Winter In Lyon Travel Guide: Things To Do In Lyon In Winter

While most travelers may ignore Lyon once winter hits, this French city’s hottest season happens to be the coldest. 

What we really love about Lyon in winter is the abundance of things to do in the city—we would be bummed to miss out on the seasonal fun if we didn’t explore this underrated cold-weather destination. 

So, we have this guide that’s going to take you through what the weather is like during the cold months there, the top sights and activities, where to find all the hearty comfort foods, how to get around the city, and sweet little day trips right outside town for when you just gotta get away for a bit. 

Don’t hesitate to visit Lyon in winter so you’ll see firsthand why it shines even in the off-season.

Weather in Lyon During Winter

Lyon gets pretty chilly in winter, with temperatures hovering between 7.2°C(45°F) and a not-too-bad 11.7°C(53°F) from December to February. 

It’s not exactly Northern Europe cold, though—about 5°C to 8°C (41°F to 46.4°F) warmer than Hamburg and Berlin. 

So, just toss on a decently warm coat, and don’t forget to wear gloves if you’re swinging by Lyon in the winter.

How Long Does the Sun Rise in Lyon During Winter?

In the wintertime, Lyon has breathtaking sunrises along the Rhône and Saône rivers.

It happens from November to February, and the sun usually shows up between 7:40 am and 8:15 am.

The earliest sunrise hits around 7:40 am in November, and by December and January, it’s holding off until 8:15 am.

February is when the sunrise starts early again, which is around 7:45 am.

Also, the winter sunsets in Lyon shift quite a bit. In November, it’s around 5:15pm, pretty early.

December gets even shorter, hitting 5pm. January follows suit, with sunset at 5:25pm.

February shows a bit of relief as days lengthen, but sunset’s still early at around 6:05pm.

Less daylight, but those early sunsets can give you some killer evening skies.

So, from November to December, its daylight hours are around 9 hours to 10 and a half hours.

The best move here is to start your day early and catch the sunrise, painting the rivers, cool gothic buildings, and hillsides with their morning glow.

Does It Rain In Lyon During Winter?

Lyon gets pretty wet in winter due to its temperate oceanic climate. So, expect about half of your winter days to be rainy.

November starts the wet season, with about 61mm(2.4in) of precipitation. 

December and January keep the rain vibe going, with 43.2mm(1.7in) and 38.1mm(1.5in) of rain, respectively.

Then February tones it down a bit, with rain on about 35.6mm(1.4in) of precipitation.

So, toss in some layers, and grab your rain gear, umbrella, and waterproof shoes – gotta be prepped for those random rain sprinkles.

Does It Snow in Lyon?

Yes, don’t be surprised if you catch a bit of snow during winter in Lyon. But this doesn’t happen all the time, though.

January’s the month for most of the snow action – that’s when things get a bit frosty. But we can assure you that it adds to the cool winter vibe of the place.

Winter Temperature in Lyon

The winter temperatures in Lyon hover around 9°C(48.2°F). But it gets even chilly at night, with an average temperature of about 5.2°C(41.3°F).

So, you definitely need to bundle up if you’re heading out.

Month             Min Temp (°C)       Max Temp (°C)     Average Temp      Precipitation (mm)

November        5°C(41°F)             17.8°C(64°F)        11.7°C(53°F)            61mm(2.4in) 

December      1.1°C(34°F)            16.1°C(61°F)         7.8°C(46°F)            43.2mm(1.7in) 

January          1.1°C(34°F)            17.2°C(53°F)         7.2°C(45°F)            38.1mm(1.5in) 

February         3.9°C(39°F)           16.1°C(61°F)          9.2°C(49°F)           35.6mm(1.4in)

Best Things To Do In Lyon In Winter

Even though it gets a bit chilly in Lyon in the winter, there’s still loads to check out.

You can expect lit-up neighborhoods here, cozy cafés and bistros, cool museums, and lively festivals. 

So, don’t miss out on the things to do in Lyon in winter.

Wander Through Museum Masterpieces

When it’s cold and snowy in Lyon, one of the great ways to spend the afternoon is to visit their awesome museums.

