Private day trips from Lyon to places you'll never forget

The most popular day trips from Lyon include visiting the medieval village of Perouges with its perfectly preserved cobblestone streets, exploring the Roman ruins and cathedral in Vienne, and discovering Condrieu's renowned vineyards along the Rhone Valley famous for Viognier wines.

French is the official language of France. In the Lyon region, standard French is spoken with the distinctive Lyonnais accent. English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and major attractions, making communication relatively easy for international visitors.

France uses the Euro (EUR) as its currency. Credit cards are widely accepted in most establishments including restaurants, shops, and tourist attractions. ATMs are readily available throughout Lyon and surrounding areas. It's helpful to carry some cash for small purchases and tips.

The best time to visit Lyon is during late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) when weather is pleasant and perfect for exploring outdoor attractions. Summer offers warm weather but can be crowded, while winter brings the Festival of Lights but cooler temperatures.

Pack comfortable walking shoes for medieval cobblestone streets and vineyard visits, layers for temperature changes, sun protection including hat and sunscreen, and a light jacket for evening. Bring your camera, water bottle, and consider elegant casual attire for wine tastings.

Perouges is approximately 19 miles (30 km) northeast of Lyon, making it perfect for a half-day excursion. This beautifully preserved medieval village and its historic architecture are a great addition to your vacation in Lyon.

Lyon is generally safe for travelers with reasonable crime rates and good infrastructure. As France's third-largest city, standard urban precautions apply such as being aware of pickpockets in crowded areas and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Tourist areas are well-patrolled and monitored.

From Lyon, you can easily visit the Northern Rhone Valley wine regions including Condrieu, famous for its Viognier wines, and nearby Cote-Rotie known for exceptional Syrah.