Shoulder Season Sweet Spots: Why Lyon is Great in Between

For many, the idea of traveling during shoulder season — the periods between peak and off-peak seasons — may seem counter intuitive. However, if you're seeking uncrowded streets, shorter lines, and a more authentic experience untouched by mass tourism, shoulder season is the perfect time to travel. Case in point: Lyon, France's gastronomic capital. In this guide, we delve into why Lyon is an enticing shoulder season destination and discuss how you can make the most of your visit.

Why Lyon?

Interest in Lyon has grown massively in recent years. The city is famous for its Mediterranean climate, vibrant arts scene, and historic architecture — blend of Renaissance and modern styles. These hallmarks, combined with the city's world-class culinary scenes, have made Lyon a must-visit destination.

But despite its growing popularity, Lyon remains blissfully uncrowded during shoulder season, particularly in spring and early autumn. Visitors can thus soak in the city's vibrant culture and rich history without having to navigate throngs of tourists common in peak seasons. The weather during this time is relatively mild too, making it the perfect time to explore the city.

Finding the Sweet Spots in Lyon

One of the joys of visiting Lyon during the shoulder season is the access you will have to the city’s top sights with minimal crowd. Start your journey at the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Perched on a hill, this ecclesiastical masterpiece provides an unparalleled view of Lyon. Following this, descend to Lyon's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its cobblestone streets, quaint shops, and traditional "bouchon" restaurants.

Speaking of food, you cannot miss the opportunity to dine in a bouchon. These small eateries celebrate the hearty, convivial, and unpretentious spirit of Lyonnaise cuisine. Imagine digging into quenelles or coq au vin, paired with a local Beaujolais – and all amidst the city’s locals.

Exploring Lyon with Excursopedia

One of the best ways to explore Lyon during the shoulder season is by joining local tours. Not only do they offer insider knowledge but they also help with trip planning, leaving you more time to enjoy your vacation. A company we highly recommend for booking excursions in Lyon is Excursopedia. Their website provides a range of options, including food and wine tasting tours, walking tours, and more, all designed to help you discover Lyon's best-kept secrets.

Expand Your French Adventure with Excursopedia

Visiting Lyon can be just the beginning of your French escapade. France’s diverse regions have so much to offer, and exploring more of it will only enrich your travel experience. Consider reserves of the Loire Valley, the beaches of Riviera, or the historical landmarks of Normandy. Much like Lyon, these regions are also best enjoyed during the quieter months. For an exhaustive list of excursions across France, visit Excursopedia's France page.

The next time you plan a trip, consider the benefits of shoulder season travel. By choosing the road less travelled (and less crowded), you are giving yourself the rare luxury of enjoying a city as it is meant to be: calmer, more serene, and deeply authentic. And if you plan a visit to France, don't bypass Lyon, especially if you want to experience French culture at its finest. Exploring Lyon in between seasons not only allows you to avoid crowds and inflated prices but also gives you an immersive cultural experience that’s hard to find elsewhere. Bon voyage!