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

Should you visit Wurzburg 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 Wurzburg 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.

Wurzburg

Wurzburg is a historical, cultural, and architectural city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Lyon

Lyon is a historic, beautiful, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Wurzburg and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Wurzburg or Lyon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lyon than Wurzburg. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Lyon is more touristy than Wurzburg and is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. It is also well known for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Wurzburg is famous for its wines, gardens, and charming old town.

How is Wurzburg different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Wurzburg
Lyon

Spend time exploring the first-rate sights and museums in either Wurzburg or Lyon.

Travelers visit Wurzburg from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The Franconian city is known for its history and architecture. One of the most well know sights is the 18th-century Residenz palace. Other attractions in town include the Martin von Wagner Museum, the Würzburg Court Gardens, the Marienberg Fortress, and the Würzburg Cathedral & Museum.

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.


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

Wurzburg
Lyon

Lyon is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Wurzburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Wurzburg. There are local restaurants that serve up regional specialties like bratwurst, weisswurst (white sausage), and Bavarian cream. There are also fine dining restaurants and cafes that cater specifically to tourists.

Is Wurzburg or Lyon Better for Nightlife?

Wurzburg
Lyon

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find high quality options in both Wurzburg and Lyon.

The nightlife in Wurzburg has something for everybody. The town is in the heart of the Franconian wine district, so you'll find many wine bars, cellars, and wineries around town. For something a bit more active, there are some lively clubs and bars to choose from as well.

Lyon offers plenty to do in the evening. 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 Wurzburg or Lyon Better for its Old Town?

Wurzburg
Lyon

Lyon is a world-class destination for its historic old town. Also, Wurzburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its old town.

The historic old town of Lyon is revered around 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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Wurzburg. The old town is best explored on foot and there are walking tours available that take you through many of the historical and architectural landmarks.


Is the Shopping Better in Wurzburg or Lyon?

Wurzburg
Lyon

Lyon is a great city for shopping. Also, Wurzburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Wurzburg offers some nice shopping areas. There are several shopping streets as well as some major department stores and local venues.

Is Wurzburg or Lyon Better for Families?

Wurzburg
Lyon

Lyon is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. However, Wurzburg is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Lyon is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Wurzburg is not the most family-friendly destination. The city is filled with history and cultural sights that can sometimes be challenging for young kids. To break up the history, head to some of the town's gardens and main square.

Is Wurzburg or Lyon Better for Couples?

Wurzburg
Lyon

Both Wurzburg and Lyon are high quality destinations for a couple's getaway.

Wurzburg is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With its beautiful architecture, fascinating history, and beautiful gardens, there is lot for a couple to explore together. You can wander through the fortress or soak up the beautiful gardens.

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 Wurzburg or Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Wurzburg
Lyon

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

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Wurzburg. There are a couple of hostels in town and it's easily accessible from Frankfurt by public transit. Many people also choose to visit Wurzbug as a day trip.

Is Wurzburg or Lyon Better for Students?

Wurzburg
Lyon

Lyon is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Wurzburg 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.

Wurzburg is not popular with students.

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

Wurzburg
Lyon

Lyon is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Wurzburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Lyon can get you around easily. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

The public transit in Wurzburg can get you around easily. The system includes trams and buses, including five tram lines that make loops around the city.


Is Wurzburg or Lyon a more walkable city?

Wurzburg
Lyon

Wurzburg and Lyon are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Wurzburg is very walkable. You can wander around town and take in many of the sights and attractions as part of a walking tour.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Wurzburg?

How long in Wurzburg or Lyon?

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

Families should spend more time in Lyon than Wurzburg. 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 Wurzburg. 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 Wurzburg 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 Wurzburg or Lyon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Wurzburg 1-2 
    Lyon 2-5

One day in Wurzburg or Lyon?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Wurzburg. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Lyon is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Wurzburg or Lyon?

Wurzburg is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the museums. 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.

Lyon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lyon, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Wurzburg or Lyon?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Wurzburg. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Lyon is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lyon, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Wurzburg or Lyon?

The impressive city of Wurzburg offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in Germany, The Best Tours Under $1000 in Germany, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.


