top day trips from lyon

5 of the best day trips from Lyon

Sep 8, 2023 • 5 min read

Go beyond France's third-largest city with these amazing day trips © Julie Meneghin / Getty Images

With its cinematic topography, magnificent cuisine and 2000 years of history, Lyon is impressive enough by itself to keep visitors interested for several days at a time.

France’s third-largest city can get busy in the summer, especially in the medieval tourist-friendly Old Town. However, Lyon’s there is a plethora of splendid day trips fanning out in every direction that might help you get away from those crowds.

From the languid vineyards of Beaujolais in the north to Grenoble 's widescreen alpine vistas to the south, the variety of activities is remarkable too, and they’re all reachable in two hours or less. 

Go beyond Lyon with these top day trips.

1. Soak up epic views in Grenoble

Travel time: 1 hour and 30 minutes 

Surrounded by misty alpine hills, Grenoble is the last port of call before the Alps truly rise. So take advantage of this stunning location by riding in an iconic bubble-shaped cable car over the Isère River and up to the imposing Fort de la Bastille viewpoint, where the snowcapped alpine vistas are sigh-inducing. Back on the ground, the angular Musée de Grenoble houses everything from Egyptian antiquities to masterpieces by the likes of Renoir and Monet. Its collection of 20th-century modern art is sublime too. 

When evening falls, the charming Old Town around Place Grenette spills with rustic bistros and canopied brasseries, and it's imperative to sample the pungent herbal liqueur Chartreuse. The historic Café de la Table Ronde is a great spot for this, and Le Rousseau restaurant is a wonderful purveyor of the region’s local produce. If you’re willing to splurge, Michelin-starred  Fantin Latour takes Grenoblois cuisine to new heights.

How to get to Grenoble from Lyon: Grenoble is around 100km (62 miles) southeast of Lyon and taking the train is the most efficient way of reaching the city. TER trains leave from Lyon Part-Dieu station every hour and usually arrive at Gare de Grenoble station just under 90 minutes later. 

2. Sip your way through the Beaujolais wine region

Travel time: 35 minutes

Villefranche-Sur-Saône is the quaint gateway town leading to one of France’s most famous wine regions, the historic province of Beaujolais. Its vineyards lace an undulating landscape that covers around 18,000 hectares (44,000 acres) and you can either drive, cycle or take a guided tour around the various domains.

From the gaudy wine museum at Hameau Dubœuf to ornate tastings beneath pointed-hat towers at Château de Corcelles , this is a place to slow down and appreciate the terroir. There are no big sights to tick off here, just exceptional wine that should be enjoyed with good company. Start at the Villefranche-Sur-Saône tourism office and make sure to avoid November, as that month sees the annual and always popular release of Beaujolais Nouveau. 

How to get to Villefranche-sur-Saône from Lyon: Villefranche-Sur-Saône is only around 30km (19 miles) north of Lyon and direct TER trains take around 35 minutes. It also takes around 35 minutes by car via the A6, and this is the best option if you want to independently visit the various vineyards situated in relatively rural areas. 

3. Step back in time at Annecy

Travel time: 2 hours

Turquoise canals snake their way through this small city towards romantic Lake Annecy and attract crowds of tourists in the summer. But then Annecy is nicknamed the "Pearl of the French Alps" for good reason and its warren of narrow passageways and chocolate box 17th-century townhouses are wonderfully quaint. Take time to see the lake too. Largely flat and surrounded by delightful scenery, Lake Annecy can be explored with bikes from Roul’ ma Poule for around €23 per day.

Though obviously touristy, Annecy has become a serious food town with a rather absurd seven Michelin-star restaurants to its name. Award-winning patisserie Philippe Rigollot is an excellent spot for a sweet bite during an afternoon wander, while the homely Le Bilboquet celebrates the region’s local produce, and especially the creamy Savoie cheese Reblochon.

How to get to Annecy from Lyon: Direct TER trains from Lyon Part Dieu take around two hours to reach Annecy. Driving is quicker via the A43 and takes around 1 hour 35 minutes, though expect toll charges along the way.

4. Explore art and architecture in Avignon

Travel time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Artistic Avignon spills out from the banks of the river Rhône, while its peach-roofed Mediterranean cityscape is dominated by the imposing stone Palais des Papes . A Unesco World Heritage Site, it’s one of the largest medieval Gothic buildings in Europe and its serpentine corridors saw six papal conclaves in the 14th century. The four quirky arches of the half-bridge Pont Saint-Bénézet are photo-friendly, while the Petit Palais Museum houses a fine collection of medieval art. 

Hundreds of music, dance and theater performances take place during the Festival d’Avignon in July, so make merry with plenty of local Côtes du Rhône wine. Find fresh Provençal cuisine in the Les Halles indoor market , while 46 is a fine neighborhood restaurant for experiencing warm summer evenings. Don't leave without sampling Les Papalines d'Avignon, a pink chocolate-coated ball with a soft core of Origan du Comtat liqueur.

How to get to Avignon from Lyon: The TGV INOUI trains leaving from Lyon Part Dieu usually take between 1 hour and 1 hour 20 minutes to reach Avignon. Driving can take between 3 and 4 hours and shouldn’t be a consideration.

5. See Swiss sights in Geneva

Switzerland ’s westernmost tip is just under two hours away and a cross-border day trip adds a new twist to the handsome lakeside escapes east of Lyon. Shooting up from the still blue expanse of Lake Geneva (lac Léman to locals), the 140m-tall Jet d'Eau water fountain is French-speaking Geneva ’s most dramatic attraction.

To learn more about the city head to local history museum Maison Tavel , built in the 12th-century. It’s situated in the pretty Old Town, whose winding lanes lead to Place du Bourg-de-Four, the city’s oldest square. Its steep shuttered townhouses look untouched for centuries and convivial cafes like La Clémence are perfect for watching the world go by. Rustic Restaurant de l’Hôtel de Ville has hosted international glitterati over the years and serves traditional Swiss fare like gooey fondue, while finely decorated chocolates from Philippe Pascoët shouldn’t be missed.

How to get to Geneva from Lyon: TER trains leave from Lyon Part Dieu and take 2 hours to reach Geneva Cornavin station. Driving via the A40 and A42 takes a similar amount of time. 

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12 Top-Rated Day Trips from Lyon

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Oct 14, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The area around Lyon abounds with cultural treasures and beautiful nature sites. Fascinating historic towns, picturesque country villages, and elegant châteaux await visitors who take the time to explore the surroundings of Lyon on day trips.

Impressive historic monuments reveal the local heritage, which stretches back millennia. The influence of bygone eras is especially evident in Vienne , which boasts ancient Roman monuments and Romanesque churches, and the medieval town of Pérouges , with its cobblestone alleyways, historic inns, and traditional restaurants.

For a relaxing escape to nature, one of the best places to visit in the Lyon surroundings is the Domaine de Lacroix-Laval. This beautiful estate encompasses a lush wooded parkland with streams and tree-lined paths.

Not far from Lyon, Chazelles-sur-Lyon will appeal to the fashion conscious. Once a center of hat making, the town features a museum on the subject, and custom-made chapeaux are available from its atelier.

Adventure seekers will want to explore the Grottes de Cerdon. These mesmerizing caves were once inhabited by prehistoric humans and are now used to make blue cheese.

Whatever your choice of excursion, you will be delighted by the tourist attractions and things to do around Lyon. For more ideas, see our list of the best day trips from Lyon.

2. Pérouges

3. domaine de lacroix-laval, 4. chazelles-sur-lyon, 5. couvent de la tourette, 6. sainte-croix-en-jarez, 7. maison d'ampère - musée de l'electricité (electricity museum), 8. bourg-en-bresse, 9. grottes du cerdon, 10. château de rochetaillée, 11. château grillet, 12. abbaye d'ambronay, map of day trips from lyon.

Vienne is well worth a detour from Lyon (just 30 kilometers away). It's one of the best places to visit in France to see ancient Roman monuments. The city also boasts several interesting Romanesque and Early Gothic churches.

The top attraction in Vienne is the Temple d'Auguste et de Livie (Place Charles de Gaulle) built in 25 BCE. During the Middle Ages, the Roman temple was converted into a church, and during the Revolution, it became a "Temple of Reason" and later a courthouse.

Another impressive Roman monument, the 1st-century CE Théâtre Antique originally had seating for around 13,000 spectators, which made it one of the largest in the Roman Empire.

The Théâtre Antique is currently used as an open-air venue for summertime music concerts. The well-attended Jazz à Vienne festival, which presents high-caliber jazz concerts, is held at the Théâtre Antique every year in June and July.

To learn more about the world of antiquity, visit the Musée Archéologique . This fascinating collection of sculptures, mosaics, funerary monuments, inscriptions, and architectural fragments is displayed in the 6th-century Eglise Saint-Pierre, one of France's oldest churches.

Also not-to-be missed are two medieval-era monuments. The Romanesque Cloître Saint-André-le-Bas is noteworthy for its harmonious cloister featuring ornately carved capitals from the 12th century. Three rooms attached to the cloister are used to display temporary exhibitions.

Built between the 12th and 14th centuries, the Cathédrale Saint-Maurice (Place Saint-Paul) beautifully blends Romanesque and Gothic architectural elements. The cathedral contains precious relics from the 8th century.

Thanks to its captivating architecture and quaint maze of cobblestone pedestrian streets, the walled medieval city of Pérouges (40 kilometers from Lyon) has earned a place on the list of the " Plus Beaux Villages de France ."

This delightful escape from the modern world is found in a pleasant pastoral environment, perched on a hilltop overlooking the Ain River. With its cobblestone streets, atmospheric squares, old stone buildings and artisanal boutiques, the town gives visitors the impression of stepping back in time.

To become truly immersed in the ambience of the Middle Ages, visitors should spend the night at the Hostellerie du Vieux Pérouges . Guests enjoy charming accommodations in a handsome 15th-century building or typical rustic houses of the village. At the restaurant of the Hostellerie de Pérouges, the waiters dress in period costumes and the dining room features white linen tablecloths and old-fashioned décor.

Other ways to soak up the medieval atmosphere of Pérouges include attending parades and shows at the Fête Médiévale (Medieval Festival) during the second weekend of June, and visiting the Musée du Vieux Pérouges .

Housed in a 14th-century manor house that belonged to the Dukes of Savoy, the Museum of Old Pérouges presents an extensive collection of archaeological items and historical objects that reveal the town's heritage. The museum also has a weaving workshop, a medieval garden, and a tower with panoramic views.

In addition to its old-world charm, Pérouges has plenty of cultural and outdoor activities. Favorite things to do while visiting Pérouges include nature walks, hiking, and dining. The countryside outside of Pérouges has many trails (the town's tourist office provides maps for a variety of hikes on marked trails).

After an invigorating hike or a long day of sightseeing, tourists will appreciate an authentic meal at one of the town's traditional restaurants. The local gastronomy is well known for its culinary specialties, such as the prized Bresse chicken served in a creamy morel sauce and Galette Pérougienne (a buttery tart prepared from brioche dough and topped with sprinkles of sugar).

A peaceful retreat just 13 kilometers from Lyon, the Domaine de Lacroix-Laval encompasses 115 hectares of tranquil parklands, gardens, and forests.

This lush estate features large meadows that are used for outdoor sports and children's pony rides. There are also elegant manicured areas with tree-lined paths, woodlands, ponds, and streams.

Distinguished as an EcoJardin (for its ecological gardening practices) and labeled a " Jardin Remarquable " ("Remarkable Garden"), the Domaine de Lacroix-Laval is the perfect day-trip destination for picnics, relaxation, and nature walks.

Visitors enjoy jogging on the property's fitness trails or taking a leisurely stroll through the historic rose garden and the English-style park.

Address: 1171 Avenue de Lacroix-Laval, 69280 Marcy-l'Étoile

About 50 kilometers from Lyon, the town of Chazelles-sur-Lyon was once famous as a center of hat manufacturing and has a wonderful Atelier-Musée du Chapeau (Hat Museum and Atelier) housed in a historic factory building on Rue Martouret.

This museum presents interesting information about the history of handcrafted hats with their ever-changing fashions. The museum's atelier creates fashionable hats in the latest styles available, which are for sale in the boutique. A talented milliner crafts each of the hats by hand.

Hats can be special-ordered and are often requested by drama professionals for theater performances. Visitors can also order custom-made hats for upcoming events such as weddings and other special occasions.

The Convent de la Tourette nestles in a small, idyllic valley at the edge of a forest, an ideal spot for meditation and prayer. Constructed between 1953 and 1960, the stunning modern building was created by the renowned French architect Le Corbusier .

Considered a contemporary architectural masterpiece, the Couvent de la Tourette was built for the Dominican monks of Lyon. Surrounded by an expansive parkland of woodlands and meadows, the property consists of study halls, a library, refectory, church, recreational areas, and dormitory cells.

The different areas and rooms of the convent encircle a courtyard, which acts as a traditional cloister. As in many houses of worship, light is used in symbolic ways. Le Corbusier employed color and light "cannons" to specifically direct sunlight into the airy rooms, creating an effect of brightness for inspiration.

The Couvent de la Tourette continues to fulfill its purpose as a working monastery for the Dominican religious community, including monks, teachers, and students.

Visitors may attend religious services, which take place several times daily: 8am morning prayers, 12 noon mass (11am on Sundays), and 7pm evening prayers (except on Sundays). Otherwise, to see the interior of the convent, visitors must take a guided tour (available on Sunday afternoons).

It is also possible to stay overnight in one of the single-occupancy dormitory rooms, which are quite reasonably priced. Arrive before 5:30pm (arrivals not allowed on Sundays). Meals are available if ordered in advance.

Located in the town of Eveux (a 25-kilometer drive from Lyon), the Convent de la Tourette is only open to the public through guided tours offered on Sunday afternoons.

Address: Route de La Tourette, 69210 Eveux

Official site: http://www.couventdelatourette.fr/home.html

One of France's " Plus Beaux Villages " (Most Beautiful Villages), Sainte-Croix-en-Jarez is 50 kilometers from Lyon, tucked away in the rolling foothills of the Parc Naturel Régional du Pilat , a protected nature reserve centered on the Mont Pilat mountain range.

The village of Sainte-Croix-en-Jarez was originally a Carthusian monastery ( La Chartreuse de Sainte-Croix-en-Jarez ) in the 13th century. Today, most of the buildings and houses in the town were once part of the monastery property.

Tourists can take a guided tour to visit the monastery's exquisite medieval church, original hermitage rooms, and serene cloister. It's possible to take a self-guided tour, but this doesn't allow as much access as the guided tour. The monastery offers overnight wellness retreats with bed-and-breakfast accommodations in the nearby town of Roisey .

Another feature of the Pilat Regional Natural Park are the hiking trails that weave through pine forests, pastures, and vine-covered hills, including a section (the GR 65) of the medieval Chemin de Saint-Jacques pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela in Spain.

Other noteworthy historic villages near Sainte-Croix-en-Jarez include Pélussin, Roisey, and Malleval. The area is also dotted with ancient Carthusian buildings and old hermitages.

Less than 20 kilometers outside of Lyon, this Maison d'Ampère - Musée de l'Electricité celebrates the life and work of André-Marie Ampère, the brilliant French scientist who founded the science of electrodynamics in the 19th century.

The museum presents interactive exhibits that explain the laws of electromagnetism and highlight the scientific discoveries made by Ampère. Also on display are machines and instruments used for electricity, telegraphy, and radio experiments.

Inaugurated in 1931, the museum occupies the house where André-Marie Ampère lived as a youth.

The museum is open to the public for visits on Saturday afternoons and Sundays.

Address: 300 Route d'Ampère, 69250 Poleymieux-au-Mont-d'Or

Historically an important market town in the region, Bourg-en-Bresse is famous for its chickens. Poularde de Bresse , the specific type of chicken raised in this region, has the status of an Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée for its quality and exceptional flavor. Bresse chickens are served at some of the finest gastronomic restaurants in France.

Besides its prized poultry and old half-timbered farmhouses, Bresse is noteworthy for its 16th-century monastery. The Monastère Royal de Brou has a remarkable Flamboyant Gothic church built on the orders of Marguerite of Austria (daughter of Emperor Maximilian) in memory of her late husband, the Duke of Savoy. Up until the French Revolution, the monastery was home to Augustinian monks.

In 2014, the Monastère Royal de Brou was voted as the Monument préféré des Français (favorite monument of the French). The monastery is open to the public year-round (except on holidays); the rooms are used as a museum space, displaying works of art from the 17th century to the modern era.

For a gourmet meal in a splendid setting, try L'Auberge Bressane (166 Boulevard de Brou) in Bourg-en-Bresse. This Michelin-rated restaurant features views of the Monastère Royal de Brou from its outdoor terrace. Guests enjoy the refined ambience as well as the classic regional cuisine, with a menu that includes specialties of Bresse such as Poularde de Bresse à la Crème de Bresse (Chicken in Bresse-style Cream Sauce) and Magret de Canette Rôtie (Roasted Duck Breast).

The Grottes du Cerdon (Caves of the Cerdon Valley) is a remarkable nature site in Labalme, about 75 kilometers northeast from Lyon. Formed during the Ice Age, the system of underground caves begins where a subterranean river once flowed.

During prehistoric times, the caves served as shelter, and during the Middle Ages they were turned into a refuge for lepers. More recently, the caves have provided storage for maturing blue cheese.

Today, the Grottes du Cerdon is part of the Parc de Loisirs Prehistoriques , a recreational park designed for visitors to discover the geological wonders of the underground caves. The park also presents fascinating educational exhibits about prehistoric man. Workshops show the techniques of creating fire, throwing spears, and making bracelets and pottery.

The park offers guided tours (self-guided visits are allowed as well) and has facilities, including restrooms, a boutique, and a restaurant. After touring the caves, visitors can take a footpath to the nearby park and spend some time admiring the pristine landscape.

Address: Domaine des grottes du Cerdon, 01450 Labalme

Just 11 kilometers from Lyon, the historic village of Rochetaillée-sur-Saône (on the Saône River) is dominated by the Château de Rochetaillée, which belonged to the Counts of Lyon. Built in the 12th century, the spectacular medieval château houses the Musée de l'Automobile Henri Malartre (Henri Malartre Automobile Museum).

The museum displays a hundred exceptional automobiles, including vintage models dating from 1892, as well as an assortment of old motorcycles and bicycles. A boutique at the museum sells postcards and miniature car models.

Address: 645 Rue du Musée, 69270 Rochetaillée-sur-Saône

Enveloped by the rolling hills of the Northern Rhône region, the Château Grillet enjoys a charming setting in the village of Vérin, about an hour drive south of Lyon.

The château has an illustrious history. Girard Desargues, who was an architect, mathematician, and the adviser to Cardinal Richelieu, retired at the Château-Grillet in 1648 during France's civil war. One of Desargues' friends was the famous mathematician Blaise Pascal, who visited the château in 1652.

Address: Château Grillet, 42410 Verin

Surrounded by a serene landscape about 60 kilometers from Lyon, the Abbaye d'Ambronay was founded during the reign of Charlemagne (9th century) and built over the course of several centuries.

A splendid example of sacred architecture, the abbey features a high-vaulted Gothic church and an ornate 15th-century Flamboyant Gothic cloister that inspires spiritual meditation.

Tourists may take a guided tour of the abbey on weekends during summertime. Guided tours are available on different themes, such as a children's activities, a musical visit, or a general tour.

The Abbaye d'Ambronay is renowned for its annual Festival d'Ambronay , a prestigious music festival that takes place from mid-September through mid-October. The Ambronay Festival presents classical music performances, with a focus on Baroque chamber music, but also includes other genres such as jazz, opera, and world music. Concerts are held in the abbey's church, which seats an audience of 10,000 and has superb acoustics.

Near the abbey in the quaint village of Ambronay is a Michelin-starred restaurant, the Auberge de l'Abbaye . This inviting, upscale restaurant specializes in modern " cuisine du marché " (seasonal cuisine based on fresh ingredients from the local market).

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15 best day trips from lyon, france (within 3 hours).

Are you looking for the best day trips from Lyon, France? We’ve got you covered – keep reading!

If youʻre booking your trip to/from Lyon  last minute, we have you covered. Below are some of the top tours, hotels, and more!

🇫🇷  Top Experiences and Tours in/from Lyon:

• Beaujolais Wine Tasting Trip from Lyon (best day trip!)
• Lyon guided sightseeing river cruise (Lyon’s top-seller!)
• Dinner cruise in Lyon (2.5-hour evening trip!)
• City Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus Tour
• Vieux Lyon 4-Hour Food Tasting Tour (I did this tour- loved it!)

🛌  Top Hotels in Lyon:

• Villa Florentine (Luxury)
• Hôtel Edmond W (Mid-range)
• Hôtel Le Boulevardier (Budget)

🚗  Looking for the best way to get around Lyon? Click here to check rental car rates for France!

This guide will introduce you to some of the top Lyon day trips – from local wine regions to adventure spots… and beyond!

Did we miss any of the best places to visit near Lyon in this guide? 

Let us know your favorite day tours from Lyon in the comments. Thanks!

In this post...

Best Day Trips From Lyon

Where to stay in lyon, more lyon travel guides, pin this lyon day trips guide, 1. beaujolais wine trail.

Distance from Lyon:  49.1 km (52 minutes)

Continuing on from the Burgundy Wine Route is the Beaujolais Wine Trail , a 140km circuit from Chânes nearly all the way to Lyon. It is one of the best things to do in Lyon , hands down!

The Beaujolais landscape is full of valleys and hills and leads to the 10 signature crus of the variety of areas it encompasses.

These areas include Saint-Amour, Juliénas, Chénas, Moulin-à-Vent, Fleurie, Chiroubles, Morgon, Régnié, Côte de Brouilly, and Brouilly.

Along the trails, you’ll encounter numerous highlights, like the Argigny Castle in Charentay, and the chapel on Mont Brouilly.

Finish the Wine Route by crossing over to the Pierres Dorées country.

The 39 villages of the region are built in an ochre-colored stone that sparkles when hit with sunlight.

The area has old churches, washhouses, and castles scattered throughout its hilly and vine-covered terrain, earning it the nickname “Little Tuscany.”

Among the best villages to see are Marcy, Charnay, Pommiers, Oingt, Jarnioux, Bagnols, and Ternand and its fortifications.

>> Book a Beaujolais wine-tasting trip from Lyon

Distance from Lyon:  197 km (2 hours, 9 minutes)

Dijon is perhaps most famously known for its traditional mustard, but its local delicacies go beyond that! In fact, it is one of the major gastronomic cities in France .

You can explore everything the city has to offer in regard to food at Les Halles.

There are numerous Michelin stars with affordable tasting menus, such as Parapluie, L’Essentiel, L’Asperule, and Loiseau des Ducs.

Explore the local cuisine even further at the Mulot et Petitjean, a factory and museum that churns a variety of spice-based breads, particularly gingerbread, and elaborates on its 220 years of history.

In the heart of the old city is the iconic 13th-century Gothic Église Notre-Dame, in a square of the same name, lined with the town’s trendiest cafes, bars, restaurants, and shops.

Nearby is the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, which houses the Musee des Beaux-Arts and City Hall. The Commercial Rue Musette is just opposite the square.

>> Book a Dijon La Cave du Palais wine tour

Distance from Lyon:  145.6 km (1 hour, 43 minutes)

Swim in the cleanest lake in Europe and walk through the narrow streets and alleyways of the fairy tale village at Annecy.

Some of the best attractions of the Vieille Ville are at the lakefront, including the Jardins de l’Europe and a variety of creperies and glaciers.

The Palais de l’Isle is perhaps the most notable building in town– a medieval stone structure with numerous towers looking like it was taken out of a storybook.

It also functions as a museum for local architecture.

Walk around the lake in its enclosing green gardens, take some treats from the carts or pack a picnic and enjoy the views of the amazingly blue waters and the stunning mountains in the backdrop.

Rent a boat and explore just how clear the water is firsthand. The Musée-Château d’Annecy showcases medieval sculpture, landscape paintings, contemporary art, and regional history.

Go shopping and dining on the picturesque Rue Sainte-Claire!

>> Book this Annecy segway discover tour

4. Domaine de Lacroix-Laval

Distance from Lyon:  14.1 km (23 minutes)

To Lyon’s northwest is the Domaine de Lacroix-Laval , an expansive landscaped park of 115 hectares and the largest of its kind in the department.

The park encompasses woods, high forests, valleys, meadows, streams, ponds, rivers, and numerous paths and walking trails.

Numerous entangling paths lead you to the 16th-century Renaissance Château de Lacroix-Laval, which has a variety of stunning gardens including roses, vegetables, fruits, and flowers with Lyonnais origins.

The family-friendly park has playgrounds to keep the kids busy with, and the paths are excellent for cycling together.

Near Marcy-l’Étoile is a 5.1-km loop trail lasting an average duration of 1 hour and 15 minutes which takes you around the entire park, and begins at the Route de Sain-Bel’s parking lot.

For trails crisscrossing through the park, the Allée des Terres Rouges and the Allée du Grand Central trails are ideal, and you can find paths redirecting there along the trail in Marcy.

Address:  1171 Av. de Lacroix-Laval, 69280 Marcy-l’Étoile

5. Geneva (Switzerland)

Distance from Lyon:  149.6 km (1 hour, 58 minutes)

Geneva is an international city as it is a center of diplomacy due to housing the Headquarters of Europe’s United Nations and the Red Cross, and as a city in Switzerland, also a prominent banking destination.

The city is on the southern tip of Lake Geneva and is famously known for its landmark water jet on the lake. Take a walk through the city and admire the classic and clean architecture and streets.

Pass by the Flower Clock and head over to the City Center shopping district, which is within the parallel streets of Rue du Marche and Rue du Rhone.

The city boasts numerous museums: the Patek Philippe Museum, which showcases a famous watchmaker’s creations and story; the Musée d’Art et d’Histoire; and the Musée Ariana, which displays about 20,000 objects of ceramic and glass artwork.

Other stunning attractions to see are the Place du Bourg-de-Four and Basilica Notre-Dame.

>> Book a Lake Geneva cruise here

Distance from Lyon:  229.3 km (2 hours, 32 minutes)

On the banks of the Rhône River is the medieval Avignon , known for its majestic Palais de Papes , a large, Gothic-style palace and fortress, and the official papal residency for a century.

The Romanesque Avignon Cathedral has statues and tombs of the 14th-century popes, in addition to a collection of religious objects and relics at the chapel.

Crossing the Rhône River is the Pont d’Avignon, an important medieval bridge with only four arches and a gatehouse surviving today.

