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

Should you visit Stockholm 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 Stockholm 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.

Stockholm

Stockholm is a beautiful, clean, and coastal city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Lyon

Lyon is a historic, beautiful, and cultural city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Stockholm and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Stockholm or Lyon?

You'll generally find more things to do in Stockholm than Lyon. Stockholm is bigger than Lyon, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Stockholm is better known for its music, while Lyon is more popular for its museums, food, and quaint atmosphere. Stockholm is well known for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town. Also, Stockholm is famous for Gamla Stan (the old town). Lyon is well known for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town.

Gamla Stan (the old town)

How is Stockholm different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lyon is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Lyon are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Stockholm. Famous sights and museums include the Vasa Museum, the Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the Royal Palace.

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

Lyon is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Stockholm 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.

Stockholm is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most famous for its Swedish meatballs, there is so much more to the food scene in this city. Although they're expensive, the restaurants often have a relaxed atmosphere with dishes that take advantage of local, fresh ingredients. Seafood is obviously popular as well.

Is Stockholm or Lyon Better for Nightlife?

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

Stockholm is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

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 Stockholm or Lyon Better for Music?

Stockholm is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Lyon is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Stockholm The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

Lyon is not a live music destination.

Is Stockholm or Lyon Better for its Old Town?

Both Stockholm and Lyon have first-rate historic old towns worth visiting.

The rich history of Stockholm can be explored in its historical center. Right in the middle of the city is Gamla Stan. It's spread out over a hill and filled with character, cobblestone streets, cafes, and historical sights.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Stockholm or Lyon?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Lyon and Stockholm.

Stockholm is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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 Stockholm or Lyon Better for Families?

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

Stockholm is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. As cities go, this is among the most child-friendly in Europe. There are many unique activities like Junibacken, which is a Pippi Longstocking themed kid's museum. There's also Tom Tits Experiment, which is a hands on science and technology museum, the swimming pools at Eriksdalsbadet, and the amusement park Gröna Lund.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lyon. 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 Stockholm or Lyon Better for Couples?

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

Stockholm has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The city is filled with romance, from wandering around Gamla Stan to taking a dinner cruise or exploring a rose garden. During the winter months, the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere bring the city to life.

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 Stockholm or Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lyon is well known for backpackers. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Stockholm. While the city has a lot to offer, many backpackers avoid the area because it is so expensive. There are some hostels, but in general food and entertainment are all going to cost a lot.

Is Stockholm or Lyon Better for Students?

Lyon is a must-visit destination for students. Also, Stockholm 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 Stockholm. The cost of the city scares off many international students, but those that come here will find a clean, safe, and fun city with excellent academics.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Stockholm and Lyon.

Stockholm has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

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.

Is Stockholm or Lyon a more walkable city?

Stockholm is an amazing city to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Stockholm on foot. The city has actively worked to create a walkable environment that is safe and pleasant. There are restrictions on vehicles as well as pedestrian-only areas.

Lyon is a very walkable destination. 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 Stockholm Worth Visiting? and Is Lyon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Stockholm?

How long in Stockholm or Lyon?

In either Stockholm or Lyon, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Stockholm than Lyon because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Stockholm, and 2-5 days is enough time in Lyon.

Families should spend more time in Stockholm than Lyon. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Stockholm, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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

Stockholm is a big city destination where you can fill many days. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the quaint city of Lyon. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Stockholm or Lyon?

Stockholm is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the live music. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural big city of Lyon. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Stockholm or Lyon?

Stockholm is a coastal big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find nightlife and food around the beautiful city of Lyon. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Stockholm or Lyon?

Stockholm is a expensive city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Lyon is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Sweden, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Stockholm, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Stockholm or Lyon?

Stockholm has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Lyon. When comparing the sizes of Stockholm 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 Stockholm 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 Stockholm or Lyon in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Stockholm and Lyon. Most visitors come to Stockholm for the city activities, the music scene, 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.

Stockholm is cooler than Lyon in the summer. The daily temperature in Stockholm averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Lyon fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lyon this time of the year. In Stockholm, it's very sunny this time of the year. Stockholm usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during summer. Stockholm gets 260 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Stockholm usually receives more rain than Lyon. Stockholm gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Stockholm or Lyon in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Stockholm as well as Lyon. The autumn months attract visitors to Stockholm because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. 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 the autumn, Stockholm is much colder than Lyon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Stockholm in October average around 8°C (46°F), and Lyon averages at about 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Stockholm often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Stockholm gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 127 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets less rain in October than Lyon. Stockholm gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stockholm or Lyon in the Winter?

Both Lyon and Stockholm 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 Stockholm 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. It's quite cold in Stockholm in the winter. In January, Stockholm is generally much colder than Lyon. Daily temperatures in Stockholm average around -3°C (27°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Stockholm usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during winter. Stockholm gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Lyon. Stockholm gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Stockholm or Lyon in the Spring?

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

Stockholm is much colder than Lyon in the spring. The daily temperature in Stockholm averages around 5°C (41°F) in April, and Lyon fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Stockholm often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lyon. Stockholm gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 174 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets less rain in April than Lyon. Stockholm gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lyon and Stockholm