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

Should you visit Glasgow or Lyon?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Glasgow 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.

Glasgow

Glasgow is a friendly, cultural, and historic 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 live music.

Lyon

Lyon is a authentic, historic, and beautiful 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.

Glasgow and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Glasgow or Lyon?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Lyon than Glasgow. While Glasgow is larger than Lyon, Lyon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lyon is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Glasgow is known for its nightlife and music. Lyon is more touristy than Glasgow 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. Glasgow is popular for its rich culture, its beautiful Victorian and art nouveau architecture, and its large student population.

How is Glasgow different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lyon is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Glasgow. The city is rich in culture and offers many fascinating sights including the Glasgow Cathedral, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, and the Necropolis.

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

Lyon is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Glasgow 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.

Glasgow offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city's food scene continues to grow and innovate. You'll find plenty of seafood options as well as international cuisine and everything from fine dining to local cafes.

Is Glasgow or Lyon Better for Nightlife?

Glasgow 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.

Glasgow has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city has some of the best nightlife in the entire country. There are clubs, bars, techno warehouses and more. Some of the best clubs include Sub Club, The Berkeley Suite, and The Garage.

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 Glasgow or Lyon Better for Music?

Glasgow 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 Glasgow Known to some as "the city of music", you'll find a wide range of music venues, live shows, festivals, and even a great underground music scene.

Lyon is not a live music destination.

Is Glasgow or Lyon Better for its Old Town?

Lyon is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town.

The rich history of Lyon can be explored in its historical center. 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 go to Glasgow to see the historical old town. High Street is one of the oldest and most well known streets in the city.

Is the Shopping Better in Glasgow or Lyon?

Lyon is great for its shopping areas. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

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.

Glasgow is a great destination for shopping. The city has independent boutique shops as well as major brands. Head to the "Style Mile" for some of the best shopping. It's a district that offers pedestrian-friendly shopping and includes high end boutiques and independent markets. Also check out The Barras Market, Buchanan Street, and High Street.

Is Glasgow or Lyon Better for Families?

Lyon is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lyon. 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.

Glasgow is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has some family-friendly museums including the hands on The Burrell Collection, the Glasgow Science Center, and The Riverside Museum. If you have older kids who enjoy the water, there are some water activities in town. Check out Pinkston Watersports, Glasgow Wake Park or Outdoor Pursuits. There are also climbing gyms and skate parks.

Is Glasgow or Lyon Better for Couples?

Lyon is great for couples. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice 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.

Glasgow is a nice destination for couples. Couples can enjoy a museum or one of the parks around town. There are also river cruises and spas. For a more locally specific activity, check out the Bothwell Castle.

Is Glasgow or Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lyon is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

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.

Glasgow is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a good number of hostels around town as well as a good social scene, making this a decent option for backpackers.

Is Glasgow or Lyon Better for Students?

Lyon is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Lyon is a great destination 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.

Students come from all over to stay in Glasgow. The city has the second largest student population in the UK, so you'll find plenty of students to hang out with.

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

Lyon is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

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.

Public transit in Glasgow is fairly effecient and thorough. The subway is convenient in the city center, west end, and southside. There are also buses throughout the city.

Is Glasgow or Lyon a more walkable city?

Glasgow and Lyon are superb when it comes to walkability.

Glasgow is a very walkable destination. The city center is generally walkable and can be explored on foot.

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 Glasgow Worth Visiting? and Is Lyon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Glasgow?

How long in Glasgow or Lyon?

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

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

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the destination of Glasgow. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Because Lyon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Glasgow or Lyon?

Glasgow 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.

Because Lyon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lyon has to offer.

Five days in Glasgow or Lyon?

You'll find food and shopping around the high energy destination of Glasgow. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Lyon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lyon has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Glasgow or Lyon?

The high energy city of Glasgow offers shopping and museums. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lyon. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Lyon. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Glasgow and Lyon, we can see that Glasgow is more expensive. And not only is Lyon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lyon would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lyon and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Glasgow would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Glasgow than you might in Lyon.

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

Which is Bigger, Glasgow or Lyon?

Glasgow has a larger population, and is about 29% larger than the population of Lyon. When comparing the sizes of Glasgow 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 Glasgow 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 Glasgow or Lyon in the Summer?

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

In July, Glasgow is generally cooler than Lyon. Daily temperatures in Glasgow average around 15°C (59°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

In Lyon, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Glasgow often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Glasgow gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 285 hours of full sun.

Glasgow usually gets more rain in July than Lyon. Glasgow gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Glasgow or Lyon in the Autumn?

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

Glasgow is cooler than Lyon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Glasgow averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Lyon fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Glasgow usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during autumn. Glasgow gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Glasgow gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Glasgow usually receives more rain than Lyon. Glasgow gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Glasgow or Lyon in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Glasgow as well as Lyon. Many travelers come to Glasgow for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, 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 Glasgow. In the winter, Glasgow is cooler than Lyon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Glasgow in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Lyon averages at about 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Glasgow often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Glasgow gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 62 hours of full sun.

Glasgow receives a lot of rain in the winter. Glasgow usually gets more rain in January than Lyon. Glasgow gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Glasgow or Lyon in the Spring?

Both Lyon and Glasgow are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Glasgow 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.

In April, Glasgow is generally much colder than Lyon. Daily temperatures in Glasgow average around 7°C (45°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

Glasgow usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during spring. Glasgow gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Glasgow usually receives more rain than Lyon. Glasgow gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lyon and Glasgow