Visit the Musée du Petit Palais, which is both a museum and art gallery collection of Renaissance paintings, and the Musée Lapidaire, which showcases classical sculptures and objects from ancient Greek, Etruscan, Roman, and Gallo-Roman cultures.

Surrounding the city are the impressive defensive stone walls, fortifications, and towers of the Remparts d’Avignon.

The medieval cobblestone streets of Rue des Teinturiers run along the canal, which finds sanctuary under the shade of the sycamores.

There, you can find many picturesque cafés and restaurants.

>> Book an Avignon half-day vineyard tour

7. Parc Naturel Régional des Volcans d’Auvergne

Distance from Lyon:  189.9 km (2 hours, 15 minutes)

Central France has the largest volcanic complex in all of Europe. The Parc naturel régional des Volcans d’Auvergne has a total of 80 volcanoes spread out over nearly 400,000 hectares.

The park is the largest regional natural park in metropolitan France and constitutes the Monts Dore, the Artense, the Cézallier, and the ancestral Cantal massif.

It extends over 120 km from north to south, and its volcanic stone was used to build numerous structures in Clermont-Ferrance, the most notable being the Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption.

There is an abundance of hiking trails from the Puy Mary to the Puy de Dôme. Near Mont-Dore on the Puy de Dôme is a popular 8-kilometer trail of a little over 3 hours and ranks at moderate difficulty.

Another moderate trail would be near Orcines in the same department, lasting an average of 2 hours.

The young Chaîne des Puy has craters, lava domes, and cinder cones and is a lush area to discover.

Distance from Lyon:  33.6 km (44 minutes)

Only 35 kilometers south of France is Vienne , and is settled between the confluence of the Gère and the Rhône rivers.

During the Roman Empire, the city was a major center under the Latin equivalent of Vienna. Being able to explore its ancient Roman past is perhaps the most attractive part of Vienna.

The Corinthian Temple of Augustus and Livia dates back to the beginning of the 1st century when it was built at the city center of ancient Vienne .

The Archeological Gardens of Cybele is an open-air museum of ruins from a complex of ancient buildings.

The Vienne Ancient Roman Theatre are salvaged ruins of a theater used today for events and concerts.

The Musée archéologique Saint-Pierre de Vienne and Museum of Fine Arts and Archeology of Vienne are excellent stops to discover the cultural heritage of the city.

You can’t miss the massive Saint Maurice Cathedral and the Abbaye de Saint-André-le-Bas de Vienne whilst walking around the French town !

>> Book a Vienne & Côte-Rotie wine tasting

9. Bourg Saint Maurice

Distance from Lyon:  209.7 km (2 hours, 36 minutes)

Closer to the Italian border is the town of Bourg Saint Maurice , which is ideal for the outdoor enthusiast. The Les Arcs Ski Resort has numerous difficulty levels for its skiers over its 425 kilometers of slopes.

Its landscapes enter the la Plagne area, look over the Haute-Tarentaise, and lead to Mont-Blanc, the highest peak in Europe.

The ski resort is encircled by dense forests with multiple villages scattered around and throughout.

There’s the Spa Deep Nature – Les Sources de Marie where you can decompress in a hot tub and sauna after your outdoor activities in the snow.

The Nama Springs are another good option, with mineral spring backs, massages, hamas, spas, and saunas to choose from.

Go rafting on the stunning river at the Arc Adventures Rafting Bourg Saint Maurice; the professional staff will guide beginners and advanced individuals alike for an exhilarating experience downhill on the slopes that the river runs along. 

Distance from Lyon:  73 km (1 hour, 8 minutes)

At the south end of Burgundy, lying on the River Saône is Macon , a charming city lined with pastel-colored houses at both ends of the riverfront. 

The city is home to numerous churches, but the most impressive include the Église Saint Pierre, a church built in the 19th century, with three ports and twin steeples.

For something more ancient, the remains of the Old Cathedral of Saint Vincent date back sometime between the 11th century and 14th century.

In the center of the city is its oldest house, the Maison de Bois – which gives you a perspective on the old architectural past of the city.

Below is a cafe and brasserie of the same name! The River Saône is an attraction of its own, and its banks are connected by the Pont Saint-Laurent. 

The Musée des Ursulines is a former 17th-century convent that now showcases local history, in addition to archaeological excavations and art. 

11. Grottes du Cerdon

Distance from Lyon:  88.4 km (1 hour, 3 minutes)

To the northeast of Lyon is a unique attraction in the heart of the surrounding wilderness and is the perfect weekend escape .

You’ll descend into the underground world of the Cerdon Valley, where stalactites and stalagmites line the cave walls of a prehistoric shelter dating back nearly 10,000 years.

The trail lasts on average for an hour and thirty minutes, which you can explore with the assistance of a tour guide or by your own observations.

There are prehistoric workshops available, where you can make fire by using tools to make friction, spear throwing to see how hunting was accomplished, create your own natural ocher paint, create jewelry with stones and shells, and sculpt pottery.

The entire path underground is landscaped, marked, and lit, and it is important to arrive with warm clothing and comfortable shoes as the temperature drops as you descend, and there is a lot of walking involved, as well.

12. Aix-les-Bains

Distance from Lyon:  113.8 km (1 hour, 21 minutes)

Aix-les-Bains is a classic thermal spa town located in the Savoie region of France, right on Lake Bourget.

Most commonly known for its Casino Grand Cercle Aix-les-Bains, a historical building ornated with stunning art decor and frescoes on the ceilings.

The smart casino, in addition to regular gaming tables, has a piano bar, nightclub, and restaurant.

Spa Parenthesis Aix Les Bains is one of the most attractive places to be in town, with a complete aqua-relaxation area that includes a jacuzzi, a heated swimming pool, a sauna, and a hammam, in addition to relaxing treatments, such as massages.

Their Sunday Brunch is also a popular dining attraction in town! Some of the landmarks in town include the Temple of Diana, ruins that date back to Roman rule.

Definitely don’t miss the emblematic Château de la Roche du Roi –  a picturesque castle situated on a hillside in the southern part of the city.

13. Grenoble

Distance from Lyon:  111.6 km (1 hour, 18 minutes)

Grenoble is a city nestled between the Isère and Drac rivers and is primarily known for its nuclear physics and microelectronics research centers.

Its landscapes grant excellent terrain for winter sports , and you can view its panorama on a cable car with the Téléphérique, which links the city center to the 18th-century Fort de la Bastille at the southern end of the Chartreuse mountains.

There are an abundance of museums in Grenoble to check out: Musée de Grenoble, a municipal museum of Fine Arts and antiquities; Musée dauphinois, dedicated to the ethnography, archaeology, history, and society of the former province of the Dauphiné; the Museum of the Resistance and Deportation of Isère; Musée de l’Ancien Évêché, dedicated to the Isère heritage through the history of its Bishop’s palace; Musée des troupes de montagne; and the Musée archéologique Saint-Laurent.

The Eglise Saint Louis and Cathédrale Notre-Dame are two historic buildings to see as well.

14. Perouges

Distance from Lyon:  40.2 km (36 minutes)

Perouges is an authentic medieval town situated on a small hill overlooking the Ain River, and is unspoiled by touristy structures and traps, and is only inhabited by the locals.

All the more so why it’s a famous tourist town ! It mains its signature half-timbered stone houses winded by cobblestone roads.

Roaming around the medieval city is an attraction in its own right.

The old Church of Saint Mary Magdalene and its fortress offer an excellent lesson into the history of the city, and the Hostellerie Du Vieux Perouges is a picturesque restaurant serving all the local delicacies you’re looking for, such as the Galette de Perouges, which is a flattened brioche dough baked with a caramelized sugar, and the Pérougeoise, gratinated potatoes in mustard cream.

Musée du Vieux Pérouges has beautiful gardens and a panoramic view of the town from its watchtower, and inside is a collection of art, artifacts, and armor.

>> Book a Medieval village private guided tour

15. Gorges de la Loire

Distance from Lyon:  79.2 km (1 hour, 9 minutes)

Gorges de la Loire is a 4000-hectare reserve at the ends of the city, a haven of biodiversity blooming around the Loire River, the last wild river in Europe and the longest in France.

There is much to explore with hiking trails, including numerous towns and attractions, like castles.

The Aurec-sur-Loire is a small medieval town situated along the loop of the Loire and Chambles is a steep village with beautiful views.

Visiting this town includes seeing the old castle of Essalois, which looks over the Grangent dam lake and its island.

You can boat along the river without a license, which may be the best bet if you’re trying to see all the princely estates, such as the Château de Lavoûte.

The Gorges de la Loire is more renowned for its 3-star campsite with 143 pitches amongst hills, wild meadows, and the river. Engage in a variety of outdoor activities!

If you’re looking for the best places to stay in Lyon, here are some of our top picks!

Did we miss any of the best day trips from Lyon?

Let us know your favorite Lyon day trips in the comments!

• Best things to do in Lyon
• Best Lyon wine tours
• Lyon Airport transfers
• 2 days in Lyon
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• Things to do in Lyon in winter

Megan is a travel blogger and writer with a background in digital marketing. Originally from Richmond, VA, she now splits her time between Frankfurt, Germany and Arctic Finland after also living in Norway, Armenia, and Kazakhstan. She has a passion for winter travel, as well as the Nordic countries, but you can also find her eating her way through Italy, perusing perfume stores in Paris, or taking road trips through the USA. Megan has written for or been featured by National Geographic, Forbes, Lonely Planet, the New York Times, and more. She co-authored Fodor’s Travel ‘Essential Norway’ and has visited 45 US states and 100+ countries.

2 thoughts on “ 15 Best Day Trips From Lyon, France (Within 3 Hours!) ”

Hello We are 4 Armenians ,coming from lebanon to lyon from april 29 till May 3.We would like to do same day trips.Can we do ?

of course! many of these trips are totally feasible by train. aram went to annecy recently (by car though) and we will be writing about that as a day trip, too :) have a great trip! feel free to email us if you have more questions (and you can write it in armenian).

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The 10 Best Day Trips from Lyon (under 3 Hours by Train)

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If you find yourself in Lyon, you’re in LUCK. Not only is it an awesome city, but it is surrounded by the most beautiful towns that are perfect for day trips. Here are some great day trips from Lyon you can take with the best things to do PLUS distance from Lyon. Whoosh. Let’s dive in.

Table of Contents

Best Day Trips from Lyon:

1. annecy, france.

Annecy is known as the “Venice of the Alps ” and famous for its enchanting canals and breathtaking views of the lake. A day trip to Annecy means you’ll be able to hit pause and unwind.

❤️️ Top Things to Do : Explore the Old Town, take a boat ride on Lake Annecy, visit Annecy Castle, discover Palais de l’Isle, and enjoy outdoor activities in the scenic surroundings.

How to Get to Annecy, France from Lyon:

• By Car: It’s 150 kilometers (93 miles) away and takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.

• By Train: Take a high speed train (TGV) from Lyon Part Dieu station. You’ll reach Annecy in about 2 hours.

2. Geneva, Switzerland

Next is Geneva, Switzerland – just a short train ride away from Lyon. It offers a mix of culture, history and stunning landscapes making it one of the best day trips from Lyon.

❤️️ Top Things to Do: Tour the United Nations Office, admire the Jet d’Eau, stroll through the Old Town, visit the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum, and indulge in Swiss chocolate.

How to Get to Geneva, Switzerland from Lyon:

• By Car: Approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles), 1.5 to 2 hours.

• By Train: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by high-speed train (TGV) from Lyon Part-Dieu to Geneva station.

3. Aix-les-Bains, France

Aix les Bains, France is a thermal spa town located near the beautiful Lake Bourget. This is the place for relaxation. Don’t miss out on Les Thermes Chevalley and water activities at Lake Bourget.

❤️️ Top Things to Do : Relax in Les Thermes Chevalley, enjoy Lake Bourget for water activities, try your luck at Grand Cercle Casino, explore Château de la Roche du Roi, and take in panoramic views from Mont Revard.

How to Get to Aix-les-Bains, France from Lyon:

 By car: It’s 85 kilometers (around 53 miles) away and takes about 1 to 1.5 hours of driving.

• By Train: Approximately 1 hour by train from Lyon Part-Dieu to Aix-les-Bains station.

4. Vienne, France

Vienne, in France is a city rich in history and Roman heritage. The must visit attraction here is the theater where you can immerse yourself in ancient ruins situated right in the heart of the city.

❤️️ Top Things to Do : Visit the Roman Theater, explore the Temple of Augustus and Livia, admire Saint-Maurice Cathedral, discover local museums, and shop at the Sunday market.

How to Get to Vienne, France from Lyon:

• By Car: It’s a short 30 kilometer (19 mile) drive that takes approximately 30 minutes.

• By Train: Approximately 30 minutes by train from Lyon Part-Dieu to Vienne station.

5. Grenoble, France

Grenoble is a city snuggled amidst the French Alps. For all you adventure enthusiasts there this is the ultimate destination. You’ll find a ton of hiking trails and skiing opportunities making it one of the best day trips from Lyon.

My experience: I visited Grenoble and loved it. I went hiking up the Chamechaude (easily accessible by bus to hiking spot). The city is also great I liked the museum up the cable car, and the viewpoint was fabulous.

❤️️ Top Things to Do : Take the cable car to Bastille Hill for city and mountain views, explore the Musée de Grenoble, enjoy Parc Paul Mistral, go hiking in the nearby mountains, and experience the city’s café culture.

How to Get to Grenoble, France from Lyon:

• By Car: It’s 150 kilometers (93 miles) and takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.

• By Train: You can take a train from Lyon Part Dieu to Grenoble station, which usually takes around 1 to 1.5 hours.

6. Sainte-Croix-en-Jarez , France

When exploring Lyon don’t miss out on visiting Sainte Croix en Jarez, a former Carthusian monastery village. Admire the well preserved architecture and immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere that was once home to monks.

❤️️ Top Things to Do : Discover the tranquil Carthusian Monastery, wander through the charming village, explore the Chartreuse Mountains, and enjoy serene nature walks.

How to Get to Sainte-Croix-en-Jarez:

• By Car: It’s 60 kilometers (37 miles) away and takes about 1 to 1.5 hours by car.

• By train: there is no train service available for reaching Sainte Croix en Jarez. Its best accessed by car or bus.

7. Chamonix Mont Blanc, France

If you find yourself in Lyon and seeking an experience at higher altitudes make your way to Chamonix Mont Blanc. This is a BIG destination for hiking enthusiasts, skiing lovers, and anyone wanting to experience the alpine scenery. Don’t forget to experience the Aiguille du Midi cable car ride.

❤️️ Top Things to Do : Go hiking or skiing with breathtaking views of Mont Blanc, visit the Aiguille du Midi, and explore the town’s alpine charm

How to Get to Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France from Lyon:

• By Car: Approximately 220 kilometers (137 miles), 2.5 to 3 hours.

• By Train: Approximately 3 to 3.5 hours by train with transfers from Lyon Part-Dieu to Chamonix station.

8: Cluny, France

Cluny is a medieval town that offers a glimpse into Frances rich historical heritage- a great day trip from Lyon. Discover the Cluny Abbey, a significant Romanesque masterpiece and walk through its charming streets.  

❤️️ Top Things to Do: Visit the historic Cluny Abbey, stroll through the medieval town, explore its charming streets, and admire the local architecture and heritage.

How to Get to Cluny from Lyon:

• By Car: Approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles), 1.5 to 2 hours.

• By Train: No direct train service to Cluny; it’s best accessed by car or bus.

9: Clermont Ferrand , France

Clermont Ferrand is renowned for its history and captivating charm. Take an in outdoor adventure to the nearby Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Nature Park.

❤️️ Top Things to Do : Explore the historic city center, visit the impressive black volcanic stone cathedral, discover the Puy de Dôme volcano, sample local Auvergne cuisine, and delve into the city’s vibrant cultural scene.

How to Get to Clermont Ferrand from Lyon:

• By Car: Drive 150 kilometers (93 miles) it will take you approximately 1.5 to 2.

• By Train: Approximately 2 to 2.5 hours by train from Lyon Part-Dieu to Clermont-Ferrand station.

10: Pérouges, France

Pérouges is a preserved medieval town that will transport you back in time, with its cobblestone streets and timber framed houses.

❤️️ Top Things to Do : Step back in time while exploring the beautifully preserved medieval town, wandering its cobblestone streets, visiting local artisan shops, and enjoying traditional cuisine.

How to Get to Pérouges, France from Lyon:

• By Car: Approximately 35 kilometers (22 miles), 45 minutes to 1 hour.

• By Train: No direct train service to Pérouges. It’s best accessed by car or bus.

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Latifah is a vegan foodie who loves travelling and cooking plant-based recipes. She loves sharing her favorite travel spots and adding a sprinkle of confetti to your day.

2 thoughts on “The 10 Best Day Trips from Lyon (under 3 Hours by Train)”

I love what you did here! I have been searching and everywhere it just seemed like all trips were for wine lovers…Your info is just what I needed for a trip to Lyon with my daughter who wanted to see nature! Thank you!

Thanks for the affirmation Tamar- you just made my day! Ya not really a wine gal myself hehe- it does get frustrating when all trips are like go to this vineyard or chateau to sample wine and you’re like SKIP. You will love Lyon- make sure to check out Parc des Tetes D’Or for a gorgeous nature outing in the middle of the city.

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Day Trips From Lyon

The 8 Best Day Trips From Lyon, France

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Situated south of Burgundy, northeast of Provence, and west of the Alps, Lyon is ideally placed for exploring these adjoining regions. From vineyard tours in Beaujolais and Mâcon to city breaks in old Dijon and jaunts to nearby Alpine mountain towns, these are some of the best day trips from Lyon. Most are easily accessible by train, and those that aren't can be booked as part of a guided tour if you don't plan to rent a car.

Geneva: Mountains, Chocolate Tours, & Architecture

Just a couple of hours from Lyon, the Swiss city of Geneva makes an excellent day trip, especially if you want to take a quick hop over the border into another European country. Arrive in the morning and start your day with a  stroll around Lake Geneva,  offering stunning perspectives over the Alps and Mont-Blanc, as well as sights like St. Peter’s Cathedral and the modern-day waterfront.

Next, visit the Old Town, full of handsome medieval and Renaissance-era facades, secretive passageways, and quaint shops. In the afternoon, take a guided chocolate tour at the workshops of legendary Swiss chocolate maker Stettler. End your day with a boat cruise to see even more of the sights from the relaxing vantage point of the water. 

Getting There:  The easiest way to get from Lyon to Geneva is by train. Trains leave regularly from the Part-Dieu station and the trip takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes. By car, take the A40 or A43 from Lyon (around 1 hour, 40 minutes and 1 hour, 58 minutes, respectively). Be prepared to pay toll fees along the way.  

Travel Tip:  If you'd like to explore the nearby Alps and popular mountain towns like Chamonix, ski stations, and (in the warmer months) Alpine hiking trails are easily accessible from Geneva. 

Villefranche-Sur-Saône: Gateway to Beaujolais Wine Country

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A good starting point for a wider exploration of the Beaujolais winemaking region and tasting route, the town of Villefranche-Sur-Saône is situated just over 20 miles north of Lyon. Use the town as a gateway, arriving in the morning and making your first stop at the  Tourist Office , where you’ll find the Espace des Vins du Beaujolais (Beaujolais Wines Space). Here you'll learn about the region’s winemaking history and sample from a few bottles—assuming you don’t mind morning tastings. 

From here, explore the rolling hillsides of the Beaujolais, studded with miles of vineyards and perched chateaux at their heights. You can either drive to wineries and towns of your choice along the Beaujolais wine route or opt for a guided tour (an excellent option if you don’t want to drive or prefer not to). If you can, take the picturesque road that leads to Mount Brouilly. You'll be able to take in memorable panoramas over the vineyards and rustic houses from the top.

Getting There:  Direct trains depart regularly from the Lyon Part-Dieu station and take around 35 minutes. By car, take the A6 or A46 (around 30-45 minutes; be ready for minor toll charges en route). 

Travel Tip:  Consider going during the mid-fall (late October to early November) to see the Beaujolais vineyards and countryside in a bright palette of fall colors.  

Annecy: Nature & Architecture in “Alpine Venice”

Nestled in France’s Haute-Savoie region on the lake of the same name, Annecy is a storybook-pretty town that has much to offer, from natural landscapes to photogenic lanes flanked by canals. Arrive early to make the most of it, starting your day with a walk around the town. Punctuated with canals and footbridges, you’ll soon see why Annecy’s often referred to as “Alpine Venice.” Many of the warm-hued buildings date to the 16th and 17th centuries, but the city is even older, established by the Counts of Geneva during the 10th century. 

After exploring the town and spending some time browsing boutiques for gifts and local products, visit the Palais de l’Íle—a 12th-century castle on the Thiou river that served as a fortress and later a prison. If it’s warm enough out, have lunch on the waterside, then take a stroll around the lakeside paths. In the winter, enjoy a cozy lunch indoors in one of thecity’s excellent restaurants and tearooms. 

Getting There:  From Lyon, trains run daily to Annecy from the Part-Dieu station; the trip takes around 2 hours 10 minutes on average. If driving the easiest and quickest route is via the A43 from Lyon (around 1 hour 35; expect toll charges along the way). 

Travel Tip:  Annecy is especially magical at year-end, during the run-up to Christmas. Holiday lights, festive markets, and cozy shops are all recipes for an idyllic day out.

Chalon-sur-Saône: Vineyard Tours & Photography History

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Another picturesque town in Southern Burgundy, Chalon-sur-Saône offers more opportunities for wine-tasting in surrounding vineyards. The town itself is rustic and charming, notable not just for its centuries of history, but also for being one of the birthplaces of photography. 

Begin with a stroll through the town, stopping to admire the imposing St-Vincent’s Cathedral. It preserves some elements from the 8th century however the facade is mostly neo-Gothic and dates to the 19th century. From here, pay a visit to the  Musée Nicephore Niépce , dedicated to the history of photography and one of the key 19th-century contributors to the technology. Finally,  take a wine-tasting workshop or guided tour  in nearby vineyards and cellars. 

Getting There:  Trains from Lyon Part-Dieu depart daily; the trip takes roughly an hour and 20 minutes. By car, take the A7 (around 30 minutes; expect minor toll charges along the way).

Travel Tip:  The waterways around Chalon are picturesque and memorable, so consider booking a sightseeing cruise . 

Avignon: Architecture & Art in the Heart of Provence

Nestled in the heart of Provence on the banks of the Rhone, the major medieval city of  Avignon  is a bit further afield than some of the other day trips suggested here. But it’s well worth the trip. 

Get there as early as possible to take full advantage of your day in the city, starting with a full exploration of the fortified city and the Pope’s Palace at its northern end. For a time during the 14th century, the Catholic papacy was based at Avignon, rather than in Rome and the grandeur of the period remains visible in the vast Gothic palace. 

After wandering through the enormous complex and its many courtyards, make sure to see the impressive art collections at the Petit Palais Museum , before paying a visit to the iconic Pont-Saint-Bénézet Bridge, often referred to simply as Le Pont d’Avignon (the Avignon bridge). Finally, explore the newer part of the city for a sense of how most residents live in the present-day.

Getting There:  Direct high-speed trains from Lyon Part-Dieu depart regularly, and the trip takes around an hour. If you choose to drive, take the A7 south (around 2 hours and 20 minutes; anticipate significant toll charges along the way).

Travel Tip:  In the summer, fans of art and performance will find plenty of ways to stay entertained, since Avignon is home to  lively theater and music festivals.

Macon: Burgundy Wine Tasting and History Tours

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One of the prettiest towns in southern Burgundy,  Macon  is nestled along the Saone River, around an hour from Lyon. Like the latter, it boasts thousands of years of history and was once a Gallo-Roman settlement. Start your exploration by admiring the Romanesque, medieval, and Renaissance-era buildings in Old Town , and strolling around the riverside paths. The 11th-century Saint-Laurent Bridge is widely considered the town’s emblem. 

From here, visit the Ursuline Museum , which traces Mâcon’s intriguing history from the prehistoric period to the present day, then embark on a  wine-tasting tour in nearby cellars and vineyards —either on your own or as part of a guided tour. You can easily get recommendations (and book tours) at the tourist office. 

Getting There:  Trains depart regularly from Lyon Part-Dieu (around an hour). By car, take the A6 (around an hour; plan for toll charges along the way). 

Travel Tip:  If you have a bit more time to explore the region, Macon makes an ideal gateway to  southern Burgundy and its many prestigious wineries , producing coveted wines such as Pouilly-Fuisse.

Vienne: Roman History and Riverside Strolls

Vienne is a charming town that lies at the meeting point of the Gere and Rhone rivers, just over 20 miles south of Lyon. An important settlement in Gallo-Roman France, it’s an unassuming little city with a rich history and plenty of charm. Begin with a stroll around the town center,  focusing on impressive monuments and ruins  such as the Gallo-Roman amphitheater and Pyramid, as well as several abbeys and castles dating to the medieval period and beyond. Next, explore the Rhone riverside paths by foot or bike, and if it’s warm out, enjoy lunch on a terrace overlooking the water. You can also  book a wine-tasting tour of nearby vineyards.

Getting There:  The easiest way to get to Vienne is by train. Trains depart several times a day from Lyon Part-Dieu, arriving in just under 30 minutes on average. If you decide to drive, take the A7 (around half an hour; expect minor toll charges along the way).

Travel Tip:  You can easily visit Vienne in a single morning or afternoon, but we recommend spending the full day in the area, perhaps exploring the wine regions of the Southern Rhone by car or guided tour. 

Dijon: Medieval Architecture & Local Cuisine

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Tourists may primarily associate Dijon with its famed mustard, but it has much more to offer including a handsome medieval city center and excellent restaurants. Located in northern Burgundy, Dijon was once the seat of the powerful Dukes of Burgundy, and that grandeur is reflected in its historic Palace, timbered houses, churches, and Gothic Cathedral. 

Plan to arrive early in the morning, starting with a trip to the imposing Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy , originally built in the 13th century atop Gallo-Roman foundations. Today, it serves as City Hall. From here, wander through the Old Town to admire its handsome medieval houses and churches and consider  taking a food tour  to taste local specialties including mustards and gingerbread. You can even participate in a mustard-making workshop. Since the city is noted for its cuisine, book a table for lunch or dinner  at one of its best restaurants .  

Getting There:  Trains depart regularly from Lyon Part-Dieu, and the journey takes about two hours. By car, take the A6 (around two hours; expect significant toll charges). 

Travel Tip:  Dijon isn’t primarily associated with wine, but it’s an excellent gateway to Northern Burgundy and some of France’s most-prestigious winemaking areas, such as Nuit-Saint-Georges.  

