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

Should you visit Lyon or Zaragoza?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Lyon or Zaragoza, 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. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. You'll find world class beauty here as well. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zaragoza

Zaragoza is a cultural, historical, and compact city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Lyon and Zaragoza: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lyon or Zaragoza?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Lyon than Zaragoza. While Zaragoza is larger than Lyon, Lyon has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Lyon is more touristy than Zaragoza and is known for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. It is also home to The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Zaragoza is popular for its grand landmarks, local cuisine, and rich cultural scene.

How is Lyon different from Zaragoza?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Lyon on the map. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Zaragoza. For such a small city, it really has a large number of cultural and historical attractions. The Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar is the most recognizable sight, but there's also the Museum of the Roman Forum of Caesaraugusta, the cathedral of Zaragoza, and the Aljafería Palace, among others.

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

Lyon is an amazing city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Zaragoza 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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Zaragoza. There are authentic restaurants that cater to locals and tourists alike. You'll also find some interesting food tours around town. Tapas are popular, as is chocolate and fresh, traditional recipes.

Is Lyon or Zaragoza Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Zaragoza. The nightlife is at its best on weekends, when students and young locals head out on the town. Many evenings start with tapas and wine, but there are nightclubs and dancing as well.

Is Lyon or Zaragoza Better for its Old Town?

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

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.

Zaragoza is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is small but filled with monumental buildings and an authentic atmosphere.

Is the Shopping Better in Lyon or Zaragoza?

Both Lyon and Zaragoza are superb shopping destinations.

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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Zaragoza. The city has many local shops selling locally produced items and interesting souvenirs. There are also boutiques, markets, and vintage shops that are fun to browse though.

Is Lyon or Zaragoza Better for Families?

Lyon is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Lyon is known to be 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.

Zaragoza is a family-friendly city. When your kids get their fill of architecture and history, you can head to the Zaragoza Aquarium. Also worth a visit is the Emoz Museum, which is an origami museum. And if you need a break from sightseeing, take a kayak out on the Ebro River.

Is Lyon or Zaragoza Better for Couples?

Lyon and Zaragoza are both superb 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.

Zaragoza makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Filled with culture, beauty, and monumental buildings, this is a small and romantic city. It's particularly romantic at night when the streets are quiet and many of the buildings are lit up.

Is Lyon or Zaragoza Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Lyon is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and backpackers.

Zaragoza is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are enough hostels around town to choose from, and while it's not the backpacker haven that some Spanish cities are, it still sees a good number of young travelers.

Is Lyon or Zaragoza Better for Students?

Lyon is an amazing city to visit for students. Also, Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza. International students enjoy this small city because it has a local vibe where they can practice their Spanish and enjoy an authentic experience.

Is Lyon or Zaragoza 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, Zaragoza 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.

Visitors to Zaragoza can move around easily with public transportation. There are buses and trams around the city.

Is Lyon or Zaragoza a more walkable city?

Lyon and Zaragoza 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.

Zaragoza is a very walkable destination. The city center is very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Zaragoza or Lyon?

How long in Lyon or Zaragoza?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lyon and Zaragoza. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lyon than in Zaragoza. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Lyon, and 1-3 days is enough time in Zaragoza.

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

Lyon is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Zaragoza. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Lyon or Zaragoza?

Lyon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lyon, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Zaragoza is a fun place to experience. 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 Zaragoza?

Lyon is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lyon, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Zaragoza. This city 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 Zaragoza?

Lyon is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

The cultural city of Zaragoza offers nightlife and food. 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 2-Week Tours from Barcelona, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Spain.

When comparing the travel costs between Lyon and Zaragoza, we can see that Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lyon or Zaragoza?

Zaragoza has a larger population, and is about 37% larger than the population of Lyon. When comparing the sizes of Lyon and Zaragoza, 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 Zaragoza?

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 Zaragoza in the Summer?

Both Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza this time of year.

In the summer, Lyon is cooler than Zaragoza. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lyon in July average around 22°C (71°F), and Zaragoza averages at about 26°C (79°F).

It's quite sunny in Zaragoza. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lyon. Lyon usually receives less sunshine than Zaragoza during summer. Lyon gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Zaragoza receives 344 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lyon usually receives more rain than Zaragoza. Lyon gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lyon or Zaragoza in the Autumn?

Both Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Lyon is generally cooler than Zaragoza. Daily temperatures in Lyon average around 14°C (56°F), and Zaragoza fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Lyon often gets less sunshine than Zaragoza. Lyon gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zaragoza receives 196 hours of full sun.

Lyon usually gets more rain in October than Zaragoza. Lyon gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lyon or Zaragoza in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Lyon. Lyon is much colder than Zaragoza in the winter. The daily temperature in Lyon averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Zaragoza fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Lyon usually receives less sunshine than Zaragoza during winter. Lyon gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Zaragoza receives 131 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Lyon usually receives more rain than Zaragoza. Lyon gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lyon or Zaragoza in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Lyon is cooler than Zaragoza. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lyon in April average around 11°C (53°F), and Zaragoza averages at about 15°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zaragoza. In the spring, Lyon often gets less sunshine than Zaragoza. Lyon gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zaragoza receives 217 hours of full sun.

Lyon usually gets more rain in April than Zaragoza. Lyon gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zaragoza and Lyon