5 Day Trip Ideas From Lyon: Explore France's Best Day Excursions

Lyon is a fantastic city, but sometimes you just need a change of scenery. Luckily, France is full of amazing places that are just a short trip away. If you’re looking for some new adventures outside of Lyon, this list is for you. We’ve rounded up some great spots that are easy to get to, whether you prefer trains, cars, or even tours. Get ready to explore some of France’s best day excursions!

Key Takeaways

Aix-les-Bains offers a mix of city charm and natural beauty, with a lake and mountains perfect for relaxation or activity.
Annecy, often called one of France’s prettiest towns, boasts a beautiful lake and a charming medieval old town.
Vienne features well-preserved Roman ruins, a medieval clock tower, and is a gateway to the Rhône Valley wine region.
The Beaujolais wine region is ideal for wine enthusiasts looking to explore vineyards and taste local wines.
Grenoble, nestled in the Alps, provides stunning mountain views and opportunities for outdoor activities.

1. Aix-les-Bains

Aix-les-Bains is a real gem, nestled between the mountains and the vast Lac du Bourget. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend your day soaking up some history and then hitting the water or trails. Think of it as a spa town with a serious nature sidekick. Even Queen Victoria was a fan, and honestly, you can still feel that old-world charm.

Getting There

You’ve got options here. You can hop on a train, which is pretty straightforward, or if you’re feeling more adventurous or want to explore the surrounding nature, renting a car is a great idea. It’s about an hour’s drive from Lyon, making it super accessible for a day trip.

What to Do

Relax at the Thermal Baths You can’t go to Aix-les-Bains without checking out the famous thermal baths. They’ve been around forever and are known for their healing properties. It’s the perfect way to unwind.
Admire the Architecture Take a walk around and check out the cool Art Deco and Belle Époque buildings. The casino is particularly striking.
Stroll the Lakeside The boardwalk along Lac du Bourget has been redone and it’s lovely. Grab a coffee or a bite at one of the cafes right by the port.
Visit a Museum If you’re into history, the Musée Lapidaire is worth a stop. It’s an archeological museum housed in an old Gallo-Roman temple. Pretty neat!
Boat Trip to Abbaye d’Hautecombe If you have a bit more time, definitely consider a boat trip across the lake to this stunning abbey. It’s a 12th-century place tucked away in the forest and is the traditional burial site for the Dukes of Savoy. It feels really magical.

Aix-les-Bains offers a fantastic blend of relaxation and natural beauty, making it a refreshing escape from the city.

2. Annecy

Next up on our list is Annecy, and honestly, it’s a stunner. People often call it the "Pearl of the French Alps," and once you see it, you’ll totally get why. It’s got this amazing lake, pretty mountains, and a super charming old town that feels like it’s straight out of a fairytale. Seriously, it’s hard not to fall in love with this place.

Getting there from Lyon is pretty straightforward. You can hop on a direct train from Lyon Part Dieu, and it’ll take you about two hours. If you’re driving, it’s a bit quicker, around an hour and 35 minutes, but remember there are tolls. The earliest trains leave Lyon around 7 am, and the last ones head back from Annecy around 7:30 pm. This gives you enough time to grab lunch and wander around, but you’ll probably want to plan on dinner back in Lyon.

What to Do in Annecy

Wander the Old Town This is where you’ll find those postcard-perfect canals and narrow streets. Don’t miss the Palais de l’Isle, a cool old building that used to be a prison and is now an exhibition space. It’s really iconic.
Enjoy Lake Annecy The lake itself is incredible – super clear and surrounded by beautiful scenery. You can take a boat trip, or if you’re feeling active, rent a bike and cycle around it. They say it’s Europe’s cleanest lake, which is pretty neat.
Visit Annecy Castle Perched above the town, the 12th-century Château d’Annecy offers great views and a peek into the area’s history.
Check out the Markets If you’re there on a Tuesday or Friday morning, the Old Town market is a must-see. On the last Saturday of the month, there’s also an antique market that’s worth checking out.

Annecy is also surprisingly good for foodies, with quite a few Michelin-starred restaurants. If you have a sweet tooth, you should definitely try the pastries from Philippe Rigollot.

Annecy is the perfect spot if you love picturesque streets and want to spend some time by a beautiful lake.

3. Vienne

Just a quick hop south of Lyon, you’ll find Vienne, a city that’s practically bursting with ancient history. Seriously, if you’re into Roman stuff, this is your jam. It’s super easy to get to, making it a perfect choice if you’re short on time but still want a dose of culture. Vienne really lets you step back in time, especially with all its well-preserved ruins. But it’s not just old stones; there are also some cool medieval bits and pieces, plus you can even do some wine tasting in the nearby Rhône Valley. It’s a great spot to get a feel for the south of France without going too far.

Must-See Sights in Vienne

Temple of Augustus and Livia This Roman temple from the 1st century CE is incredibly well-kept. It’s a real stunner and a great place to start your exploration.
Tour de l’Horloge Climb this medieval clock tower for some awesome panoramic views of the whole city. It’s a nice way to get your bearings.
Cathédrale Saint-Maurice This cathedral is a beautiful example of historical architecture and worth a wander through.
Rhône Valley Wine Tasting Don’t miss the chance to sample some local wines from the surrounding vineyards. It’s a delicious way to experience the region.

