A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hong Kong vs. Lyon for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Hong Kong or Lyon?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Hong Kong 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.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a diverse , compact, and dense city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Hong Kong and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hong Kong or Lyon?

You'll generally find more things to do in Hong Kong than Lyon. Hong Kong is bigger than Lyon, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Hong Kong is better known for its beaches, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Lyon is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere. Hong Kong is well known for its modern skyscrapers, colorful waterfront, lush parks, and amazing dim sum. Also, Hong Kong is famous for Victoria Peak. Lyon is well known for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town.

How is Hong Kong different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hong Kong or Lyon?

Lyon is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Lyon are world-renowned. 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 Hong Kong. The city's skyline is one of the most famous "landmarks", but you'll also want to visit Victoria Peak, the Tian Tan Buddha Statue, Wong Tai Sin Temple, and Avenue of Stars.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Hong Kong and Lyon can be an enjoyable experience.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Hong Kong is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city's population is famous for its frequency of dining out, and the prolific diversity of restaurants is obvious from the moment you arrive. There are street food stalls and night markets, as well as luxury award winning restaurants. The city holds tight to its culinary traditions, but fusion restaurants are creeping in as well. Some of the most famous Hong Kong foods include dim sum, sweet and sour pork, and roast goose.

Many restaurants in Lyon have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Is Hong Kong or Lyon Better for Nightlife?

The superb nightlife scene is relatively similar in Hong Kong and Lyon.

Hong Kong has a large number of nightlife venues. The city lights up after the sun sets. You'll find a diverse range of activities in the evening with everything from night markets to concerts and parties. There's a wonderful mix of traditional and contemporary activities, particularly around Lan Kwai Fong. Many of the most popular venues are found around Central and, like everything else in Hong Kong, the venues are full of energy.

Lyon is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Hong Kong or Lyon Better for Beaches?

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

You'll have a great beach vacation in Hong Kong. You actually don't have to travel far from the city center to find a relatively quiet, sandy beach. The different beaches on Hong Kong Island are relatively close to each other, and each has its own atmosphere. If you need a break from the heat and the crowds, then a beach day is a fun option. Hong Kong's natural coastline give way to popular beaches including Repulse Bay Beach and Shek O Beach. Each offers a number of amenities and dining options.

Lyon is not a beach destination.

Is Hong Kong or Lyon Better for its Old Town?

Lyon is an unbeatable place for its old town. However, Hong Kong 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.

Hong Kong does not have a historic old town.

Is Hong Kong or Lyon Better for Hiking?

Hong Kong is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Lyon is not a hiking destination.

Hong Kong is a popular spot for hiking. The city is surrounded by dramatic mountains and beautiful viewpoints, making it easy to enjoy a day in nature. The hikes will offer impressive views and dramatic rock formations. Popular hikes in the area include The Peak, Dragon's Back, and the Violet Hill and Twin Peak hike.

Lyon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hong Kong or Lyon?

Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong make it a world-class shopping destination. There is a high concentration of shopping malls in the city, and you'll likely find yourself cutting through malls to access different parts of town. The city is arguably one of the best shopping cities in the world. Popular items to purchase in the city include designer clothes, handbags, electronics, jewelry, watches, and tailor-made suits.

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 Hong Kong or Lyon Better for Families?

Hong Kong is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Hong Kong is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. In addition to its many fascinating cultural experiences like visiting the markets and historical landmarks, this city also has a diversity of kid-friendly entertainment options. The most obvious is Disneyland, but there are also other amusement parks and aquariums like Ocean Park. Make sure you check out the Symphony of Lights in the evening and head to The Peak Tower during the day.

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.

Is Hong Kong or Lyon Better for Couples?

Hong Kong is an amazing city to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Hong Kong has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This city is filled with luxury hotels, beautiful parks, and impressive restaurants. For a romantic evening, check out the Symphony of Lights over Victoria Harbour after the sun sets.

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 Hong Kong or Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lyon is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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

Hong Kong is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city is more expensive than many places, but cheap eateries and free activities are abundant. Many backpackers stay in the Tsim Sha Shui area of Kowloon. This is where you'll find the frequently talked about Chungking Mansions. Times are changing though, and you'll find more hostels on Hong Kong Island these days as well.

Is Hong Kong or Lyon Better for Students?

Lyon is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Hong Kong is not popular with 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.

Hong Kong is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find amazing public transit in both Hong Kong and Lyon.

Visitors in Hong Kong can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Land transportation includes the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), buses, minibuses, and tramways. There are also ferries that connect the different parts of the city.

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 Hong Kong or Lyon a more walkable city?

Hong Kong is an amazing city to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Hong Kong on foot. The city has many parks and walking paths that connect different areas.

Lyon is a very walkable destination. 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 Hong Kong Worth Visiting? and Is Lyon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Hong Kong?

How long in Hong Kong or Lyon?

In either Hong Kong or Lyon, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Hong Kong than Lyon because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Hong Kong, and 2-5 days is enough time in Lyon.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lyon than Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong or Lyon?

Hong Kong is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find shopping and museums around the quaint city of Lyon. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Hong Kong or Lyon?

Hong Kong is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the quaint big city of Lyon. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Hong Kong or Lyon?

Hong Kong is a cosmopolitan big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find nightlife and food around the historic city of Lyon. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Hong Kong or Lyon?

Hong Kong is a cosmopolitan city where you can fill many days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

Lyon is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see 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 Hong Kong and Lyon, we can see that Hong Kong is more expensive. And not only is Lyon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Hong Kong is in Asia and Lyon is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Hong Kong would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong Expensive? and Is Lyon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hong Kong or Lyon?

Hong Kong has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Lyon. When comparing the sizes of Hong Kong 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.