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

Should you visit Interlaken or Lyon?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Interlaken and Lyon can help you decide which place is right for you.

Interlaken

Interlaken is a world-class, stunning, and adventurous town. You'll find world class beauty in Interlaken as well. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the skiing, nightlife, and food. See Interlaken travel costs.

Lyon

Lyon is a quaint, authentic, and historic city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Lyon is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Lyon travel costs.

Interlaken and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Interlaken or Lyon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lyon. Although Interlaken and Lyon are popular destinations, Lyon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lyon is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Interlaken attracts visitors for its skiing and hiking. Interlaken is more touristy than Lyon and is popular for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. Lyon is famous for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. It is also well known for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

How is Interlaken different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Interlaken or Lyon Better for Skiing?

Interlaken is a nice place to visit for snow skiing. However, Lyon is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Interlaken is a great destination to visit. While the city itself has no skiing, there is access to several ski areas in Jungfrau. There are several different resorts in the area near Grindelwald, Wengen, and Mürren. You'll need to take a train or ski bus to get most places.

Lyon is not a skiing destination.

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

Lyon is a world-class destination for its museums and history. However, Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Lyon from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lyon is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Lyon has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Interlaken. Restaurants in the area serve local classics like fondue, local meats, cheeses, and chocolate. You can finish your meal off with strudel or head to a local bakery and try their samplings. Meals are expensive but the quality is good. You should also out into the countryside and enjoy a meal looking out over the mountains.

Is Interlaken or Lyon Better for Nightlife?

Both Interlaken and Lyon have excellent vibes after the sun sets.

Interlaken has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. There are tons of pubs and bars around town. This is the best way to meet locals and makes for a fun night out on the town. The atmosphere is generally laid back and relaxed, which matches the mellow vibe of the town.

The people in Lyon know how to have a good time. 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.

Is Interlaken or Lyon Better for its Old Town?

Lyon is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Interlaken does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Lyon is revered around the world. 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.

Interlaken does not have a historic old town.

Is Interlaken or Lyon Better for Hiking?

Interlaken is an amazing town to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Lyon is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Interlaken draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Hikes in the area range from easy to challenging with every option in between. You can experience beautiful waterfalls, breathtaking views, and dramatic ridge hikes. Several of the best hikes in the area include Schynige Platte Ridge Trail, Mt Niesen Panorama Trail, and Giessbach Waterfalls.

Lyon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Interlaken or Lyon?

Lyon is an excellent place to visit for shopping. However, Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lyon. 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.

Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Interlaken or Lyon More Beautiful?

Interlaken and Lyon both are comparable with their terrific scenery and beauty.

Interlaken is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. While the city itself has a lot of charm and character, it's really about exploring the surrounding countryside. There are world class hikes, stunning vistas, and adrenaline-filled adventure sports that you shouldn't miss.

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.

Is Interlaken or Lyon Better for Families?

Interlaken is an amazing town to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Interlaken is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. While the city is beautiful, it's really the surrounding areas that you and your family will enjoy. There are amazing hikes, stunning views, playgrounds, lakes, and more. There's also an impressive ropes course that adventurous kids will love, funiculars, gondolas, and so many water sports!

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lyon. 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.

Is Interlaken or Lyon Better for Couples?

Interlaken is an amazing town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Interlaken has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The mountaintop views, breathtaking hikes, and beautiful lakes make this a top destination for couples. Make sure you head out of town and fully immerse yourself in everything that the area has to offer. Kayaking, canoeing, paragliding, and more will make this a trip of a lifetime.

Lyon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

Is Interlaken or Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lyon is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Lyon is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Interlaken. It's a world class destination with so many activities that backpackers will love, but it's also one of the most expensive areas in one of the most expensive countries. There are hostels in town as well as a few in the nearby towns and countryside, but prices are steep. Cook when you can and enjoy all of the free activities that the area has to offer.

Is Interlaken or Lyon Better for Students?

Lyon is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Interlaken is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit 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.

Interlaken is not popular with students.

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

Lyon is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Lyon can get you around easily. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

Interlaken has some very good public transit options. Buses travel around town, but to get into the mountains there are trains, cog railways, funiculars, and gondolas.

Is Interlaken or Lyon a more walkable city?

Lyon is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Lyon is very walkable. 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.

Interlaken is a somewhat walkable place. The old town is relatively walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Interlaken?

How long in Interlaken or Lyon?

In either Interlaken or Lyon, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Lyon has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Lyon than Interlaken. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lyon than Interlaken 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 Interlaken or Lyon?

Visitors enjoy the food and skiing when visiting the destination of Interlaken. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

When visiting Lyon, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Interlaken or Lyon?

Interlaken is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the hiking. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

When visiting Lyon, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Interlaken or Lyon?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the world-class destination of Interlaken. This town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Lyon, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Interlaken or Lyon?

The stunning town of Interlaken offers food and skiing. 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.

Lyon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Geneva, The Best 10-Day Tours from Zurich, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Interlaken and Lyon, we can see that Interlaken is more expensive. And not only is Lyon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lyon would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lyon and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Interlaken would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Interlaken than you might in Lyon.

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

Which is Bigger, Interlaken or Lyon?

Lyon has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Interlaken. When comparing the sizes of Interlaken and Lyon, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Interlaken or Lyon?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Interlaken or Lyon in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Interlaken as well as Lyon. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Interlaken this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lyon for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Interlaken is around the same temperature as Lyon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Interlaken in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Lyon averages at about 22°C (71°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lyon. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Interlaken this time of the year. In the summer, Interlaken often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Interlaken gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 285 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets more rain in July than Lyon. Interlaken gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Interlaken or Lyon in the Autumn?

Both Lyon and Interlaken are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Interlaken for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Lyon in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Interlaken is generally around the same temperature as Lyon. Daily temperatures in Interlaken average around 13°C (56°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Interlaken usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lyon during autumn. Interlaken gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Interlaken usually receives less rain than Lyon. Interlaken gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Interlaken or Lyon in the Winter?

Both Lyon and Interlaken during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Interlaken in the winter for the skiing and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Lyon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lyon can be very cold during winter. Interlaken can get quite cold in the winter. Interlaken is cooler than Lyon in the winter. The daily temperature in Interlaken averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Lyon fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Interlaken often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Interlaken gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 62 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets more rain in January than Lyon. Interlaken gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Interlaken or Lyon in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Interlaken and Lyon. Most visitors come to Interlaken for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Lyon because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Interlaken is around the same temperature as Lyon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Interlaken in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Lyon averages at about 11°C (53°F).

Interlaken usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during spring. Interlaken gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Interlaken usually receives more rain than Lyon. Interlaken gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lyon and Interlaken