Lyon Vacation Rentals
Explore 24 rental homes and villas in Lyon for your next vacation or business travel. With private vacation home rentals, enjoy a more personalized stay and a wide range of amenities such as Homes with Pools, Air Condition Homes and Best Affordable Homes. With a wide range of homes to offer, pricing can start as low as $77 per night with homes containing as many as 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. However you're looking to experience your stay, Homes and Villas by Marriott has your next vacation home waiting.
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Lyon Overview
Nestled at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon is a treasure trove of cultural splendor, historical depth, and culinary excellence. This enchanting city, France's third-largest, is not only recognized for its vital role in commerce and industry since Roman times but also for its captivating beauty and the wealth of experiences it offers.
The heart of Lyon's historical charm lies in the Renaissance district of Vieux Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where time seems to stand still. Stroll through the hidden traboules, secret passageways once used by silk merchants, and emerge into the sunlight to discover the city's most famous attractions. The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière reigns over the city from its hilltop perch, offering panoramic views that are especially breathtaking at sunset. The ancient Roman theatres of Lyon, still echoing with the performances of the past, come alive during the Nuits de Fourvière festival, showcasing a vibrant array of arts under the stars.
Lyon's reputation as the gastronomic capital of France is well-deserved, with a culinary scene that ranges from the cozy bouchons serving traditional Lyonnais fare to the sophistication of Michelin-starred establishments. Indulge in local specialties like quenelles and coq au vin, and savor the flavors that have put Lyon on the global culinary map.
For a truly immersive experience, consider the luxury of renting a private home, where the comforts of personal space blend seamlessly with local living. Many of these homes offer pet-friendly accommodations, ensuring that your furry companions can join in the adventure. Imagine lounging by your own private swimming pool on a warm summer day, or enjoying a quiet evening in a secluded garden, the city's lights twinkling in the distance.
While Lyon may not be known for its beaches, the city's waterfront along the Rhône offers a picturesque setting for leisurely strolls or bike rides. The newly developed riverbanks invite locals and visitors alike to relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Art and culture aficionados will find their haven in the Museum of Fine Arts, home to an impressive collection spanning centuries, or the futuristic Confluence Museum, where exhibits on science and anthropology are housed within striking modern architecture. The Museum of Fabrics is a must-visit for those with an eye for textiles and fashion history.
The expansive Parc de la Tête d'Or is an urban oasis, complete with a zoo, botanical gardens, and a serene boating lake, perfect for a day of relaxation or family fun. And for those with a penchant for shopping, Lyon offers a diverse array of boutiques and independent shops, where the allure of French fashion and local artisanal products awaits.
In Lyon, every moment is an opportunity to discover something extraordinary. From its storied past to its dynamic present, this city is a symphony of experiences that resonate long after your visit. Whether you're seeking the intimacy of a private home stay or the thrill of cultural exploration, Lyon promises a journey that is both deeply personal and profoundly enriching.
Cultural Attractions in Lyon
Lyon, France is a cultural haven that will surely captivate any traveler with an interest in the arts, history, and local customs. The city is renowned for its historical and architectural landmarks and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Start your journey at the Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon, one of the largest art galleries in France. It boasts an impressive collection of art ranging from ancient Egypt to the Modern period. For contemporary art lovers, the Museum of Contemporary Art hosts changing exhibitions within its gallery spaces.
History enthusiasts will appreciate Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon), one of the largest Renaissance quarters in Europe. Here you can explore traboules - hidden passageways used by silk workers to transport their goods. The Gallo-Roman Museum showcasing Lyon's Roman history is also worth a visit.
For those interested in local customs and traditions, a visit to Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse food market is a must. Named after Lyon's most famous chef, it offers a wide variety of local products and gastronomic delights.
Live music can be enjoyed at various venues around the city such as Le Transbordeur or Halle Tony Garnier which host concerts spanning multiple genres. For theatre enthusiasts, the National Opera of Lyon offers opera performances as well as dance and concerts.
Lyon's Festival of Lights held annually in December is another cultural highlight where light installations transform the city's streets into an enchanting spectacle.
In terms of getting around once there, good public transportation options are available including metro lines, trams and buses. Bicycles are also available for rent through Vélo'v bike-sharing program which has stations throughout this walkable city.
In summary, Lyon provides an enriching blend of historical charm with modern vibrancy making it an ideal destination for cultural enthusiasts.
Family friendly activities in Lyon
Lyon, France, is indeed a city that provides an array of activities and attractions for children. The city's Parc de la Tête d'Or is a must-see, featuring a zoo with over 400 animals from all corners of the globe. The park also offers a lake where families can rent paddle boats and several playgrounds for children to play.
For those with an interest in science and history, the Musée des Confluences is an excellent option. This science center and anthropology museum offer interactive exhibits that are both educational and entertaining for children.
Another attraction that will fascinate children is the Mini World Lyon. It's France's largest animated miniature park, showcasing detailed models of cities, countryside landscapes, and famous landmarks. The park also hosts light shows that mimic day and night.
