Cheap Flights to Lyon (LYS)

Ebookers can help you find cheap flights to Lyon, capital of the Rhone-Alpes region in France and the country's second-largest metropolis. Lyon is situated on two rivers: the Rhone to the east and the Saone to the west. Together, the neighbourhoods of Fourviere, Vieux Lyon, Croix-Rousse and Presqu'île are classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city is renowned for its historical significance, vibrant culture and gourmet food scene.

Arriving in Lyon

Travellers arriving in Lyon by air fly into Lyon-Saint Exupery Airport, located in Colombier-Saugnieu, approximately 13 miles from the city centre. The airport receives mostly European flights, but intercontinental travellers can reach the airport by connecting flight through a European hub such as Paris or London. Over 30 airlines offer service to Lyon-Saint Exupery Airport, including Air France, Iberia, Scandinavian Airlines and British Airways. Low-fare carriers, such as EasyJet, also offer flights to this airport.

Transportation from the Airport

One of the most convenient public transportation options to get from the airport to downtown Lyon is the tram line called Rhonexpress. The service is upscale and targeted at business travellers, so the cost is €13 per person, but it will get you to the main Lyon Part-Dieu station in just 30 minutes. Trains depart every 15 minutes. The other option is to take a taxi from the airport. A taxi ride to the city centre costs approximately €40 to €50, depending upon your final destination.

Weather Conditions in Lyon

Lyon experiences hot summers and cold, blustery winters. Average high temperatures in the summer can reach 35°C, while winter lows can fall to -5°C. The city receives snowfall but not enough to cover the streets for more than a day or two in the winter. The city's most popular annual event is the Festival of Lights in December. If you plan to visit during this event, expect very large crowds, and make your hotel reservations well in advance. Avoid Lyon in August, when the weather is stifling hot, the city is deserted and many of the shops and restaurants are closed because their owners take holidays. May through June and the month of September are considered the best times to visit Lyon.

Things to Do in Lyon

Traditional city attractions include the Fourvière Basilica, the Traboules in Croix-Rousse, the Musées Gadagne and the Parc de la Tête d'Or. Sightseers enjoy the streets and traboules in Vieux Lyon and Old Lyon, a Renaissance area along the right bank of the Saone. City events that attract tourists include the Festival of Lights in December, the Nuits de Fourviere festival in June and the La Biennale de Lyon in September. Lyon is also a great base for day trips to explore the French vineyards at Beaujolais, Burgundy and the Rhone Valley, which are less than two hours away.

Plan a Hassle-Free Trip to Lyon

Lyon is a cosmopolitan city known for its history and culture. Whether you want to spend the day marveling at the city's architecture or you wish to enjoy a meal and a glass of wine at one of the city's cosy restaurants, Lyon is a memorable destination for the whole family. Planning your trip to Lyon is a breeze when you use ebookers. Ebookers can help you locate affordable flights to Lyon and find deals on places to stay and on admission to local attractions.