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The 15 Best Day Trips From Lyon, France

• By Caitlin Shetterly
• October 4, 2023

Lyon, France’s third largest city, is perfectly located in eastern, central France, and is considered by many to be France’s heart of cuisine. And with good reason: The famous chef, Paul Bocuse, hailed from Lyon, and since he made his mark, the city has produced an incredible number of award-winning chefs. This beautiful city has two major rivers that run through it, the River Rhône and the River Saône, which converge in the center of the city and from there travel, now as the Rhône, all the way to the Mediterranean. And this remarkable international city is home to not only the “practice Eiffel Tower,” but also the Fourvière (a medieval cathedral that sits high above the city in a strategic location, and can be reached on foot or by historic cable car), Roman ruins, and the awe-inspiring Musée des Beaux Arts. The city center has old, bendy streets, mediterranean colors, and a laid-back vibe. For some this is enough for an extended trip.

But for those on a longer sojourn, or who want to leave their bags and venture forth from Lyon, Frenchly editors have come up with a list of day trips from Lyon that are not only doable, but will offer some extra dimensions to , perhaps, fall a tiny bit more in love with France. (If that’s at all possible!)

The Internet is rife with advice for fun or adventure-filled day trips from Lyon, Paris, Dijon, Nice—anywhere in France, according to the Google, is a day trip from somewhere else. Most of this advice is absurd. However, if you do it right, you can venture out in the relatively small country of France for a day and still adhere to the relaxed pace of a vacation. The important thing to do is be realistic. For instance, Versailles as a day trip from Paris = doable. Lake Annecy as a day trip from Lyon = a tad ambitious. You may not enjoy this charming lakeside city in the French Alps in the time that you have before you need to hop back onto a bus to slog back to Lyon for almost 2 hours; you’ll probably wish you’d brought your bathing suit and booked a night in a nearby hotel. Avignon from Lyon in one day on the expensive high speed train = ridiculous.

The great news is that Lyon has the advantage of being an easy city to navigate out of by train, bus, car, or scooter, making day trips from Lyon a snap. It is so perfectly and centrally located in France that there are many options in the surrounding area to enjoy a lake, a small medieval town, beautiful villages with spectacular views, a castle, and more. And what’s wonderful is that the choices below are not American tourist traps–instead, they are tasteful, wonderful, unusual place, sure to add dimension to your time in France. Keep in mind, too, that, in general, public transport works beautifully in France, so buses and trains may be the easiest way to get anywhere. You can also rent a car at the St. Exupéry Airport in Lyon and go from there.

We like to use the Rome2Rio trip planning app, which will show you how to plan your day trips from Lyon and how much it will cost via train, bus, car, or taxi. 

Top 3 Day Trip Tips

Before you start planning your next day trip from anywhere to anywhere, take a moment to ask yourself these three questions: 

1) Will it expand what you are already doing where you are?

2) Is it cheaper to go for a day rather than decamp? (For instance, if you are in Lyon and want to go to Paris for a day, that is likely more affordable than staying overnight in Paris, but that’s going to depend on the season, train fares and other factors.)

3) Will it be fun to take the train or bus back to your base camp? (As opposed to a miserable slog.)

If you get a yes on all three, then go for it. Enjoy the adventure and bring a great book for the ride.

The 15 Best Day Trips from Lyon

• Chazelles-sur-Lyon
• Chalon-sur-Saône
• Pont-en-Royans
• The Hautecombe Abbey
• Château de Septème
• Domaine de Lacroix-Laval
• Lac D’Aiguebelette
• Plan d’Eau du Bourdelan
• Lac des Sapins
• Grand Parc Miribel Jonage
• Grottes du Cerdon
• Chauvet-Pont-d’Arc Cave

Charming Villages

France, as everyone knows, is replete with beautiful small villages where a passerby can have an authentic experience as long as they avail themselves of the idea that France is full of unique history, food, wine, outdoor spaces and small gifts that are doled out to the keen observer.

1. Pérouges

An easy day trip is to voyage out of Lyon to the Alpine town of Pérouges. Only 25 miles Northeast of Lyon, Pérouges is a tiny village of only 100 year-round inhabitants. Kept immaculately preserved, clean and distinct in its vibe, Pérouges is considered by many to be the most beautiful town in all of France. (It’s actually on France’s list of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France.) The old town of Pérouges is perched on a hill, with the Alps as a backdrop. Hidden behind fortress walls, this medieval town has two entrance gates, cobblestoned streets, narrow alleys, secret byways, and Liberty Square, named for a towering Linden tree that was planted during the French Revolution. History buffs will want to pay a visit to the Musée du Vieux Pérouges , a historical manor dedicated to local lore. The town’s vieille ville is full of bakeries, artisan shops, restaurants, cafes, and wineries, and is also home to a sweet leavened bread called Galette de Pérouges, created in 1912 to keep people fed on Fridays during Lent. More like a sweet pizza, the dough is flavored with lemon and cooked to perfection with caramelized butter and sugar on top. Served out of windows and in paper napkins, it can be enjoyed while strolling the lovely streets, or you can settle in for a more formal version at the restaurant inside the Hostellerie du Vieux Perouges.

• How to get there: Train, car, or bus
• Distance from Lyon: 25 miles
• Time to get there: 35 minutes by car, 33 minutes by train, and 1 hour and 20 minutes by bus

A little over 20 miles south of Lyon is the small city of Vienne, located along the banks of the Rhône river as it meanders south from Lyon. Originally the capital for the Allobroges , a Gallic people , it was captured during Roman times and transformed under Julius Caesar into a Roman Colony in 47 BC. It remained part of the Holy Roman Empire until it was transferred to French sovereignty in 1450.

The old town lies in a valley surrounded by steep hills and some of the oldest and best preserved Roman and medieval buildings in all of France, including a 1st century theater and a Roman temple consecrated to the eastern divinity, Cybele. The theater was uncovered during the construction of a new hospital in 1945, and then in subsequent archaeological digs in the 1960s and 70s. There is also a Roman amphitheater that can seat 13,000 people, and was built between 40 to 50 AD. Not to mention an impressive Roman monument called the ‘Temple d’Auguste et de Livie’ which was constructed between 20 to 10 BC and converted into a church during the Middle Ages. 

• How to get there: Train, bus, or car
• Distance from Lyon: 20 miles
• Time to get there: 30 minutes by train, 50 by bus, 25 by car

3. Chazelles-sur-Lyon

About an hour outside of Lyon is the tiny town of Chazelles-sur-Lyon, which has a unique and wonderful museum unlike anything you will find anywhere else. It is the Atelier-musée du Chapeau , where the history of hat making in France through time is celebrated and demonstrated. Afterward, there are several Michelin starred restaurants in the area, one right in town and the others no more than 10 minutes away by bus or car. A long lunch and a look at some hats of ages past before journeying back to Lyon is just what the doctor ordered.

• How to get there: Bus or car
• Distance from Lyon: 30 miles
• Time to get there: 50 minutes to one hour

4. Chalon-sur-Saône

This charming town is located on the Saône and is about an hour north of Lyon. Indeed, Chalon-sur-Saône is the place to visit if you are in France in July and looking for creative day trips from Lyon. It has one of the most famous street art festivals in all of Europe, with artists coming from all over to perform. Entry is mostly free, and you can experience a variety of acrobatics, theater, music, comedy, mime, and more. The architecture of the old town along the river is also a major draw, and includes old timber frame houses, the town’s city hall, and a stunning central square, the Place St. Vincent. A walk up the Tour du Doyenné Tower will give you pigeon views of the city and a trip to the Nicéphore Niépce Museum, a museum dedicated to the inventor of photography, who lived in the city, will give you a deeper understanding of how we take pictures today. The town also boasts several restaurants with Michelin distinctions, including the three-Michelin starred  Maison Lameloise , the two-Michelin starred  L’Amaryllis , and  eight restaurants with single Michelin stars .  This would be a fun late afternoon and evening expedition, with dinner as the coup de grâce. 

• How to get there: Train, bus, car
• Distance from Lyon: Just under 80 miles
• Time to get there: An hour and a quarter-ish for all 3 options

5. Pont-en-Royans

Pont-en-Royans is a charming city with colorful medieval architecture located south of Lyon, and perched right at the confluence of the Bourne and Vernaison rivers. The houses, built right into the river cliffs, appear to overhang the rivers, their bright colors mirrored in the rushing waters. In the town center, there is an interesting museum, the Museé de l’Eau , which is dedicated to the history of bottled water and water sourcing, with a bar that allows you to taste over 900 bottled waters from all over the world. The museum website says that in the museum you will “Learn about the cycle of this fundamental element, its role in our body and its distribution on our planet; wander through a tropical or a glacial environment simulation; dive through the deep sea in our 3-D cinema. At the entrance of the Vercors Natural Parc, the Musée de l’eau is located in Pont-en-Royans, one of the most beautiful and curious villages of the Dauphiné.” One of the biggest draws is in the next town over: The incredible stalactite caves, the Choranche caves, which are truly stunning–nature’s first chandeliers hanging above emerald green lakes.

• How to get there: Train or car
• Distance from Lyon: 83 miles
• Time to get there: An hour and a half by train (slightly less if driving)

6. The Hautecombe Abbey

Situated about an hour and twenty minutes from Lyon, this is one of the most stunning places you may ever visit. It’s an enormous and regal monastery that was built in the 12th century by monks descended from the Benedictine order, and it sits right on the edge of the Lac de Bourget , the largest natural lake of glacial origin in France, located in the Savoie region. Used for centuries as a final resting place for local royalty, the Hautecombe Abbey was designated a French Historical Monument in 1975. Restored in 2007, one can take a tour through the large Troubadour style church and admire the frescoes, statues and intricate architecture. Afterward, extend your day and take a drive around the shimmering lake to Aix-les-Bains, a popular spa town and destination for thermal baths during the Belle Époque. It remains a destination for mineral bath therapy, spas, fresh water swimming, boating, outdoor eating and lake activities.

• Distance from Lyon: 66 miles

Castles near Lyon

There are plenty of day trips from Lyon that will bring you to some of the most beautiful castles in the region. Below are two great options.

7. Château de Septème

A great option for a day trip from Lyon is the Château de Septème. An important medieval castle, it lies just to the southeast of Vienne, making it a good possibility if you want to try a two-for-one on your day trip.

There are extensive gardens and an immersion program that takes you back into the year 1480 in case you might want to channel your inner knight. A lovely tea room, shady trees and a fun gift boutique make this a perfect respite from the city.  

• How to get there: Car, train, or bus
• Distance from Lyon: 28 miles
• Time to get there: 35 minutes by car, 2 hours by bus or train

8. Domaine de Lacroix-Laval

Just to the west of Lyon is the Domaine de Lacroix-Laval, a remarkable public park with orchards, gardens, meadows, lush forests, a French garden with topiary, a castle, and more. Think of this as the Versailles of Lyon. Domaine de Lacroix-Laval is a great trip for a family to see a castle, walk around the stunning grounds, get some fresh air, or take in an outdoor concert.

• How to get there: Car, bus, or train
• Distance from Lyon: 9 miles
• Time to get there: 30 minutes

The Great Outdoors near Lyon

There are several wonderful lakes surrounded by natural landscapes that are perfect for Lyon day trips, where you can head on a hot day, or when you need to get out of the city center and enjoy a dose of clean, country air and a walk in nature. None of these is farther than an hour from Lyon, and all boast outdoor activities and places to swim. 

9. Lac D’Aiguebelette

For the nature-lover who wants a bit of solitude in a day trip, the best bet is Lac D’Aiguebelette. It’s an easy hour’s drive from Lyon to where the turquoise-colored lake, called “beautiful little waters,” is edged by seven beaches, and surrounded by the Chartreuse and Alpine mountains and hiking trails. There are grassy lawns to park yourself for a picnic, and a children’s swimming areas with lifeguards. Also, no motor boats are allowed on the lake in an effort to preserve the natural tranquility of the waters. 

• Distance from Lyon: 54 miles
• Time to get there: 55 minutes by car, an hour by train, and up to 2 hours by bus

10. Plan d’Eau du Bourdelan

One of the easiest Lyon day trips for nature lovers is the Plan d’eau de Bourdelan, because it is only 30 minutes away. Built in a gravel pit, this lake now has a sandy lifeguarded beach, a beach volleyball court, a large lawn, snacks and refreshments. Though more like a park where you can go swimming, it’s a great option to cool down on a hot day, or just get out of the city with kids.

• Time to get there: 25 minutes by car, one hour 45 by train or bus

11. Lac des Sapins

The Lac des Sapins is just under an hour from the city of Lyon, and is Europe’s largest bathing spot. A man-made lake, it sits in the Monts du Beaujolais region, and boasts swimming, fishing, horseback riding, paddle boats, and hiking.

• Distance from Lyon: 40 miles
• Time to get there: One hour and 10 minutes by car

12. Grand Parc Miribel Jonage

The Miribel-Jonage island in the middle of the Rhône River was created in the 19th century, when canals were dug to help control yearly flooding from the Rhône. Today, an incredible 5000 acres of the small island are dedicated to the Grand Parc Miribel Jonage. Not only a beautiful recreational area for biking, swimming, walking, running, boating, hiking, and more, it also has protected areas for flora and fauna. A huge bonus is that you can rent bikes in Lyon and get there that way, if you are up for a little ride. There are places to eat and picnic, and a lifeguard on duty. This is a very French option when looking for day trips from Lyon–this is a place where the Lyonnais go to hang on hot days, or when they just need to run free.

• How to get there: Bike, car, subway, taxi, or bus
• Distance from Lyon: 8 miles
• Time to get there: 15 minutes by car, around 40 minutes by bus, and about an hour by bike

Wine Tourism near Lyon

Don’t forget wine tours when planning your Lyon day trips. Just under an hour away from Lyon, the famous wine region of Beaujolais awaits, filled with parks, wine tours, amazing food, and plenty of opportunities for wine tasting. If wine is your thing, you probably already know that the wines in this region are made from the dark purple or black Gamay grape, and that the Beaujolais Nouveau wines that are produced every year make this one of the most well known wine regions in the world. (Though many scoff at Beaujolais Nouveau , the first wine of the season, it has enjoyed an unexpected popularity in recent years, and the Beaujolais region offers many other wines of varying ages and qualities.)

13. Beaujolais

Most people suggest no more than 2 wine tours when doing day trips from Lyon, which means you can do one, have a sobering meal of local specialties in the middle, do another, and then take the train back to the city, where it won’t matter if you are groggy from a little too much Beaujolais. (For this reason, this is one of the Lyon day trips you might want to stick to the train for.) Lyon Wine Tastings offers a great primer to the  wines of the region  to study up, and here is a  “how to make your own wine route”  column from the same blogger, who, incidentally, will offer visitors a guided tour of Beaujolais, in case you want someone to ferry you around and take care of the details. For more wine trail day trips from Lyon, consider a touring company, which will organize it all for you. 

For those of you who might like to design your own drive/day, consider a wine tour at the 1000 year-old organic wine estate, the Château des Bachelards in Fleurie. You can sample wines, pair them with small plates, or have a bottle with a picnic, which the estate will prepare for you and bring to you out on the lawn. 

Next up, for a taste of the iconic Gamay Beaujolais, head over to the Château des Jacques . (If you aren’t driving, you can take the train to the station of Romanèche-Thorins and make the easy 7 minute walk.) There you can taste and visit the cellars and have a dessert “chocolate and wine” tasting . Appointments are needed at this old and stately winery.

• How to get there: Train or car (no bus option)
• Time to get there: 40 minutes. 

Prehistoric Caves near Lyon

France boasts some of the oldest and best preserved (and recreated) caves in the world, where the entire family can learn about early human life deep under the earth. The most famous of these is the Lascaux caves in the Dordogne river basin, one of the most popular tourist attractions in France (but 5 hours from Lyon). However, not far from Lyon, there are two caves that are worth visiting as a day trip.

14. Grottes du Cerdon

The first is only an hour by car (longer by bus and train) outside of Lyon, where you can journey into the prehistoric caves of Cerdon, a long carved cave used by prehistoric peoples as a shelter and passage through mountainous terrain. Above the caves is a wonderful amusement park called the Grottes du Cerdon Parc de Loisirs Préhistorique , which is terrific for kids, and is set overlooking a stunning valley and the vineyards of Cerdon. The activities include pottery workshops for children, spear throwing, fire starting classes, painting, archaeological excavations, and more. 

• How to get there: train, bus, car, taxi
• Distance from Lyon: 44 miles
• Time to get there:An hour to two hours, depending on your mode of transport

15. Chauvet-Pont-d’Arc Cave

A little farther out is Chauvet. This trip takes a good two hours from Lyon by car. This is one of the farthest day trips from Lyon that we’ve included, but we think it’s worth the trip. Chauvet has some of the best preserved cave art in the world. It is located in a limestone cliff overlooking the stunning Gorges de l’Ardèche, or the European Grand Canal, a canyon and series of gorges in the river surrounded by breathtakingly beautiful cliffs, which are home to the rare Bonelli’s eagle. The caves have paintings of lions, deer, hyenas—and in the soft clay floor, bear footprints and bear “nests” remain. Like Lascaux, over concerns of preservation, the actual cave was sealed off to the public in 1994. But an exact replica has been built and the entire experience has been beautifully designed to give the visitor an unforgettable experience of cave life and art. This is a trip you will never forget. 

• Distance from Lyon: 125 miles
• Time to get there: 2 hours by car, 2.5 by train and 4 by bus

Day Trips From Lyon – Frequently Asked Questions

How many days do you need in lyon france.

We would recommend 5-7 days in Lyon, plus more if you’re planning on taking day trips from Lyon.

Can you do a day trip from Lyon to Geneva?

While many guides suggest crossing the Swiss border to visit Lake Geneva, the Geneva water fountain, and Europe’s United Nations headquarters, the trip is quite far and is better as an overnight than a day trip.

What cities are between Lyon and Nice?

If you wish to travel from Lyon through southeast France, you can pass through the towns of Valence, Grenoble, Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, and Cannes on the way to Nice.

Caitlin Shetterly isan Editor at Large of Frenchly. She is also the author of 4 books:  Fault Lines,   Made for You and Me ,  Modified,  and the novel ,  Pete and Alice in Maine , which was published in 2023 by  Harper.  She is a native daughter and she lives with her two sons and husband in an old house on the coast of Maine. 

Also Read: The Best Things to Do in Lyon, France: A Local’s 2023 Guide

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The 20 Best Day Trips from Lyon, France

Located in the southeast of France in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, Lyon is a captivating city that is often overshadowed by some of the better-known areas of the country.

Those who do decide to add Lyon to their itineraries will not be disappointed, as this city is often considered the foodie capital of France. The city is also home to some seriously impressive architecture and history, and the surrounding area is full of charming villages, medieval towns, and breathtaking natural areas. Make Lyon your home base and explore all that this stunning region has to offer.

Scroll down to see our guide to the best day trips from Lyon that’ll help you plan the perfect trip to this part of France.

Table of Contents

The lovely city of Annecy is one of the most popular day trips from Lyon, and for good reason. It’s not too far away – about 1.5 hours by car – and it’s main draw is the incredible sightseeing and food tasting this town provides. No food lover can come to Annecy without tasting some of the local delicacies including raclette, rissoles, or polenta.

There are perfect photo-ops around every corner, from the colorful houses with blooming flower boxes to the mountainous backdrop that peeks out from behind the city. The canals are also particularly photogenic, as are the Jardins de l’Europe situated on the waterfront of Lake Annecy .

The lake is considered to be the purest in Europe, and on warm days you can cool off on the beach or partake in a variety of water activities.

No matter what time of year you visit, you won’t want to miss the town’s two medieval castles. The Palais de l’Isle was used as both a castle and prison in its day, and now houses a local history museum. Even if you don’t enter the building, you should not miss this stunning edifice located along the main canal. The Château d’Annecy is a bit larger and further from the center, but equally impressive – and home to a great art museum.

2. Pèrouges

Step back in time into one of France’s most beautiful villages, Pèrouges. This enchanting town is impeccably preserved with medieval architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and historical undertones that’ll leave you feeling like you stepped into a storybook.

Fill your day by wandering the cobblestoned streets and admiring the half-timbered houses, or head to one of the two museums to learn more about the town’s history.

Stop at the town’s gastronomy restaurants, and , and enjoy a meal at the Hostellerie de Pèrouge s if you’re really looking to play into the medieval fantasy of the town. Waiters dress in period costumes and serve up delicious meals in the old-fashioned dining room of the hotel.

The small town sits upon a hill overlooking the Ain River , and the surrounding fields add to the pleasant charm. There are several trails outside of town, and you could spend the whole afternoon hiking.

Not to be confused with the Austrian city of Vienna, this French town makes for a great day trip from Lyon. Located just 30 minutes south along the Rhône River , you’ll have plenty of time to explore all that this ancient city has to offer.

The town is packed with Roman ruins, the most noteworthy being the Temple d’Auguste et de Livie , a well-preserved structure dating all the way back to the 1st century B.C. The city’s Thèâtre Antique is equally as impressive, if only slightly younger, and could seat up to 13,000 spectators.

Other noteworthy structures that shouldn’t be missed include the Cloître de rune-le-Bas and the Cathèdrale Saint-Maurice . There are also numerous museums in this historic city for those looking to learn a little more about its past.

4. Beaujolais Wine Region

Wine lovers will find the best day trip within the Beaujolais Wine Region, which starts just outside of Lyon. You’ll drive past some incredible scenery as you make your way through this region, with plenty of picturesque vineyards, mountains, and greenery around every turn.

The small villages along the route are, of course, the highlight. Do some wine tasting, explore cellars, and even visit family-run wineries that’ll show you the process and explain the history of making the light-bodied reds that Beaujolais is famous for.

5. Grenoble

Situated at the bottom of the Alps, the city of Grenoble is another must-see city when you’re considering day trips from Lyon. Although known for being a great base for winter sports due to its proximity to the mountains, this city has a lot to offer no matter what time of year you’re visiting.

Besides admiring the beautiful backdrop, you can spend the day meandering through the city center, visiting museums, or people watching on a bench in the Place Victor Hugo .

One of the main draws of Grenoble is La Bastille , the city’s hilltop fortress. More active travelers can make the steep, one-hour climb to the top – while those looking for a more relaxing experience can take a ride in the iconic cable cars. No matter how you get there, you’ll be rewarded with incredible views across the city and surrounding alps.

Although the city is famous for its mustard, Dijon is worth a visit even if you aren’t a fan of the condiment. The town is both beautiful and historic, with a fascinating culture to boot.

You could spend the whole day strolling around the old town as you take in views of half-timbered houses, check out the impressive Church of Notre Dame , or climb the Tour Philippe le Bon for sweeping views over the whole city. The Musée des Beaux-Arts is also worth a stop, as it is located inside the former Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy .

Dijon is in the Burgundy region, so both mustard and wine tastings are compulsory for foodies who stop by the town. For a more filling experience, head to the Les Halles Market , designed by the same architect who designed the Eiffel Tower.

7. Ambronay

Those looking for a quiet day trip from Lyon will find a welcome reprieve in the small town of Ambronay, located about an hour away to the northeast.

This sacred city was built around the Abbey of Ambronay over the course of several centuries, and the architecture is a sight to behold. The Abbey and its ornate Gothic style church is the main point of interest in this small village.

If you’re visiting during the months of September and October, check out the Festival d’Ambronay , which takes place inside of the church and features concerts of classical music from celebrated composers.

Ambronay is also home to a Michelin-star restaurant, the Auberge de l’Abbaye , which is famous for its fresh ingredients sourced from the local market.

8. Domaine de Lacroix-Laval

Another fun day trip not too far from Lyon can be found in Domaine del Lacroix-Laval. This countryside estate is surrounded by verdant parkland and is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city.

The former castle has been open to the public since the 1980s, and is a popular place to enjoy a picnic, go for a nature walk, or simply relax on the well-manicured grass. There are also fitness trails, an eco garden, playgrounds, and even pony rides.

9. Bourg-en-Bresse

History lovers will not want to miss a day trip to Bourg-en-Bresse while they are in Lyon.

Voted as the favorite monument of the French, the Monastère Royal de Brou is one of the top attractions in this city. The Gothic-style monastery dates back to the 16th century and is now used as an art museum.

The city’s Old Town is also an impressive sight to see, thanks to the Bourge-en-Bresse Cathedral and the half-timbered farmhouses – one of which, dates back to the 15th century.

The region was once famous for the high quality and tasty chickens it raised, and Bresse chicken is on the menu of a few of the finer restaurants in town if you’d like to taste one for yourself.

10. Sainte-Croix-en-Jarez

One of the most beautiful villages in France is located less than an hour away from Lyon in the verdant hills of the Pilat Regional Natural Park . Sainte-Croix-en-Jarez is simply stunning, and makes for a great day trip.

The charming village’s original construction has been nearly perfectly preserved since the middle ages. The town sits inside the walls of a former Carthusian monastery, and visitors can explore the village’s church, hermitage rooms, and cloister, if you decide to book a tour.

After you finish exploring this ancient walled city, you can spend the rest of the day hiking along scenic trails that stretch across the surrounding area.

Known for its pink sparkling wine, one-of-a-kind copper factory, and outlying caves, the commune of Cerdon makes for a great day trip from Lyon.

The village itself is steeped along the hills of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region and is surrounded by vineyards and miles of hiking trails. This historical town dates back to the 13th century, and you’ll be able to see some of the original architecture if you take the time to wander the streets.

The most popular thing to do in this area, however, is exploring the caves. Over time, the caves have served as shelter, a refuge for lepers, and in more recent times, a storage space for aging cheese. You can take a guided tour or explore them yourselves, but either way, you will not be disappointed by these incredible mounds.

12. La Clusaz

If you’re visiting Lyon during the winter, don’t miss your chance to visit the French Alps. La Clusaz makes for a great day trip or a pleasant weekend getaway, as it’s just a couple of hours away from the city.

Skiers of all skill levels will find runs suited to their experience, and backcountry skiers will also have plenty of terrain to carve up. If you’re not a fan of skiing, the city also has ten bars and restaurants and hundreds of shops to keep you busy.

13. Château de la Roche

Looking like it came straight out of a fairytale, Château de la Roche is one of the most beautiful castles in France and is only about an hour’s drive from Lyon.

The castle sits on an island in a lake formed by the Villerest Dam in the Loire River, adding to its charm and storybook appeal. Although built in the 13th century, the castle underwent some much-needed restorations in the early 1900s, resulting in the Gothic-like style that we see today.

This is a great day trip for families, as the Château de la Roche often hosts fun activities like costume parties, treasure hunts, and escape games.

