Rhone-Alpes is an exciting destination known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.
How much does it cost to travel to Rhone-Alpes?
A typical traveler spends $242 (€206) per day on a trip to Rhone-Alpes. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Rhone-Alpes based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $86 (€74) on meals
- $36 (€30) on local transportation
- $162 (€138) on hotels
A one-week trip to Rhone-Alpes for two people costs, on average, $3,383 (€2,884). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$1,692
€1,442
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$3,383
€2,884
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One Month
Per person
$7,250
€6,180
-
One Week
For a couple
$3,383
€2,884
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$6,767
€5,768
-
One Month
For a couple
$14,500
€12,360
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Rhone-Alpes cost?
A one week trip to Rhone-Alpes usually costs around $1,692 (€1,442) for one person and $3,383 (€2,884) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Rhone-Alpes on average costs around $3,383 (€2,884) for one person and $6,767 (€5,768) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Rhone-Alpes will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Rhone-Alpes on average costs around $7,250 (€6,180) for one person and $14,500 (€12,360) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Rhone-Alpes expensive to visit?
In Rhone-Alpes, budget travelers spend $99 (€85) per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $241 (€206) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $549 (€469) per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Rhone-Alpes.
Rhone-Alpes is a small yet inviting destination that captivates travelers with a mix of travel preferences, spending habits, and budgetary ranges. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.
Rhone-Alpes can become quite costly if you let it, but there are ways to save money, such as looking for discounts and coupons.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Rhone-Alpes is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to many other destinations.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Rhone-Alpes Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Rhone-Alpes?
The average Rhone-Alpes trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Rhone-Alpes travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Rhone-Alpes cost?
Rhone-Alpes on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$34
(€29)
|
$81
(€69)
|
$170
(€145)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$14
(€12)
|
$36
(€30)
|
$84
(€71)
|
|
Food2
|
$36
(€31)
|
$86
(€74)
|
$189
(€161)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$19
(€16)
|
$49
(€42)
|
$124
(€106)
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$5-16
(€4-13)
|
$13-38
(€11-33)
|
$30-91
(€26-78)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Having realistic expectations about your travel budget in Rhone-Alpes is important. While you might think you can save money by cutting expenses, traveling comfortably requires a bit more spending for most people. Think about your favorite vacation activities and ideal travel style. Staying in a resort or comfortable hotel, along with sightseeing and dining out are generally what many people prefer. Your travel preferences will determine how much you'll end up spending on your trip.
The Truth on Budget Travel
You might think you're a budget traveler, but unless you're willing to sacrifice many comforts, expect to spend a lot more than the average of $99 per day that backpackers typically manage.
Younger budget travelers sometimes stick to a shoestring budget, which usually means staying in hostel dorms, eating at budget restaurants or fast food, relying on public transportation or walking, and limiting activities to free attractions.
Do You Identify as an Average Traveler?
If you're a family or couple enjoying a vacation, you'll most likely want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at trendy restaurants, and check out the main museums and attractions that charge for entry. Exploring the major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks is a must for most visitors to Rhone-Alpes. Keep in mind that most activities have costs associated with them. Hence, you should realistically expect your daily budget to hover around $241 per person, per day.
Looking to Travel in Luxury?
For a trip that encompasses every convenience with outstanding service, get ready for a daily cost nearing $549. To experience nicer hotels, enjoy award-winning cuisine, indulge in extravagant outings, and use taxis or private drivers for your journeys in the destination, be prepared for premium pricing.
Accommodation Budget in Rhone-Alpes
Rhone-Alpes offers a broad range of hotel prices, from budget to luxury. Higher-end hotels come with more amenities and higher prices, particularly during peak season. Off-season, you'll find average rates around $, but during peak season, they can average $. Prices range from $ to $, and hostels tend to be much cheaper. Save money by visiting during the low season or by taking advantage of early booking and special promotions.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Rhone-Alpes for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $162 (€138). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $81 (€69) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Rhone-Alpes? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
Visiting in the low or shoulder season, rather than during , will give you cheaper lodging options and fewer tourists to navigate around.
Transportation Budget in Rhone-Alpes
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $36 (€30) per person, per day, on local transportation in Rhone-Alpes. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Rhone-Alpes is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$36
€30
The Rhone-Alps region has three international airport options for flying into the area: Lyon, Grenoble, and Saint-Etienne. Rhone-Alps is a major transit hub for the rail network in Europe, with the TGV running through Lyon from Paris and the north, to the Mediterranean. A high-speed rail link is also planned from Lyon to Turin.
With its extensive rail network, public transit can be a great option for getting around in the Rhone-Alps region, but if you prefer doing things at your own time, there are many motorways in the region so renting a car is a good option. Millions travel along its motorways in summertime from Paris to holidays at the sea. The E15 Euroroute (Britain to Spain) runs through the region.
Check that your hotel has convenient parking if you're planning on driving.
