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

Should you visit Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a lively, charming, and scenic town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and nightlife.

Lyon

Lyon is a beautiful, cultural, and quaint 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.

Heidelberg and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heidelberg or Lyon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lyon than Heidelberg, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Heidelberg is popular for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town. Lyon 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.

How is Heidelberg different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lyon is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. However, Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Heidelberg makes for a great culinary experience. The old town is filled with local restaurants that offer an assortment of traditional dishes. The restaurants offer a mix of outdoor and indoor seating and classic dishes include saumagen, lewwerkneedl, and dampfnudeln.

Is Heidelberg or Lyon Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find great options in both Heidelberg and Lyon.

The nightlife in Heidelberg has something for everybody. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.

Lyon offers plenty to do in the evening. 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 Heidelberg or Lyon Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the world-class old town areas in both Heidelberg and Lyon.

Heidelberg offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The charming old town, or Altstadt, is lined with cafes that spill out onto the street and churches with bells that chime hourly. The area is filled with activity and there are many shops, ice cream vendors, and restaurants to choose from.

Lyon has a world-famous historical area. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Heidelberg or Lyon?

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

Heidelberg is a great destination for shopping. The pedestrian area is the best place to pass your time shopping. There are name brand stores mixed in with local independent shops which you'll mostly find on the side streets. Popular items to buy include wooden toys, Christmas decorations, and candy.

Is Heidelberg or Lyon Better for Families?

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

Heidelberg is a family-friendly place to visit. With its many ice cream shops, playgrounds, and impressive castle, this city makes a nice stop for families with kids. The restaurants usually have a kid's menu and there are a number of kid-friendly museums and activities.

Is Heidelberg or Lyon Better for Couples?

Heidelberg and Lyon both great destinations for a couple.

Heidelberg is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. This beautiful city offers an impressive backdrop for a couple's getaway. The view from the castle looks out beautifully over the city and the old town has many excellent restaurants and activities that are great for couples.

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

Is Heidelberg or Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Heidelberg and Lyon are great places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Heidelberg. Prices are reasonable and there are a handful of hostels around town. As a university town, you can be assured there are plenty of fun activities and cheap places to eat.

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 Heidelberg or Lyon Better for Students?

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

Lyon is a very popular place to visit 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.

Heidelberg is a good town to visit for students. It is a beautiful student town with a lot of activities for young visitors. This is not the most popular study abroad destination, but it does have a lot to offer for those who visit.

Is Heidelberg 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, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Heidelberg. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.

Is Heidelberg or Lyon a more walkable city?

Heidelberg and Lyon are great when it comes to walkability.

Heidelberg is a very walkable destination. The old town is particularly 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 Heidelberg Worth Visiting? and Is Lyon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Heidelberg?

How long in Heidelberg or Lyon?

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

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

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Heidelberg. 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.

When visiting Lyon, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Heidelberg or Lyon?

Heidelberg is a fun place to experience. 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.

When visiting Lyon, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Heidelberg or Lyon?

You'll find food and shopping around the energetic destination of Heidelberg. This town 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, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Heidelberg or Lyon?

The lively town of Heidelberg offers shopping and nightlife. 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.

Lyon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Germany, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Germany, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

When comparing the travel costs between Heidelberg and Lyon, we can see that Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg Expensive? and Is Lyon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Heidelberg or Lyon?

Lyon has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Heidelberg. When comparing the sizes of Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg or Lyon in the Summer?

Both Lyon and Heidelberg during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Heidelberg 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 July, Heidelberg is generally around the same temperature as Lyon. Daily temperatures in Heidelberg average around 21°C (69°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 Heidelberg. In the summer, Heidelberg often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Heidelberg gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 285 hours of full sun.

Heidelberg usually gets more rain in July than Lyon. Heidelberg gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heidelberg or Lyon in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Heidelberg and Lyon. Most visitors come to Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg is cooler than Lyon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Heidelberg averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Lyon fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Heidelberg usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during autumn. Heidelberg gets 102 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Heidelberg usually receives less rain than Lyon. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Heidelberg or Lyon in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Heidelberg as well as Lyon. The winter months attract visitors to Heidelberg because of 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 Heidelberg can be very cold. In the winter, Heidelberg is cooler than Lyon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Heidelberg in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Lyon averages at about 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Heidelberg often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Heidelberg gets 38 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 62 hours of full sun.

Heidelberg usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Lyon. Heidelberg gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heidelberg or Lyon in the Spring?

Both Lyon and Heidelberg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Heidelberg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lyon for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Heidelberg is generally around the same temperature as Lyon. Daily temperatures in Heidelberg average around 11°C (52°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

Heidelberg usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during spring. Heidelberg gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heidelberg usually receives less rain than Lyon. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lyon and Heidelberg