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

Should you visit Leipzig or Lyon?

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

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

Leipzig

Leipzig is a historic, growing, and dynamic city. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Lyon

Lyon is a authentic, historic, and beautiful city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Leipzig and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Leipzig or Lyon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lyon. Although Leipzig and Lyon are popular destinations, Lyon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lyon is more touristy than Leipzig and is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. It is also well known for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Leipzig is famous for being the home of several great musicians such as Bach and Richard Wagner.

How is Leipzig different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lyon is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Lyon from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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 Leipzig. There are many historic landmarks like Old City Hall, St. Thomas Church, St. Nicholas Church, and the Battle of the Nations Monument.

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

Lyon is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Leipzig 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Leipzig. Coffee houses and cellar restaurants offer an unique atmosphere where you can enjoy local specialties. Sample beef roulade or Saxon dumplings while you soak up the cozy ambiance.

Is Leipzig or Lyon Better for Nightlife?

Lyon is great for nightlife. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Lyon for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Leipzig. Nightlife in town centers around live theater, cultural centers, and live entertainment.

Is Leipzig or Lyon Better for its Old Town?

Lyon is terrific for its historic old town. However, Leipzig does not have a historic old town.

Lyon has a unique history which comes to life in its historic 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.

Leipzig does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Leipzig or Lyon?

If you're looking to go shopping, Leipzig and Lyon both offer plenty of superb spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Leipzig. The city center has most of the best shopping areas. There are pedestrian streets and squares like Petersstraße and Marktplatz, as well as large shopping malls like Promenaden Hauptbahnhof Leipzig and Petersbogen.

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.

Is Leipzig or Lyon Better for Families?

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

Lyon is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Leipzig is a family-friendly place to visit. Head to Belantis, which is an amusement park with rides, or take the kids to one of the many parks like Clara-Zetkin Park where they can unwind. The Leipzig Zoo makes a nice outing as well or Maya Mare is a fun waterpark. There are also several good museums like the Leipzig Panometer.

Is Leipzig or Lyon Better for Couples?

Lyon is great for romance. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

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.

Leipzig makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many beautiful outdoor parks and natural areas where couples can enjoy this beautiful city.

Is Leipzig or Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Lyon is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and backpackers.

Leipzig is a good city to visit for backpackers. Many backpackers overlook this city, but there are a few hostels and some nice areas to explore for those who make their way here.

Is Leipzig or Lyon Better for Students?

Lyon is terrific for its student-friendly activities. However, Leipzig 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.

Leipzig is not popular with students.

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

Lyon is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Lyon can take you anywhere. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

Public transit in Leipzig can get you to some places easily. The city has 61 bus lines and 13 tram lines that connect Leizpig to elsewhere in the region.

Is Leipzig or Lyon a more walkable city?

Lyon is great for its walkability. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

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.

Leipzig is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of Leizpig are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Leipzig?

How long in Leipzig or Lyon?

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

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

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Leipzig. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

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 Leipzig or Lyon?

Leipzig 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 Leipzig or Lyon?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Leipzig. 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 Leipzig or Lyon?

The growing city of Leipzig offers nightlife and food. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, The Best Walking Tours in Germany, 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 Leipzig and Lyon, we can see that Leipzig 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 Leipzig would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Leipzig 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 Leipzig Expensive? and Is Lyon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Leipzig or Lyon?

Leipzig has a larger population, and is about 7% larger than the population of Lyon. When comparing the sizes of Leipzig 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 Leipzig 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 Leipzig or Lyon in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Leipzig is cooler than Lyon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Leipzig in July average around 19°C (67°F), and Lyon averages at about 22°C (71°F).

In Lyon, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Leipzig. In the summer, Leipzig often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Leipzig gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 285 hours of full sun.

Leipzig usually gets less rain in July than Lyon. Leipzig gets 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Leipzig or Lyon in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Leipzig and Lyon. The shopping scene are the main draw to Leipzig 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.

In October, Leipzig is generally cooler than Lyon. Daily temperatures in Leipzig average around 11°C (52°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Leipzig usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during autumn. Leipzig gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Leipzig usually receives less rain than Lyon. Leipzig gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Leipzig or Lyon in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Leipzig as well as Lyon. Many travelers come to Leipzig 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 Leipzig. Leipzig is much colder than Lyon in the winter. The daily temperature in Leipzig averages around 1°C (33°F) in January, and Lyon fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Leipzig often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Leipzig gets 45 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 62 hours of full sun.

Leipzig usually gets less rain in January than Lyon. Leipzig gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Leipzig or Lyon in the Spring?

Both Lyon and Leipzig are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, most visitors come to Lyon for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Leipzig is cooler than Lyon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Leipzig in April average around 10°C (49°F), and Lyon averages at about 11°C (53°F).

Leipzig usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during spring. Leipzig gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Leipzig usually receives less rain than Lyon. Leipzig gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lyon and Leipzig