
If you’re travelling to France, you don’t want to miss Lyon off your list. France’s second-largest city has many hidden gems to offer to its visitors. Think beautiful architecture, UNESCO World Heritage Site neighborhoods and gastronomy you will find nowhere else in France.
The beating heart of the city centre is located in the 1st and 2nd districts, which form the Presqu’Ile neighborhood. Here you can admire BEAUTIFUL architecture, stop for a coffee and enjoy the local attractions that are put on all year long.
La Guillotière is a young and multicultural area that lies on the east bank of the Rhône River and is close to the business district of Part-Dieu. This neighborhood hosts a wide range of cool floating bars, galleries, and a mix of delicious restaurants from all over the world!
At the other end of the Presqu’Ile the newly built neighborhood of Confluence has quickly become one of the coolest spots in town. The old industrial harbour is now filled with modern buildings, a major museum, bars and lots of good places to eat.
The Old Town, the Vieux Lyon, is also a place not to be missed when visiting Lyon. Wandering around the old cobbled streets of the old town is one of the best things to do in Lyon – be sure to check out the St Jean Church. Many “bouchons”, Lyon’s most traditional restaurants, are also located in the old town of Vieux Lyon. Stop there for lunch and try one of the city’s specialities!
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
Families will love staying around the Tête d’Or Park, which provides an amazing natural playground for kids. Rent a small boat to paddle on the lake during the summer, or just hop on a bus to explore the rest of town.
At this point, you may still wonder where to stay in Lyon. Do not panic, there’s plenty more info to come. Now, let’s get down to business and figure out which spot is best for you.
Lyon’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Let’s take a more detailed look at the five best neighborhoods to stay in Lyon. There is something for every taste and budget!
#1 La Presqu’Ile – Where to Stay in Lyon Your First Time
La Presqu’Ile is the most central location you can stay in Lyon. It includes the area around the city hall (hôtel de ville) all the way down to the Perrache train station.
The neighborhood is full of architectural gems and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. I recommend exploring it on foot, as it is the best way to take in everything around you!
The two most important squares in Lyon, the Place Bellecour and the Place des Terreaux are located in the Presqu’Ile. The Place Bellecour is the largest pedestrian square in Europe and often hosts some local events. During the winter, make sure to hop on the Ferris wheel to get an UNREAL bird’s eye view of Lyon.
From Presqu’lle you can head slightly north to De La Croix Rousse, a cool bohemian area. If you’re a foodie, don’t miss Rue de La Martinière. It’s a lively quarter with delicious patisseries and funky wine bars.
Citadines Presqu’Ile Lyon | Best Budget Hotel in La Presqu’Ile
Citadines Presqu’Ile Lyon offers independent studio apartments which can accommodate up to four people. Each apartment is like a home away from home.
The apartments feature a kitchenette with a microwave, a toaster, a fridge and a dishwasher. The rooms are also fitted with air conditioning and a bathroom with a bathtub.
Mercure Lyon Centre Beaux Arts | Best Mid-Range Hotel in La Presqu’Ile
The Mercure Lyon Centre Beaux Arts has a central location near the Place Bellecour. It offers Art Déco styled rooms fitted with a bathroom with a bathtub, air conditioning, and a flat-screen TV. A DELICIOUS buffet breakfast is served in the morning and free Wi-Fi is provided.
In the heart of Lyon presqu’île | Best Airbnb in La Presqu’Ile
This small cosy and comfortable studio is ideal for first-time visitors in Lyon. It is only a few minutes walk from Place Bellecour in a very charming French neighborhood.
It’s particularly great for couples looking for a charming escape. You can walk down and discover various restaurants, cafes, markets, shops and beautiful sights. You won’t be short of things to do here!
Things To See and Do in La Presqu’Ile
- Walk around the Place Bellecour, the largest pedestrian square in Europe
- Check out some European painting masterpieces at the Museum of Fine Arts
- Stop for a coffee on the Place des Terreaux and admire the Bartholdi fountain
- Hop on the Ferris wheel to get a magnificent view of Lyon
- Check out the big French brands in the main shopping centre of the city centre. You’ll find it nestled between Place Bellecour and Place des Terraux
- Head north to the bohemian district of De La Croix Rousse to check out the silk museums and epic eateries
- Head to Rue de la Republique, the main shopping street with classic a 19th-century Haussman-style layout
- Go on a city river cruise with charcuterie, cheese, and wine!
