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

Should you visit Paros or Lyon?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Paros and Lyon. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Paros

Paros is a diverse, stunning, and breathtaking island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

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.

Paros and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paros or Lyon?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lyon than Paros, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lyon is better known for its museums, historical sights, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Paros is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Paros is well known for its world-class beaches, beautiful undersea world, and quaint coastal villages. Lyon is well known for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. Also, Lyon is famous for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

How is Paros different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lyon is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Paros 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.

Paros offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are many interesting archeological sights and museums around the island. Some interesting places to visit are the Venetian Castle in the old port of Naoussa, the Monastery of Panagia Ekatontapiliani near Parikia, and the beautiful church of Agios Ioannis (Saint John) Detis, which dates back to the 17th century. There's also the Archeological Museum of Paros, which is found in the capital of Parikia.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Paros and Lyon.

Eat your way through Paros, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Cheese and wine are mainstays on the island and restaurants in general pride themselves on using locally-sourced, high quality ingredients. Many of the traditional recipes can be found in restaurants, but they're also still prepared in the homes of the residents as well. Seafood, vegetables, and grains are all common ingredients.

For foodies, Lyon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Is Paros or Lyon Better for Nightlife?

The great nightlife scene is relatively similar in Paros and Lyon.

Paros has a large number of nightlife venues. It doesn't have the hard core party scene that you find on some Greek islands, but it does have plenty of dance clubs, bars, and music venues. There's a wide diversity of options on the island, from quiet local bars to beach clubs that host wild parties, and everything in between.

Lyon is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Paros or Lyon Better for Resorts?

Paros is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Lyon is not a resort destination.

Paros is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The island is relatively large and you'll find everything from local hotels and guesthouses to large resorts and backpacker hostels. Many resorts have pools and great views.

Lyon is not a resort destination.

Is Paros or Lyon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paros is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Lyon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Paros to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. The island is filled with caves and interesting rock formations that make for excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. There are a number of tours available that take you to the island's best dive and snorkeling spots. There are also private and group courses available for those who are learning to scuba dive.

Lyon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paros or Lyon Better for Beaches?

Paros is an amazing island to visit for the beache. However, Lyon is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Paros are among the best in the world. The beaches are clean, diverse, and relatively easy to access. There are a range of options, from quiet hidden gems to beaches with clubs and bars nearby. Favorite beaches on the island include Kolymbithres Beach, Chrissi Akti Beach, and Santa Maria Beach.

Lyon is not a beach destination.

Is Paros or Lyon Better for its Old Town?

Lyon is terrific for its old town. However, Paros 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.

Paros does not have a historic old town.

Is Paros or Lyon Better for Hiking?

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

Paros has hiking trails worth exploring. The island has about 35 kilometers of hiking trails that pass by small cottages, stone farm homes, and around the beautiful landscapes. You'll find tucked away windmills and watermills as well as breathtaking views and hidden coves.

Lyon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Paros or Lyon?

Shoppers can find a variety of great stores in both Paros and Lyon.

Paros is well-known for its shopping. You'll find some of the best shopping in Kastro, which is the old quarter of Parikia. There are shops selling clothing, jewelry, ceramics, and other unique souvenirs. Many shops stay open late into the night, so you'll have plenty of time to browse.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Lyon. 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.

Is Paros or Lyon Better for Families?

Both Paros and Lyon are great family-friendly destinations.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Paros is very family-friendly. Kids will appreciate the beautiful beaches, great swimming opportunities, abundance of water sport activities, and child-friendly food options. There's also a folklore museum and several great archeological museums.

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.

Is Paros or Lyon Better for Couples?

Paros is an amazing island to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Paros has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The island makes a perfect honeymoon destination with its stunning beaches and picturesque villages. There are also many great local hotels and wonderful dining opportunities. If you're looking for an idyllic setting, then this is it.

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 Paros or Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paros and Lyon are both great destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Paros. You'll find some nice hostels and apartments on the island. There's also a decent nightlife scene and the island is more affordable than many Greek islands.

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

Is Paros or Lyon Better for Students?

Lyon is terrific for its student-friendly activities. However, Paros 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.

Paros is not popular with students.

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

Lyon is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Paros is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Paros. There's a reliable bus system on the island that has some routes making a loop around the outside of the island and routes traveling inland to the smaller villages.

Is Paros or Lyon a more walkable city?

Lyon is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Paros is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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.

Paros is a somewhat walkable island. There are many walking and hiking trails around the island, but it's a large island that requires some form of transportation to explore it in depth.

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

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Paros?

How long in Paros or Lyon?

In either Paros or Lyon, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. You can fill a similar amount of time in either place. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paros, and 2-5 days is enough time in Lyon.

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

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

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Paros. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

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.

A weekend in Paros or Lyon?

Paros is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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.

Five days in Paros or Lyon?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the historical destination of Paros. This island offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

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.

A week in Paros or Lyon?

The striking island of Paros offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the authentic 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Greece, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

Which is Bigger, Paros or Lyon?

Lyon has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Paros. When comparing the sizes of Paros 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.