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

Should you visit Brisbane or Lyon?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Brisbane and Lyon can help you decide which place is right for you.

Brisbane

Brisbane is a cultural, active, and relaxed coastal city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Lyon

Lyon is a quaint, authentic, and historic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Brisbane and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brisbane or Lyon?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Lyon than Brisbane. While Brisbane is larger than Lyon, Lyon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lyon is more popular for its museums & sights, food, historical sights, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Brisbane is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Lyon is more touristy than Brisbane and is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. It is also home to The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Brisbane is popular for its sports culture, beautiful weather, and outdoor areas.

How is Brisbane different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lyon is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Lyon has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Brisbane can be an interesting and educational experience. The Cultural Centre is where you'll find many of the city's museums. It sits on the banks of the Brisbane River and is home to the State Library of Queensland, the Queensland Museum and Sciencentre, and Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art. This is also where you'll find the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Also popular is the Brisbane Botanic Gardens and the Wheel of Brisbane.

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

Lyon is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Lyon has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Brisbane offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find all of the standard eateries around town, with casual cafes, family-friendly restaurants, and some fine dining experiences to choose from.

Is Brisbane or Lyon Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is excellent in both Brisbane and Lyon.

Many people head to Brisbane for the nightlife scene. Fortitude Valley is the entertainment district in the city, and it really comes to life at night. There are also many venues that take advantage of the beautiful weather with outdoor and rooftop bars.

Lyon has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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 Brisbane or Lyon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Brisbane is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Lyon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Brisbane has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are some good snorkeling and diving spots near the city. One of the best is the Tangalooma Wrecks off Moreton Island.

Lyon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Brisbane or Lyon Better for Beaches?

Brisbane is a well-known place for the beache. However, Lyon is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Brisbane. For the best beaches, you'll want to take a day trip out of town, but there are also some nice beaches right by the city. About 30 minutes from town is family-friend Suttons Beach, or you can stay in the city center and check out the man-made Streets Beach. Shorncliffe Beach is another option that's less than a half hour from town.

Lyon is not a beach destination.

Is Brisbane or Lyon Better for its Old Town?

Lyon is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Brisbane does not have a historic old town.

Lyon offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Brisbane does not have a historic old town.

Is Brisbane or Lyon Better for Hiking?

Brisbane is a nice place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Lyon is not a hiking destination.

Brisbane has hiking trails worth exploring. There are a number of hikes outside of town that you can enjoy as a day trip. Check out the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, Keperra Bushland Reserve, or D'Aguilar National Park to the north of town. To the south is Toohey Forest Park, Springwood Conservation Park , and Venmans Bushland National Park.

Lyon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Brisbane or Lyon?

If you're looking to go shopping, Brisbane and Lyon both offer plenty of excellent spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Brisbane. It's one of the most popular cities for retail therapy in Queensland. Queen Street Mall is an open air shopping mall and James Street is a favorite shopping street in town.

Lyon is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 Brisbane or Lyon Better for Families?

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Brisbane or Lyon.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Brisbane. Kids will love a visit to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary or White Ridge Farm. And, of course, you should take a ride on the iconic Wheel of Brisbane. If you're willing to head out of town you can visit the fun Tangalooma Island Resort. Streets Beach is also fun to visit.

Lyon is 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 Brisbane or Lyon Better for Couples?

Lyon is great for couples. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for romance.

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.

Brisbane is a nice destination for couples. The waterfront setting and romantic restaurants offer a nice getaway for couples. There are many outdoor spaces that are fun to explore as well.

Is Brisbane or Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Brisbane and Lyon are excellent places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Brisbane. Many backpackers breeze through Brisbane in favor of other nearby destinations, but there are actually a number of hostels in town and some interesting things to do.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Lyon. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and backpackers.

Is Brisbane or Lyon Better for Students?

Lyon is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Lyon. 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.

Brisbane is a great coastal city to visit as a student. Many students appreciate the local vibe, warm weather, and excellent education opportunities that the city offers.

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

Lyon is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its public transit.

Public transit in Lyon is top-notch. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

Brisbane has a few public transit options. There are buses, trains, and ferries around town, but many people prefer to have their own vehicle. Ferries are the most fun and scenic way to get around.

Is Brisbane or Lyon a more walkable city?

Brisbane and Lyon are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Brisbane is a very walkable destination. There's a good network of paths that make parts of the city walkable.

Lyon is very walkable. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Brisbane?

How long in Brisbane or Lyon?

In either Brisbane or Lyon, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lyon than Brisbane because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Brisbane, and 2-5 days is enough time in Lyon.

Families should spend more time in Lyon than Brisbane. 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 Brisbane. 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 Lyon than Brisbane 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 Lyon.

One day in Brisbane or Lyon?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Brisbane. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Lyon is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Brisbane or Lyon?

Brisbane is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lyon, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Brisbane or Lyon?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the diverse destination of Brisbane. This coastal city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Lyon is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lyon, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Brisbane or Lyon?

The cultural coastal city of Brisbane offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Lyon is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

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

When comparing the travel costs between Brisbane and Lyon, we can see that Lyon 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. Even though Brisbane is in Pacific and Lyon is in Europe, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Brisbane or Lyon?

Brisbane has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Lyon. When comparing the sizes of Brisbane 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 Brisbane or Lyon?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Brisbane is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Lyon has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Brisbane or Lyon in the Summer?

Both Lyon and Brisbane during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Brisbane this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Lyon for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In January, Brisbane is generally a little warmer than Lyonin July. Daily temperatures in Brisbane average around 25°C (77°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

In Lyon, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Brisbane. In the summer, Brisbane often gets less sunshine than Lyonin July. Brisbane gets 256 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 285 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Brisbane. Brisbane usually gets more rain in January than Lyonin July. Brisbane gets 169 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brisbane or Lyon in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Brisbane and Lyon. Many travelers come to Brisbane for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Lyon in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Brisbane is much warmer than Lyon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Brisbane averages around 22°C (71°F) in April, and Lyon fluctuates around 14°C (56°F)in October.

In Brisbane, it's very sunny this time of the year. Brisbane usually receives more sunshine than Lyon during autumn. Brisbane gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Brisbane gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Brisbane usually receives more rain than Lyonin October. Brisbane gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Brisbane or Lyon in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Brisbane as well as Lyon. Many visitors come to Brisbane in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Lyon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lyon can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Brisbane is much warmer than Lyon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Brisbane in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Lyon averages at about 4°C (39°F)in January.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Brisbane this time of the year. In the winter, Brisbane often gets more sunshine than Lyonin January. Brisbane gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 62 hours of full sun.

Brisbane usually gets more rain in July than Lyonin January. Brisbane gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brisbane or Lyon in the Spring?

Both Lyon and Brisbane are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Brisbane for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Lyon because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In October, Brisbane is generally much warmer than Lyonin April. Daily temperatures in Brisbane average around 21°C (69°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Brisbane. Brisbane usually receives more sunshine than Lyon during spring. Brisbane gets 259 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In October, Brisbane usually receives more rain than Lyonin April. Brisbane gets 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lyon and Brisbane