Often called the gastronomical capital of France and the birthplace of cinema, Lyon is a dream destination for those who love food, wine, medieval- and Renaissance-era architecture, art and, of course, cinema.
Luckily for our fellow Cheapos, all of this excitement can be enjoyed affordably, because there are plenty of cheap hotels in Lyon to choose from. But not all budget hotels are made equal, which is why we have narrowed down the overwhelming list to options that are charming and either centrally located in the heart of the action or conveniently placed near public transit to get you around the city in no time.
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Which Lyon neighborhood should I stay in?
Before we dive into some of the top budget hotels across the city, it is important to know which of the most popular neighborhoods sound the most appealing to you.
Presqu’île
This area between the Rhône and Saône Rivers to the north of Perrache contains many of the city’s main tourist sights, including the Beaux-Arts Museum and the Opera House, as well as the Carré d’Or shopping district. You can easily walk from here to the Old City. The Presqu’ile is home to many of our budget hotel options and makes a great home base.
Part-Dieu
East of the Rhône River, this neighborhood is named for the Part-Dieu train station. The area is home to the city’s commercial district, but also sights like the Lumière Institute and the famed covered market Les Halles de Lyon – Paul Bocuse. While it can be a bit far to walk to other parts of the city, Part-Dieu is well serviced by public transport, and let’s face it: hotel options here tend to be cheaper.
Vieux Lyon
Home to sights like the Roman theaters and the St. Jean Cathedral, the central hilly neighborhood of Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon) is the heart of touristed Lyon. Explore the passageways of the Old City on the banks of the river or the neighborhood’s several parks. From here, it’s easy to walk to Presqu’île and the Croix Rousse. Of course, budget hotel options are scarce here, as this really is the most heavily visited part of the city.
Top cheap hotels in Lyon, France
Here are our favorite affordable accommodations with convenient locations in the center of the city or near public transit.
One of many fun lounge spaces at Le Flâneur Guesthouse.
Le Flâneur Guesthouse
Neighborhood: Part-Dieu
Beds from $21
If you love to meet new people on your travels, a hostel is the way to go. Not to mention the savings! At Le Flâneur Guesthouse, you’ll find a communal spirit and a list of amenities that you won’t find at most hotels. Each bed has access to a private locker (and lock!), lamp and electric socket, and both private or shared bathrooms are offered.
There is something for everyone here: video games, patios, books, gardens, a shared kitchen, board games, indoor and outdoor play areas, lounges, an on-site cafe, free Wi-Fi and computers with free internet access.
The guesthouse is a 15-minute metro ride to Old Lyon, with the metro just a few minutes away from the hotel by foot. Meet new people and save money by booking at Le Flâneur Guesthouse.
A playful outdoor space at SLO Living Hostel.
SLO Living Hostel
Neighborhood: Part-Dieu
Rooms from $78
With an on-site bar serving local beers and wines, a communal kitchen and lounge and bright, sparkling-clean guestrooms, the SLO Living Hostel is a great pick for budget travelers. Rooms, whether private or shared, follow a minimalist design scheme.
Ask ahead of booking for a room with garden views, and you can also talk with the staff about arranging guided tours and activities. The center of Lyon (and the action!) is less than a mile from the hostel. Get a great deal at SLO Living Hostel.
Comfort Suite Rive Gauche Lyon Centre is conveniently located near public transit.
Comfort Suite Rive Gauche Lyon Centre
Neighborhood: Part-Dieu
Rooms from $89
Whether you are traveling in a group or would just like a little more elbow room, this Comfort Suite just might be the way to go. The one-star hotel offers studios and duplex apartments that fit up to five people comfortably for low rates. The train station and the popular Place Bellecour are less than a mile from the hotel.
In addition to private kitchenettes for whipping up simple meals, you’ll also enjoy air conditioning, private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen televisions and more. Breakfast is also served for an additional fee. Enjoy a stay in a private studio or duplex at Comfort Suite Rive Gauche Lyon Centre.
Rooms at B&B Hôtel LYON Centre Perrache Berthelot are modern and minimalist.
B&B Hôtel LYON Centre Perrache Berthelot
Neighborhood: Part-Dieu
Rooms from $92
Sleek, minimalist style is prevalent here at the three-star B&B Hôtel LYON Centre Perrache Berthelot, which is conveniently located just a 10-minute walk to public transit. Rooms feature white, gray and tan color schemes with funky optical illusions painted at the head of the beds.
Rooms in this newly built structure are air-conditioned with private bathrooms, flat-screen televisions and free Wi-Fi. A continental breakfast spread is available for a small fee. Book a budget stay at B&B Hôtel LYON Centre Perrache Berthelot.
