Things To See And Do In 5th Arrondissement
- Take a blast to the past when gazing at the ancient ruins at the Museum of Gallo-Roman Civilization.
- Grab a bite and take in the Lyon skyline from La Terrasse de lAntiquaille.
- Walk the corridors and bask in the grandeur of St Jean Cathedral.
- Gaze out over the city of Lyon from the architectural masterpiece: The Basilica Notre Dame de Fourvière.
- Check out the Tour Métallique, Lyons answer to Pariss Eiffel Tower.
- Roam the city streets and take in the medieval architecture.
- Wander the Traboules, Lyons network of secret passageways throughout the city.
Confluence A Modern And Trendy Place To Stay In Lyon
Located in the 2nd arrondissement, Confluence owes its name to its location, as this is where the Rhone and Saone rivers converge. Once the industrial section of the city, featuring numerous factories, prisons, and even the citys main port, it has gradually been transformed and urbanized, starting in the late 20th-century.
Gone are the stream of vehicles transporting industrial materials around and in their place are stunning new buildings, many of which have been designed by some of the worlds leading designers and architects.
Its well-served by public transport with Perrache train station, with its national and regional lines. It has a direct link to Part-Dieu Station and St-Exupéry Airport through the Rhône-Express trams.
Perhaps the best such example of this is the Musee des Confluences. A stunning Deconstructivist building, designed to resemble a floating cloud of steel and glass as a nod to the regions past, it is a museum housing exhibit on nature, science, anthropology and arts and crafts.
You can have a walking tour around this neighborhood stop at Musée des Confluences Lyon, quirky office buildings Orange Cube, Euro News Building, Shopping Center Pôle de Commerces et de Loisirs de Confluence, Pont des Arts, and Various Riverfront Housing Complexes.
In addition, to stand out attractions like this, it has also helped the city to expand out to the river by providing shops, restaurants, hotels, homes, and offices.
Best Places to Stay in Lyon in Confluence:
Kyriad Lyon Centre Perrache
Fans of convenience will be more than pleased with the location that Kyriad Lyon Centre Perrache boasts. Its practically next door to Gare de Lyon-Perrache, the terminus for the high-speed service from Paris. The Perrache metro station, as well as the Suchet tram stop, are in easy walking distance, too.
On top of that, guests can expect laid-back, modern and clean rooms at affordable rates, making it ideal for travelers on a budget.
Theres also a bar on site, plus a restaurant where you can opt for a continental breakfast each morning. This is an unfussy option for those who want to explore the city of Lyon by public transport.
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La Guillotire Where To Stay In Lyon On A Budget
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!
This is also where Lyons Chinatown is located. Head there to get a true taste of Asia, taste some authentic Chinese food and, at the end of January, experience traditional Chinese New Years celebrations.
An interesting thing to visit in La Guillotière is, as weird as it may sound, the cemetery. Indeed, it is actually a great opportunity to learn more about the history of the city as many of its 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.
Finally, La Guillotière also boasts an authentic Renaissance castle which has been very well preserved over the years. Parts of it are open to the public.
Eric Gounant
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Frequently Asked Questions About Lyon
Which are the best places to stay in Lyon?
The best areas to stay in Lyon are the center PresquIle, where you can stay in luxurious accommodation like InterContinental Lyon or budget hotels like Hôtel Vaubecour, or in the Old Town , Villa Maïa is always a good choice.
What is the best area to stay in Lyon with the family?
The best area to stay in Lyon with your family is the Fourvière, a quiet andresidential area located on the hill, offering great city views and medieval streets. Stay at the charming and historic Fourvière Hôtel or the cozy Le Jardin de Beauvoir.
Is it safe to stay in Lyon?
To stay in Lion is generally safe for tourists, especially the residential areas such as Fourvière and Croix-Rousse. More touristic areas such as Vieux Lyon and the Pentes de la Croix-Rousse are also safe, but take precautions against pickpockets!
Is Lyon a walkable city?
Yes, it is, walking is definitely the best way of visiting Lyon! Its suggestive narrow streets, the hills, the several bridges that connect the different areas, and the human scale size of the city make it perfect for long walks and romantic strolls.
Here we are at the end of our beautiful journey through the top hotels and the 6 best neighborhoods to stay in Lyon. Among the central La Presquîle, the historic Vieux Lyon, the bohemian Pentes, the multicultural Guillotière, the residential Fourvière, and the cool Confluence, theres for sure the perfect place for you!
In the meantime, bon voyage!
Elena
Hotel Jules Insider Tip
A bit further north of the 1st Arrondissement is 4th Arrondissement, also known as Croix-Rousse. While lacking many historical buildings, Croix-Rousse is well known for its hipster cafes and many vintage shops.
East and across the river from the 2end Arrondissement is the 5th Arrondissement or Old Lyon . In the old district, you will find the largest concentration of old buildings which is sure to immerse you in your ideal French fantasy holiday!