14. Aix-Les-Bains

Those looking for a little R&R during their time in Lyon should consider a day trip to the lovely town of Aix-Les-Bains. This lakeside resort town is only about an hour and a half away and offers an array of beautiful architecture and verdant scenery.

Sandwiched between the Bauges Massif Regional Nature Park and the stunning Bourget Lake, you’ll have plenty of incredible views during trip. It’s also an international hot spot thanks to the nearby thermal pools and sulfur springs.

Those hoping to relax can book a day at the Chevalley Thermal Baths , and those looking for a more active experience can head to the lake for a variety of hiking trails and water sports.

15. Abbey of Hautecombe

While you’re visiting Aix-Les-Bains, take a boat trip out to the stunning monument of Abbey of Hautecombe, located on the other side of Bourget Lake. It’s definitely worth the detour before heading back to Lyon.

The historic Cistercian Abbey dates back to the 12th century and is home to the Maison de Savoie’s medieval tombs. There’s a lot to see, including a church, cloister, chapel, lighthouse, and the King’s apartments.

16. Château Grillet

Another charming day trip awaits in the small town of Vèrin , about an hour south of Lyon. Located in the hillside of the Northern Rhône region, the main draw to this little village is the Château Grillet. It was one of the first vineyards in the region to produce its own wine, all the way back in 1830.

This vineyard has a long history dating back to the times of the Romans, and you can even see ruins from this period just a short distance away from the estate. Nowadays this small vineyard produces some of the rarest wine in the country – and it’ll cost you a pretty penny to taste some.

17. Geneva, Switzerland

Why not head across the border and see some of Switzerland for the day? It’s less than a two-hour trip from Lyon and is easily reachable with public transportation.

This international city is a global hub. Geneva is surrounded by the alps, and the picturesque Lake Geneva adds to the astounding beauty of this city.

There is a lot to see here, but you shouldn’t miss the St. Pierre Cathedral . After you admire its beauty, you can climb to the top and be rewarded with sweeping views over the city and surrounding landscape.

Other popular activities in Geneva include strolling through Old Town , shopping, and of course, enjoying a tasty meal with a glass of wine. Geneva is notably expensive, so going here for the day might just be the best way to experience it!

18. Morvan Regional Natural Park

Immerse yourself in nature and spend the day at the Morvan Regional Natural Park. Located 2.5 hours away from Lyon, it’s a bit of a trek, but those that make the journey will be rewarded with some peace and quiet that’s hard to find in the bustling city center.

Once there, spend the day hiking, visiting waterfalls, or even visiting the little museums that dot the area. The natural park stretches over a large area, so be sure to plan your visit well so you can get the most out of it.

19. Chalon-sur-Saône

One of the lesser-known day trips from Lyon is the town of Chalon-sur-Saône, located on the banks of the Saône River .

After a walk along the river, head into town to the Place Saint-Vincent and admire the medieval architecture of the half-timbered houses and the beautiful Chalon Cathedral.

Another point of interest is the Musée Nicéphore-Niépce , named after one of the town’s most famous residents who is credited as being the inventor of photography.

20. Chazelles-sur-Lyon

An interesting day trip awaits in you Chazelles-sur-Lyon, the former center of hat making in France.

The main reason for visiting this small town is the Musée du Chapeau ,or “Hat Museum”. While it may sound a bit dull, the museum takes you through the history of hat making and fashion in an interesting and engaging way.

You can even order a custom hat for a special occasion or as a unique souvenir!

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• Destinations
• Day Trips from Lyon

16 Terrific Day Trips From Lyon Into The Heart of France

Published 28 July 2023 by  Leyla Alyanak  — Parisian by birth, Lyonnaise by adoption, historian by passion

Lyon is strategically located in central France, so getting out for fabulous day trips is easy. I've tried to save you some time by sharing my own personal favorites, places I visit again and again. 

Lyon is a wonderful city and, like Paris, it's hard to leave. There's enough to keep you busy for days!

You have the food, the magnificent outdoor murals, the mysterious secret traboules... there are so many wonderful things to do in Lyon .

But what happens once you've seen it all? Or if you just want a break from the city?

Within close reach of Lyon − in two hours or less with direct trains from Lyon Part-Dieu station − you'll find amazing vineyards, some of the prettiest towns in France, adorable medieval buildings and villages, Roman ruins, a Papal palace, and fields of lavender. And that's just a start.

There's a reason my region (yes, I happen to live here!), the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, is considered the heart of France...so please, let me be your guide.

NOTE: Pages on this site may contain affiliate links, which bring in a small commission at no cost to you.

COMING TO FRANCE? THESE RESOURCES CAN HELP!

🏨 Accommodation - I rent hotels quickly and easily through  booking.com 🚘 Car rentals - I use  Discovercars , Europe's best car rental website 🚊 Train tickets - I book my train and bus tickets on  Trainline 🚌 Day tours - I take the best day tours with  Viator and GetYourGuide

The 16 best day trips from Lyon, France

• 1. Aix-les-Bains
• 2. Annecy
• 3. Avignon
• 4. The Beaujolais
• 5. Bourg-en-Bresse
• 6. The Bugey
• 7.  Chambéry
• 8. Dijon
• 9. The Dombes
• 10. Evian-les-Bains
• 12. Grenoble
• 13. Orange
• 14. Pérouges
• 15. Valence
• 16. Vienne

Final thoughts on day trips from Lyon

Lyon has been a city at the crossroads since Roman times.

Two major rivers meet here, the Saône and the Rhône, and under the Roman Empire, Lyon – then called Lugdunum – was on the road from Rome to Hispania, or Spain.

During the Middle Ages, huge trade fairs attracted merchants from across Europe and again, Lyon was perfectly positioned, eventually becoming the silk capital of Europe.

Today, Lyon remains at the heart of France, about halfway between Paris and the French Riviera and surrounded by some of France's most iconic and exquisite sights.

What follows is a list of the best day trips from Lyon , all of which I've experienced personally and can recommend most enthusiastically. This list will help save you research time so that you can spend that time enjoying the sights!

HOW TO TRAVEL OUT OF LYON

There are 3 different ways to take day trips from Lyon:

• Take the train . Many of these destinations can be easily reached by train, which remains economical and efficient. Here's where you can book your tickets .
• Rent a car (or use your own!) Driving outside Lyon is as much a pleasure as it is a hassle driving inside the city. Rent a car for the day  if there are no trains where you're going.
• Take a tour . There are many day tours leaving Lyon, from large groups to private chauffeur-driven excursions - have a browse here to get an idea.

Best day trips from Lyon

Most of the following day trips can be done by train. Where that's not the case, I've offered alternatives. I've also added an icon after each day trip destination to help you decide:

• 🚝 you can easily go by train
• 🚘 it's better to drive
• ☂️ take a tour

1. Aix-les-Bains 🚘 🚝

Aix-les-Bains is a charming town with mountains on one side and a gorgeous lake on the other, making it is easy to combine a city visit with a hike or a boat ride.

This day trip is ideal if you want to visit a small, offbeat city surrounded by plenty of nature. It was a favorite of Queen Victoria , and much of the spa town remains as she would have seen it.

Things to do in Aix-les-Bains

• Spend an hour or two at the thermal baths and spas, known for their therapeutic properties.
• Enjoy the Art Deco and Belle Epoque architecture, including the Casino.
• Stroll along the redeveloped boardwalk along the lake and enjoy the cafés and restaurants in the port.
• Drop by  Le Musée Lapidaire , an archeological museum located in a Gallo-Roman temple. 
• Head down to the lake for a stroll along what is called the Riviera of the Alps. If you have the time, you can take a boat across the Lac du Bourget to the stunning lakeside Abbaye d'Hautecombe, a magical 12-th century building nearly hidden in the forest. This is where the Dukes of Savoy were traditionally buried. You can also drive here – it's a half-hour away.

TAKING THE TRAIN FROM LYON TO AIX-LES-BAINS 

• Number of trains a day: 22
• Length of journey: 1h32
• Arrival station: Aix-les-Bains – Le Revard

Check the schedules and buy your Lyon to Aix-les-Bains train ticket here

2. Annecy 🚝 🚘

You've probably heard of the alpine town of  Annecy , one of (if not THE) prettiest towns in France. It has a gorgeous lake, spectacular mountains, and a delightful medieval quarter. It's hard not to love!

It's a perfect day trip from Lyon and takes  about two hours by train , with the first train leaving Lyon around 7am and the last train leaving Annecy around 7.30pm. This means you can have lunch in Annecy, but you'll have to plan on having dinner back in Lyon.

This day trip is ideal if you want to walk on cobblestones and under arcades, but also take a break by the lake.

Things to do in Annecy

• Walk around the Old Town . It is so impossibly picturesque you'll think you walked straight into a postcard. The triangular Palais de l'Isle, once a prison and now an exhibition space, is an iconic sight many people instantly recognize.
• Enjoy Lake Annecy . Either take a boat ride on its crystal-clear waters, or walk or ride its circumference. The lake is now circled by a hiking/bike path . 
• If you're a bit adventurous, this is a major and hugely popular paragliding site .
• Walk up to Annecy Castle. The 12th-century structure stands above the "Venice of the Alps", as Annecy is often called.
• On Tuesday or Friday morning, enjoy the market in the Old Town, and on the last Saturday of the month, it's time for the monthly antiques market.
• For something quirky, visit the Musée Paccard , dedicated to the history of bell-making and has a large collection of bells from around the world.

TAKING THE TRAIN FROM LYON TO ANNECY 

• Number of trains a day: 19
• Length of journey: 2h08
• Arrival station: Annecy

Check the schedules and buy your Lyon to Annecy train ticket here

3. Avignon 🚝

Avignon is not an obvious day trip destination but at just over two hours from Lyon on the high-speed train, it's do-able. The Avignon train station is right in the town center and near the sights, so exploring is easy.

This day trip is ideal if you're fascinated by the Middle Ages and European history.

Things to do in Avignon

• Visit the Papal Palace, the seat of the papacy during the 14th century and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Discover the Pont d'Avignon (Avignon Bridge), subject of one of France's most famous children's songs.
• Take a walk through the delightful old town of Avignon and explore its many ancient landmarks. Or take a walking tour that includes a skip-the-line ticket to the Papal Palace.
• Stop at Les Halles for some delicious food.
• Visit the strategic 14th-century Fort Saint-André in Villeneuve-lez-Avignon, across the river.

TAKING THE TRAIN FROM LYON TO AVIGNON 

• Number of trains a day: 28
• Length of journey: 2h17
• Arrival station: Avignon Centre

Check the schedules and buy your Lyon to Avignon train ticket here

4. Beaujolais wine region ☂️ 🚘 

Villefranche-sur-Saône is the jumping off point for the Beaujolais region, right on the banks of the Saône river and surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills.

The town is also known for its cultural and artistic heritage, with several museums and galleries to visit.

You can't visit the entire Beaujolais in a day but you can get a taste of it!

• Go wine-tasting, of course, from château to château, and even stay in one overnight – the  Chateau Montmelas  is my favorite.
• Stroll around Villefranche-sur-Saône, the capital of the Beaujolais, and enjoy the Renaissance architecture.
• Visit the collégiale Notre-Dame-des-Marais, built over four centuries beginning in the 12th, of both Romanesque and Gothic architecture.
• Take a day trip to one of the nearby vineyards and combine your wine-tasting with a gourmet meal and spa treatments at the Château de Pizay
• Take a drive to the delightful village of Oingt, in the area called the Pierres Dorées, or golden stones, named after the color of the building stone.

EXPLORING THE BEAUJOLAIS 

This trip is best done by car if you want the freedom to explore, or by taking a tour from Lyon if you'd rather make sure you don't miss any of the sights:

➽   Half-Day Wine Tour in the Beaujolais ➽   Beaujolais and the Medieval Town of Pérouges ➽   Private Beaujolais wine tour with a French sommelier & Michelin star lunch

5. Bourg-en-Bresse 🚝

Bourg-en-Bresse is the capital of the Ain department and a small provincial town that happens to pack quite a bit of punch.

It has plenty of historical monuments and a delightful (though small) old town, along with classical buildings and a reputed gastronomical reputation.

This is a town for those who like to go off the beaten path, witness artisans still at work, and eat exquisite regional food.

Things to do in Bourg-en-Bresse

• Visit the 16th-century Gothic Monastère Royal de Brou (Royal Monastery of Brou), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Brou museum has a significant collection reflecting the history of the town and the region.
• Take a walk through the old town of Bourg-en-Bresse, filled with half-timbered houses and plenty of historic architecture and landmarks.
• Explore the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de l'Annonciation and its Gothic-Renaissance mix and its wood-carved interior and stained glass windows.
• Visit Vonnas, a half-hour drive away (or 45 min by train), and have lunch at L'Ancienne Auberge 1900 to sample a volaille de Bresse, or Bresse chicken, which has a protected designation of origin. The entire village gravitates around this and several other restaurants (plus a hotel complex) of Michelin-starred Georges Blanc.

TAKING THE TRAIN FROM LYON TO BOURG-EN-BRESSE 

• Number of trains a day: 27
• Length of journey: 59m
• Arrival station: Bourg-en-Bresse

Check the schedules and buy your Lyon to Bourg-en-Bresse train ticket here

6. The Bugey 🚘

This one is easy – it's MY region!

Half of it is undulating plains and gentle hillsides covered with vineyards, while the other half is wild and rugged, not surprising given it borders the Alpine départements of the Savoie and Haute-Savoie, the Jura Mountains, and Switzerland.

This is a visit for those of you who want to combine nature and food.

Things to do in the Bugey

• The Bugey is a place to drive around and enjoy the countryside, or go hiking or climbing in the Gorges de l'Albarine.
• Visit the unusual town of Seyssel, a town split in two with two churches, two banks, two pharmacies, two schools, two post offices... France used to end here and the Rhône delineated the border between France and what was then Savoy.
• In winter, this area is ideal for cross-country skiing and snowsheoing.
• In summer, you can enjoy a multitude of small lakes to get away from the heat of the city. Find out more from the Haut-Bugey tourist office .

EXPLORING THE BUGEY 

While there are train stations in the area, once you get there, you have no way to explore the countryside. You'll need a car for this one!

• Distance from Lyon: 56km / 34mi
• Driving time to starting point at Ambérieu-en-Bugey: 46 min 

Rent your car in Lyon to drive to the Bugey

7. Chambéry 🚝

Chambéry was once the capital of Savoy, a duchy in southeastern France that joined France in 1860. It's heaven for outdoor activities and sports, winter and summer, right at the foot of the French Alps.

It also has a compact but appealing old town, perfect for a wander through the history of Savoy.

Things to do in Chambery

• Visit the Castle of the Dukes of Savoy, a historic castle that was once the duchy's seat. It houses a regional history museum and a chapel with a 70-bell carillon, the largest in Europe.
• Visit the 15th-century Cathédrale Saint François de Sales, which has the largest collection of trompe l'oeil in Europe. The ceiling and walls look like they've been carved but no, all those curlicues are actually painted on.
• Circle the Elephant Fountain, simply because it's not usual to see elephants in this part of the world. In this case they're paying homage to a certain General de Boigne's exploits in India, where he made a fortune and reinvested some of it in beautifying Chambéry upon his return.
• If you happen to be a fan of the 18th-century philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau , you'll find a statue of him in the Parc du Clos Savoiroux and Les Charmettes , the house where he spent several years with Mme de Warens, his mistress and benefactress.
• To learn even more about Chambery, take this self-guided tour with your smartphone.

TAKING THE TRAIN FROM LYON TO CHAMBERY 

• Number of trains a day: 21
• Length of journey: 1h28
• Arrival station: Chambéry

Check the schedules and buy your Lyon to Chambery train ticket here

8. Dijon 🚝

Dijon is always a favorite destination, with its ancient streets and history as the former capital of the Dukes of Burgundy.

This is a city for visitors who want a bit of an urban vibe, with plenty of history and culture, and a major dedication to food and wine. Remember, Dijon is right on the Burgundy Wine Route (for when you have more than a day).

Things to do in Dijon

• Visit the brand new Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin, an amazing food and wine complex with shops, restaurants, exhibits, wine tastings, workshops and even cooking classes.
• Admire the Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne (Palace of the Dukes and States of Burgundy), a beautiful Renaissance building that is home to the Fine Arts Museum and its two, incredibly ornate and carved tombs of the Dukes of Burgundy.
• Take a walk through the old town of Dijon by following the Owl's Trail , which will guide you to all the major attractions of Dijon, like the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Dijon, the city's medieval streets, and the many urban mansions scattered throughout the city.
• If you're a fan of quirky small museums , head for the Musée de la Vie Bourguignonne (Museum of Burgundian Life), which traces the history of Dijon through all sorts of interesting displays ranging from the everyday life of schoolchildren to an array of ancient shops, decorated the way they used to be. It's a ten-minute walk from the center but you can take the free bus or just walk – I loved this little museum!
• And if you're feeling athletic, climb the 300 steps of Tour Philippe le Bon for spectacular views over Dijon. On Friday and Saturday evenings, you can have an enjoyable " apéro " – or pre-dinner drink – at the top of the tower. Just take your time climbing!
• Since you don't have the time to go wine-tasting in Burgundy, let Burgundy come to you with this wine-tasting experience in the heart of Dijon.

TAKING THE TRAIN FROM LYON TO DIJON 

• Number of trains a day: 23
• Length of journey: 1h59
• Arrival station: Dijon Ville

Check the schedules and buy your Lyon to Dijon train ticket here

9. The Dombes 🚘

This is a rural wetland region dotted with tiny lakes, or ponds, ideal for enjoying its many protected areas, hiking and birdwatching. It's often referred to as the "land of 1000 ponds".

Come here to sample some of the characteristic specialties, like the local chicken or local frogs' legs. Eat your fill and then take a wander through the gentle waterways.

Things to do in the Dombes

• The Parc des Oiseaux, or Bird Park, with 3000 birds belonging to 300 species, undertakes a number of conservation measures in favor of endangered species.
• Stroll around the medieval village of Châtillon-sur-Chalaronne with its historical center, indoor market hall, and numerous artisans.
• Enjoy the Miniature Train Museum  (site in French), the perfect outing if you have kids in tow.

GETTING FROM LYON TO THE DOMBES AND CHÂTILLON-SUR-CHALARONNE

While there are plenty of trains to Châtillon-en-Chalaronne (a 40min ride), you'll need a car to explore the Dombes.

• Distance from Lyon: 53km / 33mi
• Length of drive: 55min

Rent your car in Lyon to drive to the Dombes

10. Evian-les-Bains 🚘 

This is a lovely town but a little far from Lyon. 

However, if you're visiting Geneva or planning a little road trip into the Alps , you may be stopping in Evian along the way. You CAN go for the day if you don't mind the drive.

This day trip is ideal if you want to see Lake Geneva and find out all about Evian water, while perhaps enjoying a few spa treatments.

Things to do in Evian-les-Bains

• As the home of Evian water, you can visit their exhibit and fill up your water at their public fountain.
• Drop by the spa for a treatment or the casino for a game.
• Mostly, though, walk around and admire the architecture from the Belle Epoque .

GETTING FROM LYON TO EVIAN-LES-BAINS 

You could take the train but the quickest one is 3 hours and you'll have to change at least once. This is a visit that requires a car. If you drive, stop to visit the lovely medieval village of Yvoire  along the way.

• Distance: 223km / 138mi
• Length of drive: 2h35

Rent your car in Lyon to drive to Evian-les-Bains

11. Geneva 🚝

Yes, I know Geneva is in Switzerland, not France, but locally, it's often treated as if it were part of France. Many French people work in Geneva, and many Swiss live in France. It's a so-called "border zone" and these days, the border is pretty fluid.

Geneva is an easy day trip from Lyon, especially if you're in the mood to cross a border and  are looking for a bit of "international" flavor.

Things to do in Geneva

• Admire the Jet d'Eau, one of the world's tallest fountains and possibly Geneva's most iconic sight.
• Take a classic selfie at the floral clock, the city's other iconic sight. The floral arrangements change regularly so even if you've been here before, it will probably look different.
• Walk around the Old Town and university grounds, where you'll find the Wall of the Reformers, built in honor of the leaders of the Protestant movements.
• Hop the tram to ancient Carouge, sometimes nicknamed Geneva's "Greenwich Village", full of welcoming restaurants and boutiques.
• Visit the United Nations headquarters . It's a one-hour visit but a fascinating one. However, the UN building is being renovated so the number of visits has been cut, which means it may take several months to snag a place – sop reserve early!
• Visit the brilliant Red Cross Museum (and have lunch at their surprisingly good cafeteria).
• Don't miss the opportunity of a chocolate-tasting tour while in Geneva! If you have extra time, you can also take a  half-day tour to Annecy  from there.

TAKING THE TRAIN FROM LYON TO GENEVA

• Number of trains a day: 14
• Length of journey: 2h18
• Arrival station: Genève

Check the schedules and buy your Lyon to Geneva train ticket here

12. Grenoble 🚝 

If you're visiting in winter, Grenoble will be your jumping off point for many of the nearby ski resorts. If you come in summer, you'll be coming for history and for the views.

This day trip is ideal if you want stunning views and are interested in World War II history.

Things to do in Grenoble

• La Bastille, a 19th-century military fort that stands above the city, has been converted into an entertainment and cultural space with restaurants and museums – definitely worth a visit.
• Getting there is the most fun: ride the cable car "bulles", or bubbles, and you'll be overlooking extraordinary panoramic views of Grenoble and the Alps.
• The city's museum – le Musée de Grenoble – has a solid beaux-arts collection and special exhibits worth the entrance fee. Last time I visited there was a magnificent series of Giacommetti sculptures...
• If you're interested in World War II history, the really excellent Musée de la Résistance et de la Déportation de l’Isère traces the region's history from 1939-1945, during which Grenoble fought the Nazis with great courage.

TAKING THE TRAIN FROM LYON TO GRENOBLE

• Number of trains a day: 29
• Length of journey: 1h27
• Arrival station: Grenoble

Check the schedules and buy your Lyon to Grenoble train ticket here

13. Orange 🚝 🚘 

Orange is on the way to Provence and has a rich history and cultural heritage, given its importance during Roman times. It also has a compact old town, for lovers of the medieval and classical eras.

It's a bit far for a day trip but totally worth it if you combine a visit to the Roman ruins with a wine-tasting trip to the excellent Rhône Valley vineyards nearby.

This day trip is ideal if you want to combine  Roman ruins and wine tasting.

Things to do in Orange

• Visit the Roman Amphitheater, one of the best preserved in France. It is still used for concerts and plays, especially in summer, during the Chorégies d’Orange, an international opera and classical music festival with a global reputation. 
• The other wonderful Roman ruin (and like the amphitheater, protected by the UNESCO World Heritage List) is the 2000-year-old Arc de Triomphe, which dates back to the first century and one of the world's best-preserved Roman arches.
•  Go taste some wine in the nearby Rhône Valley, home to such famous wines as Chateauneuf-du-Pape. It's a ten-minute drive if you've come by car but if not, consider taking a tour to the vineyards (almost better than driving since you'll be able to sample!)
• Shop at the massive weekly town market, every Thursday morning.

TAKING THE TRAIN FROM LYON TO ORANGE

• Number of trains a day: 24
• Length of journey: 2h26
• Arrival station: Orange

Check the schedules and buy your Lyon to Orange train ticket here

14. Pérouges 🚘 🚝

This village in the Ain department is the place to head if you're keen on visiting an exquisite medieval village, with cobblestone streets, in fact, one of the  most beautiful villages in France . The town has a rich history and was an important center of trade and industry during the Middle Ages.

In high season it can get crowded (you'll see all the tour buses in the parking lot) but here's a tip:  stay overnight , and have the village almost to yourself. 

It's the kind of village where you want to simply walk... stop and gaze... and walk again. Old, quaint, and stuffed with atmosphere.

Things to do in Pérouges

• Stroll. Just walk around and enjoy the beauty of the village of Perouges  and its medieval architecture.
• Stop by the artisan shops and enjoy the handworked crafts.
• Sample the galette de Pérouges, the local sweet tart or sugar pie (you'll know where to buy it because you'll smell the aroma drifting across the village – just follow your nose).
• Visit the tiny but fascinating Museum of Arts and Popular Traditions.
• Sit Sit on the terrace of the Hostellerie du Vieux Perouges and simply watch – something's always going on.
• Enjoy a more in-depth trip with a combination visit to Perouges and the Beaujolais from Lyon.

GETTING FROM LYON TO PEROUGES

You can take a half-hour train ride to Meximieux-Pérouges but you'll have a half-hour walk (uphill) to get to the village (it's not called a hilltop village for nothing). Otherwise it's an easy drive from Lyon.

• Distance from Lyon: 40km / 25mi
• Driving time: 30 min 

Rent your car in Lyon to drive to Pérouges

15. Valence 🚝 

Valence (the former Roman Valentia) was once an important Roman city, as you'll see from some of its vestiges, and it has some stunning pieces of architecture from the Middle Ages onward.

Valence is also known for its beautiful natural setting, as it is located in the heart of the Rhône Valley, surrounded by vineyards, rolling hills and the banks of the Rhône.

It's a bright, cheerful town, a gateway to the south of France, where you'll already begin to feel you're in Provence.

Things to do in Valence

• Visit the 11th-century Romanesque Cathédrale Saint-Apollinaire (above).
• Follow in the footsteps of Napoleon Bonaparte , who visited here 18 times between 1778-1814. You can follow his trace along Sur les Pas de Bonaparte , with 26 small plaques set in the sidewalk to guide you.
• Visit the Musée de Valence , whose 20,000 stretch back into prehistoric times. I'm partial to Roman mosaics and the museum has a few stellar pieces.
• Visit Le Pendentif, the pendant, a 16th-century memorial hidden away in the heart of the cathedral's cloister – a nice view at sunset.
• Built in 1530, La Maison des Têtes (the House of Heads) is probably the city's most famous monument, named after the allegorical sculptures that surround it (Napoleon enjoyed visiting it).
• An unusual venue is the Center for Armenian Heritage – Valence has the largest Armenian community in France (it makes up 10% of the population).
• Grab a burst of nature by heading to the port de l’Épervière, France's largest river port, or walking around one of the town's many parks.

TAKING THE TRAIN FROM LYON TO VALENCE

• Number of trains a day: 43
• Length of journey: 1hr
• Arrival station: Valence Ville*

Check the schedules and buy your Lyon to Valence train ticket here

*You can also get off at Valence Gare TGV, but you'll have to catch a train (12min) to Valence Ville or bus X73 (half an hour).

16. Vienne 🚝

Not to be confused with Vienna, Austria (in French they're both spelled the same), this city south of Lyon is best known for its Gallo-Roman ruins and is easy to reach if you don't have much time.

