A Travel Price Comparison for France Lyon vs. La Rochelle for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Lyon or La Rochelle?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Lyon or La Rochelle, 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. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a charming, peaceful, and relaxing coastal town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Lyon and La Rochelle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lyon or La Rochelle?

You'll generally find more things to do in Lyon than La Rochelle. Lyon is bigger than La Rochelle, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Lyon is better known for its museums, nightlife, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while La Rochelle is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and small town charm. Lyon is more touristy than La Rochelle and is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. Also, Lyon is famous for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière. La Rochelle is well known for its medieval towers, maritime history, and beautiful setting.

How is Lyon different from La Rochelle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lyon is very popular for its historical sights. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Lyon are world-renowned. 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 La Rochelle specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Filled with history, the town itself is like a living museum. Within town there are many sights such as the Vieux Port, La Rochelle Aquarium, Musée d'Histoire Naturelle, and Musée du Nouveau Monde de La Rochelle.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Lyon and La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It may be small, but its filled with delicious cafes, bistros, and local restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice in this coastal town and many visitors head to Vieux Port to eat, as many restaurants there offer waterfront views. If you want something a little less touristy, head to the St. Nicolas District, which was the town's former fishing district. Rue de la Fourche is also a charming road with many places to grab a bite or a drink. Or head to Rue St Jean-du-Perot, which is just off the old port.

Is Lyon or La Rochelle Better for Nightlife?

Lyon is great for nightlife and partying. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its evening party scene.

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 La Rochelle. While it's known as a peaceful, seaside town, you'll still find wine bars, pubs, and even a club or two around town.

Is Lyon or La Rochelle Better for Beaches?

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

La Rochelle has a beach worth visiting. There are three main beaches in town that each attract a crowd on warm summer days. Plage de la Concurrence, Plage Chef de Baie, and Plage des Minimes are the closest beaches to La Rochelle, and they are popular for sunbathing and water sports. They have a mix of sand, pebbles, and cliffside views that attract locals and tourists alike.

Lyon is not a beach destination.

Is Lyon or La Rochelle Better for its Old Town?

Lyon and La Rochelle both have fantastic historical old towns that attract visitors.

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.

La Rochelle has a world-famous historical area. The old town is filled with wandering cobblestone streets, charming squares, and cafes that spill into the street.

Is Lyon or La Rochelle Better for Hiking?

La Rochelle is a nice place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Lyon is not a hiking destination.

La Rochelle has hiking trails worth exploring. There are many coastal walks just outside of town that take you along the scenic coastline. It's beautiful to stroll through the countryside and pass through many quaint villages.

Lyon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lyon or La Rochelle?

Lyon is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its shopping areas.

Lyon is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to La Rochelle to go shopping. The old town is filled with boutique shops as well as some name brands. Another fun place to visit is Les Halles, which is an indoor market with fresh produce, seafood, and many local cheeses.

Is Lyon or La Rochelle Better for Families?

Lyon is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Lyon is very family-friendly. 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.

La Rochelle is a family-friendly place to visit. It's a coastal town with a port that you can explore. There's also an aquarium and many great seafood restaurants. A nice day trip is to go to l'Ile de Ré, which has nice beaches, some with playgrounds.

Is Lyon or La Rochelle Better for Couples?

La Rochelle is an amazing coastal town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

La Rochelle has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This beautiful coastal town is seeped in history. There are beautiful squares, romantic parks, and cobblestone streets that you can wander down. It's also nice to take a coastal walk before grabbing dinner at a local seafood restaurant.

Lyon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

Is Lyon or La Rochelle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lyon is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for backpackers.

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

La Rochelle is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There aren't a ton of hostels in the area, but there are just enough that you should be able to find a place to stay.

Is Lyon or La Rochelle Better for Students?

Lyon is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for students.

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.

La Rochelle is a good city to visit for students. It's a touristy city with a lot for students to see and do, but the atmosphere is generally quiet and peaceful.

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

Lyon is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its public transit.

Lyon has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

La Rochelle has a few public transit options. Public transit around town is operated by Yeló, and mostly consists of buses.

Is Lyon or La Rochelle a more walkable city?

Lyon and La Rochelle both are very good 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.

La Rochelle is a very walkable destination. It's filled with meandering cobblestone streets that are best explored on foot. Most places around town can be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in La Rochelle or Lyon?

How long in Lyon or La Rochelle?

It's fun to spend time in either Lyon or La Rochelle. 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 La Rochelle.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lyon than La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle?

Lyon is a quaint city where you can fill many days. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

La Rochelle is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. 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 La Rochelle?

Lyon is a historic big city where you can fill many days. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

La Rochelle is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 La Rochelle?

Lyon is a quaint city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

La Rochelle is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This coastal town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Lyon or La Rochelle?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Lyon. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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.

Because La Rochelle is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 comparing the travel costs between Lyon and La Rochelle, we can see that Lyon 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. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Lyon or La Rochelle?

Lyon has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of La Rochelle. When comparing the sizes of Lyon and La Rochelle, 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 La Rochelle?

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 Lyon or La Rochelle in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lyon as well as La Rochelle. Many visitors come to Lyon in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to La Rochelle for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Lyon is a little warmer than La Rochelle in the summer. The daily temperature in Lyon averages around 22°C (71°F) in July, and La Rochelle fluctuates around 20°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in La Rochelle. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lyon this time of the year. In the summer, Lyon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as La Rochelle. Lyon gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Rochelle receives 267 hours of full sun.

Lyon usually gets more rain in July than La Rochelle. Lyon gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lyon or La Rochelle in the Autumn?

Both La Rochelle and Lyon are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to La Rochelle because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere.

In the autumn, Lyon is around the same temperature as La Rochelle. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lyon in October average around 14°C (56°F), and La Rochelle averages at about 15°C (59°F).

Lyon usually receives less sunshine than La Rochelle during autumn. Lyon gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while La Rochelle receives 141 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lyon usually receives more rain than La Rochelle. Lyon gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lyon or La Rochelle in the Winter?

Both La Rochelle and Lyon during the winter are popular places to visit. 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 La Rochelle this time of year.

The weather in Lyon can be very cold. In January, Lyon is generally much colder than La Rochelle. Daily temperatures in Lyon average around 4°C (39°F), and La Rochelle fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Lyon often gets less sunshine than La Rochelle. Lyon gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Rochelle receives 72 hours of full sun.

Lyon usually gets less rain in January than La Rochelle. Lyon gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lyon or La Rochelle in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lyon and La Rochelle. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lyon this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to La Rochelle for the beaches and the small town charm.

Lyon is around the same temperature as La Rochelle in the spring. The daily temperature in Lyon averages around 11°C (53°F) in April, and La Rochelle fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Lyon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as La Rochelle during spring. Lyon gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while La Rochelle receives 187 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lyon usually receives more rain than La Rochelle. Lyon gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for La Rochelle and Lyon