The 6th Arrondissement is North-east of the peninsula containing the 2end Arrondissement. This neighborhood is well known for being the posh part of town, but also has some of the best parks and city squares in the whole country!
You may be a little overwhelmed now, but after viewing our guide you are sure to find the best neighborhood in Lyon for you!
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Th Arrondissement: Cheap Area To Stay In Lyon
Lyons 7th arrondissement is a funky area in the southeast of the city.
- Why is this the best area to stay in Lyon:
- Cheap district to stay
- Lyons hipster area
- Lots of restaurants and shops
The 7th arrondissement is the largest in Lyon. It is located south of the city, on the Rhônes east bank.
Several floodings marked the history of this district until the construction of dikes and quays on the Rhône after the catastrophic flood of 1852.
For a long time considered the citys working-class area, the 7th is rapidly gentrifying and has in recent years become Lyons hipster area. A creative and multicultural hub, the 7th offers a multitude of small bistro-style restaurants, antique boutiques and vintage fashion stores.
The 7th district is connected to the rest of Lyon by metro lines B and D and is the best district to stay in Lyon for young travellers and those looking for budget hotels.
Best Hotels in the 7th Arrondissement
Q7 Lodge Lyon 7
Located in Lyon, Q7 Lodge Lyon 7 offers a 24-hour reception, a free fitness centre and a terrace. The property is 550 m from Place Jean Jaurès Metro Station, while Gerland Stadium is a 6-minute drive away.
Comfort Suite Rive Gauche Lyon Centre
Comfort Suite Rive Gauche Lyon Centre offers aparthotel accommodation in Lyon, 1,5 km away from both Perrache railway station and Place Bellecour. Studios and duplex apartments for up to 5 guests with free WiFi are available.
Mama Shelter Lyon
Rd Arrondissement: Best Location In Lyon For Business Travellers
The 3rd arr. is a modern and centrally-located area with many business-oriented hotels.
- Why is this the best area to stay in Lyon:
- Best area for business travellers
- Lyon Part-Dieu railway station
- Well-connected by metro and train
- Business and budget hotels
Lyons 3rd arrondissement is located on the east bank of the River Rhône. It is the most populous district in the city.
The area closest to the river can be considered part of Lyons city centre and is home to a large number of office and residential skyscrapers including the four tallest towers in the city Tour Swiss Life, Tour Incity, Tour Oxygen and Tour Part-Dieu, making it Lyons main financial district.
Lyon Part-Dieu, the main railway station in the city, offers high-speed and regional services to most cities in France, as well as international connections to Belgium, the UK, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Germany, Spain and Italy. This major transit hub also has direct access to metro line B, tramways T1, T3, and T4 and the Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport via the Rhônexpress tram service.
The 3e arrondissement is the best place to stay in Lyon if you visit the city for business or if you need to have direct access to the train station.
Best Hotels in the 3rd Arrondissement
Mercure Lyon Centre Gare Part Dieu
Located in the business district of Lyon, 100 m from Gare de Part-Dieu TGV Train station, Mercure Lyon Centre Gare Part Dieu offers free Wi-Fi access.
Ibis Styles Lyon Centre Gare Part Dieu
Félix Dort
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Best Airbnb In Marseille: Beautiful Terrace
Right in the heart of Le Panier, this gorgeous Airbnb is well placed for exploring the best the city has to offer. It has a gorgeous balcony where you can admire views across the port, alongside a glass of wine or two! The décor inside is minimal, giving you a calm and bright space to wake up to in the morning.
Best Hotel In Bordeaux: Htel Singulier Bordeaux
With French Nouveau décor, this quaint hotel is a time capsule to a bygone era in French history. The riverfront is only a two-minute walk away, and the surrounding neighborhood is popular with shoppers visiting the city. Despite the historic vibe, the hotel does benefit from modern appliances including standalone bathtubs in some suites. There is also a rooftop terrace with views across Bordeaux.
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Best Hostel In Lyon: Away Hostel & Coffee Shop
Away Hostel & Coffee Shop has managed to create one of the few backpacker accommodations in Lyon that truly caters to everyone! The large common area has events throughout the week, but there are also some quiet spaces for those that need a bit of peace. It is located right in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage area. They also arrange some awesome excursions.
Cool& bed A Mattress On The Sane Side

Low-cost accommodation and quality service for this backpacker hotel created in 2012. The dormitories, with 6 to 16 beds, have individual storage space and graphic deco. Inspired by travel and the five continents, this deco is by graffiti artists LyonBombing and guides visitors into the communal spaces, hidden behind a loft-style glass wall. Included in the price are breakfast, computer-access, wifi, kitchen. Washing facilities, luggage storage and snacks come on top.