With fewer tourists clogging up the galleries, you’ve got time to wander through all those famous masterpieces at your own pace. 

And there’s something for everybody – whether you’re into modern art or ancient artifacts.

Visit the Musée Des Beaux-Arts (Fine Arts Museum)

If you’re ever in Lyon in winter, you gotta check out the Musée Des Beaux-Arts.

It’s a great art museum housed in an old 17th-century abbey, giving off all those historic vibes. 

The museum is pretty central, like a 30-minute walk from the Part-Dieu train station. The walk there makes for a nice little sightseeing stroll, too.

Inside, you’ve got 70 rooms filled with everything from ancient stuff to more recent art, like Courbet’s The Wave – one of our favorites. 

But note that they switch up winter exhibitions, so we greatly advise you to check the website for what’s up. 

You can check it out from Wednesday to Monday, 10 am to 6 pm, but they are closed on Tuesdays.

It’s €8 to get in, but if you hit up on the first Sunday of the month, it’s on the house.

What’s best when going to museums in winter is that fewer people are around, making our trip really feel more chill.  

Marvel at Works in the Musée des Arts de la Marionnette

Musée des Arts de la Marionnette is a cool spot devoted to puppetry in Lyon’s old city.

You can wander around many floors packed with almost 2500 puppets here.

They’ve got antique and modern ones from many parts of the world. We weren’t able to finish checking everything out.

So, we strongly advise you to visit the museum as early as possible so that you can have ample time to wander around and explore all the puppetry.

You can visit the museum from Wednesday through Sunday, keeping things rolling from 10:30 am to 6 pm.

Heads up: on Mondays and Tuesdays, they’re taking a breather. 

So, get to know the art of puppetry at the Musée des Arts de la Marionnette this winter in Lyon – it’s a vibe all year round.

Shop and Munch at Charming Boutiques and Bistros

The cold weather in Lyon makes wandering those atmospheric streets and cozy shops so appealing.

And you can’t beat warming up with some classic French comfort food at one of those best bistros, either.

So, bundle up and see where your feet take you.

Browse Boutiques in Presqu’île

You gotta check out Lyon’s Presqu’île district in winter for some solid shopping vibes. It’s the go-to spot between the Rhône and Saône rivers.

We really loved checking out all the latest French fashions in the boutiques here. Think clothes, bling, leather stuff, and perfumes–Presqu’île’s got it all.

Top streets to hit up include Rue du Président Édouard Herriot, Rue de Brest, and Rue Émile Zola. 

And if you’ve got some faves, we greatly advise you to check out L’Atelier de Soierie for silk and Novecento for vintage threads.

Pro tip: Always check the shops you want to visit online before visiting. Nothing is worse than showing up somewhere to find out they are closed that day!

Also, getting around here is easy on foot, but watch out for those cobblestone streets – not so great for the less mobile. Public transport is an option, too.

Taste Your Way Through the Bistros in the Old Lyon Quarter

Are you ready for a tasty adventure in Lyon? Join a local buddy for a stroll tour through Vieux Lyon – the oldest district. 

As you walk through the city, your guide also spills the beans on city highlights.

You’ll get to visit many awesome tasting shops and try different dishes. We can really say that Lyon’s food scene is amazing.

Heads up – there’s some walking involved, so it might not be easy for those with limited mobility or children. 

Also, take note of your food allergies – this tour might be a bit tricky.

> Get Your Hands on Vieux Lyon 4-Hour Food Tasting Tour

Enjoy a Meal on a Lunch Cruise

For a unique winter experience in Lyon, you can hop on a restaurant boat for a chill lunch cruise that gives you awesome views of the city’s cool landmarks. 

A tasty 3-course meal with lots of options is usually served for the guests.

You can expect some duck, grilled squid, chocolate soufflé, Chef’s special dessert, and many more.

This combo of good eats and sweet views makes it the perfect winter activity in Lyon.

So, you better snag a spot online now because it’s a hot ticket among tourists and tends to fill up quick.

> Avail of the Lyon 2.5-Hour Lunch Cruise

Go On a Scenic City Tour

There’s no better cure for the winter blues than a day spent wandering a romantic European city.

