The city of Lyon offers wonderful landscapes and a wide range of cultural activities. While locals can enjoy them all year round, tourists should definitely stop by for a few days.
But in a big city like this, is it better to rent an Airbnb or book a campsite?
Airbnbs in Lyon
Airbnbs rose in popularity a few years ago. However, their reputation has not diminished over time, and they remain one of the most popular accommodation options for tourists.
Advantages
These temporary rentals offer many benefits for guests.
One key feature is that Airbnbs are run by private individuals. This allows for more personal interactions and greater flexibility in arrival and departure times. It also provides the chance to stay in an authentic home. Some Airbnbs are decorated in a unique style, while others reflect traditional regional design.
This type of accommodation offers both comfort and privacy. Guests usually enjoy enough space for a bedroom, a bathroom, a fully equipped kitchen, a living room, etc. Most are well-furnished to provide maximum comfort. At the same time, this comfort does not come at the expense of privacy: you benefit from the privacy of a classic apartment, without having to share space with other guests.
Airbnbs also feel safer than leaving your belongings in a tent, and they are particularly convenient for short stays such as weekends, since hosts rarely require a minimum number of nights.
Finally, most Airbnbs are located in the city center, making sightseeing easier.
Disadvantages
Despite their many advantages, Airbnbs also come with some drawbacks.
As mentioned earlier, these accommodations are run by private individuals, so one should not expect the same level of professionalism as in campsites or hotels. Service quality and hospitality may vary.
Most Airbnbs are not suited for families or groups of friends, or if they are, the price – usually reasonable – can rise significantly. In addition, no activities are included, so guests must plan and budget separately for entertainment.
And since Airbnbs are generally in the city center, guests may also have to deal with street noise.
Why choose camping near Lyon?
Campsites are and remain a holiday classic for families and groups of friends. But why do we love them so much?
Meeting people and enjoying the atmosphere
Campsites are known for their conviviality and friendly atmosphere. Staying at a campsite is a great way to meet new people and make friends in a cheerful environment. This is made possible by the many activities offered directly on site: pétanque tournaments, themed evenings, group sports, etc., all of which provide free entertainment in a festive setting.
Activities and facilities
If the day’s planned activities don’t appeal to you, there are always the campsite’s facilities to enjoy: swimming pools, football fields, sports equipment, and more.
Campsites also offer kids’ and teens’ clubs for ages 4 to 17. These give children the chance to meet others their age and enjoy fun, playful activities. Meanwhile, parents can take time for themselves, relax, or do activities not suited to younger children.
While camping and quietness don’t always go hand in hand, camping and nature certainly do. Campsites offer outdoor spaces and nature-based activities.
Accommodation options
Campsites have large capacities, thanks to their variety of accommodation choices. Whether in a tent, camper van, caravan, mobile home, or chalet, you’re sure to find something that suits your needs. Prices also vary: a tent pitch will of course be cheaper than a mobile home, but overall, camping remains affordable.
Finally, staying at a campsite almost always includes a free parking space – a real advantage when vacationing in a city where most parking is paid.
What to do in Lyon?
Lyon is famous for its traboules (hidden passageways) and traditional bouchons lyonnais (local restaurants). But the city also offers museums, parks, panoramic viewpoints, and unusual activities to enjoy with family or friends.
In Lyon, many Airbnbs are rather expensive and often do not include parking. Choosing a campsite near Lyon may therefore be the better option: explore the city during the day and enjoy the peace of nature in the evening – the perfect balance between cultural and nature holidays.
In addition, Lyon provides excellent public transportation links directly accessible from the city’s surrounding campsites.