20 must-see weekend ideas around Lyon
Situated at the heart of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, a visit to Lyon offers an exceptional base from which to explore a host of fascinating destinations. Whether you’re looking for nature escapades, cultural discoveries or moments of relaxation, the area around Lyon is full of opportunities for memorable weekends away. From majestic Annecy to the hidden treasures of the Drôme, the vineyards of Beaujolais and the peaks of the Alps, each destination promises a unique adventure within a few hours’ drive. Discover our 20 carefully selected ideas to turn your weekends into real escapes, all within easy reach of the capital of the Gauls.
1. Annecy, the Venice of the Alps
Just 2 hours from Lyon, a visit to Annecy promises an unforgettable romantic getaway. The medieval old town, with its crystal-clear canals and colourful facades, offers an idyllic setting for a stroll. The Château d’Annecy dominates the town and offers a fascinating insight into Savoyard history. Lake Annecy, renowned for the purity of its waters, invites you to take part in water sports: paddle, kayak or simply swim in a sumptuous Alpine setting.
See also the Lyon guide :
- Discover and visit the Halles Bocuse in Lyon
- Lyon in 3 days: complete guide and itinerary
- Top 10 of Lyon’s best culinary specialities
- Discover Lyon’s Presqu’île district
- 5 of the most beautiful villages around Lyon to visit this autumn
Download the audio tour to discover Annecy on foot and on your own
Immerse yourself in Annecy’s unique atmosphere with our comprehensive audio tour. This 2.6 km route takes you through the most beautiful sites in the Venice of the Alps, from the canals of the Thiou to the Château Comtal, via the famous Jardins de l’Europe. Our 20 entertaining audio guides will reveal the secrets of this Savoyard city, its romantic legends and its rich architectural heritage, for a totally independent and immersive discovery.
2. Lake Aiguebelette, a Savoyard jewel
Nicknamed the “Blue Pearl of Savoie”, Lake Aiguebelette captivates visitors with its exceptionally pure turquoise waters. This natural lake, protected from motorboats, guarantees absolute tranquillity. There are several equipped beaches for swimming, while the hiking trails offer spectacular views of this mirror of water nestling in the heart of the mountains. The village of Nances is an excellent starting point for exploring the surrounding area (Office de tourisme du lac d’Aiguebelette, 73610 Lépin-le-Lac, rated 4.2/5 on Google out of 850 reviews).
3. Saint-Étienne, between design and mining heritage
Often overlooked, Saint-Étienne has some wonderful surprises in store for curious visitors. The Cité du Design, housed in the former weapons factory, bears witness to the creative renaissance of this industrial town. The Puits Couriot Mining Museum plunges visitors into the fascinating world of Saint-Etienne’s “black faces”. The recently redeveloped pedestrianised town centre invites visitors to explore its modern architecture and numerous local designer boutiques.
4. Pérouges, most beautiful village in France
Just 40 kilometres from Lyon, Pérouges transports visitors back to the heart of the Middle Ages. This medieval town, listed as one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France, has remarkably preserved its authenticity. Its cobbled streets, half-timbered houses and stronghold form an exceptional architectural ensemble. L’Ostellerie du Vieux Pérouges, a historic inn, offers traditional cuisine in a period setting (Place du Tilleul, 01800 Pérouges, rated 4.1/5 on Google out of 1200 reviews).
5. Vienne, heir to Gallo-Roman civilisation
The former capital of the Allobroges, Vienne reveals 2000 years of history through its exceptional monuments. The Temple of Augustus and Livia, one of the best-preserved Roman temples in France, bears witness to the city’s ancient grandeur. The Théâtre Antique, carved into the hillside, hosts the prestigious Jazz à Vienne Festival every summer. The medieval historic centre completes this wealth of heritage, with Saint-Maurice cathedral and its magnificent Gothic facades.
6. Facteur Cheval’s Palais Idéal, a unique work of naive art
In Hauterives, in the Drôme, Ferdinand Cheval built one of the world’s most unusual architectural structures with his own hands. This phantasmagorical palace, the fruit of 33 years’ hard work, blends all the architectural influences in a totally original creation. Recognised as a historic monument, the Palais Idéal fascinates visitors with its decorative wealth and the extraordinary story of its creator (8 Rue du Palais, 26390 Hauterives, rated 4.3/5 on Google out of 3,500 reviews).
