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

Should you visit Stuttgart or Lyon?

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

Should I visit Stuttgart or Lyon? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Stuttgart

Stuttgart is a authentic, commercial, and diverse city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Lyon

Lyon is a cultural, quaint, and authentic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Stuttgart and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Stuttgart or Lyon?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Lyon than Stuttgart. While Stuttgart is larger than Lyon, Lyon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lyon is more touristy than Stuttgart and is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. It is also home to The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Stuttgart is popular for its many automobile museums including the Mercedes-Benz Museum and the Porsche Museum.

How is Stuttgart different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lyon is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Stuttgart is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Lyon has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Stuttgart is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city's influence over the car industry is reflected in the museums in town. You can visit both the Mercedes-Benz Museum and the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart. Also check out Schlossplatz, the Ludwigsburg Palace, and Altes Schloss and Landesmuseum while you're in town.

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

Lyon is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Stuttgart is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Stuttgart makes for a great culinary experience. The city blends traditional German flavors with modern twists. You'll find much more than the standard bratworsts that so many people associate with German cuisine. One favorite dish is maultaschen, which is like a ravioli. Also make sure you try spätzle, zwiebelrostbraten (roast and onions) and flädlesuppe (soup with long pasta).

Is Stuttgart or Lyon Better for Nightlife?

The very good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Stuttgart and Lyon.

Stuttgart has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene stays active late into the evening. You'll find no shortage of clubs, bars, music venues, and beer gardens. You'll meet a combination of locals, tourists, students, and expats at many venues.

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 Stuttgart or Lyon Better for its Old Town?

Lyon is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Stuttgart does not have a 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.

Stuttgart does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Stuttgart or Lyon?

Shoppers can find a variety of very good stores in both Stuttgart and Lyon.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Stuttgart. The city is filled with pedestrian shopping streets as well as flea markets and major shopping malls. The main shopping street in town is Koenigstrasse, where you'll find many upscale boutiques. For a local food market head to Markthalle Stuttgart. The flagship store of the Breuninger chain is also found in Stuttgart.

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.

Is Stuttgart or Lyon Better for Families?

Lyon is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Stuttgart is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Stuttgart. Like many German city's, there's a great zoo to explore. There's also some unique museums like the Mercedes-Benz Museum and the Porsche Museum. Kids will also enjoy taking in the view from the top of the Fernsehturm.

Is Stuttgart or Lyon Better for Couples?

Lyon is a very popular place for couples. Also, Stuttgart is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Stuttgart is a nice destination for couples. The city is large enough to have some nice romantic hotels, spas, luxury restaurants, and other activities that make for a great date night.

Is Stuttgart or Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

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

Stuttgart is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's not on the backpacker circuit for most people but there are still plenty of hostels and affordable accommodation options. You'll also find plenty of activities and affordable restaurants to choose from.

Is Stuttgart or Lyon Better for Students?

Lyon is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Stuttgart is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Many students frequent Lyon. 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.

Stuttgart is very popular with students. It's an international city with great universities and a friendly and central location. There's also a lively nightlife and plenty of things to do.

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

Lyon is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Stuttgart is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Lyon is top-notch. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

Visitors to Stuttgart can move around easily with public transportation. The city's transit system includes buses, the U‑Bahn and the S‑Bahn. The U-Bahn is a denser train system in the city center and the S-Bahn covers more distance and reaches into the suburbs with stops that are more spread out.

Is Stuttgart or Lyon a more walkable city?

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

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.

Stuttgart is somewhat walkable. There are parts of the city that are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Stuttgart?

How long in Stuttgart or Lyon?

In either Stuttgart or Lyon, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lyon than Stuttgart because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Stuttgart, and 2-5 days is enough time in Lyon.

Families should spend more time in Lyon than Stuttgart. 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 Stuttgart. 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 Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart or Lyon?

Stuttgart is a big city destination where you can fill many days. 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 Stuttgart or Lyon?

Stuttgart 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful 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 Stuttgart or Lyon?

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

You'll find nightlife and food around the quaint 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 Stuttgart or Lyon?

The commercial city of Stuttgart 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.

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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, 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 Stuttgart and Lyon, we can see that Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart Expensive? and Is Lyon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Stuttgart or Lyon?

Stuttgart has a larger population, and is about 27% larger than the population of Lyon. When comparing the sizes of Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart or Lyon?

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 Stuttgart or Lyon in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Stuttgart as well as Lyon. Many travelers come to Stuttgart for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Lyon in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Stuttgart is generally around the same temperature as Lyon. Daily temperatures in Stuttgart average around 22°C (71°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lyon. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Stuttgart this time of the year. In the summer, Stuttgart often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Stuttgart gets 238 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 285 hours of full sun.

Stuttgart usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Lyon. Stuttgart gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stuttgart or Lyon in the Autumn?

Both Lyon and Stuttgart are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Stuttgart in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Lyon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Stuttgart is around the same temperature as Lyon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Stuttgart averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Lyon fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Stuttgart usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lyon during autumn. Stuttgart gets 122 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Stuttgart usually receives less rain than Lyon. Stuttgart gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Stuttgart or Lyon in the Winter?

Both Lyon and Stuttgart during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Stuttgart for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Lyon because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Lyon can be very cold. Stuttgart can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Stuttgart is cooler than Lyon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Stuttgart in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Lyon averages at about 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Stuttgart often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lyon. Stuttgart gets 60 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 62 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Stuttgart or Lyon in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Stuttgart and Lyon. The spring months attract visitors to Stuttgart because of the activities around the city. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lyon this time of year.

In April, Stuttgart is generally around the same temperature as Lyon. Daily temperatures in Stuttgart average around 11°C (53°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

Stuttgart usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during spring. Stuttgart gets 154 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Stuttgart usually receives less rain than Lyon. Stuttgart gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lyon and Stuttgart