A few of the typical hotel transfers and transportation services include:
- Private Transfer: Port of LYON to Lyon Airport LYS in Luxury Van for $118 details
- Transfer: Lyon City Center to Saint Exupéry Airport(LYS) for $56 details
- Private Transfer from Port of LYON to Lyon Railway Stations for $78 details
How much does it cost to go to Rhone-Alpes? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Rhone-Alpes will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Rhone-Alpes
Cuisine often serves as a primary motivation for travel, so make sure to indulge in the local dishes.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Rhone-Alpes can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Rhone-Alpes is $86 (€74) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$86
€74
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Rhone-Alpes is around $86 (€74) per person, with previous travelers spending from $36 to $189. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Rhone-Alpes are as follows:
- Breakfast: $9 to $26
- Lunch: $13 to $35
- Dinner: $26 to $60
- Coffee: $7
- Fast Food or Street Food: $13
The Rhone-Alps region has many great options for dining. There are some specific foods which are local to the area and are definitely worth a try. Once such dish is Bugnes, which are little pieces of dough, twisted and fried in hot oil, then sprinkled with sugar. Another dish is Ravioles de Royans, which are like miniature ravioli, filled with a mixture of cheese and herbs. Another popular local dish is Rosette Sausage, which is a specialty of Lyon and a firm favorite among the French.
Though there are many restaurants to choose from, here are a few for some ideas: Le Sud, which is a great place for traditional French food, Restaurant LePaellou, which serves a spectacular Fondue menu, and Le Bistrot de Lyon, which is a great place for some seafood.
Several hotels include breakfast with your stay, while others charge separately for it. The cost and quality can vary significantly depending on the hotel. Knowing this in advance can guide your budget decisions. It could be worth it for the tasty buffet available at the hotel, or you may wish to find a cheaper option at a local bakery or cafe.
Keep a water bottle handy instead of purchasing drinks everywhere. It's also better for the environment.
If you're considering a tour, double-check which meals are included in the package. There may be instances where you'll have to pay for your own meals, potentially stretching your budget.
If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Rhone-Alpes, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:
- 3h Lyon Vegan Food Tour for $78 details
- Croix Rousse Market & Rooftop Cooking Class in Lyon for $222 details
- Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse Food Tour for $273 details
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Rhone-Alpes
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Rhone-Alpes typically cost an average of $49 (€42) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
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Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$49
€42
There are so many things to see in this region that you will never run out of things to do. One of the most spectacular sights is the Alps range, specifically Mount Blanc, which is the tallest mountain in France. The Alps beauty is something you don't want to miss if you're anywhere nearby.
You could also check out the Gorges de l'Ardeche, which is a beautiful series of gorges that has often been referred to as the European Grand Canyon.
In the capital city of Lyon, you could also visit the Fourviere hill where The Golden Virgin resides in the Basilica of Fourviere and the locals have built the Tour Metallique, which they built to rival the Eiffel Tower.
There are many things to do in this region. Many of them are great for outdoor enthusiasts, such as hiking, mountain climbing, skiing, and cycling. Skiing is one of the highlights here, and for anyone who likes to ski, this is a great place to visit. Cycling is also very popular here as many of the Tour de France routes cover parts of this region.
You could also try taking the famous cable-car which will give you great views of the surrounding city area as well as stunning views of the Alps mountains.
A nice way to explore destinations in Rhone-Alpes is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Private Gastronomic Tour in Lyon for $299 details
- Beaujolais Day Guided Tour - Winery Tours and Tastings for $178 details
- Discover Lyon through its hills : Private Tour for $107 details
Nightlife Budget in Rhone-Alpes
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $26 (€22) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Rhone-Alpes per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$26
€22
Enjoying the nightlife is always a highlight, but cutting back on drinks can really help you save money on your travels.
Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Rhone-Alpes. A few favorites from other travelers include:
- Guided Day Tour and Wine Tasting Northern Rhône Valley for $190 details
- Beaujolais Wine Tour - Tastings & Gourmet Picnic Lunch for $239 details
- Wine tasting in Lyon & Secret Traboules for $95 details
Travel cost data last updated: Aug 14, 2025
Traveling in Rhone-Alpes
Lyon, France
Rhone-Alps is part of Auvergne-Rhone-Alps, a new region in France, located along the Eastern border towards the south of the country. The region was named after the Rhone River and the Alps mountain range. The capital city, Lyon, is the second largest metropolitan area in France behind Paris and Rhone Alps has the sixth largest economy of any European region. The Rhone-Alps is a beautiful region, bordering Italy and Switzerland to the east, Burgundy to the north, Auvergne to the west and the Provence region to the south. The area features much of the greatest scenery in France, from the high Alps of the Savoy region to the lavender fields of the Drome and the stunning Gorges de l'Ardeche. A great outdoors destination!
Regions
The Rhone-Alps includes eight French departments (county-like areas): Ain, Ardeche, Drome, Isere, Loire, Rhone, Savoie and Haute-Savoie.
SAVOY ALPS, THE HAUTE-SAVOIE DEPARTMENT:
This is high Alps country, including the highest mountain in France, Mont Blanc. Also in this department, you will find Lake Geneva and the towns along its southern shores.
SAVOY ALPS, THE SAVOIE DEPARTMENT:
In this area you will find lots of outdoor activities and outdoor beauty, but there is also a great spa in this area that is popular with tourists.
ISERE DEPARTMENT:
This department is located to the east of Lyon and has a mix of environments from tall mountains to big city.
DROME AND THE SOUTH:
This area is best known for its lavender fields and quiet market towns.
LOIRE DEPARTMENT:
This area has exceptional charm has a wide variety of scenery and a large number of medieval and cultural sites to visit.
RHONE DEPARTMENT:
This area features France's second largest metropolis area, Lyon, which has a great historic center worth visiting.
AIN DEPARTMENT:
This is the northernmost department in the region and has a variety of environments from spa towns to small, pretty villages, to medieval villages.
ARDECHE:
This department is popular for its "villages of character" and magnificent natural beauty. It is a great outdoor destination.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.