So, bundle up, take in the views, and enjoy the wintry hangouts in Lyon.

Join a Segway Tour Along Rhône and Saône River

A segway spin in Lyon is one of our favorite activities.

We didn’t have any prior experience, but it was great that there was some training before the tour. It really helped us get the hang of things.

Your guide will also drop knowledge about Lyon’s history throughout the journey. 

You’ll get to pass by the giant Place Bellecour, the statue of Louis XIV, and the Rhône River banks. Cruising by the opera house on a segway was a highlight for us.

Helmets are a must when riding a segway. But don’t worry, they can provide it for you and raincoats if the weather’s acting up. 

We greatly advise you to go for comfy shoes; this might take over an hour, and it’s crucial that you feel at ease during the tour.

Also, a few things to note: You gotta be at least 14 years old, and this ride doesn’t suit pregnant women.

> Join a Segway Tour Along Rhône and Saône River

Explore Lyon on a Walking Tour

Taking a leisurely walking tour is the go-to activity for most tourists.

There are super-friendly guides who will not only take you to the best spots in the city but also share some facts and details about each one. 

What we loved about this tour is that there’s no rush – just us soaking up the city’s vibes at our own pace.

You’ll get to swing by Saint-Jean Cathedral, an old Gothic church with loads of colorful stained glass and fancy stone carvings.

Also, you can’t miss the ‘Traboules’ – these secret passages in the old town were originally made for silk traders to lug their stuff around.

Take a stroll through these narrow lanes with medieval vibes. So, lace up your shoes and get ready to experience Lyon’s historical scene.

> Join a Private Customizable Walking Tour

Hop in a Pedicab for a Leisurely Guided Tour

Doing a pedicab tour was such a fun way for us to see the city.

Don’t overlook this vehicle – it’s surprisingly handy for exploring some awesome spots in Lyon.

The tour usually starts at Bellecour Square, where you can find the iconic sculpture in Lyon. You’ll also get to visit churches, Guignol House, Jacobins, and many more.

Your guide will spill the beans on the cultural and historical details at each spot, making it an enjoyable tour.

So, grab your sunglasses and wear some comfy shoes for a perfect experience.

> Get Your Hands on a Pedicab Tour

Bike Through the City

This is one of the relaxing ways to see the city. It lets us see so many cool spots while enjoying snacks along the way.

Known spots that you can pass through are Bellecour Square, Lyon Cathedral, Park of the Golden Head, Banks of Rhône, and Saône River. You’ll surely be in awe of these places.

Pro tips: always keep an eye on where the bike lanes and trails are. 

Also, watch your step for tricky patches – icy spots and changes in pavement can be sneaky. Ease up on the speed before hitting those potential slide zones.

> Experience a 2-hour Electric Bike Tour with a Local Guide

Enjoy Adventurous Winter Activities

Lyon in winter is the perfect time to go outside and enjoy some adventures. 

So don’t hibernate when the temperatures drop. You never know what new favorite winter memory is waiting for you.

Visit the Christmas Market

The Lyon Christmas market is a big deal in France, pulling in lots of people every year. It runs from late November to December 24th.

The market is a goldmine for unique crafts, decorations, and local stuff. We scored some one-of-a-kind gifts here, perfect for souvenirs. 

The market is right in the Place Carnot, so you can just take in Lyon’s architecture while you shop.

Also, don’t miss out on stalls selling French goodies like hot wine, mulled cider, and gingerbread cookies. 

Quick tips: go on weekdays to avoid the crowds and bring some cash – not all vendors take cards.

Ice skating at Patinoire Charlemagne

Patinoire Charlemagne in Lyon has this huge indoor ice skating rink – one of the biggest in France. It’s our solid go-to spot for the season.

Whether you’re just trying to stay upright or you’ve got some serious skating skills, this place has you covered. 

And if you’re not packing your own skates, no worries – they’ve got rentals, and the staff here is friendly and can hook you up with whatever gear you need. 

Winter Season In Lyon

If you happen to visit Lyon in winter, you’ll find that there’s no shortage of holiday activities throughout every month.

