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

Should you visit Ghent or Lyon?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Ghent and Lyon. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Ghent

Ghent is a cultural, historic, and under-rated city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Lyon

Lyon is a beautiful, cultural, and quaint city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Ghent and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ghent or Lyon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lyon than Ghent. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Lyon is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Ghent attracts visitors for its nightlife. Lyon is more touristy than Ghent and is known for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. It is also well known for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Ghent is famous for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets

How is Ghent different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lyon is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Lyon that are not to be missed. 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.

Ghent offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city has many different sights that are concentrated in a compact area. Make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Bavo, The Fortress of Gravensteen, and The Belfry. The audio tour at Gravensteen really brings the history to life and makes for an enjoyable activity.

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

Lyon is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Lyon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Ghent has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The food scene is diverse and international, but there are also many local dishes and flavors that you should try. Pas de Rouge is a local cheese and mastel is a local bread. Ganda ham is also a popular meat that is dried and salted. In additional to traditional restaurants, you'll find almost any international cuisine that you could want.

Is Ghent or Lyon Better for Nightlife?

Ghent 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.

Ghent has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

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 Ghent or Lyon Better for its Old Town?

Lyon is a world-class destination for its historic old town. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its old town.

The historic old town of Lyon is revered around the world. 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.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Ghent. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.

Is the Shopping Better in Ghent or Lyon?

Both Ghent and Lyon are great shopping destinations.

Ghent is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has the largest pedestrian shopping area in Belgium, making it a great place to explore on foot. The city has several different shopping areas which each have their own style and personality. You'll find everything from major European brands to local boutiques and street markets.

Lyon is well-known for its shopping. 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 Ghent or Lyon Better for Families?

Lyon is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Ghent is a family-friendly city. The city has a fun atmosphere with kid-friendly restaurants and a number of attractions that appeal to all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Gravensteen, which is the "Castle of Counts". You can also take a boat tour, rent bikes, or head to one of the town's playgrounds so the kids can burn off some energy.

Is Ghent or Lyon Better for Couples?

Ghent and Lyon both great destinations for a couple.

Ghent is a very popular place to visit for couples. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.

Lyon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

Is Ghent or Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lyon is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Ghent. The city has a number of hostels to choose from as well as a young vibe with a large student population. Many people overlook Ghent, but it feels more genuine than nearby Bruges, which attracts the larger tourist crowds.

Is Ghent or Lyon Better for Students?

Ghent and Lyon are both world-class destinations for students and younger travelers.

Ghent is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

Many students frequent 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.

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

Both Ghent and Lyon offer world-class public transit options.

With a huge network, the transit system in Ghent can get you around easily. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

Visitors in Lyon can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

Is Ghent or Lyon a more walkable city?

Ghent and Lyon both are great when exploring on foot.

Ghent is very walkable. The area's with the most tourist attractions are generally walkable.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Ghent?

How long in Ghent or Lyon?

In either Ghent or Lyon, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lyon than Ghent because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Ghent, and 2-5 days is enough time in Lyon.

Families should spend more time in Lyon than Ghent. 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 Ghent. 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 Ghent 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 Ghent or Lyon?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Ghent. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Each neighborhood in Lyon has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Ghent or Lyon?

Ghent is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the nightlife. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lyon. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Ghent or Lyon?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the youthful destination of Ghent. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Lyon is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Lyon has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Ghent or Lyon?

The historic city of Ghent offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the authentic big city of Lyon. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

When comparing the travel costs between Ghent 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. 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 Ghent Expensive? and Is Lyon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Ghent or Lyon?

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

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Ghent or Lyon in the Summer?

Both Lyon and Ghent are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Ghent in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Lyon for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Ghent is cooler than Lyon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Ghent in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Lyon averages at about 22°C (71°F).

It's quite sunny in Lyon. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ghent. Ghent usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during summer. Ghent gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Ghent usually receives more rain than Lyon. Ghent gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Ghent or Lyon in the Autumn?

Both Lyon and Ghent during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Ghent for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Lyon because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Ghent is generally cooler than Lyon. Daily temperatures in Ghent average around 12°C (54°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Ghent often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Ghent gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 127 hours of full sun.

Ghent usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Lyon. Ghent gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ghent or Lyon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Ghent and Lyon. The winter months attract visitors to Ghent because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Lyon this time of year.

It's quite cold in Lyon in the winter. The weather in Ghent can be very cold. Ghent is cooler than Lyon in the winter. The daily temperature in Ghent averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Lyon fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Ghent usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during winter. Ghent gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Ghent usually receives more rain than Lyon. Ghent gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Ghent or Lyon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Ghent as well as Lyon. The natural beauty are the main draw to Ghent this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lyon for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Ghent is cooler than Lyon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Ghent in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Lyon averages at about 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Ghent often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Ghent gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 174 hours of full sun.

Ghent usually gets less rain in April than Lyon. Ghent gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lyon and Ghent