A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Howth vs. Lyon for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Howth or Lyon?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Howth or Lyon? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Howth

Howth is a beautiful, picturesque, and scenic fishing village. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking. See Howth travel costs.

Lyon

Lyon is a cultural, quaint, and authentic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The famous beauty of Lyon is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Lyon travel costs.

Howth and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Howth or Lyon?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lyon than Howth, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lyon is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Howth is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and small town charm. Howth is well known for its scenic coastline, charming character, and its accessibility to Dublin. Lyon is well known for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. Also, Lyon is famous for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

How is Howth different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lyon and Howth. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Howth or Lyon?

Lyon is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Lyon are among the most recognizable in the world. There are many world class museums and historic landmarks in the city including Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine, and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Howth. The surrounding coastline is the main draw to this picturesque town but there is also a nice harbor, pier, and lighthouse that you can visit.

Is the Food Better in Howth or Lyon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lyon is an amazing city to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Lyon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Known as "the Gastronomic Capital of the World" this city stands above the rest when it comes to Michelin star restaurants (there are 17!), fresh ingredients, and unique local flavors. Favorite local dishes include pâté en croûte, rosette de Lyon, and saucisson brioché.

Howth is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are seafood restaurants and a few pubs where you can enjoy some fresh food and the local ambiance.

Is Howth or Lyon Better for Nightlife?

Lyon is well known for nightlife and partying. However, Howth is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

Lyon is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has enough diverse neighborhoods that you'll find a scene that is great for everyone. There are dance clubs, cocktail bars, and wine bars that meet every personality and style.

Howth doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a few pubs around town but if you're looking for a real nightlife scene then your best bet is to head into Dublin.

Is Howth or Lyon Better for Beaches?

Howth is a well-known place for the beach. However, Lyon is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Howth. Many people head to this coastal town specifically to hang out on the beach. There's also the Howth Cliff Path which is fun to explore. Some of the top beaches in the area include Red Rock Beach, Claremont Beach, and Balscadden Bay Beach. The beaches can be rocky and rough so make sure you understand the water conditions before heading to the beach.

Lyon is not a beach destination.

Is Howth or Lyon Better for its Old Town?

Lyon is an amazing city to visit for its old town. However, Howth does not have a historic old town.

Lyon offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. This impressive old town climbs from the river into Fourvière Hill. It's a Renaissance era district with beautiful buildings and plenty of character. You can spend days wandering the quaint streets and popping in the world class restaurants.

Howth does not have a historic old town.

Is Howth or Lyon Better for Hiking?

Howth is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Lyon is not a hiking destination.

Howth is a popular spot for hiking. The best way to experience Howth is to explore the The Howth Cliff Walk. There are several versions of the hike that cater to different experience and skill levels.

Lyon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Howth or Lyon?

Lyon is well known for its shopping opportunities. However, Howth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Lyon is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has many trendy markets, pedestrian shopping areas, and character-filled boutiques. From the charming shops in old town to the chic shopping streets, there are plenty of places to splurge around town.

Howth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Howth or Lyon More Beautiful?

Lyon is an amazing city to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Howth is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Lyon is one of the main draws. The city climbs beautifully into the hills and offers spectacular views and charming character.

Howth is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Howth or Lyon Better for Families?

Lyon is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Lyon is a very kid-friendly city. The city has many kid-friendly museums including Musée des Confluences and the Cinema and Miniature Museum. There are also playgrounds, patisseries, and river cruises that you can enjoy as a family. Puppet shows are also fun, but do note that they're usually in French. While the restaurants are amazing for adults, it can be tricky to find a kid-friendly option with early opening hours that are convenient for little ones.

Howth offers lots of family activities. It has a beach where kids can run around. There are also playgrounds, a lighthouse, and a pier to explore.

Is Howth or Lyon Better for Couples?

Lyon is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Lyon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

Howth is a good fishing village for couples to visit. The small fishing village has some great seafood restaurants and a beach where couples can pass the time.

Is Howth or Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lyon is well known for backpackers. However, Howth is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lyon is a great city to visit for backpackers. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and backpackers.

Howth is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It a small village outside of Dublin so most backpackers don't make it this way.

Is Howth or Lyon Better for Students?

Lyon is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Howth is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Lyon. It is a very livable city with many fun cultural activities for students. There are many different entertainment options during the day, and during the evening there are plenty of places to hang out.

Howth is not popular with students.

Is Howth or Lyon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lyon is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Lyon is top-notch. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

While Howth offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. It's easy to reach the town from Dublin by DART.

Is Howth or Lyon a more walkable city?

Howth and Lyon both are very good when exploring on foot.

Howth is a very walkable fishing village. It's a small town that's easy to explore on foot. There are also many walks through the cliffs.

Lyon is a very walkable destination. The old town is particularly walkable, but the hills can make things a bit challenging. There are also a number of pedestrian streets around town.

For even more information, also check out Is Howth Worth Visiting? and Is Lyon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Howth?

How long in Howth or Lyon?

In either Howth or Lyon, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lyon than Howth because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Howth, and 2-5 days is enough time in Lyon.

Families should spend more time in Lyon than Howth. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Lyon, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Lyon than Howth. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Lyon that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lyon than Howth if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Lyon.

One day in Howth or Lyon?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Howth. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Each neighborhood in Lyon has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Howth or Lyon?

Howth is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lyon. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Howth or Lyon?

You'll find museums and food around the beautiful destination of Howth. This fishing village offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Lyon is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Lyon has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Howth or Lyon?

The picturesque fishing village of Howth offers food and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

You'll find food and shopping around the historic big city of Lyon. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Ireland, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

When comparing the travel costs between Howth and Lyon, we can see that Howth is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Howth Expensive? and Is Lyon Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Howth or Lyon?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Howth or Lyon in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Howth and Lyon. Many travelers come to Howth for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Lyon in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Howth is cooler than Lyon in the summer. The daily temperature in Howth averages around 16°C (60°F) in July, and Lyon fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lyon this time of the year. Howth usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during summer. Howth gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Howth usually receives less rain than Lyon. Howth gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Howth or Lyon in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Howth as well as Lyon. Many visitors come to Howth in the autumn for the hiking trails and the small town atmosphere. Additionally, most visitors come to Lyon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Howth is cooler than Lyon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Howth in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Lyon averages at about 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Howth often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Howth gets 97 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 127 hours of full sun.

Howth usually gets less rain in October than Lyon. Howth gets 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Howth or Lyon in the Winter?

Both Lyon and Howth are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Howth for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Lyon because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Lyon can be very cold. In January, Howth is generally much warmer than Lyon. Daily temperatures in Howth average around 6°C (42°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Howth usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during winter. Howth gets 56 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Howth usually receives more rain than Lyon. Howth gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Howth or Lyon in the Spring?

Both Lyon and Howth during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Howth because of the beaches and the small town charm. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lyon this time of year.

Howth is cooler than Lyon in the spring. The daily temperature in Howth averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Lyon fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Howth often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Howth gets 157 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 174 hours of full sun.

Howth usually gets less rain in April than Lyon. Howth gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lyon and Howth