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

Should you visit Messina or Lyon?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Messina and Lyon can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Messina

Messina is a bustling, local, and historic port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Lyon

Lyon is a historic, beautiful, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Messina and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Messina or Lyon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lyon than Messina. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Lyon is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Messina attracts visitors for its beaches. Lyon is more touristy than Messina and is known for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. It is also well known for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Messina is famous for being the entry and departure point to Sicily for those traveling by ferry.

How is Messina different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lyon and Messina. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Messina or Lyon?

Lyon is renowned for its museums and landmarks. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Messina offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of historic sights around town including the Cathedral and the Piazza del Duomo, the Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock, Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani, and the Regional Museum. There are also many ornate fountains around town.

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

Lyon is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Lyon have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Messina has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city's cuisine is a mix of the cultures that have influenced Sicily over the centuries. The city has a longstanding fishing industry and one of the most popular dishes are swordfish rolls. Also try the pidone (similar to calzones with different fillings), and the focaccia (a local bread).

Is Messina or Lyon Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Messina and Lyon.

Messina is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the old town and you'll find a mix of locals and tourists hanging out in pubs and bars. During the summer months there are often free outdoor concerts to enjoy.

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.

Is Messina or Lyon Better for Beaches?

Messina is a moderate port city for the beache. However, Lyon is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Messina. There are pebbly beaches in the area that are becoming more popular with tourists.

Lyon is not a beach destination.

Is Messina or Lyon Better for its Old Town?

Lyon is renowned for its historic old town. However, Messina does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Lyon is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

Messina does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Messina or Lyon?

Lyon is well known for shopping. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Messina. The best shopping is around Piazza Cairoli with the main shopping streets being Viale Europa and Viale San Martino. There are many small boutiques that have cheaper prices than some of the more upscale Sicilian towns.

Is Messina or Lyon Better for Families?

Both Messina and Lyon are high quality to visit with kids.

Messina is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are a number outdoor activities that kids will enjoy including Parco Avventura Dei Peloritani, which has ropes and obstacle courses. There's also the Karting Center, which is fun for the whole family, or a small aquarium in town. If you're looking for an excursion outside of town, head to Cascata Cataolo waterfall, which is very kid-friendly.

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.

Is Messina or Lyon Better for Couples?

Lyon is well known for romance. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Lyon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

Messina makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Most visitors see the city as an arrival or departure point for Sicily, but those couples who linger will appreciate a number of historical sights and a nice atmosphere.

Is Messina or Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lyon is well known for backpackers. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Messina. If you're traveling by train or ferry, you'll likely arrive or depart from this city. There are a number of hostels and cheap guesthouses around town that offer affordable accommodation.

Is Messina or Lyon Better for Students?

Lyon is renowned for students. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Lyon is a very popular city 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.

It's common for students to visit Messina. There are a few study abroad opportunities that bring international students to town. The city also have good transportation connections and a friendly atmosphere that is welcoming to students.

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

Lyon is renowned for its public transit. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Lyon has a great public transit system. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

While Messina offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. If your legs are tired then there's an efficient bus system that you can use.

Is Messina or Lyon a more walkable city?

Messina and Lyon both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Messina is very walkable. Most of the city's attractions can be reached on foot and the port is a ten to fifteen minute walk from Piazza del Duomo.

Lyon is a very walkable port 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Messina?

How long in Messina or Lyon?

In either Messina or Lyon, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lyon than Messina because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Messina, and 2-5 days is enough time in Lyon.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lyon than Messina 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 Messina or Lyon?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Messina. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

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.

A weekend in Messina or Lyon?

Messina 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.

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.

Five days in Messina or Lyon?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the local destination of Messina. This port city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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.

A week in Messina or Lyon?

The bustling port city of Messina 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.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

When comparing the travel costs between Messina and Lyon, 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 Messina Expensive? and Is Lyon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Messina or Lyon?

Lyon has a larger population, and is about 87% larger than the population of Messina. When comparing the sizes of Messina and Lyon, 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 Messina or Lyon?

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 Messina or Lyon in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Messina and Lyon. Most visitors come to Messina for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Lyon because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Messina is a little warmer than Lyon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Messina in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Lyon averages at about 22°C (71°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lyon this time of the year. In Messina, it's very sunny this time of the year. Messina usually receives more sunshine than Lyon during summer. Messina gets 332 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Messina usually receives less rain than Lyon. Messina gets 19 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Messina or Lyon in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Messina as well as Lyon. The autumn months attract visitors to Messina because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, 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.

In October, Messina is generally much warmer than Lyon. Daily temperatures in Messina average around 21°C (69°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Messina often gets more sunshine than Lyon. Messina gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 127 hours of full sun.

Messina receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Messina usually gets more rain in October than Lyon. Messina gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Messina or Lyon in the Winter?

Both Lyon and Messina are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Messina this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lyon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Lyon. Messina is much warmer than Lyon in the winter. The daily temperature in Messina averages around 13°C (55°F) in January, and Lyon fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Messina usually receives more sunshine than Lyon during winter. Messina gets 115 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Messina. In January, Messina usually receives more rain than Lyon. Messina gets 113 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Messina or Lyon in the Spring?

Both Lyon and Messina during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Messina for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Lyon in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Messina is a little warmer than Lyon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Messina in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Lyon averages at about 11°C (53°F).

It's quite sunny in Messina. In the spring, Messina often gets more sunshine than Lyon. Messina gets 207 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 174 hours of full sun.

Messina usually gets less rain in April than Lyon. Messina gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lyon and Messina