7. Beaujolais, a land of conviviality
North of Lyon lie the golden hillsides of the Beaujolais region, home to the Gamay grape variety. The villages of Fleurie, Moulin-à-Vent and Chiroubles offer tastings in centuries-old cellars where winegrowers carry on family traditions. The Hameau Dubœuf in Romanèche-Thorins offers a fun and educational approach to the world of wine. Hiking trails criss-cross the vineyards, offering magnificent panoramic views of the Saône and surrounding mountains.
8. Northern Côtes du Rhône
Heading south, the prestigious appellations of Condrieu, Côte-Rôtie and Saint-Joseph produce exceptional wines on vertiginous terraces overlooking the Rhône. Ampuis, the birthplace of Côte-Rôtie, welcomes wine lovers to its renowned estates, where the Syrah grape reveals all its nobility. The Musée de la Vigne et du Vin de France in Ampuis traces the thousand-year-old history of this heroic viticulture (2 rue Jodelle, 69420 Ampuis, rated 4.0/5 on Google out of 150 reviews).
9. The Mâconnais and its wine villages
Further north, the Mâconnais extends its vineyards between the Saône and the mountains. Mâcon, a Town of Art and History, has a charming historic centre and lively quayside. The wine-producing villages of Pouilly-Fuissé, Chardonnay and Saint-Véran offer tastings of exceptional white wines in authentic settings. The Roche de Solutré, an emblematic site of prehistory, majestically dominates this land blessed by the gods.
10. The Gorges de l’Ardèche, a spectacular canyon
2h30 from Lyon, the Gorges de l’Ardèche offer a magnificent natural spectacle. The canoe-kayak trip from Vallon-Pont-d’Arc to Saint-Martin-d’Ardèche is one of the most beautiful water rides in Europe. The famous Pont d’Arc, a natural arch 60 metres high, marks the entrance to this canyon carved out by the river. Numerous service providers offer routes to suit all levels, from family outings to sporting descents.
11. The Cerdon caves, an underground adventure
The Cerdon caves in the Ain region offer a fascinating exploration of the underground world. This network of natural galleries, carved out by water over thousands of years, reveals spectacular concretions and rooms of impressive dimensions. The guided tour leads to a natural belvedere offering panoramic views over the Rhône valley (Route des Grottes, 01450 Labalme, rated 4.4/5 on Google for 1800 reviews). The adventure continues with caving opportunities in other caves in the region.
12. The Chartreuse massif, a hiking paradise
Between Grenoble and Chambéry, the Chartreuse Regional Nature Park unfurls its pine forests and limestone peaks. The Chamechaude, the massif’s highest point, rewards hikers with an exceptional panorama of the Alps. The marked trails also lead to the famous Grande Chartreuse Monastery, birthplace of the Cartusian Order and the famous green liqueur. Saint-Pierre-de-Chartreuse is an ideal base from which to explore this unspoilt region.
Download the audio-guided tour to discover Chambéry on foot and on your own
Explore the historic capital of Savoie with our audio tour of Chambéry. This 3.4 km route guides you through the treasures of this ducal city, from the Château des Ducs de Savoie to the medieval streets and the famous Elephant Fountain. Our 23 audio commentaries reveal the fascinating history of this city, once the political heart of Savoy, allowing you to discover its secrets at your own pace.
13. Chamonix, world capital of mountaineering
Visiting Chamonix is an unforgettable experience at the foot of Mont Blanc. The Chamonix valley has something for everyone: glacier trekking, via ferrata, paragliding or simply contemplating the view from the Aiguille du Midi. The historic centre of Chamonix retains its Alpine charm, with traditional chalets and specialist shops. The Aiguille du Midi, accessible by cable car, offers a breathtaking face-to-face view of the giants of the Alps at an altitude of 3,842 metres.
Download the audio-guided tour to discover Chamonix on foot and on your own
Discover the soul of this world capital of mountaineering with our Chamonix audio tour. This 2.6km tour takes you from the banks of the Arve to the heart of the historic centre, revealing the extraordinary history of this legendary valley. Our 22 audio guides tell the epic story of the first mountaineers, the evolution of mountain tourism and Chamonix traditions, for a total immersion in the world of the high mountains.
14. Aix-les-Bains, thermal baths and the art of living
On the shores of Lac du Bourget, Aix-les-Bains has been cultivating the art of spa living since Roman times. The Thermes Nationaux offer rejuvenating treatments in an unspoilt Belle Époque setting. The town’s architectural heritage is equally impressive: the Casino Grand Cercle, the Arc de Campanus and the Belle Époque villas bear witness to its prestigious past. The Lac du Bourget, the largest natural lake in France, is an ideal location for boat trips and water sports in an exceptional mountain setting.
