Sustainable & Responsible Travel: Lyon

Protected Areas

Respect regional natural parks like Pilat by staying on marked trails and not disturbing wildlife. The city develops green spaces and rehabilitates riverbanks.

Waste Management

France maintains active recycling programs. Look for separate bins for general waste, paper, plastic, and glass. Avoid littering and dispose of waste properly.

Water Conservation

Lyon's tap water is safe. Use a reusable water bottle. Take shorter showers and reuse towels when possible, especially during summer heatwaves.

Environmental Considerations

Mindful practices support the environment.

Carbon Offset & Green Travel

Actions to counter your travel's carbon footprint.

Conscious Choices

Offset flight emissions through reputable programs like Terrapass.
Choose direct flights or train travel for a lower carbon footprint.
Use Lyon's public transport (TCL) for eco-friendly city movement.
Explore nature with sustainable outdoor gear from Patagonia.

Eco-Friendly Accommodations

Select properties with environmental certifications.

Sustainable Stays

Look for hotels with Green or European Ecolabel certifications, like those on Ecobnb.
Properties commit to energy efficiency and waste reduction.
Often use local produce in their restaurants.
Support businesses that practice water conservation.

Responsible Consumption

Make choices that support a circular economy.

Mindful Purchasing

Carry reusable shopping bags.
Use public drinking fountains instead of single-use bottles.
Explore reusable product options at places like Package Free Shop.
Bring a reusable coffee cup for beverages.

Ethical Tour Operators

Choose companies dedicated to responsible tourism.

Sustainable Experiences

Select operators that support local conservation efforts.
Companies like G Adventures specialize in ethical tours.
Their practices often minimize negative impacts on local environments and cultures.
Prioritize tours that respect local communities.

Local Environmental Efforts

Riverbank Revitalization

The renovated Berges du Rhône showcase a commitment to ecological revitalization.

Urban Green Spaces

Lyon continues to invest in increasing green spaces within urban areas for biodiversity and public enjoyment.

Eco-Travel Tip

Utilize Lyon's public transport system (TCL) extensively. It forms an efficient and eco-friendly way to move throughout the city, lowering your carbon footprint.

Cultural Sensitivity

Engage with Lyon's culture respectfully for a more profound experience.

Cultural Preservation Efforts

Lyon's UNESCO World Heritage status highlights its commitment to preserving history.

Supporting Heritage

Respect historical sites and local regulations.
Avoid touching ancient stone walls or defacing property.
When exploring traboules, maintain quiet as these are often private residential passages.
Your actions aid preservation for future generations.

Respectful Interaction Guidelines

A little effort in French fosters welcoming interactions.

Polite Engagement

Attempt basic French greetings ("Bonjour," "Merci") before switching to English.
Be patient and polite with shopkeepers, restaurant staff, and locals.
Dress appropriately, especially for religious sites (shoulders and knees covered).
Consider smart casual attire for dining out.

Photography Ethics & Privacy

Be mindful of local photography customs and privacy.

Respectful Practices

Generally acceptable to photograph public spaces and attractions.
Always ask permission before photographing individuals, especially children.
Be discreet in residential areas or small businesses to avoid intrusion.
Street performers appreciate small donations if you photograph them.

Religious Site Etiquette

Observe decorum when visiting sacred spaces.

Respectful Conduct

Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) in churches or basilicas.
Speak softly to maintain a peaceful atmosphere. Silence mobile phones.
Avoid interrupting services or consuming food/drink inside.
Observe any signs regarding photography within the premises.

Vieux Lyon Street Scene

Vieux Lyon's cobblestones and Renaissance architecture showcase the city's commitment to cultural preservation.

Historical Charm

Wander through narrow, historic streets.

Architectural Beauty

Admire well-preserved Renaissance buildings.

Quiet Exploration

Discover hidden traboules with discretion.

Engaging Locally

Direct communication and polite behavior enrich your experience and foster positive interactions with local residents.

Economic Impact

Support the local economy and benefit the community directly.

Community-Based Tourism

Local Businesses

Choose family-run bouchons over large chains. Buy bread from local boulangeries and pastries from artisan pâtisseries. Your money cycles locally.

Local Markets

Buy directly from local producers at markets like Marché Saint-Antoine Célestins or Halles Paul Bocuse. This supports their livelihoods.

Local Crafts

Purchase Lyonnaise silk directly from artisan workshops. Seek out small, independent shops in neighborhoods like Croix-Rousse or Vieux Lyon.

Fair Trade & Ethical Shopping

Seek products with fair trade certifications (coffee, chocolate) if you purchase them.
Buying local directly supports producers and traditional crafts.
Your consumer choices influence local economies.
Opt for genuine local items over mass-produced goods.
Inquire about the provenance of goods.

Avoiding Harmful Practices

Be aware of potential scams or overly aggressive street vendors.
Research tours/activities to ensure ethical operations.
Avoid activities exploiting animals or people.
Generally, Lyon's tourism industry maintains good regulation.
Support organizations that protect vulnerable populations.
Report any suspicious activities to local authorities.

Appropriate Charitable Giving

Support Local Charities

Donate through established and reputable local charities. This ensures funds reach those most in need.

Structured Aid

Organizations like Secours Populaire Français or Restos du Coeur provide structured and accountable aid.

Direct Giving Alternatives

Avoid giving directly to beggars; direct donations may not always reach their intended recipients.

Local Impact Focus

Your choices as a traveler directly influence the preservation of Lyon's unique character and the support of its residents.

Sustainable & Responsible Travel