A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Berlin vs. Lyon for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Berlin or Lyon?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Berlin or Lyon, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Berlin

Berlin is a diverse, historic, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Lyon

Lyon is a authentic, historic, and beautiful city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Berlin and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Berlin or Lyon?

You'll generally find more things to do in Berlin than Lyon. Berlin is bigger than Lyon, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Berlin is better known for its nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Lyon is more popular for its food, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Berlin is well known for its art scene, cultural activities, and war torn history. Also, Berlin is famous for the Brandenburg Gate. Lyon is well known for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town.

How is Berlin different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lyon and Berlin. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Berlin or Lyon?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Berlin and Lyon.

The museums and tourist attractions in Berlin are world-renowned. Famous landmarks include the rebuilt Reichstag, the Berlin Wall Memorial, and Berliner Fernsehturm. Many of the city's oldest and most famous museums are found on Museum Island, where you'll find the Pergamon Museum, the James Simon Gallery, the Altes Museum, and the Neues Museum, among others.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Lyon on the map. There are many world class museums and historic landmarks in the city including Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine, and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

Is the Food Better in Berlin or Lyon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lyon is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Lyon is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Known as "the Gastronomic Capital of the World" this city stands above the rest when it comes to Michelin star restaurants (there are 17!), fresh ingredients, and unique local flavors. Favorite local dishes include pâté en croûte, rosette de Lyon, and saucisson brioché.

Dining out in Berlin is an experience not to be missed. There's a great international food scene, but also all of the traditional favorites like currywurst, spätzle, and schnitzel. You'll find many diverse food halls, street markets, and local restaurants, as well as a large selection of traditional German restaurants that cater to the tourists.

Is Berlin or Lyon Better for Nightlife?

Berlin is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Berlin has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The nightlife scene here is legendary. There are club nights that last for days, bars and parties that appeal to every personality, and a diversity of venues that you can choose from. You'll find the classic techno warehouses, but there are also modern dance clubs, bunker parties, and raves.

Lyon has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has enough diverse neighborhoods that you'll find a scene that is great for everyone. There are dance clubs, cocktail bars, and wine bars that meet every personality and style.

Is Berlin or Lyon Better for Music?

Berlin is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Lyon is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Berlin From the raves to the techno parties, there is a hugely diverse music scene in the city. It is so much more than the stereotypical punk and techno music that Berlin is known for. Rock, pop, and other genres are popular as well.

Lyon is not a live music destination.

Is Berlin or Lyon Better for its Old Town?

Lyon is an unbeatable place for its old town. However, Berlin does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Lyon offers plenty to see. This impressive old town climbs from the river into Fourvière Hill. It's a Renaissance era district with beautiful buildings and plenty of character. You can spend days wandering the quaint streets and popping in the world class restaurants.

Berlin does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Berlin or Lyon?

Berlin is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Berlin make it a world-class shopping destination. Bookshops, flea markets, luxury boutiques and artisan shops all make up the shopping scene in the city. Kurfürstendamm is one of the most famous shopping districts in the city.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Lyon. The city has many trendy markets, pedestrian shopping areas, and character-filled boutiques. From the charming shops in old town to the chic shopping streets, there are plenty of places to splurge around town.

Is Berlin or Lyon Better for Families?

Berlin and Lyon are both superb destinations for the whole family.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Berlin is very family-friendly. The city has a number of great kid-friendly museums such as the Museum of Natural History and the Computer Games Museum. There's also Legoland, an impressive aquarium, and lots of parks and playgrounds to explore.

Lyon is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has many kid-friendly museums including Musée des Confluences and the Cinema and Miniature Museum. There are also playgrounds, patisseries, and river cruises that you can enjoy as a family. Puppet shows are also fun, but do note that they're usually in French. While the restaurants are amazing for adults, it can be tricky to find a kid-friendly option with early opening hours that are convenient for little ones.

Is Berlin or Lyon Better for Couples?