A Little Bit of History

Vienne was once a really important Roman city, and you can totally see that when you’re there. They’ve got all these remnants from that era scattered around, plus some neat medieval buildings too. It’s like a history lesson you can walk through.

Getting There

Vienne is easily accessible from Lyon, making it a breeze for a day trip. You can hop on a train and be there in no time at all. It’s one of those places where you can pack a lot into a single day without feeling too rushed.

4. Beaujolais Wine Region

Just a short trip north of Lyon, you’ll find the Beaujolais wine region, a place that’s practically synonymous with good wine and rolling vineyards. It’s not really a place you can see in a single day, but you can definitely get a fantastic taste of what it offers. Think of it as a delightful introduction to French wine country.

Getting There

Villefranche-sur-Saône is your main gateway here. It’s about 30 kilometers north of Lyon, and you can hop on a TER train that takes around 35 minutes. If you’re planning to explore the vineyards at your own pace, driving is probably your best bet, and it also takes about 35 minutes via the A6 highway. Having a car really lets you soak in the countryside.

What to Do

Wine Tasting: This is, of course, the main event. You can visit different wineries, often called ‘domaines’, and sample the local wines. Some places even let you stay overnight, which is a pretty cool experience. Chateau Montmelas is a popular choice.
Explore Villefranche-sur-Saône: This town is considered the capital of Beaujolais. It’s got some lovely Renaissance architecture to check out, and you can visit the Collégiale Notre-Dame-des-Marais, a church that took centuries to build and shows off both Romanesque and Gothic styles.
Visit Oingt: Don’t miss the charming village of Oingt, located in the area known as Pierres Dorées. The name comes from the golden-colored stone used to build the houses, making it a really picturesque spot.
Hameau Dubœuf: If you’re curious about the winemaking process, this wine museum is a fun stop. It’s a bit kitschy but gives you a good overview.

Remember to avoid November if you’re keen on trying Beaujolais Nouveau, as that’s when the new wine is released and it’s a big event. It’s best to enjoy the wine when things are a bit more relaxed.

The Beaujolais region is all about slowing down and enjoying the simple pleasures of great wine and beautiful scenery.

5. Grenoble

Getting There

Grenoble is about an hour and a half away from Lyon by train. Trains leave pretty regularly from Lyon Part-Dieu station, so it’s a pretty easy trip to plan. You’ll arrive at Gare de Grenoble, and from there, you can start exploring.

What to Do

Grenoble is surrounded by mountains, and the best way to appreciate this is by taking the famous "bubbles" cable car up to the Fort de la Bastille. The views from the top are seriously amazing, giving you a great look at the city and the Alps. It’s a historic fort, but now it’s got museums and places to eat, so it’s more than just a viewpoint.

Back down in the city, the Musée de Grenoble is worth a visit. It’s got a good collection of art, from old Egyptian stuff to famous painters like Renoir and Monet. They also have a really nice selection of 20th-century art.

If you’re into history, especially World War II, the Musée de la Résistance et de la Déportation de l’Isère is a must-see. It really covers the region’s history during that time.

Where to Eat and Drink

When you’re ready to relax, the Old Town around Place Grenette has lots of charming spots. You’ll find cozy bistros and places with outdoor seating. It’s a great place to just wander and soak in the atmosphere.

Don’t leave without trying Chartreuse, a local herbal liqueur. It’s got a pretty strong flavor, but it’s a real Grenoble experience. The Café de la Table Ronde is a classic place to try it. For local food, Le Rousseau is a good choice, and if you want to treat yourself, Fantin Latour is a Michelin-starred option that really showcases the local ingredients.

So, Ready for Your Next Adventure?

Alright, so Lyon is pretty amazing on its own, right? But if you’re like me and love a good change of scenery, these day trips are total game-changers. Whether you’re craving mountain air, lakeside chill, or just a peek into a charming French village, there’s something for everyone. Pack a small bag, grab your train ticket or car keys, and get ready to see even more of what makes this part of France so special. You won’t regret stepping out of the city for a bit – it’s the perfect way to round out your trip!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I travel from Lyon for a day trip?

Yes, you can easily take a train from Lyon to many of these places. Renting a car is also a good option if you prefer more freedom or if a train isn’t available. For some trips, organized tours are a convenient way to go.

Why is Lyon a good starting point for day trips?

Lyon is in a great spot in central France, making it simple to visit many cool places in two hours or less by train. You can find beautiful mountains, old towns, and tasty vineyards nearby.

What makes Annecy a popular day trip destination?

Annecy is known as one of France’s prettiest towns. It has a beautiful lake, amazing mountains, and a charming old area with old streets and buildings. It’s a great place to walk around and enjoy the scenery.

What is special about Aix-les-Bains?

Aix-les-Bains is a lovely town next to a big lake and surrounded by mountains. It’s perfect if you like nature and want to see a smaller, less crowded city. It even has a history with Queen Victoria!

What can I do in the Beaujolais Wine Region?

The Beaujolais region is famous for its wine. You can visit vineyards, taste different wines, and enjoy the beautiful countryside. It’s a wonderful experience for wine lovers.

What historical sites can I see in Vienne?

Vienne has impressive ancient Roman ruins, like the Temple of Augustus and Livia. You can also see a medieval clock tower with great city views and explore historical buildings in the old town. Plus, you can go wine tasting in the nearby Rhône Valley.