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

Should you visit Lyon or Ravenna?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Lyon or Ravenna, 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 beautiful, cultural, and quaint city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Ravenna

Ravenna is a historic, off-the-beaten-path, and charming town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Lyon and Ravenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lyon or Ravenna?

You'll generally find more things to do in Lyon than Ravenna. Lyon is bigger than Ravenna, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Lyon is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Ravenna is more popular for its small town charm. Lyon is more touristy than Ravenna 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. Ravenna is well known for its many stunning mosaics which date back to the early Christian and Byzantine empires.

How is Lyon different from Ravenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lyon is a must-visit destination for its museums and history. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Ravenna offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Most sights in town are centered around the the beautiful mosaics. Neonian Baptistery is a good place to begin your visit. Other highlights include San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and Sant'Apollinare Nuovo.

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

Lyon is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Lyon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Dining out in Ravenna is an experience not to be missed. The region is most known for its first course dishes, so pasta lovers will enjoy dining on homemade egg pasta dishes that are served with meat or cheese sauces. You'll also find lots of grilled meats and many great desserts.

Is Lyon or Ravenna Better for Nightlife?

Lyon is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

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.

Ravenna has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find most of the pubs and clubs in town around Marina di Ravenna. There are a couple of places that attract a crowd, but many are open only during the summer months.

Is Lyon or Ravenna Better for its Old Town?

Lyon is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Ravenna does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Lyon can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Ravenna does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lyon or Ravenna?

Lyon is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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 Ravenna to go shopping. There are some nice shopping streets in town where you can buy locally made mosaics. You'll also find art studios and artisan shops, as well as your typical souvenir shops and clothing stores. Via Cavour, via Diaz, and via Cairoli are some of the most popular shopping streets.

Is Lyon or Ravenna Better for Families?

Lyon and Ravenna are both great destinations for the whole family.

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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Ravenna. In town you'll find mosaics, museums, and a charming town, and ten kilometers outside of town you'll find Italy's largest amusement park - Mirabilandia. The city is also filled with parks where kids can explore and learn, and the food, like any Italian city, is very kid-friendly.

Is Lyon or Ravenna Better for Couples?

Lyon and Ravenna are both great 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.

Ravenna makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Many visitors to Italy don't add this charming town to their itinerary, but for couples who want to experience a small town setting with beautiful art and architecture, then Ravenna is a great option. There are parks to explore and great restaurants to experience as well.

Is Lyon or Ravenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lyon is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Ravenna. It's a bit off-the-beaten path, so you won't find a large number of hostels or a lot of backpackers to hang out with. That doesn't mean it won't make a great addition to your itinerary though.

Is Lyon or Ravenna Better for Students?

Lyon is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Ravenna is not popular with students.

Lyon is a very popular place to visit 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.

Ravenna is not popular with students.

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

Lyon is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Lyon has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

You'll find some public transit in Ravenna, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses in and around town are managed by START ROMAGNA and offer access to many nearby towns.

Is Lyon or Ravenna a more walkable city?

Lyon and Ravenna both are great 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.

Ravenna is a very walkable destination. There are care-free areas to the town that can only be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Ravenna or Lyon?

How long in Lyon or Ravenna?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lyon or Ravenna to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lyon than Ravenna because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Lyon, and 1-2 days is enough time in Ravenna.

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

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.

Ravenna is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Lyon or Ravenna?

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.

Ravenna 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 Ravenna?

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.

Ravenna is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Lyon or Ravenna?

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.

Because Ravenna is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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 Italy, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lyon and Ravenna, we can see that Lyon is more expensive. And not only is Ravenna much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ravenna would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ravenna 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 Lyon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lyon than you might in Ravenna.

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

Which is Bigger, Lyon or Ravenna?

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

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 Ravenna in the Summer?

Both Ravenna and Lyon during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lyon for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Ravenna in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Lyon is around the same temperature as Ravenna in the summer. The daily temperature in Lyon averages around 22°C (71°F) in July, and Ravenna fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

Lyon usually gets less rain in July than Ravenna. Lyon gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lyon or Ravenna in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lyon and Ravenna. Many visitors come to Lyon in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Ravenna for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months.

In the autumn, Lyon is around the same temperature as Ravenna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lyon in October average around 14°C (56°F), and Ravenna averages at about 14°C (58°F).

In October, Lyon usually receives more rain than Ravenna. Lyon gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lyon or Ravenna in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lyon as well as Ravenna. Most visitors come to Lyon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Ravenna because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Ravenna can be very cold. Lyon can be very cold during winter. In January, Lyon is generally a little warmer than Ravenna. Daily temperatures in Lyon average around 4°C (39°F), and Ravenna fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Lyon usually gets more rain in January than Ravenna. Lyon gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lyon or Ravenna in the Spring?

Both Ravenna and Lyon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Lyon because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm are the main draw to Ravenna this time of year.

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

In April, Lyon usually receives more rain than Ravenna. Lyon gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ravenna and Lyon