A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Thiva (Thebes) vs. Lyon for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) is a authentic, vibrant, and historic 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. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Thiva (Thebes) or Lyon?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lyon than Thiva (Thebes), as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lyon is more touristy than Thiva (Thebes) and is known for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. Also, Lyon is famous for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Thiva (Thebes) is well known for its standing as one of the oldest cities in the world.

How is Thiva (Thebes) different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Lyon?

Thiva (Thebes)
Lyon

Lyon is very popular for its museums and landmarks. Also, Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes). The city is filled with archeological museums and sights that reflect its long-running history as one of the oldest, continuously inhabited cities in the world.


Is the Food Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Lyon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Thiva (Thebes)
Lyon

Lyon is very popular for its restaurant scene. Also, Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's a large city with restaurants that cater to locals and visitors alike. You can expect high quality ingredients at a fraction of the price that you'll find in more touristy areas.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Lyon Better for Nightlife?

Thiva (Thebes)
Lyon

Lyon is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Lyon know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Thiva (Thebes) has a few options to choose from. The city is filled with lively cafes, bars, and pubs that spill out onto the city's vibrant squares.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Lyon Better for its Old Town?

Thiva (Thebes)
Lyon

Lyon is very popular for its old town. However, Thiva (Thebes) does not have a historic old town.

Lyon has a world-famous historical 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.

Thiva (Thebes) does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Lyon?

Thiva (Thebes)
Lyon

Lyon is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find all of the normal retail options around town. Many are in shopping centers and malls.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Lyon Better for Families?

Thiva (Thebes)
Lyon

Lyon is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Lyon is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) offers lots of family activities. Kids who are interested in history will appreciate the many archeological ruins and museums in the city.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Lyon Better for Couples?

Thiva (Thebes)
Lyon

Lyon is a great destination for its romantic activities. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for couples.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's often overlooked as a honeymoon destination in Greece but the history of this long-running city is unique. Today it's a large city but you can still catch glimpses of its past.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thiva (Thebes)
Lyon

Lyon is a great destination for backpackers. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the backpacker circuit so their aren't a lot of hostels in town.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Lyon Better for Students?

Thiva (Thebes)
Lyon

Lyon is very popular for students. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not popular with students.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not popular with students.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Lyon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Thiva (Thebes)
Lyon

Lyon is very popular for its public transit. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Lyon has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

While Thiva (Thebes) offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses in the area.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Lyon a more walkable city?

Thiva (Thebes)
Lyon

Lyon is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is a somewhat walkable city. Some areas are more walkable than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Thiva (Thebes) Worth Visiting? and Is Lyon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Thiva (Thebes)?

How long in Thiva (Thebes) or Lyon?

In either Thiva (Thebes) or Lyon, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lyon than Thiva (Thebes) because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Thiva (Thebes), and 2-5 days is enough time in Lyon.

Families should spend more time in Lyon than Thiva (Thebes). 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 Thiva (Thebes). 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 Thiva (Thebes) 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.


  • How many days in Thiva (Thebes) or Lyon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thiva (Thebes) 1-2 
    Lyon 2-5

One day in Thiva (Thebes) or Lyon?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Thiva (Thebes). Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Because Lyon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Visiting the old town is also a must. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Thiva (Thebes) or Lyon?

Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Lyon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.


Five days in Thiva (Thebes) or Lyon?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Thiva (Thebes). This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lyon. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Thiva (Thebes) or Lyon?

The vibrant city of Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the quaint city of Lyon. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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 Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.


Which place is cheaper, Lyon or Thiva (Thebes)?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Thiva (Thebes) is €127, while the average daily cost in Lyon is €125. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Thiva (Thebes) and Lyon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thiva (Thebes) 61
    Lyon 53
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thiva (Thebes) 122
    Lyon 106
Compare Hotels in Thiva (Thebes) and Lyon

Looking for a hotel in Thiva (Thebes) or Lyon? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Thiva (Thebes)


Hotels in Lyon


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Lyon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 37
    Lyon 17

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Lyon

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Lyon:


  • Funiculaire
    5.20
  • Hop-on Hop-off Tourist Bus
    19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lyon

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Lyon:

  • Arrival Private Transfer from Lyon Airport LYS to Lyon City by Business Car: $78
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Lyon Airport LYS to Lyon City by Luxury Van: $92
  • Arrival Transfer: Lyon Airport LYS to Lyon City in Business Car: $86
  • Departure Private Transfer Lyon City to Lyon Airport LYS by Business Car: $79
  • Departure Private Transfer Lyon City to Lyon Airport LYS by Luxury Van: $93
  • Departure Transfer: Lyon City to Lyon Airport LYS in Business Car: $86
  • Departure Transfer: Lyon City to Lyon Airport LYS in Luxury Van: $94
  • Excellecar Private Driver - Stations & Airports Transfers: $82
  • Group transfer from Lyon airport to City Center: $118
  • Lyon Airport (LYS) to Val d'Isere/Espace Killy: Arrival Transfer: $76
  • Lyon City Card with Airport Transfer: $52
  • Lyon Exupery Airport to Les Deux La Clusaz Round Trip Transfer: $142

Is it cheaper to fly into Thiva (Thebes) or Lyon?

