Discover Lyon on a budget: traditional bouchons, secret traboules, and France's best gastronomy without breaking the bank.
Lyon is France's gastronomic capital and surprisingly affordable for backpackers. Bouchons (typical taverns) offer incredible daily menus, and the traboules (secret passages) of Vieux Lyon are free to explore.
Itinerary
1
Vieux Lyon & traboules
- Explore the traboules of Vieux Lyon
- Set menu lunch at a traditional bouchon
- Saint-Jean Cathedral
- Climb to Fourvière via the stairs (free)
- Notre-Dame de Fourvière Basilica
2
Presqu'île & markets
- Les Halles de Paul Bocuse market
- Try quenelles and saucisson lyonnais
- Place Bellecour and Presqu'île stroll
- Parc de la Tête d'Or (free)
- Dinner at a Croix-Rousse bouchon
3
Croix-Rousse & Confluence
- Bohemian Croix-Rousse neighborhood
- Open-air market
- Confluence Museum (free first Thursday)
- Walk along the Rhône and Saône confluence
- Final pot lyonnais on a terrace
Practical Tips
Bouchons
Look for the 'Authentique Bouchon Lyonnais' certificate for genuine experiences.
Transport
Lyon is very walkable. The metro has an affordable 24-hour pass.
Free
Many museums are free on the first Thursday of each month.
Approximate Budget
Round-trip flight from London€40-80
Hostel (3 nights, dorm)€60-90
Food and drinks€50-80
Local transport€15-20
Activities€10-20
Total per person€175-290
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lyon expensive?
Surprisingly not for France. Daily menus at bouchons cost €12-18 with starter, main, and dessert.
What are traboules?
Medieval covered passages that connect streets through buildings. Over 40 are open to the public in Vieux Lyon.
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