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View on Osprey View on REI#2 La Guillotière – Where To Stay in Lyon on a Budget
The Guillotière neighborhood is located in the 7th district of Lyon, between the Rhône River and the business district of Part-Dieu. It is a socially and ethnically mixed area which means lots of delicious world food options to choose from!
This is also where Lyon’s Chinatown is located. Head there to get a true taste of Asia and taste some authentic Chinese food. If you’re visiting at the end of January, you can experience traditional Chinese New Year’s celebrations which are pretty damn cool.
An interesting thing to visit in La Guillotière is, as weird as it may sound, the cemetery. It is actually a great opportunity to learn more about the history of the city. Many of Lyon’s famous inhabitants are now buried there. These include Louis Lumière, inventor of the modern cinema, painter Hector Allemand and chemistry Nobel Prize winner Victor Grignard.
Hotel de Noailles | Best Budget Hotel in La Guillotière
The Hotel de Noailles is a simple but lovely hotel. It’s conveniently located next to a metro station making it super easy to get around the city.
It offers modern rooms fitted with a bathroom, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with international channels and soundproofing. A really good buffet breakfast is served in the morning and a FREE Wi-Fi connection is provided. You can’t go wrong with this one!
Best Western Hotel Du Pont Wilson | Best Mid-Range Hotel in La Guillotière
The Best Western Hotel du Pont Wilson is a lovely, modern hotel. It offers comfortable rooms fitted with a bathroom, air conditioning, soundproofing and a tea and coffee maker.
Some of the rooms boast stunning views over the Fourvière Hill and Basilica. A full buffet breakfast or an express breakfast is served in the morning.
Ho36 Hostel | Best Hostel in La Guillotière
The Ho36 Hostel is located in the 7th district of Lyon, in the Guillotière area. It offers private rooms with an ensuite bathroom as well as single beds in mixed or female-only dormitory rooms.
The hostel also has a restaurant serving food all day. It has a bar open at night and a room where guests can gather and get to know each other. Get mingling, find a travel buddy and together you can explore the city!
Beautiful Cozy Apartment | Best Airbnb in La Guillotière
This cosy apartment is very charming and beautifully decorated. The location is super convenient with the tram right outside the doorstep, the metro a five-minute walk away and Part Dieu Train Station a few blocks away.
It is also just around the corner from the Rhône, where there is a lovely waterfront path to enjoy a morning walk. Emilie is a super helpful host and gives great advice on where you should visit.
Things To See and Do in La Guillotière
- Wander around Lyon’s Chinatown and enjoy a taste of authentic China at one of the restaurants
- Visit the Château de la Motte, an authentic Renaissance castle
- Go back in time while visiting Lyon’s most famous personalities’ graves in the Cimetière de la Guillotière (Guillotière cemetery)
- Have a drink and listen to bangin’ DJ sets at Livestation DIY Bar
- Learn more about the taste of Lyon on a food tour
- Relax in the Parc Sergent Blandan, a little green escape within the city
- Pop over the bridge to enjoy the Place Bellecour square
#3 Vieux Lyon – Best Area to Stay in Lyon for Nightlife
The Vieux Lyon is the oldest neighborhood in the city. It was built during the medieval and Renaissance times and has pretty much kept the same shape since.
The most interesting architectural feature of the old town is something called the traboules. They are small, pedestrian passageways within the apartment buildings from one street to another. They go through courtyards which are usually well decorated and well worth a sight!
Get your daily dose of movement in by skipping the funicular and hiking to the top of the Fourvière hill. From there, you will have a unique view of the city. Also, make sure to visit the basilica and the remains of the Roman city.
For you night owls, Vieux Lyon is the place you. Whether you’re after dinner and a few drinks or a big night on the dance floor, you will be sure to find what you’re looking for here.
Collège Hotel | Best Budget Hotel in Vieux Lyon
The Collège Hotel is a unique place with a school style in the Vieux Lyon. It offers spacious and comfortable rooms fitted with air conditioning, a bathroom and a flat-screen TV with international channels. Some of the rooms also have a private balcony to soak up those city views – so French!
