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Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

Burgundy And The Rhone, France

Accommodation Types

Full Spectrum of Lodging Options

  • Hostels (Auberges de Jeunesse)

    Budget-friendly options with dorm beds and private rooms. Communal facilities often found. Popular for backpackers and solo travelers.

  • Budget Hotels

    Clean, basic rooms without extensive amenities. Good value for simple, comfortable stays.

  • Mid-range Hotels

    More comfort and amenities, often with en-suite bathrooms, breakfast, and dining. Balance price and comfort.

  • Luxury Hotels

    High-end service and premium amenities. Spas, fine dining, concierge service. Indulgent stays.

Unique Local Accommodation

  • Boutique Hotels

    Stylish hotels with unique designs and personalized service. Reflect local character.

  • Aparthotels

    Apartment-style living with kitchenettes and hotel services. Good for longer visits, families.

  • Chambres d'Hôtes (B&Bs)

    Personal stays in a local's home, often with breakfast. Experience French hospitality.

  • Vacation Rentals and Apartments

    Fully equipped apartments or houses. Ideal for families, groups, self-catering options. More space.

Neighborhood Guide

Each district is a distinct character, with unique benefits and considerations.

Vieux Lyon Old Town

Benefits
  • Picturesque setting, near historical sites (Cathédrale Saint-Jean, Roman ruins), fine traditional dining.
  • Transport back in time.
Considerations
  • Can be very touristy, limited large hotels, nightlife leans traditional.
  • Crowded areas may attract pickpockets.

Presqu'île City Center

Benefits
  • Central location, excellent transport (metro, tram, bus), broad hotel selection.
  • Extensive dining and shopping. Many attractions walkable.
Considerations
  • Can be busy and noisy, especially near main thoroughfares.
  • Standard urban caution at night.

Fourvière / Saint-Just

Benefits
  • Incredible panoramic city views.
  • Peaceful and near major historical sites (Basilica, Roman theaters).
Considerations
  • Funicular ride or steep walk to city center.
  • Limited dining and shopping directly on the hill.

Other outstanding Areas

Croix-Rousse

The historic silk workers' district. Features distinctive architecture, hidden passageways (traboules), a bohemian atmosphere, and independent shops. Authentic local feel and views. Hilly terrain with steep climbs; fewer luxury hotels.

Part-Dieu

Lyon's modern business district. Main train station, large shopping center. Excellent transport hub. Lacks historic charm. Caution at transport hubs late at night.

Booking Strategies

Plan your accommodation bookings considering seasonal demand and trusted platforms.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (June-August) & Fête des Lumières (December): Book 3-6 months ahead for popular hotels or specific neighborhoods. Prices highest during these times.
  • Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): Book 1-3 months ahead for good selection and prices. Pleasant weather, reasonable rates.
  • Low Season (November, January-March): Booking a few weeks to a month ahead is usually enough. More flexibility and lower prices.
  • Negotiation for walk-in rates is not common in France; prices are generally fixed. Advance booking is always better.

Trusted Platforms

  • Major global online travel agencies (OTAs) are widely used and offer vast selections: Booking.com, Agoda, IHG Hotels.
  • For vacation rentals, popular platforms include Vrbo. For hostels, try Hostelworld.
  • Direct booking with hotels sometimes brings better rates or perks.
  • Deposit and cancellation policies vary. Check the specific policy before booking. Flexible cancellation often available at higher rates.

Seasonal Price Fluctuations

Peak Season

Prices are significantly higher during peak tourist seasons and major events (Fête des Lumières, major conferences).

Budget Travel

Consider off-peak seasons for more economical travel.

Event Planning

Be aware of major events when budgeting for your visit.

Accommodation Recommendations

A comparison to assist in choosing the best accommodation for your visit.

Comparison Table for Accommodation Types

Hostels

Typical Price Range (per night): €25 - €50. Best for budget travelers, solo travelers, socializers.

  • Features / Pros: Very affordable, social atmosphere, shared facilities.
  • Considerations / Cons: Less privacy, can be noisy, dorm living.
Budget Hotels

Typical Price Range (per night): €60 - €90. Best for value-focused travelers, short stays.

  • Features / Pros: Basic comfort, private room, often good locations.
  • Considerations / Cons: Limited amenities, smaller rooms.

Other Accommodation Categories

Mid-range Hotels

Typical Price Range (per night): €90 - €180. Best for general tourists, couples, business travelers.

  • Features / Pros: Good balance of comfort and price, more amenities, better service.
  • Considerations / Cons: Can still be busy, may lack unique character.
Luxury Hotels

Typical Price Range (per night): €200+. Best for special occasions, discerning travelers.

  • Features / Pros: Premium service, high-end amenities (spa, pool), prime locations, often historic.
  • Considerations / Cons: High cost, less "local" experience.

Family and Long-Stay Options

  • Family-Friendly Options

    Aparthotels (e.g., Appart’City, Adagio) and vacation rentals (Vrbo) offer more space and self-catering facilities. Hotels near Parc de la Tête d'Or are convenient.

  • Solo Traveler Recommendations

    Hostels (Hostelworld) for meeting others. Budget or mid-range hotels in well-connected, safe areas like Presqu'île or Croix-Rousse for comfort.

  • Long-Stay Accommodations

    Aparthotels or private apartment rentals suit extended visits. They present home comforts and cost-efficiency for visits over a week.

Specialty Properties

  • Properties with Cultural or Historical Significance

    Many boutique hotels in Vieux Lyon or Presqu'île reside in beautifully restored historic buildings. Unique ambiance and a chance to experience Lyon's heritage. Check Booking.com or Agoda for options.

  • River Views

    Some hotels in Vieux Lyon overlook the Saône River, contributing to the charm.

  • Unique Stays

    Consider unique experiences like TrustedHousesitters for a deeper local immersion.

  • Hotel Chains

    For consistent quality, consider major hotel chains like IHG Hotels, with properties across various categories.

Planning Your Stay

Research and Compare

Compare prices and amenities across different platforms and direct hotel websites. Read recent reviews to guide your choice.

  • Look for bundle deals that combine accommodation with flights or activities.
  • Consider loyalty programs for potential benefits.
Location, Location, Location

Choose a neighborhood that aligns with your travel style and itinerary. Consider proximity to public transport and attractions.

  • Vieux Lyon for historical ambiance.
  • Presqu'île for central access.
  • Croix-Rousse for a bohemian feel.

Guest Comfort and Services

Accessibility

Many modern hotels offer accessible rooms and facilities. Verify details directly with the property if special needs are present.

Pet-Friendly Options

Some hotels welcome pets, often with an additional fee. Confirm pet policies when booking.

Parking Facilities

If traveling by car, confirm parking availability and costs, especially in central areas where parking is limited.