Which place is cheaper, Lyon or Wurzburg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Wurzburg is €120, 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 Wurzburg and Lyon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Wurzburg 79
    Lyon 53
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Wurzburg 158
    Lyon 106
Compare Hotels in Wurzburg and Lyon

Looking for a hotel in Wurzburg 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 Wurzburg


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: Wurzburg Hotel Prices and Lyon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Wurzburg 7.89
    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:

  • Superior Private Transfer From Lyon City to Geneva City: $295
  • Private Direct Transfer from Lyon to Geneva: $274
  • Private Transfer Grenoble Airport GNB - Grenoble Ski Resort: $229
  • Lyon Saint Exupery Airport to Morzine Avoriaz Round Trip Transfer: $185
  • Lyon Saint Exupery Airport to Meribel - Arrival Private Transfer: $180
  • Lyon St Exupery Airport to Courchevel/Les Arcs - Arrival Transfer: $180
  • Private arrival OR departure transfer in Lyon (hotel OR airport pick-up): $177
  • Lyon Saint Exupery Airport(LYS) to Alpe d'Huez - Arrival Transfer: $164
  • Lyon Exupery Airport to Les Deux La Clusaz Round Trip Transfer: $142
  • Lyon Private Transfer from Lyon Airport (LYS) to City centre: $131
  • Lyon Private Transfer from Lyon city centre to Lyon (LYS) Airport: $131
  • Private Transfer: (LYS) Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport to Lyon: $124

Is it cheaper to fly into Wurzburg or Lyon?

Prices for flights to both Lyon and Wurzburg 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
    Wurzburg 35
    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.
    Wurzburg 8.94
    Lyon 20

Tours and Activities in Wurzburg

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Wurzburg.

  • WÜrzburg Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Self-Guided Historical Walking Tour in Würzburg: $7.63
  • Würzburg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Rothenburg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • City tour through Würzburg with the Bimmelbahn: $12
  • Discover Würzburg Walking Tour with Typical Wine Gift: $21
  • Medieval Musical Tour of Rothenburg ob der Tauber: $22
  • Romantic Road Ticket from Würzburg(Main) to Rothenburg/Tauber (SUNDAY): $40
  • Wurzburg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $252

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:

  • 1 or 2-Hour Pedicab tour of Lyon: $27
  • 1-hour tourist walk with guide: $38
  • 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
  • Alternative Tour: Murals and Hidden Frescoes of Lyon: $46
  • An unusual city tour with sketches: $64
  • Audio-Guided Tour of the United States Quarter and Painted Walls: $11
  • Audio-guided tour of Old Lyon: $11
  • Audio-guided tour of the Fourvière and the Sacred Hill: $11
  • Beaujolais & Perouges Medieval Town (9:00 am to 5:15 pm - Small Group Tour Lyon: $136
  • Beaujolais Wines & Castles - Private Tour - Half Day: $268
  • Best Intro Tour of Lyon with a Local: $141

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Wurzburg 12
    Lyon 24

Sample the Local Flavors in Wurzburg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Wurzburg:

  • Private mulled wine tour in Würzburg: $55
  • Romantic Road Day Trip from Würzburg to Rothenburg/Tauber incl. Wine tasting : $97

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 Wurzburg 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 Wurzburg Expensive? and Is Lyon Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Wurzburg or Lyon?

Lyon has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Wurzburg. When comparing the sizes of Wurzburg 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 Wurzburg 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 Wurzburg or Lyon in the Summer?

Both Lyon and Wurzburg during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Wurzburg for 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.

In the summer, Wurzburg is around the same temperature as Lyon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Wurzburg in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Lyon averages at about 22°C (71°F).

In Lyon, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Wurzburg. In the summer, Wurzburg often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Wurzburg gets 221 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 285 hours of full sun.

Wurzburg usually gets less rain in July than Lyon. Wurzburg gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Wurzburg 20°C (68°F) 
    Lyon 22°C (71°F)

Should I visit Wurzburg or Lyon in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Wurzburg and Lyon. The autumn months attract visitors to Wurzburg because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. 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 October, Wurzburg is generally cooler than Lyon. Daily temperatures in Wurzburg average around 12°C (53°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Wurzburg usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during autumn. Wurzburg gets 104 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Wurzburg usually receives less rain than Lyon. Wurzburg gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Wurzburg 12°C (53°F) 
    Lyon 14°C (56°F)

Should I visit Wurzburg or Lyon in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Wurzburg as well as Lyon. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Wurzburg 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 Wurzburg in the winter. Wurzburg is much colder than Lyon in the winter. The daily temperature in Wurzburg averages around 1°C (35°F) in January, and Lyon fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Wurzburg often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Wurzburg gets 42 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 62 hours of full sun.

Wurzburg usually gets less rain in January than Lyon. Wurzburg gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Wurzburg 1°C (35°F) 
    Lyon 4°C (39°F)

Should I visit Wurzburg or Lyon in the Spring?

Both Lyon and Wurzburg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Wurzburg for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Lyon in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Wurzburg is around the same temperature as Lyon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Wurzburg in April average around 11°C (51°F), and Lyon averages at about 11°C (53°F).

Wurzburg usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during spring. Wurzburg gets 157 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Wurzburg usually receives less rain than Lyon. Wurzburg gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Wurzburg 11°C (51°F) 
    Lyon 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Lyon and Wurzburg

Wurzburg Lyon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (35°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 11°C (51°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 18°C (65°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 17°C (62°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)