🌍 Overview
Lyon, France, is an emerging digital nomad destination that offers a unique blend of French culture, history, and modern infrastructure. This city, often referred to as the gastronomic capital of France, has been gaining popularity among remote workers in recent years, thanks to its relatively low cost of living, vibrant nomad community, and excellent coworking spaces. As a digital nomad who has spent over three months in Lyon, I can attest that this city is an ideal hub for remote workers, offering a great balance between work and play.
Lyon’s digital nomad scene is still growing, but it’s already well-established, with a variety of coworking spaces, networking events, and social gatherings that cater specifically to remote workers. The city’s infrastructure is well-suited for digital nomads, with high-speed internet, a range of cafes with reliable Wi-Fi, and a relatively low cost of living. From its stunning medieval architecture to its modern food scene, Lyon has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, Lyon is an excellent choice for digital nomads.
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods
Les Confluences
Les Confluences is a modern, upscale neighborhood that’s perfect for digital nomads who want to be close to the city center while enjoying a more relaxed atmosphere. The area is known for its stunning views of the Rhône and Saône rivers, as well as its excellent shopping and dining options. Typical monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Les Confluences ranges from €500 to €700 (approximately $596-$840 USD). One of the pros of living in Les Confluences is its proximity to the city center, making it easy to access coworking spaces, cafes, and other amenities. However, the area can get quite crowded during peak hours, and the noise level can be a con for some.
Croix-Rousse
Croix-Rousse is a historic neighborhood that’s famous for its textile manufacturing past and its narrow, cobblestone streets. This area is a favorite among digital nomads who want to experience the authentic Lyon. Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Croix-Rousse can range from €400 to €600 (approximately $480-$840 USD) per month. One of the pros of living in Croix-Rousse is its unique, bohemian atmosphere, which is perfect for creatives and entrepreneurs. However, the area can be quite hilly, and some streets may be too narrow for larger luggage.
Vieux Lyon
Vieux Lyon, or Old Lyon, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s known for its stunning medieval architecture and narrow alleys. This area is a must-visit for any digital nomad who wants to experience the rich history of Lyon. Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Vieux Lyon can range from €500 to €700 (approximately $594-$840 USD) per month. One of the pros of living in Vieux Lyon is its unique, historical atmosphere, which is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in Lyon’s culture. However, the area can be quite touristy, and prices for food and accommodations may be higher than in other neighborhoods.
Bellecour
Bellecour is a charming neighborhood that’s located in the heart of Lyon’s city center. This area is known for its beautiful gardens, historic buildings, and lively shopping streets. Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Bellecour can range from €600 to €800 (approximately $840-$1,040 USD) per month. One of the pros of living in Bellecour is its proximity to the city center, making it easy to access coworking spaces, cafes, and other amenities. However, the area can get quite crowded during peak hours, and prices for food and accommodations may be higher than in other neighborhoods.
Digital Nomad Guide
Coworking Spaces
Lyon has a range of coworking spaces that cater to digital nomads, from modern, high-tech spaces to more relaxed, community-focused spaces. Some popular coworking spaces in Lyon include:
- The Cube: A modern coworking space with high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and a relaxed atmosphere. Prices start at around €200 per month (approximately $240 USD).
- LyonHub: A community-focused coworking space with a range of amenities, including high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and a lounge area. Prices start at around €150 per month (approximately $180 USD).
- The Workspace: A high-tech coworking space with high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and a range of amenities. Prices start at around €250 per month (approximately $300 USD).
Internet Quality
Lyon has a relatively high-speed internet infrastructure, with average speeds of around 36 Mbps. Fiber availability is widespread, making it easy to find reliable and fast internet in the city. Some popular internet providers in Lyon include SFR, Orange, and Bouygues Telecom.
Nomad Community
Lyon has a growing digital nomad community, with a range of events and meetups that cater to remote workers. Some popular meetups include the Lyon Nomad Meetup Group and the Digital Nomads Lyon Meetup Group. The city also hosts a range of coworking events and workshops, making it easy to connect with other digital nomads and learn new skills.
Cafes and Workspaces
Lyon has a range of cafes and workspaces that cater to digital nomads, from modern, high-tech spaces to more relaxed, community-focused cafes. Some popular cafes and workspaces include:
- Café des Négociants: A charming cafe with high-speed internet, comfortable seating, and a relaxed atmosphere. Prices start at around €2.5 for a coffee (approximately $3 USD).
- The Coffee Lab: A modern cafe with high-speed internet, comfortable seating, and a range of amenities. Prices start at around €3 for a coffee (approximately $3.60 USD).
- The Workspace: A high-tech coworking space with high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and a range of amenities. Prices start at around €10 per hour (approximately $12 USD).
Visa Options
Lyon is a popular destination for digital nomads, and the city’s visa requirements are relatively straightforward. Some popular visa options for remote workers include:
- Visa de long séjour: A long-stay visa that allows remote workers to stay in France for up to 12 months. Requirements include a valid passport, proof of income, and health insurance.