Spread over several sites and museums, the town is an absolute delight for lovers of Antiquity – but also for its medieval treasures, churches and cloisters (and wine-tasting in the Côtes du Rhone).

Things to do in Vienne

• Topping the list is a visit to the Temple of Augustus and Livia, a well-preserved Roman temple from the 1st century CE.
• The Tour de l'Horloge is a medieval clock tower from which you can get panoramic views of the city.
• The Contemporary Art Museum has a large collection of modern and contemporary art.
• There are plenty of historical landmarks in the old town, like the Cathédrale Saint-Maurice and the Maison de l'Argence.
• Go wine-tasting in the surrounding Rhône Valley, home to some of the best vineyards in France.
• The weekly market is on Saturdays, if you happen to be in town on that day.

TAKING THE TRAIN FROM LYON TO VIENNE

• Number of trains a day: 50
• Length of journey: 24m
• Arrival station: Vienne

Check the schedules and buy your Lyon to Vienne train ticket here

Before you go...

Once you're back from your day trip outside Lyon, I hope you've made time for some of the wonderful things you shouldn't miss in Lyon:

• the city's extraordinary outdoor murals
• its secret passages, called traboules
• and the stunning view of the city from above, from Fourvière Hill .

Ready for your Lyon trip?

Here are some suggestions to make your visit even more enjoyable!

TOP LYON CITY TOURS  ➽   Vieux Lyon 4-hour Food Tasting Tour  - for inveterate foodies and gastronomes ➽   Discover Lyon Walking Tour - to explore the essence of the city

LYON DAY TRIPS ➽   Golden Stones Beaujolais - heart of the Golden Stone villages for wine lovers ➽   Northern Côtes du Rhône - meeting the winemakers ➽ Beaujolais and Pérouges - wine tasting and a medieval village visit

WHERE TO STAY IN LYON ➽   Villa Florentine  - stunning 5-star luxury overlooking the entire city ➽ Mi-Hotel Tour Rose - perfect apartments in historic Vieux Lyon ➽ Fourvière Hotel - elegant simplicity in a former cloister ➽ Hotel du Théatre - budget option in the heart of the classical district

Renting a car in Lyon? Compare prices here . Traveling here by train? Book your ticket here . To see the city, don't forget to book your Lyon City Card .

Did you enjoy this article? I'd love if you shared it!

Bonjour! I’m Leyla - I was born in Paris and now live in the bucolic mountain foothills of Eastern France between Lyon and Annecy. My days are spent exploring my country. 

I'm rediscovering my own back yard after years of living abroad as a journalist and diplomat - and I'm loving every minute.

Passionate about history and culture, I’ve created Offbeat France to seek out my country’s mysteries and legends, less-traveled destinations, along with plenty of food stops and many castles – I am French, after all!

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Best Day Trips from Lyon, France

Article written by Elisa - Travel Writer & Local in France This article may contain compensated links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

Lyon is one of our favorite cities in France and will likely steal your heart too. Considered one of the most beautiful cities in France , Lyon is also a vibrant and cultural place to visit, and there’s great food too!

Filled with interesting museums, unique shops, restaurants, and nightlife, you will need two days in Lyon to enjoy everything this amazing city offers. With more time available, why not take a day trip from Lyon?

These are the best day trips from Lyon, France, to inspire your trip; these day trips from Lyon by train, car, or guided tour are all close enough to Lyon to get there and back on one memorable day.

Lyon Day Trips in a Nutshell

Best day trips from Lyon by train: Beaune, Annecy, Dijon.

Book your train tickets with Omio.com or with Trainline.com

Best day trips from Lyon by car: Gorges de la Loire, Abbey of Hautecombe, Château de la Rôche.

Rent a car in Lyon with DiscoverCars.com . Check out our guide to driving in France , and click here for our best tips for renting a car in France .

Best day tours from Lyon: Pérouges , Beaujolais wine tour , Côtes du Rhône wine tour .

Best Lyon Day Trips

Where to go from Lyon? Here’s the list of the best places to visit near Lyon, France; fun Lyon day trips in Eastern France with something for every traveler:

• Pérouges
• Wine Regions Near Lyon
• Château de la Roche
• Aix-les-Bains
• Abbey of Hautecombe
• Gorges de la Loire – Monts du Forez
• Hospices of Beaune
• Saint-Etienne

1. Pérouges

If medieval villages are your thing, you will love Pérouges , 40 minutes outside Lyon. Perched on top of a small hill overlooking the Ain River, the walled village of Pérouges is listed as one of the “ Most Beautiful Villages in France .”

One of the prettiest French medieval towns , Pérouges has well-preserved architecture and an authentic historic atmosphere. Its winding cobblestone streets and lovely squares will transport you back in time.

You can combine sightseeing with one of the many hiking routes in the stunning countryside around the village. These day hiking routes from Pérouges range from 40 minutes to 2.5 hours.

A Lyon day trip to Pérouges is very easy to plan, as direct trains connect Lyon with Pérouges in less than 40 minutes. If you are traveling with a group, this Pérouges private tour from Lyon with tastings always gets excellent reviews.

2. Wine Regions Around Lyon

Escape Lyon’s hustle and bustle and follow one of the wine routes near Lyon to sip some good wine in the countryside.

Wine tours from Lyon are very popular among visitors and usually include the visit of a couple of wineries and some tastings, plus the possibility to buy as many bottles of excellent wine as you want directly from the producers.

This Beaujolais wine tour is one of the most popular day tours from Lyon. It explores the Beaujolais wine region and comes with a couple of tastings. Famous for its Beaujolais Nouveau, which is a Burgundy wine, the area is also dotted with charming little golden stone villages.

Côtes du Rhône wine tours are also popular. This wine region produces some of the most renowned wines in France, most notably its full-bodied reds. This Northern Rhône Valley wine tour mostly explores wineries in the Hermitage and Côte-Rôtie appellations and comes with many tastings (compared to wine tours in other regions in France).

If you have a car , many wineries in the area offer tours with tastings in French and English. They are usually small businesses, so be sure to book in advance so they can make the necessary arrangements to welcome you.

TIP:  If you plan to bring a few bottles home (who could resist?!),  make sure you pack your wine properly  so it arrives safely home!

Located by the lake of the same name, Annecy , in the Haute-Savoie department, has many historical and natural highlights to keep you busy the whole day. Also, get ready for some serious food tasting; the Savoie cuisine is famous for specialties like fondue, raclette, rissoles, or polenta.

And there’s also the lake! Known to be the purest in Europe, the Lac d’Annecy offers visitors relaxing beaches and a wide range of nautical activities.

Whether you prioritize sightseeing and ticking landmarks off your bucket list or simply soaking in the atmosphere of this pretty city, this  Annecy itinerary  comes with many ideas for your day trip from Lyon to Annecy.

This Lyon to Annecy day trip is one of the most popular. Sure, it is a long train journey (2 hours, one way, with the direct trains), but it is entirely worth it – Click here to buy your train tickets to Annecy

4. La Clusaz (French Alps)

Wintertime is ski time in the Alps, and some of the best ski resorts in the French Alps are not far from Lyon.

The ski resort of La Clusaz is less than a 2-hour drive from Lyon. La Clusaz is great for beginner and intermediate skiers (half the runs are rated blue), but more experienced people will also have fun with the challenging, long runs in the area of La Balme.

La Clusaz has 120km of pistes with magnificent views, but it is also an ideal spot for backcountry skiing, and there are even freeriding schools here. For après-ski (or non-skiers), La Clusaz has 10 bars and restaurants and 200 shops and services.

Feasible to do in one day, it is also one of the best weekend trips from Lyon for ski lovers.

5. Château de la Roche

Château de la Roche is one of the most beautiful castles in France , with a very picturesque setting. Located in the Loire department, on an island in the lake formed by the Villerest dam, this is a 13th-century château that went through a deep restoration in the Gothic style in the 1900s.

Château de la Roche is just 1 hour by car from Lyon, and it is one of the best day trips from Lyon to enjoy the city’s natural surroundings on this list. The castle hosts many costume events, treasure hunts, and other exciting activities great for kids and adults.

In only two hours by car or train, you can reach the beautiful city of Dijon, a favorite Lyon day trip amongst visitors and locals in Lyon. Dijon is the capital of the historical region of Burgundy and a large, thriving city with much to offer visitors.

Dijon was home to the Dukes of Burgundy, and as such, it has a fascinating cultural and architectural heritage. The list of fun things to see and do in Dijon includes a visit to the Musée des Beaux-Arts (former Palace of the Dukes), the Old Town, and the Central Market.

Dijon is also a great foodie destination in Burgundy, and you will also want to do some wine tastings. It is also the getaway to the Route des Grands Crus and other memorable French road trips in the Burgundy wine region – Click here to buy your train tickets to Dijon

7. Aix-les-Bains

Nicknamed the Riviera of the French Alps , Aix-les-Bains is a beautiful small city and lakeside resort nestled between the mountains and the Lac du Bourget. Thanks to the city’s hot springs and thermal baths, Aix-les-Bains attracted international tourism looking for the benefits of the sulfur springs. Without the thermal baths, Aix-les-Bains would never have had a casino, a racecourse, or such beautiful private mansions!

The city of Aix-les-Bains has some pretty sights and beautiful architecture. You can also enjoy a spa treatment at  Chevalley Thermal Baths or one of the endless activities around Lac du Bourget, the biggest natural lake in France.

Aix-les-Bains is located 105 km east of Lyon. The ride from Lyon to Aix-les-Bains takes 1 hr 30 min drive. It is also possible to visit by train from Lyon Part Dieu train station (1 hr 10 min one way) – Click here to buy your train tickets to Aix-les-Bains

8. Abbey of Hautecombe

For a more cultural day trip from Lyon, visit the  Abbey of Hautecombe on Lake de Bourget’s western shore. This beautiful 12th-century Cistercian Abbey is the location of the Maison de Savoie’s medieval tombs. Today, the House of Savoy is more well-known as the ex-Royal Family in Italy.

The Abbey of Hautecombe is a tourist site that receives 15,000 visitors yearly. The ensemble (church, cloister, terrace, the King’s apartments, chapel and court Saint-André, lighthouse, and boat barn) is protected as a Historic Monument.

The drive from Lyon to the Abbey takes 1 hr 23 min. If you decide to combine Aix-les-Bains and the Abbey of Hautecombe, take  this boat cruise  at Aix, which includes a visit to the Abbey.

9. Grenoble

If you want to see other cities near Lyon, then head over to Grenoble , as this is just 1 hr 20 min by direct train and 1 hr by car.

Nestled at the foot of the Alps and surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush forests, Grenoble is a vibrant city with many world-class art galleries perfect for a cultural day trip from Lyon.

Another popular tourist attraction in the city is La Bastille , Grenoble’s clifftop fortress. This historic construction dates back to the Middle Ages and, in the 1800s, was used to defend France against invasions from the Duchy of Savoy.

La Bastille is reached by a steep hour-long climb or with a cable car. At the summit, you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. On days of good visibility, you can even see the tip of Mont Blanc! – Click here to buy your train tickets to Grenoble

10. Gorges de la Loire – Monts du Forez

The meanders of the Gorges de la Loire , between Saint-Paul-en-Cornillon and Chambles, are among the most beautiful places to visit near Lyon. If you follow the river’s zig-zags, you will find beautiful spots like the Ile de Grangent , occupied by the remains of a medieval castle.

At the time of its construction, around 800, the Château de Grangent was standing on a rocky promontory 60 meters above the Loire River. The Château dominated the gorges and offered an ideal surveillance point over the surroundings.

With the construction of a dam in 1957, the former rocky promontory became a small island in a lake, the Lac de Grangent . Now offering a picturesque panorama to visitors, the ensemble is reminiscent of when the gorges were a strategic route between Forez and Velay.

The drive from Lyon to Ile de Grangent takes 1 hour. Château de Grangent is overlooked by a larger castle, the Château d’Essalois . You can visit both castles and the medieval village of Saint-Victor-sur-Loire on a busy (but memorable) Lyon day trip.

11. Visit the Hospices of Beaune

Beaune is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the historical region of Burgundy. This small city is mainly known for its wine and the Hospices de Beaune.

The Hospices de Beaune was built in the 15th century as a medieval hospital for the poor, and it boasts splendid traditional Burgundian architecture. The place remained in use until the 20th century and today is a museum of the history of medicine.

While you are there, you can learn more about the wines of Burgundy at La Maison des Climats (Porte Marie de Bourgogne, access is available through the Tourism Office), the must-place for anyone wanting to understand the climats vine-growing lands of Burgundy. If you want to buy a couple of bottles as a souvenir from your Burgundy day trip, there are many wineries in town that offer wine tours with tastings (book online in advance).

Located 155 km north of Lyon, Beaune is one of the best day trips from Lyon by train (1 hr 40 minutes, one way) – Click here to buy your tickets to Beaune

12. Get Artsy in Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is one of the main cities in the Auvergne-Rhône Alpes region . Located only 50 km from Lyon, Saint-Etienne makes a perfect day trip from the City of Lights.

Saint-Etienne has a rich industrial history. Today, the city is a European design capital thanks to an urban renewal program, and it’s known for its surrounding scenery, vibrant cultural scene, and football home club, AS Saint-Etienne.

From visiting museums to simply walking around the city, you will see art installations everywhere. Saint-Etienne has a special atmosphere that will make you fall in love instantly! – Click here to buy your tickets to Saint-Etienne

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Lyon

Day trips from lyon.

• Lyon to Tain-l'Hermitage
• Lyon to Fleurie
• Lyon to Perouges
• Lyon to Saint-Etienne
• Private Day Trips
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Northern Rhône Valley Day Tour with Wine Tasting from Lyon

2. Beaujolais Wine Tasting Day Tour from Lyon

3. Guided Day Tour and Wine Tasting Northern Rhône Valley

4. Beaujolais & Pérouges Wine & Food Tasting Private Day Tour from Lyon

5. Cotes du Rhone Wine Tour (9:00 am to 5:15 pm) - Small Group Tour from Lyon

6. Private tour to discover the soul of Beaujolais

7. Private half-day tour to Golden Stone Beaujolais with tastings

8. Pérouges & Annecy Private Day Trip with Food Tasting from Lyon

9. Pérouges Medieval Village Private Trip with Tasting from Lyon

10. Private Beaujolais wine tour from Lyon with a French sommelier

11. Full Day Guided Wine Tour with Tasting and Lunch

12. Beaujolais & Perouges Medieval Town (9:00 am to 5:15 pm - Small Group Tour Lyon

13. Macon & Beaujolais Wine Tour (9:00 am to 5:15 pm) - Small Group Tour from Lyon

14. Beaujolais Region Wine Tasting Private Day Tour from Lyon

15. Private Rhône-Valley wine tour with a French sommelier

16. Private Tour to Royal Monastery of Brou and Pérouges

17. Private Full Day Tour of Perouges and Annecy from Lyon with Hotel pick-up

18. Private Transfer From Lyon To Monaco With a 2 Hour Stop in Nice

19. Beaune & Burgundy Vineyards Private Day Trip from Lyon

20. Private Transfer From Lyon To Montpellier With a 2 Hour Stop

21. Shared Tour : Beaujolais - Pérouges

22. Beaujolais & Mâconnais : Private Full Day

23. Private Transfer From Lyon To Toulon With a 2 Hour Stop

24. Rhône Valley Wine & Chocolate Tasting Private Day Tour from Lyon

25. Full-Day Private Rhône Valley Wine Tour Experience from Lyon

26. Rhone Wine Lovers Tasting Day Tour from Lyon with Private Driver

27. Private Transfer From Lyon To Marseille With a 2 Hour Stop

28. Beaujolais Wine Lovers Tour with Private Driver

29. Very Best of Lyon : Private Tour

30. Beaujolais South to North Discovery Private Day Tour with Tastings from Lyon

What travellers are saying.

• Northern Rhône Valley Day Tour with Wine Tasting from Lyon
• Beaujolais Wine Tasting Day Tour from Lyon
• Guided Day Tour and Wine Tasting Northern Rhône Valley
• Beaujolais & Pérouges Wine & Food Tasting Private Day Tour from Lyon
• Full Day Monty Private Tour of Beaujolais
• M&T Lyon Tours
• DriverAirport
• Les visites de Clémence
• Lannister VTC Transport
• Kanpai Tourisme
• Lyon Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience

20 EPIC Day Trips from Lyon | For an unforgettable holiday

I didn’t expect much from my trip to Lyon, but I have to say that I fell in love with this city. I loved its historical city center, which was in total contrast with the more modern buildings located a few bus stations away from the center.

My only regret is that I didn’t have the chance to spend more time in Lyon, but I’ll come back someday. Meanwhile, I’ve compiled a list of the best day trips from Lyon. Enjoy!

Best day trips from Lyon

1. château de val.

Château de Val is a great option if you’re looking for places to visit near Lyon. It’s one of the best preserved historical sites in the region and is built upon a rock that’s over 40m (131 ft) high.

However, due to the valley being flooded its setting now looks very different and it can be found perched on the lakeside. Château de Val dates back to the 15th century, and you can explore its interior including gothic-style rooms and art exhibitions. It’s even possible to head up a staircase to the roof!

Getting to Château de Val – I recommend getting to this beautiful french castle by car. It’s a 3-hour drive from Lyon.

2. Pont-en-Royans

Pont-en-Royans is located in Southeast France and is situated along the Bourne River. This is one of the lesser-known tourist attractions near Lyon as there isn’t too much to do here. 

However, it’s easily one of the most scenic destinations in the area as you’ll get to see charming medieval houses. Not only is the architecture unique, but these houses are suspended on top of a clifftop that lines the river! 

Aside from admiring this unique view, you can also head to the Water Museum where you’ll get to learn about the water cycle and plastic pollution.

Getting to Pont-en-Royans – You can choose to take the train from Lyon to St Hilaire St Nazaire and then take a taxi for 11 km, or you can rent a car for the day to get to Pont-en-Royans.

This charming town is one of the most beautiful towns in Europe ! It’s situated along Lake Annecy and offers the perfect nature escape. Surrounded by alpine peaks, turquoise waters, and lush forests – it’s easily one of the most beautiful cities in France.

During your visit to Annecy, you’ll want to spend some time relaxing by ‘Europe’s cleanest lake’. However, there are plenty of other attractions to visit, including the city’s old town, which is home to over 20 historical monuments.

Annecy is one of the best places to visit near Lyon!

Getting to Annecy – There are plenty of trains and buses to choose from if you plan a day trip from Lyon to Annecy. The journey will take about 2 hours. Tip – usually, buses are cheaper.

If you’re looking for day trips from Lyon by train then head to Geneva. It’s only a two-hour journey and it’s stunning. It’s also the country’s second most populated city and is one of Switzerland’s most scenic places with dramatic views of the Alps, the Jura Mountains, and Lake Geneva.

As with any capital city, there are tons of attractions waiting for you including St. Pierre Cathedral. This historic building offers the best view of the city as you can climb up its towers! Also, don’t miss a boat tour on Lake Geneva ! You can admire the Geneva Water Fountain from up close!

Getting to Geneva – There are 12 daily trains to choose from if you want to get to Geneva. The ride takes about 2 hours. There are also buses available, but they’re much slower.

5. Chambéry

Surrounded by scenic mountain ranges and offering stunning views of the French Alps – Chambéry is one the best cities to visit from Lyon. Although it’s not one of the most popular destinations in France, this city has plenty to offer. 

If you’re heading to Chambéry on a Saturday you’re in for a treat. This is when the public market is held so you’ll be able to find a variety of fresh produce including cheeses. During the summer months, the iconic Tour de France also runs through the city.

Getting to Chambéry – I recommend taking the train if you want to go on a day trip from Lyon to Chambéry. It’s a one and half hours train ride and tickets cost as little as 10 euros one-way, if booked in advance.

6. Clermont-Ferrand

Clermont-Ferrand is situated in Central France and is one of the best places to visit from Lyon. It’s one of the oldest cities in the country and is thought to have been around since the 2nd Century AD.

The city is surrounded by a chain of around 80 volcanoes that stretch for 45km (28 miles). The area is named Chaîne des Puys and is just a 20-minute journey out of the city, making it a must-visit. 

There are plenty of other attractions to see in Clermont-Ferrand too including Basilique Notre-Dame du Port, L’Aventure Michelin, and Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption Cathedral.

Getting to Clermont-Ferrand – a train ride from Lyon to Clermont-Ferrand takes a little over 2 hours and prices start at 15 euros. There are also buses between these 2 destinations, but they’re a slower option.

7. La Clusaz

La Clusaz has to be one of the most beautiful places near Lyon – especially during the winter months. It’s a mountain village that’s considered to be one of the best holiday destinations in the Alps – especially for keen skiers! There are plenty of ski lifts and opportunities for snowboarding too. 

With stunning alpine peaks, lush meadows, and beautiful lakes, this place has a lot to offer. Even if you’re not heading there during the winter, you can still get involved with plenty of other activities in the area including horse riding, rafting, and climbing during summer.

Getting to La Clusaz – There are no direct buses from Lyon to La Clusaz (you’ll have to change buses in Annecy). The same goes with trains. Therefore, I recommend renting a car.

8. Grenoble

If you’re looking for things to do around Lyon, then don’t miss out on a visit to Grenoble. Often referred to as the ‘Capital of the Alps’, Grenoble is famous for its breathtaking mountain backdrop, riverside museums, and tourist attractions. 

One of the best things to do in Grenoble is taking the cable car up to the magnificent Bastille where you’ll get stunning views of the surrounding mountains. You can even go canoeing along the Isère River, explore the Grenoble Museum , or walk high within the treetops at L’Odyssée Verte.

There’s also a historic quarter full of authentic cafes!

Getting to Grenoble – The best option is to take the train from Lyon. There are trains every 30 minutes to one hour and the ride takes about one hour and a half.

9. Abbey of Hautecombe

Heading to the Abbey of Hautecombe is one of the best Lyon day trips! With over 900 years of history, this beautiful place has a lot to offer. The Abbey is situated on the edge of Le Bourget Lake and is Savoie’s most visited attraction.

You can’t explore the whole building as it’s still in use by the religious community that lives here. However, you can take an audio-guided tour of the church which I definitely recommend! This is where you’ll get to see a variety of intricate statues and paintings whilst learning about the Royal Abbey’s history. 

Getting to Abbey of Hautecombe – The best way is to reach the abbey by car. The ride will take about one hour and a half from Lyon.

10. Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard

Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful castles in Europe . It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions near Lyon and offers striking scenery, as the castle is nestled within a lush wooded area and surrounded by forested peaks. 

Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard has been occupied by the same family for nearly 1000 years, but don’t worry – you can still visit! There are guided tours available which last for around 45 minutes and will show you a variety of rooms including the chapel, library, kitchen, and one of the bedrooms.

Getting to Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard – The best way to visit this beautiful castle is by car.

11. Avignon

Avignon is located in Southeast France and is set on the Rhone River. The city is most famous for events that occurred in the 14th century which is when the popes fled from Rome to Avignon.

For this reason, Le Palais des Papes (or Palace of the Popes) was built. Today, it’s one of the city’s most popular attractions and is one of the largest gothic buildings in the world.

Other popular things to do in Avignon include catching a ferry to the island of Barthelasse and heading to Le Pont Saint-Benezet which is a historic bridge that was built during the middle ages. Avignon is also known for its delicious wines. If you have enough time, make sure to book a tour and discover the vineyards!

Getting to Avignon – There are multiple daily high-speed trains from Lyon to Avignon and the ride takes about one hour and twenty minutes.

Vienne is located just 34 km (21 miles) from Lyon where the Gere and Rhone rivers meet. With stunning architecture, a charming small-town feel, and plenty of things to do, Vienne is one of the most beautiful towns in Europe .

The town’s most iconic attraction is Vienne Cathedral which dates back to the 11th century and was built in dedication to Saint Maurice. However, there are plenty of other places to visit too including the Temple of Augustus and Livia, the ancient Roman theatre, and the Museum of Saint-Romain-en-Gal-Vienne.

So, if you’re looking for day trips from Lyon – don’t miss out on this place!

Getting to Vienne – Traveling by train is the best option, as it only takes about 20 minutes to reach Vienne from Lyon. You can also choose a guided tour that includes wine tasting.

13.Château de la Roche (Saint Priest la Roche)

If you’re looking for beautiful places near Lyon, then make sure you head to Château de la Roche .

Translating to ‘Castle of the Rock’, this historical place sits out on the water overlooking the Loire. It’s also located on a small island now since the Villerest Dam was built in 1982. 

Château de la Roche was built during the 1200s and was often used as a lookout point due to its strategic location or as a summer residence, depending on who owned the castle at the time. 

Getting to Château de la Roche – The castle is located just one hour away from Lyon by car.

Dijon is another charming city in France and was designated a World Heritage Site in 2015. It’s the capital of Burgundy and has plenty of history as the city dates back to the middle ages! 

As the name might suggest, Dijon is famous for its mustard so don’t forget to try it during your visit. It’s also one of the best wine regions in France so leave some time to go on a vineyard tour . You can also spend some time at the Museum of Fine Arts or explore the indoor market hall! 

Getting to Dijon – The best way to get to Dijon is by train. The trip will take around 2 hours.

15. Chalon-sur-Saône

Chalon-sur-Saône is situated along the Saône River and is one of the best places to visit from Lyon! With a historic center, stunning architecture, and a beautiful location – it’s got so much to offer. 

There are also plenty of things to do in Chalon-sur-Saône like strolling around the old town and walking up Tour du Doyenné Tower. From here, you’ll have stunning views of the city!

During your trip, make sure you head to the Nicéphore Niépce Museum too, which is dedicated to the inventor of photography who lived in the city.

Getting to Chalon-sur-Saône – A train ride from Lyon takes about one hour and 20 minutes.

Yvoire was built in the 14th century and is one of the most charming medieval villages in France. Located on the shores of Lake Geneva, this village offers spectacular views of the surrounding area and over 700 years of history. 

It’s one of the best day trips from Lyon and there’s plenty to see including the Garden of Five Senses . As the name suggests, this garden aims to envelop all the senses and is quite the experience! You’ll also want to explore the center of Yvoire with its 14th-century castle, fortified gates, and ramparts. 

Getting to Yvoire – There is no direct public transport from Lyon to Yvoire, so the best way to reach this incredible city is by car.

17. Aix-les-Bains

Visiting Aix-les-Bains is one of the best things to do around Lyon! Just a 1.5-hour drive away, Aix-les-Bains is a beautiful thermal spa town that’s known as the ‘Riviera of the Alps’.

