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Lyon for seniors

Ideas for visits, practical advice and great deals

Lyon the way you like it

Last updated date : 02/12/2025

Easily accessible, surrounded by peaceful hills and rivers, boasting a rich history and culture… Lyon is the perfect destination for retirees seeking an enriching gourmet break! Here are our tips for getting around, finding accommodation and visiting the city at your own pace.

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Getting around

Strategically located at the crossroads of several motorways and train lines, Lyon is a city that is easily accessible. Whether you’re arriving by air, by rail at one of Lyon’s three main stations (Part-Dieu, Perrache, Saint-Exupéry airport) or by car, arriving and getting around in Lyon is simple and convenient.

Once you get here, the extensive TCL public transport system will take you anywhere you want to go by bus, metro or tram. If you plan to settle permanently in Lyon, a discount on the TCL subscription is available for retirees aged 60 to 64 and a further discount for those over 65.

Pont Lafayette Lyon

Practical advice

Arriving and getting around in Lyon

Railway stations, airports, parking, traffic rules and public transport... Prepare your arrival in Lyon with peace of mind.

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Accommodation

Holidays are a time to relax, which start with choosing a nice comfortable place to stay. You’ll want to choose a hotel where you can chill out in a safe, welcoming environment, sleep in a comfortable bed and enjoy friendly and efficient service. To help you choose, here are some central hotels located just a stone’s throw from the main sights.

Eating out

Once you’ve booked your hotel and put your bags down, your holiday can really begin! But before you start going places and doing things, it’s time to recharge your batteries with a delicious meal. Make the most of your stay in France’s “gastronomic capital” by trying out local specialities in an authentic Lyon bouchon or tucking into a traditional meal in a beautifully adorned brasserie.

Discover the city

Now that you’ve recovered your strength, your visit can start in earnest - just follow your nose and indulge your curiosity! Take a scenic boat cruise up the River Saône, join a guided tour of Lyon’s finest districts, check out the city’s iconic historical monuments or take the funicular railway to enjoy a breathtaking view of Lyon and the Alps from the Fourvière esplanade.

Culture

If you are a museum lover, you’re going to be spoilt for choice - just head for one of the 27 museums in Lyon and the surrounding area. Whether you’re into history, the cinema, the humanities, fine arts or contemporary art, you’re sure to find a museum in Lyon to suit your taste:

Good deal

Museums included in the Lyon City Card

With the Lyon City Card valid for 24 hours, 48 hours, 72 hours, 96 hours or even 1 year, enjoy free entry to 27 museums in Lyon and the surrounding area. Ideal for learning about the city and visiting Lyon at your leisure! 

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Vast green spaces 

Eager for a breath of fresh air between visits? Then go for a stroll in one of Lyon’s many parks and gardens! Besides the beautiful banks of the Rhône and Saône, Lyon is home to many green areas where you can enjoy a well-earned break.

Showtime

In the evening, prolong the pleasure with a night out at the theatre or a concert at one of Lyon’s many performance venues:

Place de la Basoche, Vieux-Lyon © Romain Biard / Shutterstock _1041637660

Getting away from the crowd

Visiting Lyon without jostling through the hordes of tourists is possible! There’s plenty of time outside the school holidays, during the week or at off-peak times, here are our tips for exploring the city in complete tranquility.

Organising your visit

Visiting Lyon with your grandchildren

Are you visiting Lyon with your grandchildren? Discover some activities that will delight both young and old!

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© Helen Ross / Shutterstock 670651603

Safety first

Emergency numbers, duty pharmacies, nearby hospitals, safety advice, and more... All the information you need at your fingertips for a peaceful stay. Find out more

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