Is it Safe to Visit Lyon? Everything You Need to Know

Lyon is a charming French city situated in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, known for its old-world architecture, cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine. However, like any other city in the world, traveling to Lyon requires some preparation and research to ensure you have the best and safest experience. In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know to make an informed decision on whether Lyon is safe to visit, including current safety measures in place and risks to keep in mind.

Safety in Lyon: The Current Situation

Lyon is generally considered a safe city for tourists, with low levels of crime and violence. According to Numbeo, a crowd-sourced global database that provides cost of living and safety information, Lyon’s safety index rate is 76.75 out of 100, which is higher than the average safety index for France.

However, like any other popular city, Lyon sees some level of petty crime such as pickpocketing, especially in crowded tourist areas such as Vieux Lyon and the Croix-Rousse District. In order to protect yourself and your belongings, it’s important to remain vigilant and follow some general safety measures such as:

• Avoiding large crowds or suspicious individuals
• Keeping your valuables in secure places
• Staying aware of your surroundings at all times
• Not leaving your belongings unattended
• only using authorized taxis

COVID-19 Safety Measures

The COVID-19 pandemic has had an impact on travel safety, and Lyon, like other cities, has implemented measures to keep residents and tourists alike safe. Most shops, restaurants, and tourist sites have re-opened, but visitors are required to wear face masks indoors, and in some cases outdoors as well. Sanitizer dispensers are also available in most public spaces, and social distancing guidelines must be observed.

All restaurants, bars, and cafes must close at 10 pm, and there is a curfew in place from 11 pm to 6 am until further notice, except for those with valid reasons for being outside.

Risks to Keep in Mind

While Lyon is generally safe, there are some risks to keep in mind when traveling to this city. As mentioned earlier, petty crime such as pickpocketing still occurs, so it’s important to take appropriate measures. In addition, Lyon, like all large cities, has areas that are more prone to crime, and it’s best to be cautious in such areas.

Some specific neighborhoods to keep in mind include Vaulx-en-Velin, La Duchère, and Vénissieux, which have higher crime rates than others. It’s important to do your research and check with the locals before venturing out into these areas.

Conclusion

Lyon is a beautiful city that is generally safe for tourists, with many attractions and experiences to offer. It’s important, however, to stay vigilant and take proper safety measures to avoid any potential risks. COVID-19 safety measures must also be observed. By being mindful of your surroundings, you’re sure to have a pleasant and safe experience in Lyon.

So, to answer the question “Is it safe to visit Lyon?”, the answer is yes: Lyon is generally a safe place for tourists, but like with any city, it’s important to remain cautious and always stay aware.

Insiders Guide to Visiting Lyon

Lyon is an enchanting city in eastern France that attracts millions of tourists each year. Known as the gastronomic capital of France, Lyon is also rich in culture and history. In this insider’s guide, we’ll give you everything you need to know about the city, from local attractions to dining spots, cultural experiences to local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions. So let’s dive in!

Local Attractions

Lyon has a plethora of stunning attractions that will capture every visitor’s attention. One of the most iconic attractions is the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, which sits on top of Fourvière Hill and offers amazing views of the city. The place is home to several remarkable features, including the crypt, the ornate mosaics, and the Bell tower.

The old town of Lyon is also a must-visit destination for any first-time visitor. The narrow streets are cafes, restaurants, and small boutiques that allow you to see the local people’s way of life. The Old Town is also home to historical landmarks like the Roman amphitheater, the Théâtre antique de Lyon, and the Saint-Jean Cathedral.

Finally, don’t miss a visit to Lyon’s two rivers, the Rhône and the Saône. You can enjoy a pleasant boat cruise that will allow you to see the city’s skyline from a different perspective.

Dining Spots

As mentioned earlier, Lyon is known as the gastronomic capital of France. Lyon has no shortage of delicious restaurants that will take your culinary experience to a different level. The most famous dishes in Lyon are the Quenelle de brochet (pike dumplings), Coq au vin (chicken in red wine), and Saucisson (a dry cured sausage).

One of the most famous restaurants in the city is the Bouchon Lyonnais. It’s a traditional Lyonnaise restaurant that specializes in serving dishes that the locals enjoy. Another great dining spot is Les Halles de Paul Bocuse, which is a large indoor market that offers fresh and delicious ingredients.

Cultural Experiences

Lyon is rich in history and culture. One of the best destinations for cultural experiences is the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon. It holds an impressive collection of artwork that features paintings from famous artists like Monet and Cézanne.

There’s also the ancient theatre of Fourvière. It’s an outdoor amphitheater that hosted various events, including concerts, during the summer months. It offers stunning views of the city, perfect for an Instagram-worthy post.

Finally, take a stroll along the traboules. These are ancient passageways that date back to the 4th century and offer an insight into the local people’s way of life.

Local History

Lyon has a rich history that dates back to the Roman times. There are several historical landmarks in the city that you can explore to learn more about the city’s history. The Roman amphitheater is one of the most significant historical sites, along with the Gallo-Roman Museum that houses various ancient artifacts.

Another landmark that depicts Lyon’s history is the Place des Terreaux, which was once used as a market square during the Roman era.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions

If you want to explore some hidden gems off the beaten track, head to the Croix-Rousse district. The district’s unique architecture and winding streets are a refreshing change from the typical tourist destinations.

You can also visit the Mur des Canuts, where a beautiful fresco illustrates the silkworkers’ history. The Croix-Rousse district is also home to several silk workshops open to the public.

In conclusion, Lyon is a city with endless attractions and activities for tourists to explore. Whether you’re an avid foodie, history buff, or looking for an Instagram-worthy destination, Lyon has something for everyone.