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

Should you visit Innsbruck or Lyon?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Innsbruck and Lyon can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a scenic, youthful , and adventurous city. You'll find world class beauty in Innsbruck as well. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. And you can't forget about the skiing, nightlife, and food. See Innsbruck travel costs.

Lyon

Lyon is a historic, beautiful, and cultural city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. You'll find world class beauty in Lyon as well. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Lyon travel costs.

Innsbruck and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Innsbruck or Lyon?

You'll generally find more things to do in Lyon than Innsbruck. Lyon is bigger than Innsbruck, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Lyon is better known for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Innsbruck is more popular for its skiing and hiking. Innsbruck is more touristy than Lyon and is known for its mountain hiking, skiing, and winter sports. Lyon is well known for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. Also, Lyon is famous for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

How is Innsbruck different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Innsbruck or Lyon Better for Skiing?

Innsbruck is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Lyon is not a skiing destination.

People head to Innsbruck specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and winter sports. This city offers easy access to excellent skiing without having to travel too far. There are 9 ski resorts around town that make up the Olympia SkiWorld Innsbruck. Each resort has its own personality and style. You can reach the Seegrube mountain in about 20 minutes using the funicular and cable car.

Lyon is not a skiing destination.

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

Lyon is very popular for its sights and museums. However, Innsbruck does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Lyon are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

Innsbruck does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lyon is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Innsbruck is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Innsbruck has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city is known for the hearty and filling food that is perfect for a cold winter day. There are cafes and restaurants around old town that offer traditional dishes including käsespätzle, wiener schnitzel, and apfelstrudel. If you're ready for something a little less heavy, there are a number of ethnic restaurants to choose from outside of the old town.

Is Innsbruck or Lyon Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are high quality in both Innsbruck and Lyon.

Innsbruck has plenty to do after the sun goes down. With its large student population and wide range of young visitors who enjoy high energy activities, there's plenty to do here when the sunsets. There are bars and dance clubs that stay active late into the night.

Lyon has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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 Innsbruck or Lyon Better for its Old Town?

Both Innsbruck and Lyon have first-rate historic old towns worth visiting.

Innsbruck has a world-famous historical area. The old town is filled with charming restaurants and cafes as well as comfortable outdoor places to relax when the weather is nice. One of the most notable landmarks is the The Goldenes Dachl, or the "little golden roof", but the atmosphere around old town is what makes this place really special.

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.

Is Innsbruck or Lyon Better for Hiking?

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

Innsbruck is a popular spot for hiking. The city is nestled in the Austrian mountains with many beautiful hikes just outside of town. There are hikes for all skill levels that offer spectacular views of some of the best scenery in Austria.

Lyon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Innsbruck or Lyon?

Lyon is notable for its shopping opportunities. However, Innsbruck is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Lyon is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Innsbruck is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Innsbruck or Lyon More Beautiful?

Innsbruck and Lyon are somewhat similar when it comes to the first-rate scenery.

You'll find world class beauty in Innsbruck as well. The city itself is very picturesque, and it's also surrounded by plenty of natural beauty that offers stunning hikes and many skiing opportunities.

Lyon is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The city climbs beautifully into the hills and offers spectacular views and charming character.

Is Innsbruck or Lyon Better for Families?

Both Innsbruck and Lyon are high quality to visit with kids.

Innsbruck is a very kid-friendly city. The city has a pleasant atmosphere with a charming old town and plenty of outdoor activities that the whole family can enjoy. There's also the popular Swarovski Crystal Worlds, which is fun for kids and adults alike. The Alpine Zoo and the city's many parks and playgrounds all make it a great stop if you're traveling with kids.

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 Innsbruck or Lyon Better for Couples?

Both Innsbruck and Lyon are high quality destinations for a couple's getaway.

Innsbruck is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city's old town is filled with restaurants that make for great date nights. There are also many hikes, viewpoints, and activities that are perfect for a couple's getaway.

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 Innsbruck or Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Innsbruck and Lyon are high quality destinations for backpackers.

Innsbruck is a great city to visit for backpackers. The city has a number of hostels and affordable restaurants that make it a reasonable option for backpackers and budget travelers. Outdoor activities like nearby hiking are affordable ways to spend the day as well.

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.

Is Innsbruck or Lyon Better for Students?

Lyon is very popular for students. Also, Innsbruck is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Lyon is a very popular city 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.

Many students visit Innsbruck. The city's laid back vibe and wide range of universities make it a great place for students. There are cafes, bars, and many outdoor activities that students enjoy while they're in the area.

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

Lyon is very popular for its public transit. Also, Innsbruck is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Lyon has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

The public transit in Innsbruck can get you to most places easily. The system includes trams and buses that will take you to outlying areas around town.

Is Innsbruck or Lyon a more walkable city?

Innsbruck and Lyon both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Innsbruck is a very walkable city. The old town is particularly walkable, and if you stay anywhere nearby, it's easy to reach it on foot.

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 Innsbruck Worth Visiting? and Is Lyon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Innsbruck?

How long in Innsbruck or Lyon?

In either Innsbruck or Lyon, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lyon than Innsbruck because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Innsbruck, and 2-5 days is enough time in Lyon.

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

Visitors enjoy the food and skiing when visiting the destination of Innsbruck. 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.

People visit Lyon because there is so much to do. 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 Innsbruck or Lyon?

Innsbruck 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.

People visit Lyon because there is so much to do. 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 Innsbruck or Lyon?

You'll find nightlife and food around the scenic destination of Innsbruck. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

People visit Lyon because there is so much to do. 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 Innsbruck or Lyon?

The mountainous city of Innsbruck offers food and skiing. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 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 Adventure Tours to Austria, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Austria, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Innsbruck or Lyon?

Lyon has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Innsbruck. When comparing the sizes of Innsbruck 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.