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

Should you visit Lyon or Bergamo?

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

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

Bergamo

Bergamo is a under-rated, historical, and fascinating city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Lyon and Bergamo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lyon or Bergamo?

You'll generally find more things to do in Lyon than Bergamo. Lyon is bigger than Bergamo, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Lyon is more touristy than Bergamo and is known for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. Also, Lyon is famous for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Bergamo is well known for its historical buildings and beautiful squares.

How is Lyon different from Bergamo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bergamo. There are historical buildings as well as fascinating museums that are worth checking out. Highlights include the Basilica of St. Mary Major, Colleoni Chapel, the Accademia Carrara, and the Cathedral of Sant'Alessandro.

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

Lyon is an amazing city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its 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.

Bergamo has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find traditional restaurants around town that serve the local specialties, many of which have their roots in peasant dishes. The flavors are humble but high quality and the food is fresh and masterfully prepared.

Is Lyon or Bergamo Better for Nightlife?

Lyon is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Lyon has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Bergamo. Despite not being high on the itinerary of many travelers, the city has a great nightlife scene that includes many local bars and clubs. You can enjoy a local brew or sip some Italian wine while you enjoy the atmosphere of the old town.

Is Lyon or Bergamo Better for its Old Town?

Lyon is an amazing city to visit for its old town. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

Lyon offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Bergamo has an old town worth visiting. Since the old town was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town has become more popular with visitors. Still, you can enjoy the authentic and less touristy vibe of this beautiful city.

Is the Shopping Better in Lyon or Bergamo?

Lyon is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

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.

Bergamo has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of shopping areas around town including shopping malls and shopping streets. You'll find most of the major brands as well as some interesting boutique shops.

Is Lyon or Bergamo Better for Families?

Lyon is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Bergamo is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Lyon is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Bergamo is not always a place people visit with their families. It's a beautiful city that is filled with history, and for kids there are pedestrian streets to explore and great Italian food. There's also the Museo di Scienze Naturali, which is worth checking out.

Is Lyon or Bergamo Better for Couples?

Lyon is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

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.

Bergamo is a good city for couples to visit. Couples will appreciate the beautiful architecture and impressive squares. There are also great restaurants and pedestrian streets that are fun to wander through.

Is Lyon or Bergamo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

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.

Bergamo is a good city to visit for backpackers. While it's not the most popular backpacker city in Italy, it does have a couple of hostels and guesthouses that offer affordable rates and a young vibe.

Is Lyon or Bergamo Better for Students?

Lyon is an amazing city to visit for students. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Plenty of students visit Bergamo. The university attracts international students and the city makes a great base for learning and exploring.

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

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

Public transit in Lyon is top-notch. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

Bergamo has some public transit options. There are buses around town as well as two funiculars, one connecting Città Bassa with the Città Alta and the other connecting Città Alta to San Vigilio.

Is Lyon or Bergamo a more walkable city?

Lyon and Bergamo both are superb when exploring on foot.

Lyon is a very walkable city. 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.

Bergamo is a very walkable destination. There are many pedestrian streets and the best way to explore the city is on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Bergamo or Lyon?

How long in Lyon or Bergamo?

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

Families should spend more time in Lyon than Bergamo. 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 Bergamo. 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 Bergamo 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 Bergamo?

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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Bergamo. 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 Bergamo?

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.

Bergamo 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 Bergamo?

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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Bergamo. 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 Bergamo?

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.

The fascinating city of Bergamo 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.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Lyon or Bergamo?

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

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 Bergamo in the Summer?

Both Bergamo and Lyon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Lyon because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bergamo this time of year.

Lyon is around the same temperature as Bergamo in the summer. The daily temperature in Lyon averages around 22°C (71°F) in July, and Bergamo fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Bergamo. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lyon. Lyon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bergamo during summer. Lyon gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Bergamo receives 286 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lyon usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bergamo. Lyon gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lyon or Bergamo in the Autumn?

Both Bergamo and Lyon during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bergamo for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Lyon is around the same temperature as Bergamo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lyon in October average around 14°C (56°F), and Bergamo averages at about 14°C (57°F).

In the autumn, Lyon often gets less sunshine than Bergamo. Lyon gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bergamo receives 137 hours of full sun.

Bergamo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Lyon usually gets less rain in October than Bergamo. Lyon gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lyon or Bergamo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lyon and Bergamo. Many travelers come to Lyon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bergamo in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Bergamo can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Lyon. In January, Lyon is generally much warmer than Bergamo. Daily temperatures in Lyon average around 4°C (39°F), and Bergamo fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Lyon usually receives less sunshine than Bergamo during winter. Lyon gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Bergamo receives 98 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Lyon usually receives less rain than Bergamo. Lyon gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lyon or Bergamo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lyon as well as Bergamo. Many visitors come to Lyon in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Bergamo for the natural beauty during these months.

Lyon is around the same temperature as Bergamo in the spring. The daily temperature in Lyon averages around 11°C (53°F) in April, and Bergamo fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Lyon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bergamo. Lyon gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bergamo receives 169 hours of full sun.

Lyon usually gets less rain in April than Bergamo. Lyon gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bergamo and Lyon