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

Should you visit Lyon or Barcelona?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Lyon or Barcelona, 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 historic, beautiful, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a youthful, colorful, and laid-back city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Lyon and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lyon or Barcelona?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Barcelona than Lyon. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Barcelona is very popular for its nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Lyon attracts visitors for its museums, food, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Barcelona is more touristy than Lyon and is known for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. It is also well known for Basilica Sagrada Familia. Lyon is famous for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town.

How is Lyon different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Barcelona 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 Barcelona?

Lyon is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Barcelona. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

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

Lyon is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Barcelona 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.

Barcelona has a huge number of terrific restaurants. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

Is Lyon or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

Barcelona 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.

Barcelona has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

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 Barcelona Better for Music?

Barcelona 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 Barcelona Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Lyon is not a live music destination.

Is Lyon or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Barcelona is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Lyon is not a beach destination.

Barcelona has a beach worth visiting. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Lyon is not a beach destination.

Is Lyon or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

Lyon is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its old town.

The old town of Lyon is one of the most recognized in 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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Barcelona. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Is the Shopping Better in Lyon or Barcelona?

Barcelona 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 Barcelona make it a world-class shopping destination. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

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 Lyon or Barcelona Better for Families?

Lyon is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Barcelona is a family-friendly city. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Is Lyon or Barcelona Better for Couples?

Lyon is a well-known place for romance. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Barcelona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is Lyon or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Barcelona is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Barcelona. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

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 Lyon or Barcelona Better for Students?

Lyon and Barcelona are both first-rate destinations for students and younger travelers.

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.

Barcelona is a very popular city for students. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

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

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

Lyon has a great public transit system. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

The public transit in Barcelona can get you around easily. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

Is Lyon or Barcelona a more walkable city?

Lyon is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good 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.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable city. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

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

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or Lyon?

How long in Lyon or Barcelona?

Both Lyon and Barcelona have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Barcelona than in Lyon. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Lyon, and 3-7 days is enough time in Barcelona.

Families should spend more time in Lyon than Barcelona. 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 Barcelona. 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 Barcelona than Lyon 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 Barcelona.

One day in Lyon or Barcelona?

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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the big city destination of Barcelona. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Barcelona?

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.

Barcelona is a fun place to experience. 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 a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Lyon or Barcelona?

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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the colorful big city of Barcelona. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Lyon or Barcelona?

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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the laid-back city of Barcelona. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Spain, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Spain.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lyon and Barcelona, we can see that Barcelona 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 Barcelona would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Barcelona 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 Lyon Expensive? and Is Barcelona Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lyon or Barcelona?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Lyon. When comparing the sizes of Lyon and Barcelona, 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 Barcelona?

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 Barcelona in the Summer?

Both Barcelona and Lyon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lyon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Barcelona for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lyon is generally around the same temperature as Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Lyon average around 22°C (71°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Barcelona. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lyon. Lyon usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during summer. Lyon gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 308 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lyon usually receives more rain than Barcelona. Lyon gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lyon or Barcelona in the Autumn?

Both Barcelona and Lyon during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lyon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Barcelona in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Lyon is cooler than Barcelona in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lyon averages around 14°C (56°F) in October, and Barcelona fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Lyon often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Lyon gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 181 hours of full sun.

Lyon usually gets less rain in October than Barcelona. Lyon gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lyon or Barcelona in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lyon and Barcelona. Many visitors come to Lyon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Barcelona for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lyon can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Lyon is much colder than Barcelona. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lyon in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Barcelona averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Lyon usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during winter. Lyon gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Lyon usually receives more rain than Barcelona. Lyon gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lyon or Barcelona in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lyon as well as Barcelona. Most visitors come to Lyon for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Lyon is generally cooler than Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Lyon average around 11°C (53°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Barcelona. In the spring, Lyon often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Lyon gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 204 hours of full sun.

Lyon usually gets more rain in April than Barcelona. Lyon gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Barcelona and Lyon