Exploring Lyon's Vieux Lyon (Old Town) with kids is also recommended. Its narrow cobblestone streets are filled with ice cream shops and traditional French bakeries that will certainly please young palates. Additionally, the area is pedestrian-friendly making it easy for families to get around.
For a more adventurous experience, families can take a funicular ride up to Fourvière Hill. At the top, visitors will find the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière along with a panoramic view of Lyon.
Regarding transportation in Lyon, there are numerous options available including buses, trams, metro lines and even rental bikes which are suitable for older children. However it should be noted that while certain areas like Vieux Lyon are walkable due to their compact size others may require public transport due to their distance or hilly terrain.
Outdoor activities in Lyon
Lyon, France, is a city that seamlessly blends urban elegance with natural splendor, providing a wide range of outdoor activities and natural attractions for nature lovers.
Parc de la Tête d'Or, one of the largest urban parks in France, is a must-see. It features a zoo, botanical gardens, rose gardens, and expansive areas for picnicking or simply unwinding in nature. Although the park does have a large pond, it should be noted that motorized boating is not permitted.
For those who enjoy hiking and panoramic views, Fourvière Hill is an excellent choice. You can take a funicular or hike up to the top where you will be greeted with breathtaking views of Lyon. The hill also houses ancient Roman ruins and the iconic Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière.
The banks of the Rhône River offer beautiful walking paths where you can appreciate scenic views of the city's architecture on one side and serene river views on the other. In summer months, these banks become lively with people enjoying picnics or simply soaking up the sun.
Just outside Lyon lies the Dombes region which boasts over 1,000 ponds making it an ideal spot for bird watching. It's home to numerous species of birds including herons, ducks and even storks.
For wine enthusiasts who also appreciate nature's beauty, consider traveling north to Beaujolais or south to Côtes du Rhône regions from Lyon city center. These picturesque vineyards offer wine tasting tours that combine gastronomy with stunning landscapes.
Lastly, if you are willing to travel further from Lyon city center, Pilat Regional Natural Park offers diverse landscapes from high peaks to lush valleys ideal for hiking or simply enjoying nature's tranquility.
In conclusion, Lyon provides an array of outdoor activities catering to various interests - whether it's leisurely walks in beautiful parks or more adventurous hikes up hills or through vineyards.
Weather in Lyon
Lyon, France, is characterized by a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. The city enjoys warm summers and cool winters, with precipitation levels varying throughout the year.
The summer season in Lyon spans from June to August and is typically warm and sunny. The average high temperatures during these months range between 25°C to 30°C. This period also experiences the least rainfall, making it perfect for outdoor activities like exploring the city's parks or taking a boat ride on the Rhône River.
Autumn in Lyon lasts from September to November and brings cooler temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. During this season, the city's parks and gardens are beautifully decorated with autumnal colors. Rainfall begins to increase in October and November.
Winter in Lyon, which runs from December to February, can be quite cold with average temperatures ranging from 3°C to 8°C. Snowfall is not common but can occur occasionally. Despite the colder weather, winter in Lyon has its own charm with festive Christmas markets and beautifully lit streets.
Springtime in Lyon lasts from March to May and is generally mild with temperatures ranging between 12°C and 20°C. This season sees increased rainfall compared to winter but less than summer or autumn.
The most popular time for tourists to visit Lyon is during the summer months when the weather is most favorable for sightseeing and other outdoor activities. However, spring also offers pleasant weather conditions along with fewer crowds compared to summer. Autumn can be a visually appealing time due to fall foliage while winter provides a unique festive atmosphere despite colder temperatures.
Transportation in Lyon
Lyon, France, is a city that boasts a multitude of transportation options for both incoming and outgoing travelers. The majority of visitors reach the city by air through Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport, the third largest airport in France, which provides an array of international flights. A direct link to the city center from the airport is provided by the Rhônexpress tram, ensuring travelers can reach their destination in less than 30 minutes.
For those who favor rail travel, Lyon houses two primary train stations: Lyon Part-Dieu and Lyon Perrache. These stations offer excellent connectivity to other significant cities in France and Europe via high-speed TGV trains.
Upon reaching Lyon, navigating around the city is straightforward due to its effective public transportation system. This network comprises four metro lines, five tram lines, two funicular railways and a plethora of bus routes managed by TCL (Transports en Commun Lyonnais). Tickets can be used interchangeably across all transport modes.
For those seeking more flexibility in their travel plans, taxis are easily accessible throughout the city. Alternatively, Vélo'v - Lyon's bike-sharing initiative with over 4000 bikes stationed at 350 locations across the city - offers an eco-friendly transport option.
Regarding walkability, Lyon is highly accommodating for pedestrians. The compact city center ensures most attractions are within walking distance from each other. Specifically, the old town (Vieux Lyon) is best explored on foot due to its narrow cobbled streets and hidden courtyards known as "traboules".
In summary, whether your preference is arriving by air or rail or navigating around the city using metro, bus or bike; Lyon provides a range of options that meet every traveler's requirements.