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

Should you visit Lyon or Austin?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Lyon or Austin, 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.

Lyon

Lyon is a authentic, historic, and beautiful city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Austin

Austin is a eccentric, unconventional, and lively city. It's a big city with many activities to entertain visitors, too. This is a very beautiful destination, too. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Lyon and Austin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lyon or Austin?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Lyon than Austin. While Austin is larger than Lyon, Lyon has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Lyon is very popular for its museums, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Austin attracts visitors for its nightlife, music, and hiking. Lyon is more touristy than Austin and is known for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. It is also well known for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Austin is famous for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population.

How is Lyon different from Austin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lyon is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Lyon that are not to be missed. 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 Austin. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Lyon and Austin can be difficult as they are each amazing in their own way.

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.

Many restaurants in Austin have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

Is Lyon or Austin Better for Nightlife?

Austin 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.

Austin has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.

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 Lyon or Austin Better for Music?

Austin 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 Austin Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

Lyon is not a live music destination.

Is Lyon or Austin Better for its Old Town?

Lyon is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Austin does not have a historic old town.

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.

Austin does not have a historic old town.

Is Lyon or Austin Better for Hiking?

Austin is a moderate city for the nearby hiking options. However, Lyon is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Austin. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Lyon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lyon or Austin?

Lyon is a great destination for shopping. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Lyon is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Austin. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Lyon or Austin Better for Families?

Lyon is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Lyon is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Austin offers lots of family activities. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.

Is Lyon or Austin Better for Couples?

Lyon is a great destination for romance. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Lyon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

Austin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.

Is Lyon or Austin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Lyon and Austin are superb destinations for backpackers.

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

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Austin. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

Is Lyon or Austin Better for Students?

Lyon is a world-class destination for students. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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 Austin. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

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

Lyon is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Lyon can get you around easily. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

Is Lyon or Austin a more walkable city?

Lyon is a great destination for its walkability. However, Austin is a city with minimal options 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.

Austin is generally not a very walkable city. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Austin or Lyon?

How long in Lyon or Austin?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lyon and Austin. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lyon than in Austin. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Lyon, and 2-3 days is enough time in Austin.

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

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

Lyon is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

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

A weekend in Lyon or Austin?

Lyon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Austin 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.

Five days in Lyon or Austin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lyon. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

A week in Lyon or Austin?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful big city of Lyon. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

The unconventional city of Austin 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Lyon and Austin, we can see that Austin 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. Even though Lyon is in Europe and Austin is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Lyon or Austin?

Austin has a larger population, and is about 44% larger than the population of Lyon. When comparing the sizes of Lyon and Austin, 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 Lyon or Austin?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Lyon or Austin in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lyon and Austin. The summer months attract visitors to Lyon because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Austin this time of year.

In July, Lyon is generally cooler than Austin. Daily temperatures in Lyon average around 22°C (71°F), and Austin fluctuates around 87°F (30°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Austin this time of the year. In Lyon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lyon usually receives less sunshine than Austin during summer. Lyon gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 318 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lyon usually receives more rain than Austin. Lyon gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lyon or Austin in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lyon as well as Austin. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lyon this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Austin for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Lyon is much colder than Austin in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lyon averages around 14°C (56°F) in October, and Austin fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Austin. In the autumn, Lyon often gets less sunshine than Austin. Lyon gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 214 hours of full sun.

Lyon usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Austin. Lyon gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Austin receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lyon or Austin in the Winter?

Both Austin and Lyon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lyon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Austin in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Lyon. In the winter, Lyon is much colder than Austin. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lyon in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Austin averages at about 51°F (11°C).

Lyon usually receives less sunshine than Austin during winter. Lyon gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Lyon usually receives more rain than Austin. Lyon gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lyon or Austin in the Spring?

Both Austin and Lyon during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lyon in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Austin for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Lyon is generally much colder than Austin. Daily temperatures in Lyon average around 11°C (53°F), and Austin fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

In Austin, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Lyon often gets less sunshine than Austin. Lyon gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 209 hours of full sun.

Lyon usually gets less rain in April than Austin. Lyon gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Austin receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Austin and Lyon