Fourvière Hotel | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Vieux Lyon
The Fourvière Hotel is a beautiful property located in the historic district of the Old Town of Lyon. The comfortable rooms feature a bathroom, air conditioning, a beautiful garden view and a flat-screen TV with cable channels. Each room comes with FREE spa access – what a perk!
Hostel Lyon Centre | Best Hostel in Vieux Lyon
This beautiful hostel is located on the side of the hill, it has a gorgeous terrace with an incredible view of the old city. If you need a moment of rest on your trip to share a beer with other travellers in Lyon this is the place. The hostel is in the old town and in walking distance of many of Lyon’s highlights.
Top tip: the view is amazing because it’s at the top of a hill, so be prepared to pop your walking shoes on to get to the hostel. Otherwise, would 10/10 recommend this spot.
Spacious Apartment in the Heart of Vieux Lyon | Best Airbnb in Vieux Lyon
Located in the medieval and historical district, this stylish apartment is in a charming old building from the 17th century. Stroll around the charming area, shop until you drop, and visit museums.
This apartment can accommodate up to 4 guests and comes with all the essentials – from Wi-Fi to a TV, an air purifier, and an Italian shower. Plus, you’re only a stone’s throw from the Vieux Lyon Metro Station.
Things To See and Do in Vieux Lyon
- Climb up to Fourvière Hill to the Beautiful Basilica
- Wander around the charming cobbled streets and shop around town
- Stop in at a bouchon (a type of restaurant in Lyon) for a traditional Lyon meal
- Dance the night away in one of the many bars
- Check out the 5th-century roman catholic church, Saint-Jean Cathedral in the Jardin Archéologique
- Gaze at the beautiful painted ceiling of La Maison Thomassin
- Enjoy the highlights of Lyon on this guided E-Bike tour
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Grab an eSIM!#4 Confluence – Coolest Place to Stay in Lyon
Confluence is a newly built neighborhood located at the very tip of the Presqu’Ile – where the Rhône and the Saône rivers meet. An old industrial harbour, Confluence is now the coolest place to hang out in Lyon.
Modern architecture and futuristic buildings are now what Confluence is made of. Confluence boasts a new shopping centre, dozens of cool Lyon restaurants and cafés, and a shiny museum.
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
During the summer, you can take a stroll on the river banks, or stop at a terrace for a refreshing drink. You can mingle with the locals who love taking the kids out, go for a run or just soak up some sun.
While staying in Confluence, make sure not to miss the Musée des Confluences. Newly opened, the museum displays exhibitions about the history of civilisations, anthropology and natural history. Many workshops and conferences are also organised at the museum on a regular basis.
MOB Hotel Lyon Confluence | Best Budget Hotel in Confluence
The MOB Hotel Lyon is in the Confluence area and provides a beautiful place to stay in one of the coolest areas of the city. The rooms are fitted with air conditioning, a bathroom, soundproofing and a private terrace.
It’s the perfect mix between being trendy and simple. You’ll love it!
Novotel Lyon Confluence | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Confluence
The Novotel Lyon Confluence offers modern rooms in the heart of the coolest neighborhood in Lyon. Each room is fitted with air conditioning and a bathroom.
The hotel has a terrace where guests can enjoy a drink with STUNNING panoramic views of the river. You’ll also be within walking distance from Lyon Perrache train station.
Ho36 Hostel | Best Hostel in Confluence
The Ho36 Hostel is the closest hostel to the Confluence area and is accessible by tram. It offers private rooms with an ensuite bathroom as well as single beds in mixed or female-only dormitory rooms.
The hostel also has a restaurant serving food all day, a bar at night and a room where guests can hang out. For you solo travellers, it’s the perfect spot to get to know others to explore the city with!
Stylish and Spacious Loft in Confluence | Best Airbnb in Confluence
Next to the very lively Confluence area, this sophisticated loft is well-designed, comfortable and peaceful. You can walk to places like “Place Carnot”, Bellecour or the Old Town. This quaint loft also offers a gorgeous view from the roof windows overlooking the church tower across the street.