Something fun is always happening to bring some warmth during the chillier months.

Lyon in November

In November, Lyon gets a bit chilly, averaging around 11.7°C (53°F) during the day and dropping to about 7.22°C (45°F) at night.

Days are shorter, but the city comes alive with loads of special events.

Beaujolais Nouveau Wine Release

Lyon has Beaujolais Nouveau Wine Release happening on the third Thursday of November.

We were really all excited about this first-wine-of-the-season event from Beaujolais, just north of Lyon.

Bars in the area throw parties with wine tastings and food pairings for good measure. 

Christmas Markets

Starting from late November to December, the city gets all festive with Christmas markets popping up. 

They are all scattered around the city, like Place Carnot and Croix-Rousse.

You can wander around these markets, feeling the smells of mulled wine, gingerbread, and sausages on the grill.

You may also check out the decorations, ornaments, and regional goodies for souvenirs at outdoor chalet villages. 

Lyon in December

December brings a cozy holiday vibe to Lyon, with a mild winter chill averaging around 7.8°C (46°F). 

You’ll find a bunch of cultural happenings here, like festivals and parties.

A standout event you shouldn’t miss in December is Lyon’s Fête des Lumières, a four-day light festival from December 7 to 11, 2023.

This festival really makes us in awe every year.

You can expect hundreds of stunning light installations, projections, and glowing artwork transforming the city’s streets and landmarks. 

Make sure to visit the main attractions at Place des Terreaux, Place Bellecour, and the Basilica of Fourvière. 

You’ll find cool stuff scattered around Lyon’s different neighborhoods, too. What’s even better is that you can witness the event for free.

Lyon in January

January is the coldest month in Lyon, with an average temperature of 7.2°C (45°F) and about 1.1°C (34°F) for lows.

It’s not exactly beach weather, but you can do some indoor activities like visiting museums and chilling at cafes.

Plus, it’s not overrun by tourists, so you can totally feel the local vibe.

Lyon in February

In February, Lyon’s weather hits around 9.2°C(49°F), making it cool yet enjoyable for city exploration without the tourist hustle of summer. 

One event you should check out is the ‘Into the Forest With Vincent Munier’ exhibit, which starts in mid-February at 86 Quai Perrache. You can get in for just €6. 

You can check out the awesome wildlife photos by Vincent Munier here—think snowy owls, Arctic foxes, and polar bears, all in their chilly habitats. 

The big prints really made us feel like we were right there. It’s indeed a great way to embrace the winter vibes in Lyon.

What To Eat In Lyon In Winter

Traditional Lyonnaise Bouchon Fare

Lyon is known for its cozy spots serving up tasty homestyle dishes with local goodness. Even in the chilly months, you’ll dig into classics like:

Saucisson de Lyon (Lyonnaise Sausage)

Lyon’s got this amazing cured pork sausage. It’s dense, smooth, and packs a meaty punch.

It is best paired with some local favorites like rosette de Lyon, and you can wash it down with a fruity Beaujolais wine.

You can best have this in Charcuterie Bobosse and Charcuterie BONNARD.

Quenelles de Brochet

Quenelles de Brochet is a fluffy fish dumplings in a cream sauce. The fish, local brochet, surely adds a nice touch. 

They can go all out with cheese on top for that extra creamy goodness. This is one of the perfect comfort foods we had to combat the winter chill.

You can get the classic Lyonnaise dish at cozy spots like Les Quenelles Du Soleil – a must-try!

Winter Produce & Farmers Markets

Even when it’s a bit nippy, Lyon’s markets have this wintery goodness. Here are some foods to check out this winter:

Savoy Cabbage

Lyon’s got this frilly cabbage that’s tender as it gets. They toss it into dishes like pot au feu and wine-simmered chicken. 

Since it is so versatile and can be used in various dishes, we tried their stuffed cabbage, making our winter even cozier.

Winter Squashes

The local squash is on point with potimarron, butternut, and kabocha.

They turn these into soul-warming soups and stews. Hearty, sweet, and just what you need when the cold sets in.

Persimmons & Quince

Winter’s got these orange goodies – persimmons. They are poached and thrown on salads or baked into crisps. 

