Set between the winding Rhône and Saône Rivers in Rhône-Alpes, marvellous Lyon has evolved from the Roman capital of Gaul to become a lively food and arts destination with a buzzy medieval heart. A plethora of accommodation options await both business and leisure travellers, ranging from cheerful heritage B&Bs to sumptuous former convents with Michelin-starred eateries. Our list of the best places to stay in Lyon is a wonderful starting point for planning your trip!

Strolls through the cobbled streets of Lyon’s Old Town, on the Saône’s western bank, are a must. This is a fascinating neighbourhood, brimming with cafés, bars and eateries. Foodies will also adore the restaurants dotted along the 19th-century boulevards of central Lyon, the popular wholesale market, and the riverside food markets where locals gather to taste and haggle over fresh seasonal produce. To savour traditional stews and sausages, pick a perch at a ‘bouchon’ — the city’s classic twist on the pub and bistro — and tuck in.

For a sense of the city’s history, look to the Gallo-Roman Museum and visit Lyon’s ancient theatres. The Musée des Beaux-Arts houses a terrific collection, whilst the Musée Lumière, the Musée des Confluences and the WWII Museum are also particular stand-outs. As with many French cities, the best places to stay in Lyon fill up fast during the summer months and the school holidays, so book your holiday well in advance.

The Best Places to Stay in Lyon

For a Characterful B&B

• Hotel Bayard Bellecour has sumptuous rooms and suites inspired by the rich history of this fascinating city. Think antique pieces, beds with headboards upholstered in patterned fabrics, and bathrooms with big tubs. Generous breakfasts set you up for the day.
• Hotel Silky is a bright, cheerful B&B with nods to Lyon's Silk Route heritage in its 46 rooms, each characterised by painted walls and clean lines. Gather for breakfast before heading out to explore one of central Lyon's trendiest districts.

For City Style

• College Hotel, in Old Lyon, is a 1930s-style hotel with an unusual school theme. All-white rooms have striking city views, and some have priate terraces. The communal areas, eateries and meeting rooms take the traditional scholarly theme a step further, with desks, leather armchairs and boards for presentations. Great for work or play.
• Globe et Cecil has 59 rooms, each uniquely appointed and set just 50 metres from Place Bellecour. Whether you're dreaming of timeless charm or a fresh, modern feel, this spot has it all. Meeting rooms make this an excellent choice for a business trip or event. There's also a lovely restaurant.
• Okko Lyon Pont Lafayette has chic, minimalist rooms and suites and impressive views over the Rhone River. Just across the bridge from the city centre, this is a hip bolthole for business or leisure, with an inviting lounge and work spaces.
• Fourvière Hotel is another great city base, this time with dedicated family rooms and suites. The interiors or this former convent are bright and bold, and there's a swimming pool, spa and restaurant.

For Food-Focused Luxury

• Villa Florentine is a beautiful former convent, now housing 29 elegant rooms and suites. The spa and outdoor pool are superb, but the real highlight is the Michelin-starred Les Terrasses de Lyon Restaurant. Try the lunchtime Menu des Terrasses for fresh, innovative flavours in a striking setting overlooking Lyon's rooftops.
• Villa Maïa promises a five-star stay with sophisticated rooms and suites on Fourvière Hill. Unwind at the in-house spa — complete with indoor pool — before feasting at Michelin-starred partner restaurant Têtedoie, where Chef Christian Têtedoie crafts culinary delights aplenty. The five-course Inspiration Menu is marvellous.
• Hotel Le Royal, on Bellecour Square, has classic interiors and an excellent restaurant. Its gastronomic Ecole de Cusine, however, is reason enough for foodies to visit. Check out available courses as you plan your stay at this traditional gem.
• Pavillon de la Rotonde is a curious fusion of 1930s architecture and more modern elements, situated in verdant Charbonnières-les-Bains, not far from Lyon. A sumptuous spa retreat, the hotel also prides itself on its Michelin-starred cuisine, under the guidance of Chef Jean-François Malle.

For a Tranquil Retreat

• Maison D'Anthouard is a beautiful 17th-century manor house with leafy gardens, welcoming events spaces and fabulous hosts. The 18 rooms are swish and contemporary, with crisp white linens and a largely monochromatic palette, whilst the wine bar has a more moody feel. The restaurant's seasonal dishes are excellent. A tranquil retreat for well-heeled romantics.

For Great Value

• Mama Shelter offers quirky, modern rooms at great rates. Perfect for group & family holidays or for independent travellers in search of a bit of a buzz, the hotel has lively games areas, a restaurant and sociable bar. An eclectic yet affordable choice.
• Mob Hotel Lyon Confluence has 98 theatrical rooms with a funky, industrial feel in a modern building set in Lyon's regenerated docks. Music nights get the party started, and the restaurant serves very good organic cuisine. Very cool and well-priced.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY HOUSE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Lyon?

• Fly into Lyon Airport, 20km southeast of the city, and travel into the centre by bus or taxi.
• Whilst Lyon has excellent public transport links, it's well worth having your own transport if you're eager to explore beyond the city centre. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Summer is by far the most popular time for exploring the city, with temperatures peaking at around 22°C in July and August. Spring and autumn are quieter and cooler.

Still not sure?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Grenoble.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Rhône-Alpes.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Lyon