Lyon City Card: Public Transport & More Than 40 Attractions

The Lyon City Card presents a practical way to explore France’s vibrant second city at an affordable price. Priced at $37 per person, it offers 48, 72, or 96 hours of access, making it suitable for short or extended stays. With this card, you gain unlimited use of Lyon’s public transport network, which includes bus, metro, tram, and funicular services, allowing you to navigate the city with ease.

The card unlocks more than 40 attractions, notably 27 museums and temporary exhibitions, along with river cruises along the Saône, guided walking tours, and discounts on shopping and theater tickets. Reviewers consistently highlight the excellent value and convenience provided by the combination of free entry and discounted activities, especially for those eager to see multiple sights in a limited timeframe.

However, it’s worth noting that some special programs like Lyon City Bus and Les Bateaux Lyonnais in the evening are not included, and group services are excluded, which could limit options for larger parties. This tour is especially well-suited for travelers who want flexibility and independent exploration paired with guided insights.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $37 for up to 4 days of access.
• Unlimited public transport across Lyon’s bus, metro, tram, and funicular systems.
• Free entry to 25+ museums and temporary exhibitions.
• River cruises and guided tours included with the card.
• Discounts on shopping and theater tickets to enhance your cultural experience.
• Easy to use with a physical card picked up at the tourist office or online.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Lyon City Card Offers Flexible Duration Options

The Lyon City Card is available for 48, 72, or 96 hours, giving you the flexibility to choose based on your travel plans. The card activates upon first use at any included activity, and once activated, remains valid for 24 hours from that moment.

You can opt for a shorter or longer stay depending on your itinerary, making it adaptable whether you’re in Lyon for a weekend or a full week. The card is valid for 18 months, so you can purchase ahead of time and plan your sightseeing accordingly. Each card is valid for one person, and public transport is accessible from 5 AM on the first day until midnight on the last day.

Access to Over 40 Attractions and Activities

This tour provides priority access to 27 museums, including Musée des Confluences, Fine Arts Museum of Lyon, and the Gadagne Museums covering Lyon’s history and puppets from around the world.

Temporary exhibitions at venues like the Modern Art Museum and the Contemporary Art Institute are also included, with some museums like the Museum of Textile undergoing renovations until 2026. Visitors can also enjoy river cruises along the Saône and Rhône, with options from April to October.

Additional activities include guided walking tours by the Greater Tourism Office (reservation required), an access to the basilica roof during certain months, and puppet shows like the Guignol Theater. These experiences are designed to give a well-rounded view of Lyon’s culture and history.

Museums and Exhibitions Covered by the Card

The extensive museum list covers everything from Gallo-Roman relics at the Museum of Lugdunum to automobile exhibits at the Automobile Gallo Museum.

The Museum of Religious Art, Printing Museum, and Center for the History of the Resistance and Deportation provide deep dives into Lyon’s religious, industrial, and wartime past. While some venues like the Museum of Textile are temporarily closed for renovations, many other prominent sites are accessible free of charge with the card.

Tours, Cruises, and Cultural Experiences

The guided walking tours and river cruises are popular features, with priority booking available for Lyon City Boat cruises from April to October. Guided tours by the Greater Tourism Office can be reserved in advance, offering insights into Lyon’s old town and traboules (hidden passageways).

For a more local touch, the House of Canuts Silk Museum offers an inside look at Lyon’s world-renowned silk industry. Some activities, like the planetarium shows, are limited in availability, so booking in advance helps secure spots.

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Transportation Made Simple and Cost-Effective

One of the biggest advantages of the Lyon City Card is free unlimited use of TCL public transport, which includes buses, trams, metro, and funicular services. The transportation is valid from 5 AM on the first day to midnight on the last, covering the entire duration of your chosen card.

This convenience saves time and money, especially considering that most attractions are easily reachable via public transit. For added flexibility, the card also includes some options for bike tours and Vélov rentals, perfect for exploring Lyon’s neighborhoods at your own pace.

Discounts on Shows and Shopping

Along With free entry to many museums, the Lyon City Card offers discounts on theater tickets for venues like the National Opera of Lyon and Lyons Theatre.

Shoppers benefit from reductions at select stores, making it easier to pick up souvenirs or local specialties. These discounts enhance the overall value, especially for visitors planning to indulge in Lyon’s vibrant cultural scene.

Practical Tips for Using the Lyon City Card

The card is activated when first used at an included activity or attraction, so it’s best to plan your first stop accordingly. Picking up the card from the tourist office is straightforward, with many reviews noting helpful staff and clear instructions.

Guided tours and special activities require advance reservation, so booking early is recommended to avoid missing out. Keep in mind that access to certain activities can be subject to availability and closing days, so it’s wise to double-check schedules ahead of your visit.

The mini-guide booklet that accompanies the card provides useful maps and descriptions, helping you navigate Lyon confidently.

The Reviewers’ Perspective: Cons and Advantages

Reviewers praise the ease of use, value for money, and wide range of attractions covered. Many highlight how the public transport system simplifies city exploration, and the priority museum access saves significant time.

A common compliment is the knowledgeable guides and interesting walking tours, which combine well with the free museum entries. Some note that additional programs, like evening boat rides, are not included, and group services are limited, which might affect larger parties or those seeking evening activities.

The Lyon City Card is highly recommended for independent travelers who want flexibility, cost savings, and a comprehensive view of Lyon’s culture and history.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Lyon City Card valid?
The card is valid for 18 months from the planned travel date, with options for 48, 72, or 96 hours of use after activation.

What is included in the price of $37?
The price covers unlimited access to public transport (bus, metro, tram, funicular), free entry to 25 museums and temporary exhibitions, river cruises, guided tours, and discounts on shopping and theater tickets.

Can I use the card for multiple attractions in one day?
Yes, the card allows 24-hour access to attractions from the first validation, enabling you to visit multiple sites within that period.

Are there any attractions not included?
Yes, special programs like Lyon City Bus and Les Bateaux Lyonnais in the evening are not included in the package.

Do I need to book activities in advance?
Yes, guided tours and certain activities like river cruises or tours should be reserved in advance to secure a spot.

Is the public transport service accessible and easy to use?
Absolutely, public transport is easy to access with the card, and many reviewers mention how convenient and efficient the network is.

Can I buy the Lyon City Card online?
Yes, the card can be reserved online with a full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance. You pick up the physical card at the tourist office.

What should I do if the tourist information center is closed?
Reviewers note that staff at the tourist office are helpful, and it’s best to plan your pickup time accordingly. Some mention obtaining additional info or booking tours there.

Are group services available?
No, services for groups are not included, which may limit options for larger parties.

Is the Lyon City Card good value overall?
Most reviews agree that the cost of $37 offers excellent value, especially when visiting multiple attractions and using public transport extensively.

Does the card include discounts on shows?
Yes, discounts are available for theaters like the National Opera of Lyon, Lyons Theatre, and others.

What is the best way to maximize the card’s benefits?
Plan your museum visits and tours in advance, use public transport to reach distant sites, and reserve popular activities early to make the most of your Lyon experience.

This Lyon City Card combines transport, culture, and entertainment, making it an efficient and budget-friendly way to discover Lyon’s many facets. Whether you’re into museums, river cruises, or guided walks, the card adapts to your interests and helps you enjoy everything the city has to offer.

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