Quince gets in the mix, too, lending its tart sweetness to jams, jellies, and meat pairings.

When the cold weather sets in, Lyon indeed knows how to jazz up these winter fruits.

Christmas Market Treats

At Lyon’s yearly Christmas market, you’ll find lots of special treats for the season, like:

Hot Roasted Chestnuts

Lyon’s Christmas market brings the heat with these chestnuts  – you must try this one. Watching them roast over an open fire really sharpened our appetite.

They are piping hot, slightly sweet, and pure winter comfort. We highly advise eating them straight up, butter-dipped, or whipping them into a velouté de marrons soup. 

Mulled Wine (Vin Chaud)

When the Christmas market vibes hit, you’ve gotta grab some mulled wine.

They are spiced-up red wine with cinnamon, star anise, orange, and a hint of brandy. 

You can sip and stroll through the twinkling lights – the perfect winter combo.

Seasonal Patisseries

Lyon’s pastry game steps up during the holidays.

Don’t miss out on the best ones like Buche de Noel, Marrons Glace, and Galette des Rois – all local spins on festive delights. 

So, treat yourself to some sweets during winter in Lyon. 

Getting Around Lyon in Winter

If you plan to spend your winter in Lyon, figuring your way around helps you soak in the holiday feels.

Ride Public Transportation

Getting around Lyon in winter is easy with its efficient and wallet-friendly public transportation system. 

The metro, trams, and buses give a warm escape from the winter chill.

With four metro lines crisscrossing the city and conveniently located stations near attractions like Old Lyon and Parc de la Tête d’Or, it’s a hassle-free option. 

You can grab tickets from kiosks or directly on trams and buses using coins or cards.

If you’re a frequent traveler, consider snagging a daily, weekly, or monthly pass for some cost savings.

Take a Cab

For a more personalized journey, cabs are readily available for door-to-door service.

They are handy during unpleasant weather or when lugging around luggage.

Just keep in mind that during peak times or post-major events, cab waiting times could stretch.

Go For a Walk

On fair-weather days, you can explore Lyon city center on foot. Don’t miss out on top sites like Place Bellecour and Vieux Lyon.

But winter strolls call for warm layers, waterproof shoes, and perhaps an umbrella for unpredictable rain or snow.

Also, exercise caution in icy conditions, navigating slippery streets and footpaths.

Travel by Bike

If you’re feeling adventurous in the winter, you can ride a bike and explore the city.

But before hopping on a bike, make sure to give it a quick check – tires and brakes. And safety first: wear a helmet and stick to bike lanes when possible. 

Also, keep an eye out for potentially slick conditions that might affect your traction. 

Day Trips From Lyon in Winter

There are some pretty cool spots around Lyon for day trips that’ll make your winter adventure way more awesome.

Day Trip to Grenoble

Grenoble is right at the base of the French Alps and is one of the perfect day trips if you’re in Lyon, just about 110 km away. 

What we love about going to Grenoble are the scenic vibes along the way, with all those charming villages and killer Alpine views.

Once you’re there, you gotta hit up the cable car to the Bastille. It’s not just a ride; it’s a ticket to panoramic views of Grenoble and the Alps in the background. 

Also, walk along the fortress walls, and you’ll get to witness the Chartreuse Mountains. 

And if you’re into museums like us, Grenoble has some cool ones like La Casemate and the Museum of Grenoble with their world-class art collections.

Talking transport, you can hop on trains, and you’re there in an hour and a half. 

The tickets aren’t that expensive, starting from around €27 each way for a train. If you opt for the bus, it will only cost you about €7.

Chambéry Day Trip

This is one of our favorite day trips from Lyon. It’s just a quick 1-and-a-half-hour train ride from Lyon’s Part-Dieu station.

So, Chambéry’s got these medieval houses, cozy cafés, and cute little shops lining the pedestrianized streets that you don’t wanna miss.

It really felt like wandering through history, strolling down the narrow cobblestone lanes.

And oh, don’t forget to visit the Elephants Fountain – a must-see, as unique as it is beautiful.