15. Grenoble, capital of the French Alps
Visiting Grenoble offers a clever blend of Alpine tradition and technological innovation. The Bastille, accessible by the famous urban cable car, dominates the city and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The historic centre boasts a rich heritage, from Notre-Dame cathedral to Renaissance town houses. Grenoble’s museums, notably the Musée de Grenoble, are among the most renowned in France. The city is also an excellent base for exploring the Belledonne, Chartreuse and Vercors mountain ranges.
16. Vals-les-Bains, the thermal pearl of the Ardèche
In the heart of the green Ardèche, Vals-les-Bains has been cultivating a tradition of spa excellence since the 19th century. The Intermittent Spring, the only one of its kind in Europe, gushes out every six hours in a fascinating natural spectacle. The spa offers cures and treatments based on the therapeutic virtues of these naturally sparkling waters. The spa park and casino complete the range of leisure activities on offer at this charming old-fashioned resort (Office de Tourisme Vals-les-Bains, 07600 Vals-les-Bains, rated 4.1/5 on Google out of 420 reviews).
17. Évian-les-Bains, elegance on the shores of Lake Geneva
Facing the Swiss Alps, Évian-les-Bains unfurls its Belle Époque splendour on the shores of Lake Geneva. The Thermes d’Évian offer exceptional treatments in a remarkable architectural setting. The Source Cachat, the birthplace of Évian water, is open to visitors. Evian town centre boasts historic palaces, manicured gardens and a lakeside promenade. Boat trips on Lake Geneva offer a unique perspective on the vineyards of Lavaux and the Alpine peaks.
18. Divonne-les-Bains, well-being on the Swiss border
Just outside Geneva, Divonne-les-Bains combines modern spa treatments with leisure activities in an enchanting pre-Alpine setting. The thermal centre and spa offer innovative treatments using the benefits of the local thermal water. The Divonne golf course, one of the finest in France, offers a technical course with views of the Jura and Mont Blanc. Lake Divonne and its landscaped beaches are the perfect complement to a relaxing break.
19. Bourg-en-Bresse, the poultry capital of France
Bourg-en-Bresse reigns over the Bresse region, a land blessed by gourmets where the famous blue-footed poultry is the pride of the breeders. The Royal Monastery of Brou, a masterpiece of flamboyant Gothic architecture, is well worth a visit in itself. The Bourg-en-Bresse market, held every Wednesday and Saturday, brings together the best local producers to offer authentic specialities such as AOC Bresse poultry, goat’s cheese, Bugey wines and local produce. The town’s gastronomic restaurants carry on the Bresse culinary tradition with talent and creativity.
20. Roanne, the temple of French gastronomy
Roanne is one of the world’s leading gastronomic centres, thanks to Maison Troisgros, a three-star establishment that has been perpetuating French culinary excellence for three generations. This town in the Loire region cultivates an authentic art of living around local produce. The historic centre invites you to discover its exceptional shops and colourful markets. The vineyards of the Côte Roannaise produce fine wines that are the perfect accompaniment to local specialities. The Halle Diderot and its typical restaurants provide a friendly setting for savouring Roanne cuisine (Place du Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny, 42300 Roanne, rated 4.0/5 on Google out of 650 reviews).
In conclusion, the area around Lyon offers an exceptional diversity of destinations to suit all tastes and desires. From the peaks of the Alps to famous vineyards, heritage treasures and wellness havens, every weekend can become a new adventure. The accessibility of these destinations from Lyon means that you can maximise your discovery time while minimising transport constraints. Don’t hesitate to let us guide you in your exploration of these marvellous regions thanks to the Navaway tour of Lyon, the ideal starting point for planning your regional escapades.
What’s the best time of year for a weekend around Lyon?
Each season offers its own advantages, depending on the type of getaway you’re looking for. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are the ideal periods for outdoor activities and cultural visits, with pleasant temperatures and moderate crowds. Summer is the time to take full advantage of the lakes and water activities, while winter opens up opportunities for snow sports in nearby resorts.
How to organise an economical weekend around Lyon?
There are several strategies for optimising the budget: favour nearby destinations to reduce transport costs, choose accommodation outside tourist town centres, take advantage of local markets for meals, and select free activities such as hikes or visits to villages. Many destinations offer tourist passes that include several activities at a reduced rate.
Which destinations are accessible by public transport?
Several destinations are easily accessible without a car: Annecy by direct bus from Lyon Part-Dieu, Chambéry and Aix-les-Bains by TER Rhône-Alpes, Vienne by regional train, and Roanne by direct rail link. These options allow you to make the most of the weekend without the constraints of driving and parking.
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