A Travel Price Comparison for France Lyon vs. Dijon for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Lyon or Dijon?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Lyon or Dijon, 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 cultural, quaint, and authentic 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.

Dijon

Dijon is a cultural, laid-back, and culinary city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Lyon and Dijon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lyon or Dijon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lyon than Dijon. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Lyon is famous for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. It is also well known for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Dijon is famous for its cuisine, wine, and nearby vineyards.

How is Lyon different from Dijon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lyon is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Dijon 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.

Many visitors head to Dijon specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. This historic city is filled with sights worth checking. Palais des Ducs and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne, and Eglise Notre-Dame are among the favorites.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Lyon and Dijon can be difficult as they are each fantastic 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 Dijon have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It is one of the top foodie destinations in France, and you'll find amazing local markets, award winning restaurants, and world class cuisine. Make sure you check out Les Halles Market to try local flavors. In addition to its famous mustard, the city is also popular for gingerbread, truffles, escargot, and, of course, wine.

Is Lyon or Dijon Better for Nightlife?

Lyon is notable for nightlife. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

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 Dijon. While it's not a active as the larger European cities, there's still an fun nightlife scene that is driven mostly by the large student population.

Is Lyon or Dijon Better for its Old Town?

Lyon is terrific for its historic old town. However, Dijon 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.

Dijon does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lyon or Dijon?

Lyon is notable for shopping. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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 Dijon. For the best shopping in town, head to the main shopping street - Rue de la Liberté. It's lined with everything from clothing stores to wine shops and larger department stores. You'll even be able to pick up some of the famed mustard while you're in town.

Is Lyon or Dijon Better for Families?

Lyon is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dijon 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.

Dijon is a family-friendly city. Kids will enjoy the open space that the city offers. There are parks where they can run around, like The Parc de la Colombieres which has a carousel and a ropes course. There are also many museums including two favorites for young ones - Musee de la Vie Bourguignonne and Musee d'Histoire Naturelle.

Is Lyon or Dijon Better for Couples?

Lyon and Dijon are both very good to visit as a couple.

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.

Dijon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Art, palaces, gardens, and fine wine make it a perfect couple's getaway. There is some of the best food in France, as well as a welcoming culture and many beautiful sights to explore.

Is Lyon or Dijon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Backpackers come from all over to visit Lyon. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and backpackers.

Dijon is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's a beautiful city with a touristy vibe, so you'll likely meet other travelers while you're in town.

Is Lyon or Dijon Better for Students?

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

Many students frequent Lyon. 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 Dijon. While it's quieter than the bigger cities, you'll find a young vibe and enough of a nightlife scene to keep it interesting.

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

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

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.

Dijon has some public transit options. Tram and buses offer access to many parts of the city.

Is Lyon or Dijon a more walkable city?

Lyon is notable for its walkability. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Dijon is a somewhat walkable place. Most of the inner city is walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Dijon or Lyon?

How long in Lyon or Dijon?

It's fun to spend time in either Lyon or Dijon. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Lyon due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Lyon, and 2-4 days is enough time in Dijon.

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

Each neighborhood in Lyon has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lyon. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Dijon is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. 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 Dijon?

Lyon is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Lyon has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Dijon. 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 Dijon?

You'll find food and shopping around the quaint big city of Lyon. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The relaxing city of Dijon 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 Family-Friendly Tours to France, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Lyon or Dijon?

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

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 Dijon in the Summer?

Both Dijon and Lyon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Lyon in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Dijon for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Lyon is generally around the same temperature as Dijon. Daily temperatures in Lyon average around 22°C (71°F), and Dijon fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

It's quite sunny in Dijon. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lyon. Lyon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dijon during summer. Lyon gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Dijon receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lyon usually receives more rain than Dijon. Lyon gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lyon or Dijon in the Autumn?

Both Dijon and Lyon during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Lyon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Dijon because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Lyon is around the same temperature as Dijon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lyon averages around 14°C (56°F) in October, and Dijon fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Lyon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dijon. Lyon gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dijon receives 121 hours of full sun.

Lyon usually gets more rain in October than Dijon. Lyon gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lyon or Dijon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lyon and Dijon. The winter months attract visitors to Lyon because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Dijon this time of year.

It's quite cold in Dijon in the winter. The weather in Lyon can be very cold. In the winter, Lyon is a little warmer than Dijon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lyon in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Dijon averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Lyon usually receives more sunshine than Dijon during winter. Lyon gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Dijon receives 53 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Lyon usually receives less rain than Dijon. Lyon gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lyon or Dijon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lyon as well as Dijon. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lyon this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Dijon for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Lyon is generally around the same temperature as Dijon. Daily temperatures in Lyon average around 11°C (53°F), and Dijon fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Lyon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dijon. Lyon gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dijon receives 178 hours of full sun.

Lyon usually gets more rain in April than Dijon. Lyon gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dijon and Lyon