Lyon: Travel guide, prices and free housing · 2026

Riders can pay fares by tapping a contactless bank card or mobile wallet directly at station barriers and vehicle scanners. A single fare includes unlimited transfers across the metro, tram, trolleybus, and funicular networks within a standard travel window. Physical reloadable cards and multi-journey booklets can also be purchased at station vending machines and licensed tobacco shops. Passengers must validate their card or ticket upon every boarding, including during transfers, to avoid penalty fines.

The Rhônexpress light rail line connects the airport terminal directly to the central Part-Dieu railway station without intermediate city traffic. Public suburban buses link the airport to suburban tram lines for travelers seeking lower-cost transit into the city. Official metered taxis operate outside the arrivals terminal, with higher fares applying during night hours, Sundays, and public holidays. Regional and long-distance high-speed trains also call at the dedicated airport railway station for direct onward travel.

A bouchon is a traditional Lyon restaurant serving hearty regional dishes such as pork sausages, quenelles, tripe specialties, and potato gratins. These eateries originated as worker dining rooms created by female cooks known as mères. Reputable establishments serve house wines in customary carafes alongside meals that automatically include bread, tap water, and service. Diners should seek verified local recommendations and avoid tourist traps displaying aggressive street hawkers or generic authenticity slogans.

Traboules are hidden pedestrian corridors that pass directly through private residential courtyards and buildings to connect parallel streets. They are located primarily in the Renaissance quarter of Vieux Lyon and across the silk-weaving district on the slopes of Croix-Rousse. Historical residents used these passageways to reach the river banks swiftly and transport fragile silk bolts sheltered from rain. Today many traboules remain open to respectful visitors walking through the protected heritage districts.

French landlords routinely require rental applicants to demonstrate steady net income substantially exceeding monthly rent charges or provide a local guarantor. Expats and foreign workers without personal contacts in the country commonly secure leases by presenting a state-backed Visale rental guarantee. Prospective tenants should also inspect whether their income qualifies them for state housing subsidies through the family allowance fund. Sharing an apartment or looking in adjacent areas like Villeurbanne provides lower housing costs with direct public transit access.