Prices for flights to both Lyon and Thiva (Thebes) change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 41
    Lyon 41

Typical Food Prices in Lyon

Some typical examples of dining costs in Lyon are as follows:


  • Pastry
    1.70

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lyon

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Lyon.

  • Street Food Tour: $64
  • Croix-Rousse District Vegan Food Tour with Tastings: $64
  • Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $66
  • Afternoon Old Town Food tour: $76
  • Lyon 2.5-Hour Dinner Cruise: $80
  • Cultural Walking Food Tour in the Vieux Lyon District: $86
  • Lyon Old Town Half-Day Walking Food Tour with Local Specialties Tasting & Lunch: $93
  • Old Town Food Tour: $96
  • Guided Food Tour with Tastings and Wine: $102
  • Guided Evening Food Tour: $102
  • Lyon Evening Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $104
  • Food Tour in Lyon - Do Eat Better Experience: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 26
    Lyon 20

Typical Entertainment Prices in Lyon

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Lyon are as follows:


  • Lunch for 2
    45

Tours and Activities in Lyon

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Lyon are as follows:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $4.28
  • Hop-On Hop-Off City Cruise: $5.35
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Lyon Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Walking Tour: $6.42
  • Lyon Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.54
  • Private Self-Guided Tour of the Curse Quest of Old Lyon: $8.72
  • Access to a Self-Guided Tour of the archaeological site of Lyon: $8.72
  • Access to a Self-Guided Tour to Traboules de Croix-Rousse: $8.72
  • Lyon Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • French Resistance Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $9.61
  • Old Lyon Walking In App Audio Tour: $9.77

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 18
    Lyon 24

Typical Alcohol Prices in Lyon

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Lyon from other travelers:


  • Drinks for 2
    6.80
  • Bottle of Wine
    15

Sample the Local Flavors in Lyon

Also in Lyon, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Lyon : Music & Wine tasting tour: $96
  • Lyon Old Town Food & Wine Tasting Tour including a Bouchon Lyonnais : $98
  • Guided tour of Beaujolais by electric bike and wine tasting: $98
  • Lyon Music & Wine tasting: $104
  • Golden Stones Beaujolais Wine Tasting Trip from Lyon: $106
  • Beaujolais: Half-Day Wine Tour: $106
  • From Wine tasting and visits of the Beaujolais: $106
  • Half-Day Côte-Rotie Wine Tasting Tour: $106
  • From Beaujolais Region Wine Tour with Tastings: $106
  • Beaujolais Half Day Wine Tasting Tour: $108
  • Beaujolais 100% wine tour Small-Group Tour with Tasting from Lyon: $108
  • Guided tour and wine tasting Northern Rhône Valley: $108


When comparing the travel costs between Thiva (Thebes) and Lyon, we can see that Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) Expensive? and Is Lyon Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Thiva (Thebes) or Lyon?

Lyon has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Thiva (Thebes). When comparing the sizes of Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Lyon in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Thiva (Thebes) and Lyon. Most visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Lyon because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Thiva (Thebes) is a little warmer than Lyon in the summer. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 27°C (81°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 Thiva (Thebes), it's very sunny this time of the year. Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more sunshine than Lyon during summer. Thiva (Thebes) gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Lyon. Thiva (Thebes) gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thiva (Thebes) 27°C (81°F) 
    Lyon 22°C (71°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Lyon in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Thiva (Thebes) as well as Lyon. The autumn months attract visitors to Thiva (Thebes) because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, 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, Thiva (Thebes) is a little warmer than Lyon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Lyon averages at about 14°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Thiva (Thebes) this time of the year. In the autumn, Thiva (Thebes) often gets more sunshine than Lyon. Thiva (Thebes) gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 127 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in October than Lyon. Thiva (Thebes) gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thiva (Thebes) 19°C (67°F) 
    Lyon 14°C (56°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Lyon in the Winter?

Both Lyon and Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) 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. In January, Thiva (Thebes) is generally much warmer than Lyon. Daily temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) average around 10°C (51°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more sunshine than Lyon during winter. Thiva (Thebes) gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Lyon. Thiva (Thebes) gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thiva (Thebes) 10°C (51°F) 
    Lyon 4°C (39°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Lyon in the Spring?

Both Lyon and Thiva (Thebes) during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Thiva (Thebes) for the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Lyon in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Thiva (Thebes) is a little warmer than Lyon in the spring. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Lyon fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

It's quite sunny in Thiva (Thebes). In the spring, Thiva (Thebes) often gets more sunshine than Lyon. Thiva (Thebes) gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 174 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in April than Lyon. Thiva (Thebes) gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thiva (Thebes) 16°C (60°F) 
    Lyon 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Lyon and Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) Lyon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)