- Visa de travail: A work visa that allows remote workers to work in France for up to 12 months. Requirements include a valid passport, proof of employment, and health insurance.
Banking and Practical Setup
Lyon has a range of banks and financial institutions that cater to digital nomads, from online banking to cryptocurrency exchanges. Some popular banks in Lyon include:
- BNP Paribas: A major bank with online banking and a range of financial services.
- Société Générale: A major bank with online banking and a range of financial services.
- Revolut: A digital bank with online banking, currency exchange, and a range of financial services.
🎨 Culture & Vibe
Lyon is a city with a rich cultural heritage, from its stunning medieval architecture to its vibrant food scene. Some popular cultural attractions include:
- Musée des Beaux-Arts: A world-class art museum with a range of exhibitions and events.
- Théâtre Romain de Fourvière: A historic theater with a range of performances and events.
- Vieux Lyon: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning medieval architecture and narrow alleys.
Food Scene
Lyon is famous for its gastronomic scene, with a range of traditional dishes and local ingredients. Some popular food highlights include:
- Salade lyonnaise: A traditional salad made with local ingredients and served with a fried egg.
- Tarte aux pralines: A traditional pastry made with local pralines and topped with powdered sugar.
- Côtes d’Anjou: A local wine that’s perfect for pairing with Lyon’s cuisine.
Nightlife and Social Scene
Lyon has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a range of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Some popular nightlife spots include:
- Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse: A historic market hall with a range of bars and restaurants.
- La Part-Dieu: A popular nightlife district with a range of bars and clubs.
- Le Vieux Lyon: A historic neighborhood with a range of bars, clubs, and live music venues.
⭐ Highlights
- Explore the historic Vieux Lyon: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning medieval architecture and narrow alleys.
- Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts: A world-class art museum with a range of exhibitions and events.
- Take a stroll along the Rhône and Saône rivers: A scenic walk with stunning views of the city.
- Sample Lyon’s gastronomic cuisine: A range of traditional dishes and local ingredients.
- Visit the Théâtre Romain de Fourvière: A historic theater with a range of performances and events.
- Explore the Croix-Rousse neighborhood: A charming area with a range of shops, cafes, and restaurants.
💡 Practical Tips
Visa Requirements
Lyon is a popular destination for digital nomads, and the city’s visa requirements are relatively straightforward. Some popular visa options for remote workers include:
- Visa de long séjour: A long-stay visa that allows remote workers to stay in France for up to 12 months. Requirements include a valid passport, proof of income, and health insurance.
- Visa de travail: A work visa that allows remote workers to work in France for up to 12 months. Requirements include a valid passport, proof of employment, and health insurance.
Getting Around
Lyon has a range of transportation options, from buses to trains to bike rentals. Some popular transportation options include:
- Lyon Metro: A fast and efficient way to get around the city.
- Lyon Bus: A network of buses that cover the city and surrounding areas.
- Vélo en Ville: A bike rental service with a range of bikes and scooters.
Safety Considerations
Lyon is generally a safe city, but as with any city, there are areas to avoid and precautions to take. Some popular safety tips include:
- Avoid walking alone at night: Stick to well-lit streets and avoid walking alone in isolated areas.
- Keep valuables secure: Use a money belt or a secure bag to keep your valuables safe.
- Respect local customs: Lyon has a rich cultural heritage, and respecting local customs is essential.
Best Time to Visit
Lyon is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. Some popular times to visit include:
- Spring: Mild weather and a range of festivals and events.
- Summer: Warm weather and a range of outdoor activities.
- Autumn: Mild weather and a range of festivals and events.
Local Tips and Warnings
Lyon has a range of local tips and warnings, from cultural etiquette to practical advice. Some popular tips include:
- Learn some French: While many locals speak English, learning some French will go a long way in making your stay more enjoyable.
- Respect local customs: Lyon has a rich cultural heritage, and respecting local customs is essential.
- Be prepared for crowds: Lyon is a popular tourist destination, and crowds can be a challenge.
Money Matters
Lyon has a range of money matters to consider, from currency exchange to tipping culture. Some popular tips include:
- Exchange currency: Exchange your currency for euros at a reputable exchange office or ATM.
- Use a credit card: Credit cards are widely accepted in Lyon, and they offer good exchange rates.
- Tip locally: Tipping culture varies in Lyon, but a small tip (10-15%) is sufficient.
Healthcare and Insurance
Lyon has a range of healthcare options, from public hospitals to private clinics. Some popular tips include:
- Get travel insurance: Travel insurance will cover you for medical emergencies and other unexpected events.
- Register with a doctor: Register with a doctor in Lyon to access healthcare services.
- Use a health app: Use a health app to track your health and access medical services.
Note: The prices mentioned above are approximate and may vary depending on the context.
