🌍 Overview
As a digital nomad, I’ve had the pleasure of calling Lyon, France my home for several months, and I can confidently say that it’s a city that will captivate your senses and inspire your creativity. With its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and stunning natural beauty, Lyon is an ideal destination for remote workers looking to experience the best of French life. The city has a unique vibe that’s both laid-back and sophisticated, making it easy to feel at home. From the charming cobblestone streets of Vieux Lyon to the modern skyscrapers of La Part-Dieu, Lyon is a city that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. As a Lyon digital nomad, you’ll find that the city’s compact size and excellent public transportation system make it easy to get around, and the locals are warm and welcoming, even if you don’t speak perfect French.
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads
When it comes to choosing a neighborhood to live in Lyon, there are several areas that are particularly popular among digital nomads. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Vieux Lyon: This historic neighborhood is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, and culture. The narrow streets are lined with charming cafes, restaurants, and shops, and the area is home to several important landmarks, including the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Rent in Vieux Lyon is relatively high, with a one-bedroom apartment costing around €600-€800 per month (approximately $678-$904 USD).
- La Croix-Rousse: This trendy neighborhood is known for its bohemian vibe, street art, and independent shops. It’s a great area for digital nomads who want to be close to the action, with plenty of cafes, restaurants, and coworking spaces to choose from. Rent in La Croix-Rousse is slightly lower than in Vieux Lyon, with a one-bedroom apartment costing around €500-€700 per month (approximately $567-$788 USD).
- Le 6ème: This upscale neighborhood is located in the heart of Lyon and is known for its beautiful parks, elegant architecture, and high-end shopping. It’s a great area for digital nomads who want to experience the city’s more refined side, with plenty of opportunities for fine dining and cultural events. Rent in Le 6ème is relatively high, with a one-bedroom apartment costing around €700-€1,000 per month (approximately $788-$1,130 USD).
Cost of Living Breakdown
The cost of living in Lyon is relatively high compared to other cities in France, but it’s still relatively affordable compared to other major European cities. Here are some typical costs to expect:
- Rent: As mentioned earlier, the cost of rent in Lyon varies depending on the neighborhood and type of accommodation. On average, a one-bedroom apartment costs around €600-€800 per month (approximately $678-$904 USD).
- Food: Eating out in Lyon can be expensive, with a meal at a mid-range restaurant costing around €15-€25 per person (approximately $17-$28 USD). However, grocery shopping is relatively affordable, with a basket of basic items costing around €50-€75 per week (approximately $57-$85 USD).
- Transportation: Lyon has an excellent public transportation system, with a monthly pass costing around €60-€80 (approximately $67-$90 USD). Taxis and ride-hailing services are also widely available, but can be more expensive.
- Coworking: There are several coworking spaces in Lyon, with prices ranging from €200-€500 per month (approximately $230-$570 USD) for a hot desk. Some popular coworking spaces include Le Hub, La Cordée, and Startup Palace.
Internet & Coworking
Lyon has excellent internet speeds, with an average speed of 47 Mbps. There are several coworking spaces and cafes with reliable internet, including:
- Le Hub: This coworking space is located in the heart of Lyon and offers a range of membership options, including hot desks and private offices.
- La Cordée: This coworking space is located in the trendy neighborhood of La Croix-Rousse and offers a range of amenities, including a rooftop terrace and on-site gym.
- Café des Architectes: This cafe is located in the historic neighborhood of Vieux Lyon and offers a range of coffee and pastries, as well as reliable internet and a quiet workspace.
Lyon has a growing digital nomad community, with several meetups and events organized throughout the year. Some popular groups include:
- Lyon Digital Nomads: This Facebook group is for digital nomads living in Lyon and offers a range of resources and information, including job listings and apartment rentals.
- Nomads in Lyon: This meetup group is for digital nomads and remote workers living in Lyon and offers a range of events and activities, including language exchange and cultural tours.
- Lyon Startup: This group is for entrepreneurs and startup founders living in Lyon and offers a range of resources and networking opportunities.
Culture & Lifestyle
Lyon is a city that’s deeply passionate about its culture and lifestyle. From the vibrant food scene to the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding countryside, there’s always something to explore and discover. Here are a few insider tips:
- Try the local cuisine: Lyon is famous for its gastronomy, with popular dishes including salade lyonnaise, quenelles, and tarte aux pralines. Be sure to try some of the local specialties at a traditional bouchon, such as Le Garet or Chez Hugon.
- Explore the surrounding countryside: Lyon is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including the Rhone Valley and the Beaujolais wine region. Take a day trip to explore the vineyards and medieval villages of the area.
- Attend a cultural event: Lyon is a city that’s deeply passionate about its culture, with a range of festivals and events throughout the year. Be sure to attend the Fête des Lumières, a festival of light and sound that takes place in December.
As a digital nomad, you’ll need to obtain a visa to live and work in France. The most common type of visa for digital nomads is the long-stay visa, which allows you to stay in France for up to a year. You’ll need to apply for the visa at the French embassy or consulate in your home country, and provide a range of documents, including a passport, proof of income, and health insurance. There is no specific digital nomad visa available in France, but the long-stay visa can be used for remote work purposes.
💡 Practical Tips
Here are a few practical tips for living and working in Lyon as a digital nomad:
- Get a SIM card: A SIM card is essential for staying connected in Lyon, with several providers offering affordable plans and data packages. Some popular options include Orange, SFR, and Bouygues.
- Use public transportation: Lyon has an excellent public transportation system, with buses, trams, and metro lines connecting the city. Consider purchasing a monthly pass for convenient and affordable travel.
- Learn some French: While many Lyonnais speak English, learning some basic French phrases can go a long way in enhancing your experience. Consider taking a language course or using a language learning app to improve your skills.
- Be prepared for the weather: Lyon has a continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. Be sure to pack accordingly, with warm clothing and umbrellas for the winter months and lightweight clothing and sunscreen for the summer.
