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

Should you visit Tokyo or Lyon?

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

Should I visit Tokyo 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.

Tokyo

Tokyo is a iconic, eclectic, and cutting edge city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Lyon

Lyon is a cultural, quaint, and authentic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Tokyo and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tokyo or Lyon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Tokyo than Lyon, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Tokyo is more popular for its nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Lyon is known for its historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Tokyo is popular for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. It is also home to The Sensō-ji Temple. Lyon is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town.

How is Tokyo different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of fantastic museums and attractions in both Lyon and Tokyo.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Tokyo has many famous sights for visitors. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

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.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at fantastic restaurants in both Tokyo and Lyon.

For foodies, Tokyo is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. With an astonishing number of Michelin star restaurants, this is one of the most interesting and impressive food destinations in the world. Not all restaurants are high end though. You'll find plenty of cheap eateries that offer their own rewarding culinary experience. Must try local dishes include okonomiyaki, ramen, and of course, sushi.

Lyon has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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 Tokyo or Lyon Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Tokyo has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The professional urgency that you feel during the day morphs into a vibrant, laid back city at night. The neon lights turn on and locals head out to destress. There are karaoke bars, casual pubs, high energy nightclubs, and more. Popular areas for nightlife include Roppongi, Shibuya and Shinjuku.

Lyon has a large number of nightlife venues. 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 Tokyo or Lyon Better for Music?

Tokyo 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 Tokyo The music scene features both national and international artists and the music style is as eclectic as the city itself. You'll find many underground venues, vintage record stores, and local bars that have each created their own niche.

Lyon is not a live music destination.

Is Tokyo or Lyon Better for its Old Town?

Lyon is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Tokyo 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.

Tokyo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Tokyo or Lyon?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Tokyo make it a world-class shopping destination. The city is known for its electronics, anime products, and trendy fashion brands. Many neighborhoods are also shopping districts with malls or markets throughout. Prices can be steep, but products are generally high quality. For some of the city's best shopping, head to Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Ginza.

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 Tokyo or Lyon Better for Families?

Tokyo 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.

Tokyo is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. This is an incredibly kid-friendly city. There's Disneyland, but there are also many other entertainment centers, amusement areas, a zoo, aquarium, and more. Kids will also enjoy experiencing the city's fascinating culture. They can visit temples, museums, and the Tokyo Tower. Another fun local experience is to go to a baseball game.

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 Tokyo or Lyon Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Tokyo and Lyon make for a very good place to visit.

Tokyo is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. This high tech city offers luxury hotels and spas, award winning restaurants, and unique date night opportunities like karaoke or sushi making classes. The city has many parks and gardens as well as malls, dynamic neighborhoods, and interesting museums.

Lyon is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

Is Tokyo or Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lyon is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tokyo is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Tokyo is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Known for it's high prices, it can be a bit difficult to visit this city on a budget. There are dorm rooms available but they still come with a high price tag. Food is a bit easier as the eateries are diverse with many options on the cheaper side.

Is Tokyo or Lyon Better for Students?

For students, both Tokyo and Lyon are fantastic places to visit.

Many students frequent Tokyo. The city attracts many international students and there are a number of prestigious universities to choose from. Perhaps the biggest challenge is navigating the language difference, but that is all part of the experience when studying abroad.

Students come from all over the world to visit 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.

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

Tokyo and Lyon both offer fantastic public transit to get you around.

Tokyo has a great public transit system. Trains, subways, and buses make up the complex transportation system and, while it may seem overwhelming at first, the system is actually very clean, efficient, and reliable.

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

Is Tokyo or Lyon a more walkable city?

Tokyo 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 Tokyo on foot. Many neighborhoods are very easy to explore on foot, so it's fun to just wander without a plan, seeing where you end up.

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 Tokyo Worth Visiting? and Is Lyon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Tokyo?

How long in Tokyo or Lyon?

In either Tokyo or Lyon, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Tokyo than Lyon because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Tokyo, and 2-5 days is enough time in Lyon.

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

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

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

Tokyo 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.

In Lyon, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural big city offers. 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 Tokyo or Lyon?

Tokyo is a fun place to experience. 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 Tokyo or Lyon?

Tokyo is a vibrant big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. 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. In Lyon, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this quaint big city offers. 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 Tokyo or Lyon?

Tokyo is a cutting edge city where you can fill many days. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful 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 2-Week Tours in Japan, The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan, 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 Tokyo and Lyon, we can see that Tokyo is more expensive. And not only is Lyon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Tokyo is in Asia and Lyon is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Tokyo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Tokyo 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 Tokyo Expensive? and Is Lyon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Tokyo or Lyon?

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

Both Lyon and Tokyo during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Tokyo for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Lyon in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Tokyo is generally a little warmer than Lyon. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 26°C (78°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

In Lyon, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Tokyo often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Tokyo gets 137 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 285 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tokyo. Tokyo usually gets more rain in July than Lyon. Tokyo gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Lyon in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Tokyo and Lyon. Many visitors come to Tokyo in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, 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.

Tokyo is a little warmer than Lyon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Lyon fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Tokyo usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lyon during autumn. Tokyo gets 129 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Tokyo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Tokyo usually receives more rain than Lyon. Tokyo gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Tokyo or Lyon in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Tokyo as well as Lyon. Most visitors come to Tokyo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, 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. In the winter, Tokyo is a little warmer than Lyon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tokyo in January average around 5°C (42°F), and Lyon averages at about 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Tokyo often gets more sunshine than Lyon. Tokyo gets 175 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 62 hours of full sun.

Tokyo usually gets less rain in January than Lyon. Tokyo gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Lyon in the Spring?

Both Lyon and Tokyo are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lyon this time of year.

In April, Tokyo is generally a little warmer than Lyon. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 14°C (58°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

Tokyo usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during spring. Tokyo gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Tokyo. In April, Tokyo usually receives more rain than Lyon. Tokyo gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lyon and Tokyo