Lyon is a great city for its romantic activities. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Lyon is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

Berlin is a good city for couples to visit. Romantic activities in the city include wandering through Schloss Charlottenburg gardens and learning to dance at Clärchen’s Ballhaus. For couples who enjoy a night out on the town, there are many great restaurants and nightclubs that you can check out.

Is Berlin or Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Berlin is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Berlin. The city has no shortage of hostels to choose from, many of which organize activities and tours that guests can enjoy.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Lyon. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and backpackers.

Is Berlin or Lyon Better for Students?

For students, both Berlin and Lyon are amazing places to visit.

Berlin is a great destination for students. With it's rich culture and eclectic creative side, this city appeals to many international students. There's also a great social scene that is perfect for university students.

Lyon is a very popular city for students. It is a very livable city with many fun cultural activities for students. There are many different entertainment options during the day, and during the evening there are plenty of places to hang out.

Is Berlin or Lyon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Berlin and Lyon both offer amazing public transit to get you around.

Visitors in Berlin can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The transportation system is diverse and includes the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses, and trams.

Lyon has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

Is Berlin or Lyon a more walkable city?

Lyon is a great city for its high level of walkability. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

Lyon is a very walkable city. The old town is particularly walkable, but the hills can make things a bit challenging. There are also a number of pedestrian streets around town.

Berlin is a somewhat walkable city. While parts of the city are very walkable, the neighborhoods are spread out and the city covers a large amount of space, so walking isn't always practical.

For even more information, also check out Is Berlin Worth Visiting? and Is Lyon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Berlin?

How long in Berlin or Lyon?

In either Berlin or Lyon, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Berlin than Lyon because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Berlin, and 2-5 days is enough time in Lyon.

Families should spend more time in Lyon than Berlin. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Lyon, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Lyon than Berlin. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Lyon that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berlin than Lyon if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Berlin.

One day in Berlin or Lyon?

Berlin is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the quaint big city of Lyon. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Berlin or Lyon?

Berlin is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Lyon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Berlin or Lyon?

Berlin is a artsy big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lyon. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Berlin or Lyon?

Berlin is a eclectic city where you can fill many days. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic big city of Lyon. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, The Best Cultural Tours in Germany, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

When comparing the travel costs between Berlin and Lyon, we can see that Berlin is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Berlin Expensive? and Is Lyon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Berlin or Lyon?

Berlin has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Lyon. When comparing the sizes of Berlin and Lyon, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Berlin or Lyon?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Berlin or Lyon in the Summer?

Both Lyon and Berlin during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Berlin because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lyon this time of year.

Berlin is cooler than Lyon in the summer. The daily temperature in Berlin averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Lyon fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

In Lyon, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Berlin. In the summer, Berlin often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Berlin gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 285 hours of full sun.

Berlin usually gets less rain in July than Lyon. Berlin gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Berlin or Lyon in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Berlin and Lyon. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Berlin this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lyon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Berlin is cooler than Lyon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Berlin in October average around 10°C (50°F), and Lyon averages at about 14°C (56°F).

Berlin usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during autumn. Berlin gets 106 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Berlin usually receives less rain than Lyon. Berlin gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Berlin or Lyon in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Berlin as well as Lyon. Many travelers come to Berlin for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Lyon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Lyon can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Berlin. In January, Berlin is generally much colder than Lyon. Daily temperatures in Berlin average around -0°C (31°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Berlin often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Berlin gets 42 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 62 hours of full sun.

Berlin usually gets less rain in January than Lyon. Berlin gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Berlin or Lyon in the Spring?

Both Lyon and Berlin are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Berlin in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Lyon for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Berlin is cooler than Lyon in the spring. The daily temperature in Berlin averages around 9°C (47°F) in April, and Lyon fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

Berlin usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during spring. Berlin gets 160 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Berlin usually receives less rain than Lyon. Berlin gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lyon and Berlin