A large double room with en suite at ho36 Hostel.
ho36 Hostel
Neighborhood: Part-Dieu
Rooms from $93
At ho36 Hostel, you can find accommodations to fit your needs, whether you just need a bed, prefer a private room or want a family room. No matter the option, prices stay low year-round at this one-star hotel. Plus, Place Bellecour is only a 15-minute walk away.
You’ll find standard amenities, like free Wi-Fi and toiletries, as well as some interesting offerings, like access to washing machines and electric blankets. There’s a shared kitchen as well as an on-site restaurant and bar. Nearby, there is easy access to public transit. Find the room to fit your needs at ho36 Hostel.
Rooms at Première Classe Lyon Centre Gare Part Dieu are vibrant.
Première Classe Lyon Centre Gare Part Dieu
Neighborhood: Part-Dieu
Rooms from $93
Just steps from the metro, the two-star Première Classe Lyon Centre Gare Part Dieu offers en suite rooms only a short stroll from public transit and shopping. Rooms feature standard hotel fare: desks, televisions and free Wi-Fi.
Most guestrooms offer views of the city and all can be accessed via elevator. A buffet breakfast is available for a small fee. Book a budget-friendly stay at Première Classe Lyon Centre Gare Part Dieu.
Rooms at Hotel Saint Vincent are attractive and spotless.
Hotel Saint Vincent
Neighborhood: Presqu’ile
Rooms from $95
The two-star Hotel Saint Vincent offers chic accommodations just a short walk from the River Saône, Lyon National Opera and the Museum of Fine Arts. As if the location isn’t enough, rooms are spic and span and outfitted with attractive, modern furnishings and decor.
The contemporary room design contrasts many of the main areas, which feature stone walls and wood furnishings. We especially love the exposed wood ceiling beams throughout. Amenities include air conditioning, free Wi-Fi and flat-screen televisions. Breakfast is simple but cheap.
Grab a stylish room at Hotel Saint Vincent.
A sunny dining spot at Hotel du Théatre.
Hotel du Théatre
Neighborhood: Presqu’ile
Rooms from $102
With even superior rooms hovering around $100 a night in the high season, the two-star Hotel du Théatre is a favorite spot for Cheapos. Rooms are simple; each is adorned in grays and beiges with basic wood furnishings. But there is no shortage of amenities, from flat-screen televisions to en suites to free Wi-Fi.
Some of the rooms in this 19th-century building have views of Place des Célestins — we highly recommend asking ahead to take advantage of these famous theater views. Breakfast is available for a reasonable price and offers continental options such as pastries and jams. You’ll find plenty of restaurants and shops in the neighborhood. The Opera House is only about a half of a mile away.
Find affordable rooms at Hotel du Théatre
A stunning room at Bayard Bellecour.
Bayard Bellecour
Neighborhood: Presqu’ile
Rooms from $120
Rooms at the three-star Bayard Bellecour are quite stunning, with each one different from the next. You’ll find floral, striped or damask wallpaper, fireplaces and even ornate canopies draped over the head of the bed.
Bathrooms are private, and rooms also feature flat-screen televisions. Some rooms even have views of the city. Breakfast offers pastries, meats and cheeses, but can be a bit pricey. Don’t be afraid to wander outside to a nearby cafe or restaurant! You’ll also have quick access to the metro and less than a 20-minute walk to the Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon.
Find a unique room just for you at Bayard Bellecour.
Rooms at Hotel Des Remparts Perrache are sunny and bright.
Hotel Des Remparts Perrache
Neighborhood: Presqu’ile
Rooms from $127
The welcoming rooms at the three-star Hotel Des Remparts Perrache are bright and cheerful, and the staff matches this spirited vibe. Rooms are bright blue and yellow (this color scheme is also found in the sunny common spaces) or coral and beige with contemporary furnishings and design.
Rooms overlook the city square below or the private courtyard. You’ll find all the comforts of home here, and breakfast — available for a fee — includes meats, cheeses, crepes, pastries and hot dishes. To get around the city, you’ll also be just a few steps from the train and the metro.
Get more information on staying at Hotel Des Remparts Perrache.
Youth Hostel Lyon offers unbeatable views of the city.
Youth Hostel Lyon
Neighborhood: Vieux Lyon
Beds from $21
Looking for a super cheapo option in Vieux Lyon? We recommend checking out Youth Hostel Lyon, a youth hostel that is welcoming to guests of all ages. You’ll find a bed for as low as $21 a night right in the action of Old Lyon.
Many of the city’s major sites are just a 10-minute-or-less walk away, and there are incredible views from the hostel. Learn more about the ultra-cheapo Youth Hostel Lyon.
More hotels in Lyon
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Source: Euro Cheapo