The town is situated on Lac du Bourget which is the largest natural lake in France. There’s even a 10-hectare park right by the lakeside that offers stunning views of the area! If that’s not enough to convince you then you can also hike up Mont Revard which is the town’s backdrop, or spend some time in one of the many spa resorts!

Getting to Aix-les-Bains – There are a few daily direct trains from Lyon to Aix-les-Bains and the train ride takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes.

18. Grottes du Cerdon

Grottes du Cerdon is one of the best natural attractions in France and is where you’ll find a variety of awesome caves to explore. Guided tours are available or you can explore them by yourself. 

These caves were once inhabited by prehistoric men around 10,000-12,000 years ago which is AMAZING to think about! This site is also a prehistoric leisure park where you can get involved with archaeological excavations, create natural ocher paintings, and produce your own neolithic pottery.

There’s so much to do here, and it’s a great day out for all the family!

Getting to Grottes du Cerdon – The best way to visit this natural wonder is by car.

19. Pérouges

If you’re looking for Lyon day trips, then don’t miss out on Pérouges! It’s another beautiful medieval village that’s situated within the French Alps, and it almost looks like something out of a fairytale.

Offering scenic views of the Dombes Plateau, charming cobbled streets, and winding alleyways – you’ll want to spend a lot of time here. Pérouges is one of the best preserved medieval sites in the country, and you’ll understand why once you wander through the gates of En Haut! During your time here make sure you check out the scenic Place du Tilleul square too.

Getting to Pérouges – There are many daily trains from Lyon to Pérouges to choose from. The trip takes around 40 minutes.

20. Château de Meillant

Meillant Castle or Château de Meillant as it’s often known is one of the best day trips from Lyon! With spectacular architecture, a unique gothic style, and beautiful surroundings, it’s not hard to see why this place is so popular.

Not only can you explore the castle and its grounds, but themed evenings and events also occur here. You can even take part in a ‘Murder at the Castle’ game! Guided tours are also available, and the castle is pet-friendly so the whole family can come along for the trip.

Getting to Château de Meillant – It’s a 3-hours drive from Lyon to Château de Meillant, but the trip is well worth it!

Where to stay in Lyon

Lyon is an incredible city, with lots of tourist attractions to choose from. It deserves at least a 2-day stay. If you’re planning to spend a few nights in Lyon, I’ve got you covered.

Here are the best accommodation options, for every budget:

• Budget – Meininger Hotel – good location, clean and spacious rooms, good value-for-money
• Mid-Range – Lyon Marriott Hotel – modern rooms, good amenities, friendly staff, access to gym, good restaurant
• Luxury – Villa Maya – luxurious and modern rooms, excellent amenities and services, incredible pool, excellent location, fabulous place

Final thoughts

I hope that you enjoyed these destinations, they’re the best day trips from Lyon! No matter which one you choose, I’m sure you’ll have a great time discovering these french hidden gems.

May the travel bug bite you!

Aurelia Teslaru is a professional travel blogger and the writer behind Daily Travel Pill. With a 4-year experience as a travel writer and photographer, Aurelia only shares travel guides about destinations that she visited.

She has been to more than 40 countries during the past 10 years and aims to explore 50 countries before turning 30 years old. Aurelia is a digital nomad who transformed her passion for travel into a lifestyle. Read more about her here .

To follow her adventures, check out her Instagram and Facebook pages!

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Best Day Trips from Lyon

Lyon is a great city to visit because it is possible to take many fantastic day trips from Lyon which are within easy reach.  Lyon is also the gastronomic capital of France and there are many things to see and do in the city.

If you want detailed information about what to see and do in Lyon itself, don’t miss our post about why you should visit Lyon .  We definitely recommend you take a few days to explore this wonderful city using our walking tour !

However, if you have more time, Lyon is also an excellent location to explore the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France.   The city is centrally located and has excellent transport links which are easy to use.

You have plenty of options nearby including mountains, lakes, beautiful cities or wine tours in Beaujolais. No matter whether you are looking for sporting, cultural or relaxing activities, you will find exactly what you are looking for in this area of France.

Closest Day Trips From Lyon – Less Than One Hour Drive

If you have limited time to spend in and around Lyon, these are the best destinations for day trips from Lyon.

1 – Day Trips From Lyon to Pérouges

Just 40 minutes outside of Lyon, I highly recommend a visit to the small medieval walled village of Pérouges .  This well-preserved medieval village is perched on top of small hill that overlooks the Ain River. 

Unsurprisingly, Pérouges features on the official list of the ‘Most Beautiful Villages in France’ and its authentic historical feel has made it a popular choice for the setting of period films including The Three Musketeers. Without doubt, its quaint, winding cobblestone streets, beautiful flower boxes and charming old buildings will transport you back in time. 

In Pérouges, you will find many places to stay, relax and eat.  Make sure you try out La Galette which is a speciality of the village.

The Place de la Halle is the village’s main square which is also known as La Place du Tilleul. This is because an impressive Linden tree (known as the Liberty Tree) was planted here over 200 years ago during the French Revolution.  Here you will also find one of the oldest inns in France (Hostellerie du Vieux Pérouges) and an elaborate sun dial on the side of one of the picturesque buildings.

After you’ve finished exploring the village, there are also many hiking routes in the stunning countryside around Pérouges which range from 40 minutes to 2.5 hours.

For more information about visiting Pérouges, check our full guide on Pérouges France

2 – Day Trips From Lyon to Domaine de Lacroix-Laval

Le Domaine de Lacroix-Laval is a park situated just 30 minutes outside of Lyon in Marcy-l’Etoile.  If you are looking for somewhere to relax and enjoy some sporting activities, this is just the spot.  The park itself spreads over 115 hectares and is an abundant natural space with paths criss-crossing valleys, meadows, ponds, rivers and woods.  

Le Domaine de Lacroix-Laval is ideal for children and adults alike as there are playgrounds, pony rides, fitness trails, a small train and places to picnic under ancient trees.  The park is situated next to a château which dates to the 12th century. 

This is a great open space which is ideal for relaxing, enjoying the outdoors and spending time together as a family or couple.  In the summer months, the park is open early (0600) until late (2200) and, in Winter, from 0700 to 2000.

3 – Day Trips From Lyon to Maison d’Ampère Museum

If you are looking for an interesting and educational museum to visit, the Maison D’Ampère Museum (Musée de l’électricité) is also located 30 minutes outside of Lyon.  This museum is situated in the mansion home of French scientist, André-Marie Ampère. 

Within the museum are 11 different rooms which house historical documents and working models of Ampère’s experiments in electromagnetism.  Visiting the museum will give you an insight into the significance of Ampère’s work which led to his name being given to the basic unit of electrical current (the ampere). 

In addition, there are exhibits which explain the electrical discoveries of other renowned scientists, along with displays of electrostatic machines, generators, motors, telecommunications systems, electrical lighting and photovoltaic technology. 

The museum is open on Saturdays from 1400 until 1800 and on Sundays from 1000-1200 and 1400-1800.

4 – Day Trips From Lyon to Château de Rochetaillée-sur-Saône – Musée Henri Malartre

Also situated 30 minutes outside of Lyon is the Château de Rochetaillée-sur-Saône , a 12th Century castle which is now home to the Automobile Museum Henri Malartre.  If you are a car enthusiast, this museum is home to more than 150 cars, motorbikes and bicycles which date from 1892 to today, including some one-off models. 

Whilst the museum is off the beaten track, the collection of vintage cars and motorcycles within the unique setting of the grounds and rooms of a historic château will interest anyone who is interested in cars and history.  The collection includes the first front wheel drive vehicle and an armoured Mercedes parade car used by Hitler. 

The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 1030 until 1800.

5 – Day Trips From Lyon to Ambronay

50 minutes’ drive from Lyon is the village of Ambronay which is situated at the foot of the Jura mountains.  Here you will find Abronay Abbey which was a Benedictine abbey founded in the early 9th Century.

6 – Day Trips From Lyon to Couvent de la Tourette

A short 40 minute drive from Lyon in Eveux is another significant religious building. The Priory Holy Mary of La Tourette houses a Dominican community of twelve friars. 

If you book in advance, you can stay in the convent.  Although the park and grounds are accessible, you can only visit the interior of the convent by booking a guided tour. 

The modernist building was designed by Le Corbusier and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Lyon Day Trips Less Than 2 Hours

The following locations are a little bit further away from Lyon but are well worth visiting and are still within a reasonable driving time.

1 – Day Trips From Lyon to Annecy

By car, Annecy is 1hour 50 minutes’ drive from Lyon.  Annecy is one of the prettiest towns in France.  There is some kind of magical atmosphere in this city, probably because you are surrounded by magical mountains which are reflected in the pristine lake.  Annecy’s lake is one of the largest lakes in France.

Of course, you can enjoy a lot of water activities here, but Annecy isn’t just about the lake. It is a lovely town with water canals.  In fact, Annecy is called the ‘Venice of the Alps’.  I love to roam the old streets of Annecy and stop for a drink on the terrace of a café.

There are plenty of things to do and visit in Annecy, but the food is also great.  You should try a raclette which is melted cheese with charcuterie and potatoes.

For more detailed information about why Annecy France is worth visiting, don’t miss our post Is Annecy France Worth Visiting?

2 – Day Trips From Lyon to Aix-les-Bains

Aix-les-Bains is a 1 hour 30-minute drive from Lyon by car, but it is also easy to visit by train. 

Aix-les-Bains is well known for its thermal baths and has a lot of historical and architectural heritage.  The 9-meter-high Arch of Campanus is the oldest structure in Aix-les-Bains and it is thought that it was a used as a funerary arch in Roman times.

Aix-les-Bains is situated on the shore of the Lac du Bourget which is a natural lake with glacial origins.  Here you will find beaches and an aquapark. There is also a foot path around the lake, where you can enjoy walking or cycling.

3 – Day Trips From Lyon to Lac d’Aiguebelette

Lac d’Aiguebelette is situated 1 hour 20 minutes from Lyon.  It is a good destination to relax or to have a picnic next to the water.

There are plenty of beaches around the Lac d’Aiguebelette. This lake is less busy than the Lac d’Annecy or the Lac du Bourget.  The surrounding area is beautiful and it is easy to explore it.

4 – Day Trips From Lyon to Chazelles-sur-Lyon

Chazelles-sur-Lyon is a 1 hour drive from Lyon.  The main attraction in Chazelles-sur-Lyon is the hat museum.  Here you will learn everything about hats. The museum is inside the old factory and it is fascinating as there is a lot to discover about hats!

After your visit, you can enjoy some very nice French food and take your time to enjoy your day.

5 – Day Trips From Lyon to Vienne

The Roman city of Vienne is located less than 1 hour from Lyon.  There are plenty of old buildings ready to be discovered in Vienne.  Perhaps the most famous one is the Temple of Augustus and Livia which was built in 1BC.  Alternatively, you can opt to visit the largest theatres in Roman Gaul or even the Garden of Cybèle.

Vienne is squeezed between the Rhône river and a hill.  It is very interesting to take time roaming the streets of Vienne to discover the medieval heritage of this city.

There are also plenty of festivals during the year in Vienne and the city has the second biggest market in France.  The market takes place every Saturday morning and you will find plenty of local products on sale. To give you an idea, the market is comprised of 5km of stands!

6 – Day Trips From Lyon to Sainte-Croix-en-Jarez

The village of Sainte-Croix-en-Jarez is also found about an hours’ drive from Lyon.  It is listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France and is situated in the middle of the Pilat Regional Nature Park.  It’s also the only village in France to have a Carthusian monastery.

Today, most of the houses in the village were once part of the monastery.  The village is very attractive and is surrounded by a fortified wall.  Don’t miss out on sampling the famous Chartreuse liqueur distilled by the monks!

7 – Day Trips From Lyon to Bourg-en-Bresse

Bourg-en-Bresse is a medieval city located about an hour from Lyon.  In the historic centre, you will find quaint streets with half-timbered houses.  Bourg-en-Bresse is also home to the architecturally striking Royal Monastery.

8 – Day Trips From Lyon to Grottes du Cerdon

One hour from Lyon in the Jura mountains, you can enjoy exploring the Grottes du Cerdon .  These caves allow you to follow the entire course of an ancient subterranean river.  The caves can get cold, so don’t forget some warm clothing!

Once you’ve finished exploring the caves, there is a park with many activities.

9 -Day Trips From Lyon to Château-Grillet Vineyards

If you are a wine lover, the Château-Grillet Vineyards are situated an hours’ drive from Lyon.  Since 1936, Château-Grillet has been one of the smallest and most prestigious vineyards producing a unique white wine from its amphitheatre style stone terraces of vines.

10 – Day Trips From Lyon to Grenoble

Drive one and half hours south east of Lyon and you will discover the city of Grenoble which is situated at the foot of the Alps.  Things to visit here include many art galleries such as the Musée de Grenoble which is perfect for lovers of European Art.

Another popular tourist attraction is La Bastille which is Grenoble’s cliff top fortress reached by a steep hour-long climb or cable car ride.  At the summit, you will enjoy spectacular views across the surrounding landscape.

11 – Day Trips From Lyon to Geneva

About an hour and fifty minutes’ drive north east of Lyon, you will find the lakeside Swiss city of Geneva .   Lyon is the ideal base from which to explore and tick another country off your bucket list in a day! The peaceful city of Geneva is found at the southern end of Lac Leman and is surrounded by the Alps and Jura Mountain with views of Mont Blanc. 

Don’t miss out on seeing the world’s tallest fountain (Jet d’Eau), St Peter’s Cathedral in the Old Town and the United Nations building and Place des Nations with Berset’s Broken Chair monument to land mine victims. 

If you want to window shop for a Swiss watch, head to Geneva’s famous Market Street.  Alternatively, for a more bohemian experience, cross the L’Arve River and relax in the cafés and artisan boutiques of Carouge.

12 – Day Trips From Lyon to Avignon

If you are feeling more adventurous, you could visit the historic city of Avignon which is located 3 hours’ south of Lyon.  The city itself is situated on the left bank of the Rhône river and, in the 14th century, was home to seven successive Popes and seat of the Catholic church. 

The city is full of Gothic and Renaissance buildings including the impressive Popes’ Palace (Palais des Papes) and the Saint Benezet Bridge (also known as the Pont d’Avignon) which are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites .  Originally, the bridge was 900m long featuring 22 arches but only 4 remain today. 

13 – Day Trips From Lyon to Dijon

If you don’t mind driving, Dijon is another good choice of destination for a day trip from Lyon.  About 2 hours north of Lyon, you will find the beautiful capital of the wine-making region of Bourgogne (Burgundy).  The city is known for being one of France’s wine and gourmet capitals and for its famous mustard, La Moutarde de Dijon. 

Amongst the most popular tourist attractions is the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy (Palais des Ducs et des Etats de Bourgogne) which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2015.   Dating back to the 18th century, the building now houses the City Hall, Tourist Office and the city’s Fine Arts Museum (Musée des Beaux Arts).  Climbing up the Tour Philippe Le Bon will afford you a panoramic view of Dijon and is a great spot for taking photographs. 

Take time to walk around Dijon and you will discover that its medieval streets are well-preserved, particularly Rue de la Verrerie where half-timbered houses overhang the street.   In addition, La Place de la Liberation is considered one of the loveliest squares in France and is the perfect place to stop for a coffee and watch the world go by. 

If you want to shop, head to Dijon’s main shopping street, the Rue de la Liberté.  To experience French food, don’t miss out on Dijon’s food market in Les Halles which is open every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday mornings and all-day Saturday.  Lastly, make sure you find time to visit the 13th century gothic Notre Dame church.

Olivier De Winne

Olivier De Winne studied and worked in France until 2005 when he moved to England. In the past, he has set up and managed several companies in different industries. Olivier is excited about his new career as a digital nomad. He is currently co-founder of two websites and two YouTube channels. His aim is to be free of the rat race.

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Best Day Trips from Lyon, France

Lyon, France’s second city, is an interesting metropolis infused with history, culture, and entertainment. It was home to the brothers who created the very first cinema, is woven with hidden passageways called traboules, and it’s the gastronomical capital of France!

But if you’ve visited Lyon before, or have seen all you need to see, where do you go next? With the French Alps and Switzerland, quaint medieval villages, lakes, and vineyards all on your doorstep, there are dozens of places to choose from.

Whether you wish to uncover the Roman heritage of Vienne, discover the subterranean wonders of Grottes de Cerdon, sample the gastronomical delights of Beaune or Dijon, or visit the home of green lentils, Le Puy, an intriguing excursion awaits!

Below, we’ll explore the best Lyon day trips within a one to two-hour drive and the best day trips from Lyon by train, so you can expand your horizons and explore deep into the scenic French hinterlands.

Read More: Visiting Lyon in Winter

The alpine town of Annecy is a delight to visit at any time of the year. The lakeside city sits amid meandering waterways flanked by pastel houses with plenty of historical attractions to explore.

One highlight is Palais de l’Île. The building stands on an island in the canal and was formerly a warehouse, chapel, prison, and barracks. Today, it boasts fine exhibits that showcase Annecy’s history and is open to visitors .

Saint-Pierre Cathedral dating to the 1500s is also a stunning display of Renaissance architecture, and if you’re feeling energetic, climb to Château d’Annecy to visit the impressive museum and admire spectacular views.

Head down to the lakeshore to discover beaches, gardens, and watersports activities, enjoy hiking trails in summer and winter sports too. With so much going on it’s no surprise that Annecy is one of the favourite Lyon day trips for couples and families.

A Lyon to Geneva day trip is easy to facilitate, either by local bus or car in under two hours. The stylish Swiss city resides on the shores of Lake Geneva, or Lake Léman as it’s known in French.

On a day trip, stroll along the promenade observing Jet d’Eau – a huge fountain on the lake. Jump on a water taxi to explore, venture to the 1930s-era open-air swimming baths – Bains des Pâquis , or flex a credit card in the city’s many elegant stores.

Geneva has several sites of cultural interest too, including the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum and Palais des Nations – the seat of the European United Nations, which make excellent winter activities .

If you decide to stay late into the evening, feast on fondue lakeside as lights twinkle across the water or try your hand at sunset paddle boarding before sampling Geneva’s upscale nightlife.

Read also: A Guide to Visiting Geneva in Winter

Le Puy-en-Velay, or simply Le Puy for short, is a natural wonder, located around two hours southwest of Lyon, and is reachable by car or train.

This hillside city is crowned with towering volcanic spires and statues standing tall on peaks. Romanesque churches and medieval houses huddle side by side, rising from the plains.

This town was once a gateway for pilgrims departing along the “ Way of Saint James ”, and it’s also famous for its lentil production! Puy lentils from here are classified in the same way as the finest French wines are, and they are exported throughout the world.

While in the city, there are a few key sites to see. The 12th-century Cathedral Notre Dame and the cloister arcades next door are impressive feats of architecture. Visit the immersive art gallery at Hôtel des Lumières and venture to Rue des Tables for shopping and dining around the central fountain. Naturally, it’s also a great place to try regional lentil dishes!

If you don’t wish to travel too far, one of the most interesting cities near Lyon is Valence. While wandering the charming streets, you can sample the rich history, gastronomic delights, and scenic beauty that’s enhanced by the city’s enviable position on the Rhone River.

Visit Grande Rue to see Maison des Têtes – a building so called for the sculpted stone heads etched into the façade. Take a picnic to picturesque Parc Jouvet or admire the majesty of Valence Cathedral – a structure that began its journey in the 1000s.

In the local squares visit weekly markets or find a seat under a shady tree with a glass of wine. Alternatively, drive to the Shoe Museum in nearby Romans. The collections are hidden away inside an old convent with a range of interesting shoes from stylish Louboutins, to early Egyptian sandals and medieval shoe designs.

The city of Grenoble has a rich and fascinating history. If you delve deeply, you’ll find that events which took place here ( The Day of the Tiles ) ultimately lead to the French Revolution!

The city sits by the Isère and Drac rivers hemmed by the northern French Alps. The surrounding areas are perfect for hiking, biking, and relaxing by glacial lakes, and in winter the ski resorts are the place to be.

Those who enjoy marvelling at artwork can head to Musée de Grenoble . The iconic museum hosts a collection of over 1500 pieces from French, Dutch, and Italian masters.

Across 57 art-packed rooms, explore every era from the Renaissance to Fauvism and Pop Art. And don’t forget to discover the city’s other museums, displaying collections relating to archaeology, local history and even hydroelectricity!

For the best views, hop aboard a cable car and ride to the hilltop Bastille, or relax in a local restaurant feasting on Grenoble’s delicacies which are typically cheese-heavy.

Some of the most interesting things to do around Lyon are less than 40 minutes away. Vienne dates back to Roman times and evidence of this can be seen throughout the city. Visit the Roman Temple of Augustus and Livia. The stone architecture of the 1 st century BC temple is an early architectural feat of stonemasonry and engineering.

Take a seat at one of the biggest amphitheatres of Roman Gaul. In its heyday, it accommodated over 13000 people. It’s the perfect place to watch summer jazz performances and concerts with views of the city. Afterwards, head to Vienne Cathedral and the archaeological site at Musée Gallo-Romain to learn more about the city’s Roman heritage.

If you’re visiting on a Saturday, Vienne local market is the second largest in France. Outdoor stalls stretch for several kilometres and there are plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby where you can simply soak up the atmosphere.

One of the most fun day trips from Lyon by car is to Beaune. Just south of Dijon, Beaune in Burgundy is home to wine tasting, hiking, and cycling, and has several interesting museums and châteaux with incredible architecture.

Visit the impressive Musée de l’Hôtel-Dieu , a medieval almshouse and hospice dating to the mid-1400s. It’s perhaps best known for its unusual Burgundian glazed tile roofs, although inside, also boasts a fine collection of art and religious artefacts.

Wander the city’s ramparts and see Square des Lions – home to statues and centuries-old ginkgo trees, or take a guided tour of one of the many picturesque vineyards on the edge of the city to sample Grand Cru wines.

Don’t leave without tasting Beaune’s gastronomical treats. The city and its surroundings are home to several Michelin-star restaurants which are ideal for a special occasion or romantic dinner.

Chalon-sur-Saône

While en route to Beaune, make a stop at Chalon-sur-Saône. The pretty riverside town in the heart of the Burgundy wine region has some wonderfully interesting museums to visit.

For anyone with an interest in photography, the Musée Nicephore-Niepce is a must-visit. The museum pays homage to the person who took the very first photograph and has a collection of over 1500 cameras and a whole host of photos dating back over the past two centuries.

Another museum to have on your radar is Musée Vivant-Denon , dedicated to a former Louvre director, it documents the history of Chalon.

The best way to explore Chalon is on foot. Take a short walk to view Doyenné Tower and marvel at the majestic cathedral before sampling local dishes at an authentic auberge in the centre.

Dijon is one of the most popular day trips from Lyon. Just two hours away by car and train, this medieval-era city is home to half-timber buildings, fabulous museums and great food and wines.

One of the best ways to uncover the history and mysteries of the city is along the Owl Trail. This well-marked walking trail covers over 20 city attractions and is one of the most fun things to do in Dijon.

Take in the grand Ducal Palace and imagine life in the 14 th century when the Dukes of Burgundy lived here. Step inside Musée de la Vie Bourguignonne which showcases the cultural heritage of Burgundy. Wander along the historic Rue des Forges, or pay a visit to Les Halles covered market and the botanical gardens – Dijon has something for everyone.

Known for its most famous export – Dijon mustard – the region also produces excellent wines and crème de cassis. You can sample them in speciality shops throughout the city.

Abbaye d’Hautecombe

If you’re heading to Annecy or Aix-les-Bains by car, Abbaye d’Hautecombe is a beautiful place to break for an hour or two en route. The 12th-century abbey on the shores of Lac du Bourget is both scenic and intriguing.

Originally the home of Benedictine monks, the abbey was a prime location during the Middle Ages, until it fell into ruin. Following the French Revolution, it was restored by the Sardinian king in the early 1800s.  

Today, the Savoy landmark is open for guided discovery tours and is reasonably priced to enter. Housing sepulchres, frescos, and sculptures, it’s a great place to immerse yourself in local history, before relaxing in the seasonal café and enjoying the vistas.

Grottes de Cerdon

Grottes de Cerdon is the ideal destination for a family day trip from Lyon. The prehistoric caves are also the perfect scenic stop-off point if you’re heading further afield to Geneva or the Haut-Jura Natural Park.

While here, you’ll learn how people lived in prehistoric times, and discover how to create fires and stone jewellery, before trying your hand at Neolithic pottery and prehistoric painting.

Gain insight into archaeological excavations and learn all about the history of the caves as you delve deep into the subterranean wonderland.

During summer months local craft markets take place here and there are prehistoric scenes and performances held nearby.

Bourg-en-Bresse

Located an hour northeast of Lyon, the medieval city of Bourg-en-Bresse was once a Savoy capital. It’s a charming place punctuated with half-timbered houses, intriguing museums and quaint shops selling chocolate, wine, and cheese.

The historic Old Town is a highlight – akin to stepping onto a film set. With 15th-century buildings, cobbled streets, and an old-world atmosphere, you can lose yourself here for hours.

Don’t miss Maison de Bois – a well-preserved property from the 1400s on Rue Gambetta. And wander inside an ancient pharmacy dating back to 1782. It’s now a museum, filled with shelves of antique books and jars, as well as a laboratory.

Musée de Brou is the city’s main museum dedicated primarily to artworks from Flemish and French artists. Housed inside the Royal Monastery, the building is art itself, with its Burgundian roof tiles and stunning stained glass windows.

Parc de Loisirs de Bouvent

Parc de Loisirs de Bouvent lies an hour northeast of Lyon just outside Bourg-en-Bresse. It’s a family-friendly nature destination, perfect to pair with a day in the nearby city.

With over 50 hectares of verdant parkland, golf courses and a lake with golden beaches, it’s a great place for picnics, hiking and watersports.

It’s possible to hire kayaks and boats from the activity centre and you can compete with friends at volleyball, pétanque or table tennis. There’s also a snack bar for dining and refreshments by the water’s edge.

The beach is open from mid-May to late August for swimming and the activity centre opens in mid-March through to mid-October.

Those preferring not to venture too far on a day tour can drive to the medieval town of Pérouges just over 30 minutes outside of Lyon.

The medieval town is known as a set for the famous Three Musketeers movies. Here, half-timbered and honey-coloured stone houses are clad with ivy and wisteria, and along cobblestone streets, shops and restaurants are hidden inside unassuming historic buildings.

Discover the Church of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, an unusual structure designed to defend the town complete with arrow slits for windows. Or enter inside the Museum of Old Pérouges dedicated to the Princes of Savoy with an incredible viewpoint and details of everyday life in 14th-century Pérouges.

