Lyon, France: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Lyon, France? If you're planning to go to Lyon, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Lyon, France

Based on the climate and weather in Lyon, France, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Lyon, France

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Lyon, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Lyon, France by month

January

January in Lyon is cold. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) to low 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lyon. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Take care to get the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you are planning to see the must-see St Jean Cathedral, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to St Jean archaeological garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February is cold. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains or snows a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lyon. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Take care to get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you are planning to see the must-see St Jean Cathedral, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to St Jean archaeological garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March for Lyon is cold. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lyon. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Ensure that you find the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are planning to see the must-see St Jean Cathedral, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to St Jean archaeological garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

In April, Lyon is crisp. Temperatures routinely are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) and sometimes jump into the 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Lyon, with several of the days of the month having rain. In April, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lyon. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Take care to get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you are planning to see the must-see St Jean Cathedral, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to St Jean archaeological garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

Traveling to Lyon in May, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lyon. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be careful to find the right kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you are planning to see the must-see St Jean Cathedral, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to St Jean archaeological garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

If you go to Lyon in June, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lyon. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be careful to choose the right kind. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you are planning to see the must-see St Jean Cathedral, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to St Jean archaeological garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

July in Lyon is a perfect temperature. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lyon. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be careful to get the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are planning to see the must-see St Jean Cathedral, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to St Jean archaeological garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

August in Lyon is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lyon. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Check that you get the necessary kind. Most adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you are planning to see the must-see St Jean Cathedral, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to St Jean archaeological garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

September here is mild. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lyon. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Ensure that you pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you are planning to see the must-see St Jean Cathedral, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to St Jean archaeological garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

October is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lyon. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be careful to get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are planning to see the must-see St Jean Cathedral, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to St Jean archaeological garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

November in Lyon can be brisk. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lyon. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Take care to get the correct kind. The majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are planning to see the must-see St Jean Cathedral, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to St Jean archaeological garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

If you are traveling to Lyon in December, you will notice that it is pretty cool. Expect it to rain or snow 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the low 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lyon. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Make sure to pick the necessary kind. Most adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you are planning to see the must-see St Jean Cathedral, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to St Jean archaeological garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Lyon, France

Lyon, the third-largest city in France, is located in the Rhône-Alpes region and is known for its rich history, culture, and gastronomy. The city has something for everyone, from picturesque architecture to delicious food and wine. Here are some of the top tourist attractions you need to visit while in Lyon.

1. Old Lyon

Old Lyon, also known as Vieux Lyon, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most well-preserved medieval and Renaissance districts in Europe. It is a labyrinth of cobbled streets, narrow passageways, and hidden courtyards. As you wander through the streets of Old Lyon, you will come across many historic buildings and attractions, including the St. Jean Cathedral, the Gothic Church of Saint Paul, and the Traboules, a maze of secret passageways that lead to the city’s hidden courtyards.

2. Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is one of the most iconic landmarks in Lyon. It is a stunning example of neo-Byzantine architecture, adorned with intricate mosaics and stunning stained glass windows. The basilica is located on Fourvière Hill, which offers breathtaking views of Lyon and the surrounding area. Visitors can take the funicular or climb the stairs to the top of the hill to reach the basilica.

3. Musée des Confluences

The Musée des Confluences is a modern science and anthropology museum located at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers. The museum’s stunning architecture is worth a visit, and the exhibits cover everything from the origins of the universe to the history of humanity. It is a great place to spend an afternoon, especially if you have kids, as it is both entertaining and educational.

4. Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse

Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse is a food lover’s paradise. It is a covered market that sells all sorts of local produce, including cheese, meat, fish, vegetables, and wine. The market is named after Paul Bocuse, a famous French chef who was born in Lyon. The market is a great place to try some local delicacies, such as saucisson, cheese, and pastries.

5. Parc de la Tête d’Or

The Parc de la Tête d’Or, or the Golden Head Park, is a beautiful urban park located in the heart of Lyon. The park covers over 100 hectares and includes a lake, a zoo, a botanical garden, and many walking paths. It is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a picnic or a stroll.

In conclusion, Lyon is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you are a history buff, a foodie, or a lover of the outdoors, Lyon has plenty of attractions and activities to offer. Make sure to include these top tourist attractions in your Lyon itinerary for an unforgettable experience.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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