Things To See and Do in Confluence
- Check out La Sucrière, an old sugar factory renovated to be used for cultural exhibitions
- Try some local beers at the My Beers Confluence Bar
- Head up for a boogie at Le Sucre, a vibey club on the rooftop of La Sucrière
- Taste International and fusion food in one of the trendy restaurants in the area
- Visit the Musée des Confluences on the confluence of the Rhone and the Saône rivers
- Head to Docks 40 for a drink and enjoy some live music
- Jump on the hop-on hop-off city cruise, explore each area and take in the views from the water
#5 Tête d’Or – Best Neighborhood to Stay in Lyon for Families
The Tête d’Or area is located around the 6th district of Lyon and is bordered by the river Rhône. It is an interesting mix of old villas and more modern architecture around the Cité Internationale.
In the middle of it all, the Tête d’Or Park is a true urban oasis. It’s the perfect spot to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. During the summer, small boats can be rented to paddle on the park lake as well.
More for the adults than the kids, the Transbordeur is a funky music and pop culture concert venture. Although it’s a relatively small venue, it embraces some of the best current music bands in France. Check out the Transbordeur programme during your stay and discover the sounds of the local music.
Mercure Lyon Brotteaux | Best Budget Hotel in Tête d’Or
The Mercure Lyon Brotteaux is one of the nicest hotels in Lyon. It is located just a short walk away from the Parc de la Tête d’Or, the biggest park in Lyon.
Rooms are non-smoking and feature air conditioning, a bathroom, a flat-screen TV and a tea and coffee maker. You don’t even have to leave your room in the morning to get a decent coffee (big win!)
Lyon Marriott Hotel Cité Internationale | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Tête d’Or
The Lyon Marriott Cité Internationale is a comfortable hotel located in the business district of the Cité Internationale. It is great for tourists as it is just a few steps away from the Parc de la Tête d’Or.
The rooms are comfortable and feature air conditioning, FREE Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV and a bathtub in the bathroom! Who can resist a cheeky bubble bath?
Spacious Duplex near the Golden Head Park | Best Airbnb in Tête d’Or
The apartment is unique, comfortable, and stylish and a great alternative to spending large on luxury hotels. The apartment is clean and modern, yet maintains its original charm with the exposed beams, large windows, and fireplace. Marc’s watercolours add a personal touch to his apartment.
The apartment’s proximity to Gare Part-Dieu station makes it super easy to reach everywhere in the city via the Metro.
Things To See and Do in Tête d’Or
- Take the kids for a day out at the Tête d’Or Park
- Take a stroll through the park and watch Guignol’s puppet show
- Enjoy a walk in the botanical garden (with 20,000 species, it’s the largest in France!)
- Take the kids for a ride on the merry-go-round or the miniature train in the park
- Visit the Museum of Modern Art and marvel at the stunning exhibitions
- Check out a show at the Transbordeur, the epic music and pop culture spot
- Get your body moving on a Parc Tête d’Or Bike Tour
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Lyon
Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of Lyon and where to stay.
What To Pack For Lyon
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
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Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Where should I stay to be close to the Museums in Lyon?
Presqu’Ile is where you will find most of the Museums in Lyon and is the place for all you culture buffs. It is home to the Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des Beaux-Arts) and Musée Miniature et Cinema are just two of note.
What is the most historic area to stay in Lyon?
Vieux Lyon, The Old Town is the place to be for you history buffs. From the old cobbled streets to 5th-century Roman churches, this is the area for those looking for a dose of history and culture.
Where is the best place to stay for food in Lyon?
Pentes de la Croix-Rousse is the place for you foodies. It’s just north of La Presqu’île and is filled to the brim with delicious restaurants serving typical French food. It’s also home to a popular food market where you can grocery shop like a real local. You have to try the French dumplings!
Where is the best place for couples in Lyon?
La Presqu’lle is the best place in Lyon for a romantic getaway. Jump on the Ferris wheel and recreate your own romantic movie scene. If Paris is the city of love, then Lyon must be the mini-city of love!
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Lyon
As you’ve probably gathered by now, Lyon is not a place you want to miss. Between the food, history and culture – Lyon sure does pack a punch!
This wonderful city will forever hold a little piece of my heart. My favourite place to stay as a backpacker was easily Ho36 Hostel, in Guillotière. It really does become your home away from home.
I hope you found this guide useful and that it helps you to plan an unforgettable holiday. A final tip I’d leave you with is to book your accommodation in advance, this is a popular spot with tourists and places can fill up fast.
Have I forgotten your favourite spot in Lyon? Let me know in the comments so I can add it to the list!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around France.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Lyon.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in France instead.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for France.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