With abundant historic monuments to see and a famous chocolaterie, you won’t be stuck for things to do in this alluring town.

Wine Route of Beaujolais

Of all the places to visit near Lyon, the Beaujolais wine route is one of the most popular. Covering 140 kilometres from Lyon to Mâcon, it takes in some of the finest vineyards and beautiful scenery within the Beaujolais region.

It’s a route peppered with ancient landmarks such as Arginy Castle, said to house treasures of the Templars and there are the 39 beautiful villages of the golden stones – Pierres Dorées – to explore along the route.

Wineries and cellars await in the villages, and you can enjoy dinner in a bistro or auberge to pair wine tastings with local cuisine. If you fancy staying over, there are even winemaker B&Bs – making this one of the best weekend trips from Lyon.

Aix-les-Bains

One of the top three spa towns in France, Aix-les-Bains can be reached in an hour and 15 minutes from Lyon. This wholesome town of wellbeing is tucked between mountains and lakes boasting historic sites ranging from Roman ruins to glamorous hotels from the Belle Époque era.

The beach and Esplanade du Lac are ideal spots for a leisurely walk. Dramatic emerald mountain landscapes and plane trees set against a canvas of aquarium blue waters make for excellent photographs.

Step inside the famous casino – an impressive building inside and out, fringed by palm trees and floral displays. Alternatively, take a dip in the town’s healing mineral waters, booking a treatment at one of the spas. Many feature pools fed by natural springs which are said to help with all manner of physical ailments.

Gorges de la Loire

Near the city of Saint-Etienne, you’ll discover the impressive Gorges de la Loire. The natural landscapes alone are worth the drive from Lyon (just over one hour).

With woodland glades, endemic flora and fauna, lakes, and medieval villages , this is a place for nature and history lovers alike. The small village of Chambles set upon a rocky promontory offers views of the gorges or visit Château Lavoute-Polignac to see a vast collection of artworks.

If you have brought your hiking boots, you’ll adore the trails around the gorges. They cater to all experience levels and are well-marked. Or if water sports are more your thing, sailing, water skiing and canoeing are all available to enjoy.

Massif de la Chartreuse

Nestled between Lac du Bourget to the north and the city of Grenoble to the south, Massif de la Chartreuse mesmerises with verdant landscapes and rugged peaks.

In spring and summer, carpets of grass dotted with pretty windflowers attract hikers, and in winter, peaks are iced with snow and the ground transforms into a haven for Nordic ski sports including cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

A few highlights to discover amidst the 76,000 hectares include Gorges du Guiers, Fort Barraux and Cirque de St. Même with its stunning waterfalls .

The trails are well-marked making it easy to navigate. It’s also possible to hire a mountain bike (manual or electric) and stop for a glass of wine in Savoy vineyards in the foothills. To cool off after a day’s hike, head for Lake Aiguebelette for a spot of stand-up paddle boarding or canoeing.

Parc Naturel Regional du Haut-Jura

Near the Swiss border in the Alpine foothills, Haut-Jura Parc covers a mammoth 165,000 hectares. This is a place to connect with nature, forest bathe, admire thundering cascades and hike along trails through lush fairytale forests dating back to the Jurassic era.

The scenery is stunning, and in the surrounding areas, lakes, mountain villages and vineyards are all ripe for discovery.

Visit Maison du Parc in Lajoux which showcases exhibitions focused on the wildlife, scenery, local crafts, and forests of Jura. Visitors can take nature walks and participate in workshops here, and learn about the lynx, capercaillie and a variety of other species that live in this natural space.

If arriving in winter, the area is blanketed with snow, allowing for fun snowshoe expeditions and magical wonderland landscapes.

If you’ve been exploring the towns and cities around Lyon for a while and are seeking a slower pace for your day trip, Haut-Jura Regional Naturel Parc is the place to be.

Chazelles-sur-Lyon

If all things fashion fascinate, take a day trip to Chazelles-sur-Lyon just over an hour away from the city centre of Lyon. The main highlight, and why most visitors make the trip, is to see Atelier-Musée du Chapeau . The town was once famed for crafting exquisite headwear and at the interactive museum you can learn just how it’s done.

There are films, a hall of celebrity hats and a knowledgeable guide also conducts group tours in English if specified during the booking process. A visit to the museum is an interesting way to spend a few hours, and if a special occasion is coming up, you can custom-order your own hat for the event!

Although the museum is the top site in Chazelles-sur-Lyon, its neighbouring restaurant also has rave reviews – a charming place where you can sample gourmet local gastronomy.

There are a wealth of places to visit within a short journey by car or public transport from Lyon. From lakeside towns and historic abbeys to wine routes, mountain landscapes, and historic towns and cities, everyone can find their perfect day trip from Lyon.

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Lyon

Day trips from lyon.

• Lyon to Tain-l'Hermitage
• Lyon to Fleurie
• Lyon to Perouges
• Lyon to Saint-Etienne
• Private Day Trips
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Northern Rhône Valley Day Tour with Wine Tasting from Lyon

2. Beaujolais Wine Tasting Day Tour from Lyon

3. Guided Day Tour and Wine Tasting Northern Rhône Valley

4. Beaujolais & Pérouges Wine & Food Tasting Private Day Tour from Lyon

5. Cotes du Rhone Wine Tour (9:00 am to 5:15 pm) - Small Group Tour from Lyon

6. Private tour to discover the soul of Beaujolais

7. Private half-day tour to Golden Stone Beaujolais with tastings

8. Pérouges & Annecy Private Day Trip with Food Tasting from Lyon

9. Pérouges Medieval Village Private Trip with Tasting from Lyon

10. Private Beaujolais wine tour from Lyon with a French sommelier

11. Full Day Guided Wine Tour with Tasting and Lunch

12. Beaujolais & Perouges Medieval Town (9:00 am to 5:15 pm - Small Group Tour Lyon

13. Macon & Beaujolais Wine Tour (9:00 am to 5:15 pm) - Small Group Tour from Lyon

14. Beaujolais Region Wine Tasting Private Day Tour from Lyon

15. Private Rhône-Valley wine tour with a French sommelier

16. Private Tour to Royal Monastery of Brou and Pérouges

17. Private Full Day Tour of Perouges and Annecy from Lyon with Hotel pick-up

18. Private Transfer From Lyon To Monaco With a 2 Hour Stop in Nice

19. Beaune & Burgundy Vineyards Private Day Trip from Lyon

20. Private Transfer From Lyon To Montpellier With a 2 Hour Stop

21. Shared Tour : Beaujolais - Pérouges

22. Beaujolais & Mâconnais : Private Full Day

23. Private Transfer From Lyon To Toulon With a 2 Hour Stop

24. Rhône Valley Wine & Chocolate Tasting Private Day Tour from Lyon

25. Full-Day Private Rhône Valley Wine Tour Experience from Lyon

26. Rhone Wine Lovers Tasting Day Tour from Lyon with Private Driver

27. Private Transfer From Lyon To Marseille With a 2 Hour Stop

28. Beaujolais Wine Lovers Tour with Private Driver

29. Very Best of Lyon : Private Tour

30. Beaujolais South to North Discovery Private Day Tour with Tastings from Lyon

What travellers are saying.

• Northern Rhône Valley Day Tour with Wine Tasting from Lyon
• Beaujolais Wine Tasting Day Tour from Lyon
• Guided Day Tour and Wine Tasting Northern Rhône Valley
• Beaujolais & Pérouges Wine & Food Tasting Private Day Tour from Lyon
• Full Day Monty Private Tour of Beaujolais
• M&T Lyon Tours
• DriverAirport
• Les visites de Clémence
• Lannister VTC Transport
• Kanpai Tourisme
• Lyon Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience

6 of the best day trips from Lyon

NOV 12, 2021

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One of the great benefits of basing yourself in Lyon is its accessibility to other parts of the country, including neighbouring Geneva. There are endless day trips from Lyon you can enjoy, appealing to all types of tourists, whether you’re a foodie, outdoor-type or culture junkie.

Within easy reach of some of the great Medieval architecture in the region, here are six inspiring ideas for a great day out - 

Read on to discover what's in store at each of these great day-trip destinations.

It’s always exciting to say you’ve gone abroad for the day, and it’s entirely possible with a Lyon to Geneva day trip. If you’re a foodie then you’ve come to the right place, as this Swiss city is the home of luxury chocolate. A visit to the Stettler Chocolate Workshop is a delicious way to spend the morning. Follow this with a gentle walk in the Palais des Nations - the home of the United Nations and symbol of peace. If you’ve got ‘time’, there’s plenty of watchmaking classes that can be pre-booked too. But this friendly city is best experienced outdoors, so why not rent a bike for free and cycle your way around its beautiful pathways. A favourite is the Lac Léman circuit (aka Lake Geneva), or the less demanding route of Jardin Anglais. There’s no rush in this city though, where you can’t help but go with the flow!

Getting there – the train from Lyon Part-Dieu to Geneva takes 1h 45m.

Enjoy a day out filled with culture and historical sights, with a day trip from Lyon to Avignon . With gothic ruins galore, you will want to dedicate a whole day to scaling the city and its impressive medieval buildings dating back to the 14th century. Start with Palais de Papes - the world’s largest gothic medieval palace and former symbol of Christianity, fascinating for visitors of all ages. Continue to the Pont du Gard – another UNESCO World Heritage site, listed as Roman aqueduct that still impresses to this day. While on your cultural day of discovery, be sure to take time to view the iconic Cathedral Notre-Dame des Doms, which has a rich history dating back to the 12th century. 

Getting there – the train from Lyon Part-Dieu to Avignon takes 1h 25m.

Step back in time on a day trip from Lyon to the neighbouring city of Vienne. Unsuspecting it may be, but this used to be a former hub during the Roman empire, remnants which can still be seen to this day. The best place to learn more about its history is at the Gallo-Roman Museum , also an archaeological site that transports you back to Roman times, with an amphitheatre still intact. If you came here to soak up the views, then a climb to the top of Mont Pipet gives the greatest vantage point over the city. Here you can see the famous River Rhône and the Chapelle Notre Dame de la Salette, which is worth a visit in its own right. Before you go, swing by the area between the river and La Scarpetta for a bite to eat in many of its bars and cafes.

Getting there – the train from Lyon to Vienne takes just 22m.

4. Beaujolais

If you have a nose for grapes and a palette for fine food, the region of Beaujolais is highly recommended on a day trip from Lyon. Its picturesque vineyards are everything you’d hope for in this famous wine-country. Come by train and you can sample the local delights – take your pick from the well-travelled 140-km wine route, with nearly 200 cellars open to the public. Bring your bike and you can enjoy country rides throughout the villages and chateaux’s lining its quiet streets. As you’d expect from a region that puts gastronomy on the map, there’s a number of Michelin-starred restaurants to ponder over for a spot of lunch, including the divine grounds of Chateau Pizay.  

Getting there – take the train from Lyon Part Dieu to Belleville-sur-Saona which takes 35m, followed by a five-mile taxi journey to Beaujolais.

It might be famous for its mustard, but Dijon cuts it in so many other ways! For starters, it’s home to the Musee des Beaux-Arts de Dijon, one of the oldest museums in the country. Its impressive collection contains some of the finest works of art, that it attracts those from afar. Much like most of the area, its bygone medieval influence still stands, best experienced at ‘The Well of Moses’ - a stone sculpture erected at the start of the 14th century. Many critics consider it to be a modern masterpiece. Finally, on one of its many of its sunny days, a visit to the Côte de Nuits vineyards shouldn’t be missed. This prominent wine region is a destination in itself, allowing you to take in blissful views over a glass of Pinot Noir, or two. Dijon is indeed a spectacular cultural melting pot that should be visited at least once on a day trip from Lyon.

Getting there – take the fast train from Lyon Part-Dieu to Dijon Ville in 1h 22m.

For a complete change of scenery, head to the alpine town of Annecy which brings; fresh crisp air, breath-taking lakes and a medieval heritage spilling out of every cobbled street you wander down.

The glorious waters of Lac d’Annecy are what most people come for. This tranquil setting caters to tourists well, with nearby blue flag beaches in Plage la Brune and Veyrier-du-Lac – ideal for the kids . On a Lyon to Annecy day trip look out for Vieille Ville. This waterside walkway dangles on the edge of the Thiou River with pretty passageways hidden throughout. Dating back to the 1100s, the mini fortress of Pont Perrière is a point of interest, with an interesting history as a former prison. As you walk through this city it’s hard not to be charmed by its 17th-century buildings, painted in pastel colours.

Getting there – the train from Lyon Part-Dieu to Annecy Station takes 2h. Alternatively, for a scenic drive, it’s 1h 30m by car.

Ready to book your tickets?

15 Day trips from Lyon you will love

• Post category: Auvergne Rhône Alpes
• Post author: Nassie Angadi

Lyon is a city of many sights and things to do, but what if you have a day or two to spare? A few days in Lyon may leave you with you with a lot on your plate, but if you have some time, there are plenty of wonderful destinations and things to see within driving range of the city.

You can look forward to a visit to one of the historic grottes in Ardèche, or the beautiful city of Annecy, or even a trip down to the provençale city of Avignon. From the Alps to the South of France, there is plenty of choice if you are looking for an enjoyable day trips from Lyon.

Now, traffic can be an issue especially along the A7 Autoroute du Soleil (meaning “Highway towards the Sun”). As such, I have limited all the day trips to tried and tested destinations that are within a 2-3 hours’ drive.

All of the large cities will be easily accessible by train as well, however some of the smaller villages will require car access. And so with that, here are the best day trips from Lyon. Allons-y!

1. Old town of Annecy

About 2 hours drive away from Lyon is the Alpine town of Annecy. A delightful combination of medieval France and natural landscapes, it is a town that has attracted visitors for centuries.

The city is blessed not only with a charming old town but also with some of the most extraordinary scenery in all of France.

From the old Palais de l’Ile to the Château d’Annecy, this was the home of the Counts of Genova. Known as the Venice of the Alps, the town is famous for its many canals.

And with plenty of lakeside beaches, biking lanes and hiking trails nearby, it is a sports-lovers paradise. You can read more about visiting Annecy here.

2. Stalactites of Grotte de Choranche

About 2 hours drive away from Lyon is the spectacular natural cave called Grotte de Choranche. This incredible natural phenomenon is the only one of its kind in Europe, known for its thousands of fistuleuses stalactites providing quite the spectacle.

About 32,300 meters long, the Grotte de Choranche is located high in the falaises calcaires (meaning “limestones cliffs”) of the Vercours Massif, at an altitude of over 500m.

Partially discovered in 1897, the cave was not fully explored until 1943 which is why it remains so well preserved. Today, thousands of visitors flock to see the famous caves. You can read more about visiting the Grotte de Choranche here.

3. Hanging houses at Pont-en-Royans

Right next to the Grotte de Choranche is the small village of Pont-en-Royans, so if you are heading out here from Lyon, you should stop in this little village as well.

Voted one of the plus beaux village (meaning “most beautiful village”) in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alps region, Pont-en-Royans is famous for its colorful hanging houses overlooking the entrance to the Gorges de la Bourne .

Known as the “Maisons suspendues”, these colorful pastel hanging houses perched on the cliffside, overlooking the river Bourne. In 1944, the hanging houses were designated as Monuments Historiques by the French government.

While you cannot visit inside residents’ homes, you can admire the maison suspendues from all along the riverbank on the opposite side. You can read more about visiting Pont-en-Royans here.

4. Chambéry, capital of Savoy

About 67 miles (108km) away from Lyon is the former capital of the Duchy of Savoy , Chambéry. While most tourists tend to make their way to nearby Annecy , Chambéry which is only 30 miles (50km) away, is more of a hidden gem.

Once the capital of the Dukes of Savoy, it became part of France in exchange for the Victor Emmanuel II becoming King of Italy. But the Savoy culture in this part of France remains strong. From its own language, cheeses , wines , and other traditions, there is plenty to see and taste.

With a charming old town and a newer and hipper surrounding area, there is an architectural flair and style to Chambéry that is difficult to replicate. It sits on Lac du Bourget and with scenic mountains all around, it is definitely worth the day trip from Lyon. You can read more about visiting Chambéry here.

5. Spa town of Aix-les-Bains

About 20 minutes away from Chambéry and 1h15 drive away from Lyon is the spa town of Aix-les-Bains. This lakeside city of Aix-les-Bains has attracted the rich and well-to-to for centuries.

From the ancient Romans to U.K.’s Queen Victoria, the city’s reputation for its wondrous natural thermal springs beckons visitors from far and wide.

There are a couple of large thermal spa resorts around Aix-les-Bains, using natural spring waters. The water contains calcium sulphide and is rich in trace elements of magnesium, manganese, potassium, iron, iodine, zinc, aluminum and copper.

The closest spa to the city center is Thermes Chevalley Valvital , that is in the haute (“high”) part of town. A bit further outside of Aix, on a property covering 10 hectares, is the Thermes de Marlioz . You can read more about visiting Aix-les-Bains here.

6. Cave paintings at Grotte Chauvet 2

One of the greatest cultural treasures in the world is located in the heart of department of Ardèche, about 124 miles (200 km) away from Lyon.

Known as Grotte Chauvet (Cave Chauvet), it is a cave network which has some of the earliest known Paleolithic human cave paintings. Dating back about 28,000 – 32,000 years old these are among the oldest in the world.

There are several panels with some of the earliest known figurative drawings, making it one of the most important prehistoric art sites in the world. These spectacular images were created by prehistoric humans, or Homo sapiens, as they roamed the European continent.

The actual cave is too fragile to allow visitors, and so an exact replica was built called Grotte Chauvet 2. Built to educate visitors about the Paleolithic era, there is an entire complex of exhibitions to visit about the lives of these prehistoric humans. You can read more about visiting Grotte Chauvet 2 here.

7. Spectacular Views in Grenoble

Located in the French Alps, Grenoble is at an elevation of about 500 meters (1,600 ft) and is about 1h20 from Lyon by car.

It is split into two parts: the historic city center and the new town. To be honest, the newer part with its industrial buildings is nothing to write home about, but thankfully the old historic center makes up for it.

From a magnificent téléphérique carrying tourists up the historic Fort Bastille Grenoble, to the quays of the river Isère, it is certainly a beautiful city.

In addition, the old town of Grenoble has a large pedestrian zone featuring plenty of small shops, boutiques, and restaurants. You can read more about visiting Grenoble here.

8. Papal city of Avignon

The provençale city of Avignon is a mere 2h20 away from Lyon on the A7 highway. This fortress city in the South of France is most famous for being the temporary home of the Catholic popes, who were based there in the 13th century, instead of in Vatican Rome.

With many famous sights like the Palais des Papes ( Palace of the popes ) and the Pont d’Avignon (Avignon bridge), Avignon is one of the most popular cities to visit in France.

It is a lively city with plenty of theatres, restaurants, and cultural events. In addition, it is close to two other attractions, the antique town of Isle-sur-la-Sorgue and the Fontaine de Vaucluse , making it a lovely place for a day trip from Lyon. You can read more about visiting Avignon here.

9. Alpine town of Bourg-Saint-Maurice

If you are visiting France in winter and happen to be in Lyon, you will want to head to Bourg-Saint-Maurice.

It is about 2h20 from Lyon by car, nestled in the French Alps . Nestled in the Tarentaise Valley, the town is the gateway to 2 large ski domains Paradiski and Espace Killy that consist of several dozen ski resorts.

The town itself has a population of just over 7,000 full-time residents. There is a wide range of restaurants, hotels, bars and unique shopping options for visitors to choose from.

Besides skiers, the town welcomes tourists and outdoor adventure tourists all-year-round with activities including hiking, swimming, and golfing. You can read more about visiting Bourg-Saint-Maurice here.

10. Riding the tourist Train de l’Ardèche

Previously known as the Chemin de fer du Vivarais or Train du Viverais , this is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Ardèche.

A foresty area in the center of France, the main station to catch the Train de l’Ardeche is about 55 miles (90 km) or 1h15 from the city of Lyon.

These old steam trains, using systems dating back 130 years, run along a network of lines constructed around the Vivarais network.

These days, it regularly attracts tourists from all over Europe. Travelling along a portion of the Gorges Doux (Valley of the Doux), the area is otherwise inaccessible and is known for its beautiful unspoiled landscapes. You can read more about traveling on the Train de l’Ardeche here.

11. The strategic town of Valence

About 1h15 from Lyon, on the A7 Autoroute du Soleil highway, sits the small city of Valence. And its importance, dating back to antiquity, is based on this strategic location.

A charming city, Valence situated at a central position on the direct high-speed train and highway line between Paris , Lyon, and Marseille . It dates back to Roman times 121 BC, when Lyon was the Roman capital and Marseille an important port city.

To control trade flows between the two Roman cities, a road was built with crossroads along the way for protection, and the city of Valence grew around it.

Today, Valence is a lovely blend of historic and modern France. The old center was easy to navigate on foot and the new center had a lot to offer in terms of shopping. You can read more about visiting Valence here.

12. The Beautiful Village of Yvoire

About 2hours away from Lyon by car is the small French village of Yvoire. Lying on Lac Léman near the Swiss border, Yvoire has been voted one of the plus beaux village de France , meaning “most beautiful village”.

Yvoire’s narrow cobblestone streets are a big part of its appeal. They are filled with eateries, studios, galleries, and tiny boutique shops, which attract tourists from all over the world every year.

The town’s stone and larch wooden buildings are covered in flowers, which make it the perfect place for all photography and nature lovers. You can read more about visiting Yvoire here.

13. Shoes in Romans-sur-Isère

If you are looking to visit an irreverent small town in central France, Romans-sur-Isère might just fit the bill. It is about 1h20 from Lyon by car, and is famous for its shoe museum, and with large statues of shoes displayed all over town.

Known as the Musée de la Chaussure (“Museum of the shoe”), the museum holds 16,500 collectors’ exhibits from antiquity to the modern day, covering 4000 years of history. 

It is also famous for a local speciality called the pogne that is a type of brioche bread made from flour, eggs and butter and flavored with orange blossom.

A charming little city, with a pedestrian centreville and cathedral, this is small town France. You can read more about visiting Romans-sur-Isere here.

14. Nougat in Montélimar

The small town of Montélimar is not one that a lot of foreign tourists flock to. Located in the Drôme department in the region of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, it is about 1h45 from Lyon by car.

This charming little town surrounded by the natural landscapes of Gorges de l’Ardèche and other large regional parks. But more importantly, it is the home of the famous Nougat de Montelimar, a sweet and chewy candy with a creamy center that is internationally renowned.

Located just outside the city center of Montélimar, Fabrique Arnaud Soubeyran was founded in 1837 by husband and wife team, Jean Arnaud and Marguerite Soubeyran, to provide for their three daughters.

You can visit the factory, as well as the nearby Château de Montelimar that dates back to the 11th century. Find out more about visiting Montelimar here.

15. Roman temple in Vienne

About 40 minutes south of Lyon is the small town of Vienne in which sits the ancient Roman Temple of Augustus and Livia. It was built in the 1st century and dedicated to the honor Roman Emperor Augustus and his wife Livia. It is quite similar in style to the Maison Carré in Nimes .

After the fall of the Roman Empire as christianity swept across Europe, the temple became a parish church until the 1789 French Revolution . From 1792, the church became the temple of Reason, then a commercial court, then the museum and then a library. It finally in the 19th century, after 28 years of work, the building regained its look of Roman temple.

If you enjoyed that article, you may like to read more about traveling around the region of Auvergne-Rhône-Alps . A bientôt!

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Lyon

Day trips from lyon.

• Lyon to Tain-l'Hermitage
• Lyon to Fleurie
• Lyon to Perouges
• Lyon to Saint-Etienne
• Private Day Trips
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Northern Rhône Valley Day Tour with Wine Tasting from Lyon

2. Beaujolais Wine Tasting Day Tour from Lyon

3. Guided Day Tour and Wine Tasting Northern Rhône Valley

4. Beaujolais & Pérouges Wine & Food Tasting Private Day Tour from Lyon

5. Cotes du Rhone Wine Tour (9:00 am to 5:15 pm) - Small Group Tour from Lyon

6. Private tour to discover the soul of Beaujolais

7. Private half-day tour to Golden Stone Beaujolais with tastings

8. Pérouges & Annecy Private Day Trip with Food Tasting from Lyon

9. Pérouges Medieval Village Private Trip with Tasting from Lyon

10. Private Beaujolais wine tour from Lyon with a French sommelier

11. Full Day Guided Wine Tour with Tasting and Lunch

12. Beaujolais & Perouges Medieval Town (9:00 am to 5:15 pm - Small Group Tour Lyon

13. Macon & Beaujolais Wine Tour (9:00 am to 5:15 pm) - Small Group Tour from Lyon

14. Beaujolais Region Wine Tasting Private Day Tour from Lyon

15. Private Rhône-Valley wine tour with a French sommelier

16. Private Tour to Royal Monastery of Brou and Pérouges

17. Private Full Day Tour of Perouges and Annecy from Lyon with Hotel pick-up

18. Private Transfer From Lyon To Monaco With a 2 Hour Stop in Nice

19. Beaune & Burgundy Vineyards Private Day Trip from Lyon

20. Private Transfer From Lyon To Montpellier With a 2 Hour Stop

21. Shared Tour : Beaujolais - Pérouges

22. Beaujolais & Mâconnais : Private Full Day

23. Private Transfer From Lyon To Toulon With a 2 Hour Stop

24. Rhône Valley Wine & Chocolate Tasting Private Day Tour from Lyon

25. Full-Day Private Rhône Valley Wine Tour Experience from Lyon

26. Rhone Wine Lovers Tasting Day Tour from Lyon with Private Driver

27. Private Transfer From Lyon To Marseille With a 2 Hour Stop

28. Beaujolais Wine Lovers Tour with Private Driver

29. Very Best of Lyon : Private Tour

30. Beaujolais South to North Discovery Private Day Tour with Tastings from Lyon

What travellers are saying.

• Northern Rhône Valley Day Tour with Wine Tasting from Lyon
• Beaujolais Wine Tasting Day Tour from Lyon
• Guided Day Tour and Wine Tasting Northern Rhône Valley
• Beaujolais & Pérouges Wine & Food Tasting Private Day Tour from Lyon
• Full Day Monty Private Tour of Beaujolais
• M&T Lyon Tours
• DriverAirport
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7 Best Day Trips from Lyon

Lyon is an ideal basecamp for exploring southeast France, with the French Alps, the Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône wine regions, and the Swiss border all within day-trip distance. If you’re visiting Lyon for the France Rugby World Cup 2023, why not make the most of the time between matches and take in some of the regional highlights?