Cool& Bed: 32 quai Arloing, Lyon 9. From 20 per bed in a 16-person dormitory.www.coolandbed.com
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Bordeaux Best Place To Stay In France For Wine
France as a whole is known for its wine with Bordeaux perhaps being the epicentre of viticulture in the country! Bordelais wine is regarded amongst the best wines in the world, and there are plenty of wine tours departing from the city throughout the year.
Bordeaux is a somewhat sprawling city, but benefits from a compact city centre. Often dubbed Little Paris, Bordeaux has some great architectural attractions and cultural sites. Like Lyon, Bordeaux is a great alternative for those that want to avoid the huge tourist numbers of the more popular destinations.
Best Places To Stay In Corsica
Ajaccio is the capital and largest city, with direct links to France and Italy. Porto Vecchio has quicker links to Italy, and a more local vibe, making it one of the most popular places to stay in Corsica. The countryside has plenty of hidden retreats, and we recommend hiring a car.
Hotel Restaurant Villa Josephine
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The City Centre The Best Area To Stay In Lyon
Lyons city centre, known as Presqu’île, offers elements of history, culture, restaurants, shopping, and authentic character making it the best place to stay in town. This neighbourhood is a strip of land between the Rhône and Saône rivers. Lyon is split into nine arrondissements – Presqu’île lies between the 2nd and 5th arrondissements.
This area is serviced by metro stations Bellecour and Hotel de Ville.The historical city centre of Lyon, known as Saint Jean, is a short walk across the bridge of the Saône in the 5th arrondissement. On the opposite side of the Presqu’île peninsula, in the 2nd arrondissement, lies the Les Berges du Rhone, a 5km pathway along the banks of the Rhone River. Les Berges du Rhone is the perfect place for a scenic stroll.
The city centre gives prime access to Saint Jean Cathedral, the Gadagne Museum, Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, Place Bellecour, the city aquarium, Place des Jacobins, and the Lyon Cathedral. This neighbourhood is also an ideal spot for shopping, with luxury designers, boutiques, and the famous Printemps French department store. For restaurants, Rue Mercière and Rue des Marronniers offer numerous traditional options. The nearby area of Le Vieux Lyon offers picturesque and quaint French scenes, complete with narrow streets, boulangeries and bouchon restaurants.
Brotteau Where To Stay In Lyon For Foodies
Les Brotteaux is a quarter in the 6th arrondissement of the city, situated between the Rhone River and the citys main railway track. Also known as the Morand quarter on occasion, it began being urbanised in the late 18th-century by renowned architect Jean-Antoine Morand Jouffrey, with many of the buildings displaying his distinctive style.
Some of the more notable examples of his work in the region include the Gare Des Brotteaux, an old railway station that has been out of service since 1983, the Palais De Flore and the Boulevard Des Belges.
For true fans, there is also the Parking Morand, a site dedicated to his life and works. You then have a number of buildings, houses and mansions, sporting a 1930s Art Deco style, dotted around the area, offering a little diversity to the architecture.
Beyond the historical architecture of the buildings, perhaps the main thing that draws visitors to the area is its reputation as one ofLyons gastronomical hotspots. From traditional bouchons which are restaurants that serve typical lyonnais cuisine, to other European delights.
It features a large number of renowned restaurants, perhaps the most notable of which being Le Splendid, owned by esteemed chef Georges Blanc. It is even the home of La Brasserie Des Brotteaux, an establishment built on honoring Lyons culinary traditions.
Best places to stay in Brotteaux:
Centre dHistoire de la Résistance et de la Déportation or CHRD is a French Resistance in WWII.
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Paris Most Romantic Place To Stay In France For Couples
The dazzling City of Light naturally had to take the top spot for couples heading to France! World-class restaurants, quaint walkways and awe-inspiring landmarks make this arguably the best destination in the world for a romantic getaway. The city is so full of love that many couples reserve it for special occasions, but we reckon now is as good a time to treat yourselves as any.
Romance aside, Paris is also considered a major culinary, fashion and art capital in the world and is the epicentre of European culture. If you are planning a wider trip across the continent, there isnt a single major city that isnt well connected to Paris. This is a city everyone should have on their bucket list, and an excellent gateway into the region.
With the Eiffel Tower, Mona Lisa and Champs Elysée, there are plenty of attractions to include in your Paris itinerary. We recommend taking at least a week to truly get a feel for the city. Even for the more organised tour averse backpackers, Paris is a city where it really is beneficial to take a guided excursion.
La Presquile Where To Stay In Lyon Your First Time
La PresquIle 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. PresquIle got its name from its geographic location, on a stretch of land between the two rivers flowing in the city: the Rhône and the Saône.
The neighbourhood is full of architectural gems and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. We recommend to explore it by foot, as it is the best way to take the time to see everything around you!
The two most important squares in Lyon, the Place Bellecour and the Place des Terreaux, are located in the PresquIle. 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 impressive birds eye view of Lyon.
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