There’s also the Saint-François de Sales cathedral, with its interior decorations of paintings from many famous artists.

But it’s not just about history and architecture. You can hop on a 20-minute bus ride to Parc Naturel Régional de Chartreuse for some serious Alpine beauty. 

And if you’re feeling adventurous, take a cable car to Le Revard for some stunning views of the Chartreuse mountain range. 

All in all, Chambéry makes for the perfect day trip escape from Lyon to experience some history as well as natural splendor.

Day Trip to Annecy

Have you ever thought about taking a day trip from Lyon to Annecy? They call it the ‘Venice of the Alps,’ and it’s like this relaxing spot in southeastern France.

To get there from Lyon, you can either take a scenic drive (around 150 km) on the A43 highway – it’s under 2 hours – or hop on a bus like Flixbus that drops you right in the Annecy city center.

You’ll get to witness some amazing landscapes here with mountains, a beautiful lake, stone arch bridges, castles, and charming villages.

And don’t miss out on the 12th-century Palais de l’Isle sitting on the Thiou River.

One of the fun activities we loved doing here was cruising on Lake Annecy. Everything was so peaceful and picture-perfect.

When it’s time to wrap up, catch an evening bus back to Lyon or start driving back in the late afternoon to dodge the traffic.

You can throw in a few stops to soak in the Alpine scenery on your way back.

Geneva Day Trip

If you’re ever in Lyon and up for a quick getaway, Geneva is the perfect spot for a day trip! 

Once you roll into Geneva-Cornavin, you’re practically a stone’s throw away from the Old Town and the cool lakefront – just about a 20-minute stroll. 

The Old Town is really giving a medieval feel with its cobblestone streets and old-school townhouses.

Don’t miss out on iconic spots like Place du Bourg-de-Four and St. Peter’s Cathedral.

Now, if you’re into some chill vibes, cruise around Lake Geneva on boats like CGN or Mouettes Genevoises.

One of the places we loved visiting here is the Jet d’Eau fountain – the view is straight-up Instagram material.

Oh, and for any museum buffs like us, Geneva’s got over 30 of them.

We greatly suggest you check out the Musée d’Art et d’Histoire for a dose of archaeology and religious art. 

Their incredible collection here is just so amazing.

And science nerds, you can’t miss the CERN guided tour – it’s like a backstage pass to particle physics.

Our inner science geek freaked out about learning groundbreaking experiments.

Getting there is easy –  hop on a train, and in just 2 hours, you’re in the city center of Geneva. Pro tip: snag the train tickets early,  around €21 to €31.

Day Trip to Clermont-Ferrand

Thinking of a day trip from Lyon? Well, head down to Clermont-Ferrand, just around 160 km south – it’s a winner for a quick getaway. 

You can get there in about 2 hours and 30 minutes by car, bus, or train. If you’re driving, sort out your parking game in the city center beforehand for a hassle-free trip.

Once you’re in Clermont-Ferrand, it’s best to start off at Place de Jaude, the main square.

It’s a buzzing spot where you can munch on local treats and do some prime people-watching. 

The place has that communal vibe, a hub where both tourists and locals mix it up.

For a bit of nature, hike up Puy de Dôme. The hike tired us out, but it was so worth it for the incredible panoramic views at the top.

Don’t forget to check out the Black Cathedral, Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption. It’s got this striking black volcanic stone exterior that really made us in awe.

And let’s talk about food. Clermont-Ferrand is the birthplace of Michelin tires, and the Michelin stars in their restaurants don’t disappoint.

Make sure to book ahead to score a seat at the culinary feast.

Have Lyon’s Attractions Left You Wanting More?

Lyon might not be the first place that pops into your head for a winter escape, but this city doesn’t mess around when the temperature drops. 

They’ve got a classic Christmas market, light festivals, and enough comfort food to make your taste buds do a happy dance. 

Also, the cool thing about winter in Lyon is that it’s not overrun with tourists.

Sure, it’s chillier, but that just means smaller crowds and a chance to cozy up with the locals in those cute bouchon bistros and boutiques. 

Plus, if you’re up for a day trip, the nearby Alps are ready for you.