Ready to sample famous French wines, ride a mountain cable car, and visit one of France’s most beautiful villages? Here’s our pick of the seven best day trips from Lyon.

There’s much more to Dijon than its namesake mustard. The capital of the Burgundy wine region is also renowned for its regional cuisine and grand architecture, all of which can be found in the Old Town. Once you’ve enjoyed the view from the Philippe le Bon Tower and followed in the footsteps of the Dukes of Burgundy at the Palais des Ducs, head to the Gustave Eiffel-designed Les Halles covered market, where you can feast on regional specialities and pick up a pot or two of the yellow stuff.

Speaking of mustard, a visit to the Mustard Museum will reveal everything you ever wanted to know about Dijon mustard, and Moutarderie Fallot offers mustard tastings. Or, perhaps wine tasting sounds more appealing, in which case, the wineries of the Côte d’Or lie just outside the city.

Distance from Lyon : 122 miles (197 km)

How to get there: Drive (2 hours 10 mins) or take the train (2 hours 4 minutes)

Don’t miss: Buying some Dijon mustard from the local market.

2. Beaujolais Wine Region

North of the Lyon, the Beaujolais wine region benefits from its unique location, where the foothills of the Massif Central meet the Saône River plains, affording a unique terroir. Gamay grapes are the prize crop here, from which Beaujolais’ light-bodied red wines are made, but you’ll also find a few Chardonnay white wines thrown into the mix.

The wine capital of Villefranche-sur-Saône is the obvious starting point for a wine tasting tour, from where you can drive or cycle around the vineyards, visit family-run wineries along the Beaujolais Wine Route, and admire the region’s ochre-coloured ‘Pierres Dorées (Golden Stones) villages. Don’t miss the Beaujolais Nouveau; a young wine served each year right after the harvest.

Distance from Lyon: 28 miles (45 km)

How to get there: Drive (45 minutes) or join a tour from Lyon.

Don’t miss: Wine tasting at a traditional winery

3. Grenoble

Skiers and snowboarders make a beeline for Grenoble during the winter sports season, but the ‘capital of the French Alps’ is more than just a ski resort. Bordered by the Drac and Isère rivers, and encircled by snow-hatted peaks, this scenic city has world-class hiking and spectacular views.

Ride the ‘Les Bulles’ cable cars up to the medieval hilltop fortress, La Bastide, for a view over the city, or take the scenic route and climb up from the Jardin des Dauphins. Afterwards, stroll through the cobbled Old Town, grab lunch at a restaurant along the quayside, and be sure to visit at least one of Grenoble’s museums—the Museum of the French Revolution and the Grenoble Museum are among the most popular.

Distance from Lyon: 68 miles (110 km).

How to get there: Drive (1 hour 35 mins) or take the train (1 hour 24 mins).

Don’t miss: A ride on the Grenoble cable car.

4. Geneva, Switzerland

Hemmed in by the French and Swiss Alps, with the storied peak of Mont Blanc looming on the horizon, Geneva serves up mountain views from all angles. Equally mesmerising is the glittering Lake Geneva, Switzerland’s largest lake, where boat cruises and ferries set sail to Lausanne and Montreux along the Swiss Riviera.

Lake Geneva might be the headliner, but the city has plenty of worthy support acts—visit the Palace of Nations, the headquarters of Europe’s United Nations; take a walking tour of the atmospheric Old Town; admire quirky landmarks including the Flower Clock and the Jet d’Eau; and discover the legacy of Swiss watches at the Patek Philippe Museum.

Distance from Lyon: 93 miles (150 km)

How to get there: Drive (1-hour 43 minutes) or take the train (1 hour 57 mins).

Don’t miss: A scenic cruise around Lake Geneva.

5. Rhône Valley

France’s second-largest wine-producing region (that honour goes to Bordeaux) stretches south of Lyon all the way down to the south coast, passing through the rugged foothills of the Massif Central. The wine-making villages of Côte-Rôtie and Hermitage are closest to the city, and renowned for their red Syrah wines, sometimes blended with white Viognier grapes.

Further south, the famous vineyards of the Côtes du Rhône are also within day-trip distance. Combine a wine tasting tour with a visit to the UNESCO-listed city of Orange, renowned for its evocative Roman ruins, or Valence, with its 11th-century cathedral and riverside park.

Distance from Lyon: 25 miles (40 km)

How to get there: Drive to Côte-Rotie (45 minutes) or join a tour from Lyon.

Don’t miss: Tasting Côtes de Rhône wines.

6. Pérouges

Proud of its status as one of “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France” (The Most Beautiful Villages of France), Pérouges is deserving of its title. Step through the ancient city gates, the Porte d’en Bas and Porte d’en Haut, and let yourself be transported back to medieval times as you walk its bumpy cobbled streets (sturdy footwear is a must) through rows of brick and half-timbered buildings.

Stop by La Place de la Halle where the Hostellerie du Vieux Perouges is one of the oldest inns in France, and peek inside the many artisan shops, wine caves, and bakeries that pepper the Old Town. Don’t forget your camera—the medieval town is impossibly picturesque.

How to get there: Join a guided tour from Lyon, take the train (31 mins), or drive (40 mins).

Don’t miss: A tasty Galette de Perouges.

Annecy has everything you could want from an alpine resort town—soaring snow-capped peaks, a glittering lake, and a waterfront medieval castle. Come on a sunny day, when the sandy shores of Lake Annecy are ideal for a beach day, whether you prefer to cool off with a swim, try water sports (waterskiing and wakeboarding are popular choices), or rent a pedal boat for a leisurely cruise around the lake.

Leave yourself time to explore the picturesque Old Town, with its pastel-painted houses, cobbled lanes, and flower-lined canals. The best views are from the Château d’Annecy, while other must-sees include the Jardins de l’Europe (Gardens of Europe) and the Pont des Amours (Lover’s Bridge).

Distance from Lyon: 90 miles (145 km)

How to get there: Drive (2 hours) or take the train (1 hour 51 mins).

Don’t miss: A boat cruise around Lake Annecy.

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Best Day Trips from Lyon, France: Top Destinations & Tips

By: Author Values Bus Tour

Posted on Last updated: November 3, 2023

Lyon, an energetic and historic city in France, offers visitors many attractions. But, one may want to explore beyond the city limits and embark on a range of day trips to discover the beauty of the surrounding regions. With its prime location in eastern France, Lyon is an ideal starting point for a few memorable excursions, rich in history, culture, and natural beauty.

Day trips from Lyon cater to diverse interests, whether exploring charming medieval villages, admiring ancient Roman ruins, or indulging in exquisite French cuisine and wine.

The accessibility of a range of locales from Lyon ensures suitable options for those seeking leisurely and adventurous experiences. From the picturesque landscapes of the Beaujolais Wine Route to the stunning architecture of cities like Dijon and Grenoble, there are countless opportunities for memorable explorations.

As travelers embark on these day trips , they will not only be mesmerized by each location’s distinct beauty and charm. Still, they will also gain a deeper appreciation for France’s rich history and culture. The vast array of day trips from Lyon encourages all visitors to step beyond the city’s borders and uncover the hidden gems in the surrounding French countryside.

Table of Contents

Public Transport and Car Rental

When planning day trips from Lyon, France, visitors have a few options, from public transport to renting a car. Both choices offer unique advantages depending on your preferences and travel goals.

Train Travel

One popular and convenient way to explore the surroundings of Lyon is by train. France’s highly developed train network offers frequent connections between Lyon and neighboring cities and towns. For instance, trains from Lyon Part-Dieu to various destinations make traveling throughout the region swift and easy. Train journeys can take anywhere from around an hour to a few hours, depending on the destination, allowing for a comfortable day trip experience.

Using trains reduces the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads and provides an opportunity for sightseeing as the scenic French countryside unfolds. To make the most of your train travel, consider purchasing tickets in advance and review timetables for the most convenient schedules.

Renting a Car

For those seeking more flexibility and independence during their day trips from Lyon, renting a car is an excellent possibility. Your vehicle lets you control your schedule, make multiple stops, and explore lesser-known attractions. Depending on the size of your group, renting a car might even be more cost-effective than other forms of transportation.

Many car rental agencies in Lyon have a wide selection of vehicles to suit your needs. Before renting a car, ensure you have a valid driving license and familiarize yourself with the local traffic rules. Some day trips from Lyon may require paying nominal toll fees on certain roads, so it is a good idea to consider this when planning your budget.

See Related: Best Bus Tours in Paris, France

Day Trips to Medieval Towns

Explore the rich history and charm of Eastern France by visiting medieval towns near Lyon. These day trips offer a glimpse into the past, with their well-preserved architecture and place abundant in historical significance. Here are some of the best medieval towns to visit on your day trip from Lyon:

Pérouges

Just a short trip from Lyon, the medieval town of Pérouges is bound to leave you thoroughly charmed by its quaint character. This pretty hilltop town is surrounded by gentle rural countryside that amplifies its small-town atmosphere. Pérouges is home to half-timbered stone houses, cobblestones roads, and the world-famous Galette de Pérouges. Make sure to visit the Musée du Vieux Pérouges , a museum displaying artifacts and highlighting the history of this beautiful medieval village here.

Annecy, often called the “ Venice of the Alps ,” is a picturesque town near a beautiful lake. Its old town, Vieille Ville, features colorful houses, narrow streets, and canals with romantic bridges. Amble through the streets and take in the dynamic atmosphere, and don’t miss out on the medieval Palais de l’Isle, which is now a museum about the town’s history.

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Vienne is a town with a rich history dating back to Roman times. Key attractions include the Roman Theatre, one of the largest in the world, capable of seating around 13,000 spectators. The Temple of Augustus and Livia showcases the town’s Roman past, and the Vienne Cathedral , with its Gothic architecture, adds to the historic charm of the town center. Spend your day exploring these ancient sites and absorbing the history of this remarkable medieval town.

From well-preserved architecture to picturesque surroundings and quaint villages, these medieval towns offer a delightful day trip experience for excursionists seeking a taste of France’s rich history. Make sure to add Pérouges, Annecy, and Vienne to your itinerary for your next visit to Lyon.

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Exploring Wine Regions

France is famous across the globe for its exquisite wines, and many exceptional wine regions can be discovered on day trips from Lyon. This section covers three key nearby areas worth exploring: Beaujolais, Burgundy, and Dijon.

Beaujolais region, located just north of Lyon, is famous for its picturesque landscapes and beautiful vineyards. The area is known for its fruity, light red wines from the Gamay grape variety. A popular attraction is the Beaujolais Wine Route, which takes visitors through charming villages and stunning vineyards, offering a wide array of options for wine-tasting excursions.

Many of the wineries in Beaujolais feature cellars where guests can enjoy guided tours and taste unique, locally produced wines. As you explore the region, you’ll find that each winery has its approach to wine-making, resulting in a wide variety of flavors and styles to sample.

Burgundy is another prestigious wine region located to the north of Lyon. Famous for its red wines made from Pinot Noir grapes and white wines made from Chardonnay grapes, the Burgundy wine region offers an array of excellent vineyards and cellars to discover.

The wine route from Lyon to Chalon-sur-Saône is a popular option for excursionists wanting to explore the vineyards, allowing them to admire the beautiful scenery and taste the delightful wines for which the area is renowned. Many wineries also offer guided tours, where visitors can learn about the region’s wine culture and production methods.

The historical city of Dijon, which lies further to the north of Burgundy, is not only known for its mustard but also its dynamic wine scene. The city center surrounding countryside features numerous vineyards that produce excellent wines, focusing on red and white varieties.

Visitors can experience the essence of Dijon’s wine culture by taking guided tours of the vineyards , where they’ll have the opportunity to learn about the local grape varieties and wine-making techniques. Wine-tasting events abound close by, catering to the diverse palates of wine lovers, enthusiasts, and casual tourists.

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Visiting the Alps

Lyon, France, is the perfect starting point for day trips to the stunning Alps, allowing visitors to explore some of the most picturesque locations in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.

French Alps

Located in eastern France, the French Alps are an amazing mountain range with arresting panoramas, charming mountain villages, and excellent skiing opportunities. From Lyon, travelers can experience the beauty of the French Alps by visiting a range of destinations, such beautiful villages as Grenoble, La Clusaz, and more.

Grenoble is situated at the foot of the French Alps and offers sublime views of the surrounding mountains. With a rich history and a dynamic cultural scene, Grenoble is an ideal destination for a day trip from Lyon. Visitors can travel by train for 1½ hours to get there, with trains departing every 30 minutes to 1 hour. Alternatively, buses are available roughly every hour but may take up to 2 hours to arrive.

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La Clusaz is a charming skiing village at the core of the French Alps. During winter, ski enthusiasts can enjoy a range of slopes catering to all skill levels. In the summer, La Clusaz offers visitors opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying the serene Alpine atmosphere. To reach this picturesque village from Lyon, travelers can opt for a 2-hour scenic drive or take a combination of train and bus transfers, making it a convenient and enjoyable day trip .

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Nature Destinations

Domaine de lacroix-laval.

Domaine de Lacroix-Laval is a beautiful estate near Lyon, perfect for a day trip if you’re looking to escape into nature. Its lush wooded parkland, streams, and tree-lined paths offer a tranquil atmosphere to unwind and relax. Ideal for families or couples alike, visitors can enjoy strolls, picnics, or even bike rides throughout the picturesque surroundings.

Lake Annecy

Lake Annecy , also called the “Pearl of the French Alps,” is a stunning alpine lake approximately two hours from Lyon. The crystal-clear waters and surrounding mountains provide a fantastic backdrop for outdoor activities such as swimming, sailing, and fishing. Nature lovers can explore a few hiking tracks around the lake, where they may encounter blooming meadows and panoramic mountain views.

The charming town of Annecy, a tiny town on the lake’s shores, boasts medieval buildings, canals, and flower-adorned bridges, offering a delightful mix of nature and culture. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and adventure on their day trip from Lyon.

Lake Geneva

Another day trip opportunity for nature enthusiasts is Lake Geneva, a large and magnificent lake shared between France and Switzerland. The French shore is approximately three hours from Lyon, making it a feasible destination for a day excursion. The lake’s clear blue waters are surrounded by picturesque towns and stunning rolling hills, providing plenty of outdoor activities such as swimming, sailing, and hiking.

In addition, the lakeside town of Evian-les-Bains offers a luxurious atmosphere with its renowned thermal spa, charming shops, and elegant gardens. Visiting this lovely town on Lake Geneva, with its amazing landscape and bastions of culture, allows individuals to experience a mixture of nature and sophistication on their day trip from Lyon.

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Day Trip to Switzerland

Geneva is a great possibility for a day trip from Lyon, France, to Switzerland. Easily accessible by train, this scenic Swiss city combines stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural experiences, making it an ideal destination for a memorable day trip .

Geneva, Switzerland’s second most populated city, is just a two-hour train ride from Lyon. Surrounded by the Alps, the Jura Mountains, and the beautiful Lake Geneva, this city offers fantastic views and many attractions for visitors to explore.

One of the crucial visit spots in Geneva is the Jet d’Eau or Geneva Water Fountain. One of the tallest water fountains in the world, the Jet d’Eau shoots water up to 140 meters high, creating a mesmerizing sight that can be seen from a range of points around the city.

For history and architecture enthusiasts, visiting St. Pierre Cathedral is a must. This historic site, dating back to the 12th century, features an eclectic mix of architectural styles, including Gothic, Romanesque, and Neoclassical. Visitors can also climb to the top of the cathedral’s towers for panoramic views of Geneva and its surroundings.

• Switzerland : A diverse and picturesque country, perfect for a day trip from Lyon, France.
• Geneva : A scenic Swiss city with stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural experiences.
• Jet d’Eau : One of the tallest water fountains in the world, a crucial visit attraction in Geneva.
• St. Pierre Cathedral : A historic site with a unique blend of architectural styles and panoramic views.

Overall, a day trip to Geneva offers visitors a rich and diverse experience, with a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and culture that creates a lasting impression. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this enchanting Swiss city on your next visit to Lyon, France.

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Historic Sites and Museums

For history and art enthusiasts, there are a few splendid options for a day trip from Lyon. These spots offer a glimpse into the region’s remarkable past and creative spirit.

Château de la Roche

Located by the Loire River, Château de la Roche is an architectural jewel that amazes its visitors. It offers a perfect combination of history and picturesque scenery. The medieval castle has been well-preserved throughout the centuries, allowing visitors to revisit and appreciate its historical significance.

Musée des Beaux-Arts

Art aficionados can head to the Musée des Beaux-Arts, a noteworthy museum at the core of Lyon. Known for its diverse art collection, the exhibition center showcases artwork ranging from ancient Egyptian relics to contemporary masterpieces. Some key highlights include works by Rubens, Rembrandt, and Delacroix. Frequented by tourists and locals, the Musée des Beaux-Arts is a crucial experience destination for anyone interested in art.

Aix-les-Bains

Aix-les-Bains, located in the Haute-Savoie region, offers an enriching journey into the past of this spa town. Once a favorite spot for nobility, Aix-les-Bains now provides diverse attractions for visitors. While exploring the city, one can discover ancient Roman baths, magnificent Belle Époque architecture, and the impressive Abbaye d’Hautecombe on the stunning Lake Bourget. A day trip to Aix-les-Bains offers a memorable experience for history lovers and leisure seekers alike.

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Final Tips and Recommendations

When planning your day trips from Lyon, France, it is always a good idea to consult the local tourist office for up-to-date information on transportation, attractions, and events. They can provide valuable insights and resources to help you maximize your excursions.

One highly recommended of the many great Lyon day trips is visiting Annecy , which offers visitors a chance to experience the charm of a picturesque town set against the backdrop of the stunning French Alps. Meandering along the banks of the Thiou River or taking a leisurely boat cruise offers lovely views and a relaxing atmosphere.

The historic Old Town’s quaint shops and cafes are also a must-see. To get to Annecy, you have various transport options, including trains and buses, so choose the one that best suits your schedule and preferences.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience on your day trips , remember the following tips:

• Plan your itinerary and research the transportation options available for each destination.
• Check the weather forecast before your trip and dress accordingly. Bring layers and comfortable footwear.
• Book tickets for attractions or tours online, saving you time and money.
• Keep an open mind and be prepared to adjust your plans when necessary, as unexpected events or opportunities may arise.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to explore the fantastic day trips from Lyon and make unforgettable memories in this beautiful region of France.

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Best Day Trips from Lyon

The French city of Lyon has a lot going for it. Once a Roman settlement, this town has a rich history that spans centuries. It's also possibly the greatest food city in France, making it also one of the best places to eat in the whole world. Blessed with generally good weather, the old town of Lyon with its Roman ruins and the intriguing covered passageways of the medieval town make this city well worth visiting all by itself.

But Lyon has more going for it, too. Located at the meeting point between northern and southern France, Lyon makes the ideal base for a variety of day trips to let you discover more of France and beyond.

Drop off your bags at a Bounce luggage storage in Lyon , and you'll be ready to take a day trip to explore more of what this fascinating region has to offer. Whether you prefer a guided tour or would rather explore for yourself, there are so many great day trips around Lyon that you'll never get tired of exploring this area. once you've been to the best museums in the city , experienced the nightlife, and dined a few times, it's time to head out!

How to get out of Lyon

Lyon isn't a difficult city to get around, as you'll learn from our guide on how to get around Lyon . and the same goes for visiting some of the nearby towns. Lyon Part Dieu is the main station in town and is located close to the town center, making it easy to embark on a variety of day trips by rail.

There are also long-distance buses and guided tours that can take you on some of the best day trips from Lyon. But if you prefer to go somewhere more remote, you may want to rent a car for your day trip. This can be more expensive and exposes you to the hassles of parking and toll roads, but it does give you a flexibility you won't get any other way.

Ultimately, however you choose to explore, you'll find plenty of great day trips around Lyon. All you need is a few train tickets or a rental car, and you'll be ready to enjoy these fascinating locations.

From Lyon to Annecy

If you're looking for a picturesque day trip from Lyon, look no further than Annecy. This charming Alpine town is located in the French Alps, making it the perfect place to enjoy some stunning mountain scenery, and it's easily one of the best day trips from Lyon.

Once you arrive in Annecy, you'll be able to enjoy a number of activities, such as hiking, cycling, and even swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Annecy. If you're feeling really adventurous, you can even try your hand at parasailing!

There are also a number of museums and art galleries to explore, as well as a lively old town with plenty of restaurants and cafes. With so much to see and do, Annecy makes for a perfect day trip from Lyon.

How to get to Annecy

There are a number of ways to take an Annecy day trip from Lyon. The easiest way is to take a train from Lyon Part Dieu station directly to Annecy. The journey takes around two hours, and there are several trains per day.

If you're driving, it's an almost two-hour drive from Lyon, although you'll have to pay for parking once you arrive. There's also a regular bus service between the two towns, although this can take up to three hours depending on traffic.

From Lyon to Vienne

Vienne is a beautiful town located just to the south of Lyon. With its Roman ruins and medieval buildings, it's easy to see why this town is so popular with tourists.

Once you're in Vienne, there are plenty of things to see and do. If you're interested in history, be sure to visit the Roman Theatre , which is one of the best-preserved Roman ruins in Europe. A guided tour of the theater will give you a glimpse into what life was like when it was first built. You can also check out the Cathedral of St. Maurice, which dates back to the 12th century.

If you're looking for something a little more modern, Vienne is also home to a number of art galleries and museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

How to get to Vienne

The easiest way is to take a train from Lyon Part Dieu station directly to Vienne. The journey takes around 30 minutes, and there are several trains per day.

If you're driving, it's a little over an hour's drive from Lyon.

From Lyon to Geneva

Geneva is a beautiful Swiss city located just to the northeast of Lyon. With its stunning lakeside setting and mountain views, it's easy to see why Geneva makes it onto this list.

Once you're in Geneva, there are plenty of things to keep you busy. If you're interested in history, be sure to visit the Old Town, which is full of medieval buildings and cobblestone streets. To make the most of your time here, you can opt for a guided walking tour of the area. That way, you get information as you navigate the charming streets and see sights like the Geneva Cathedral, which dates back to the 12th century, and the other historic monuments scattered around the city.

Geneva, like Vienne, has a modern side to it too. Check out the Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Modern Art if you don't go a bundle on old town streets and buildings.

How to get to Geneva

It's possible to take a train from Lyon Part Dieu station directly to Geneva city center. The journey takes around two hours.

If you're driving, expect to spend about two hours getting to the city. There are also long-distance bus services which will bring you to the Swiss city, but they can take more than three hours to get there.

From Lyon to Pérouges

Pérouges is a beautiful medieval town located just to the northeast of Lyon. With its cobbled streets and half-timbered houses, it's almost like taking a trip back in time.

Once you're in Pérouges, there are plenty of things to see and do. If you're interested in history, be sure to visit the Maison des Dames de Pérouges, which is a 15th-century house that was once home to the local nobility. Take a guided tour, or you can explore on your own if you prefer.

There's also the Church of St. Michael , which dates back to the 13th century, and several other historic buildings and houses. Plus, the Musée du Vieux Pérouges is the perfect place to learn more about the history of the town.

How to get to Pérouges

To get to this tiny town by train, you'll need to journey from Lyon to Meximieux - Pérouges. Then it's a half-hour walk to the town or a bus journey. All in all, expect to spend around an hour reaching Pérouges - well worth it to explore one of the most beautiful and historic villages in the region.

From Lyon to Dijon

Dijon is a beautiful city located just to the north of Lyon. Set in the Burgundy wine region, there's more than mustard to this lovely city.

If you're interested in history, be sure to visit the Palais des Ducs de Bourgogne, which is a 14th-century palace that was once home to the Duke of Burgundy. There's also the Cathédrale St-Bénigne, which dates back to the 12th century, and is well worth a look and a few photos.

For art lovers, Dijon is also home to a number of art galleries and museums, including the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Dijon .

How to get to Dijon

The train from Lyon to Dijon can take as little as an hour and a half. Driving the same distance will take closer to two hours without traffic, and then you'll have to find somewhere to park, so for most people, the train is the better option.

From Lyon to Grenoble

Southeast of Lyon, Grenoble has a stunning setting in the French Alps between the Drac and Isère rivers. It's a great place to get outdoors, plus the cable cars offer stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

History buffs will enjoy the Musée de Grenoble, which is a museum that documents the city's history. The Notre Dame Cathedral is also a great addition to any itinerary. It dates back to the 11th century and is a national monument done in the Romanesque style.

How to get to Grenoble

Whether you take the train or drive from Lyon to Grenoble, the journey will take approximately one hour and 20 minutes, so it's up to you to decide which works better for how you want to spend your time.

From Lyon to Chamonix

Chamonix is another town in the French Alps east of Lyon. It's located at the base of the famous Mont Blanc mountain (like the pens) and is the meeting point of Italy, Switzerland, and France. Mont Blanc is also the highest summit in the Alps, so if you're into skiing, this one is a must. You can also get outside and explore the mountains in the summer as the cable cars run year-round.

If the weather isn't cooperating and you prefer to be inside, head to the Musée Alpin, which explores the city's alpine and mountaineering history. Just because you're doing winter sports doesn't mean you don't want to learn more about them!

How to get to Chamonix

Driving from Lyon to Chamonix will take about 2 1/2 hours. The same journey by train can take anywhere from 3 to 5 hours, meaning that this might be out of range for day trips from Lyon. If you really want to visit this enchanting town, it's best to either drive or plan to stay a night or two to make the most of your journey.

Domaine de Lacroix-Laval

Domaine de Lacroix-Laval is a lovely park and castle located just to the west of Lyon. The castle itself is an extremely popular tourist attraction in the area, and the close proximity to the city makes this a great day trip option.

Once you're at Domaine de Lacroix-Laval, there's lots to do. If you're interested in history, be sure to visit the castle, which dates back to the 13th century. The park grounds are lovingly manicured and ideal for a stroll or a picnic. You can also do some unique activities here, like natural perfume making, so this is a perfect spot for those who want something a little different.

How to get to Domaine de Lacroix-Laval

Definitely, one of the easier day trips from Lyon you can take, the journey to Domaine de Lacroix-Laval takes only 40 minutes by train and as little as 20 minutes by car. This makes it one of the easiest day trips from Lyon you can do.

There are so many great places to explore around Lyon that it would be a shame not to take advantage. Any of the day trips suggested in this list can give you a better sense of what this region has to offer, and these Lyon day trips will certainly make your visit to the city more memorable. From scenic mountain villages to bustling towns in other countries, Lyon is the perfect gateway to see more of this beautiful region. Drop off your bags at a Bounce luggage storage in Lyon, and you'll be ready to explore beautiful villages, lively cities, and everything else this part of France can give you.

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