Lyon: 1-Year City Card with 4 Free Activities and Discounts

Thinking about exploring Lyon in a way that’s both flexible and budget-friendly? The Lyon City Card offering one full year of access could be just what you need. It’s not your typical short-term tourist pass — instead, it’s a long-term solution that lets you experience the city at your own pace, with 4 free attractions from a list of over 40 activities.

What we really like about this card is how it saves you time and money — especially if you’re planning to spend a good chunk of time in Lyon. Plus, the variety of options—from museums to guided tours and boat trips—means you can tailor your experience based on what interests you most.

One thing to consider is that the card doesn’t include public transportation, so if you’re relying on local transit, you’ll need to arrange that separately. But for those who want to focus on cultural sights, shows, and experiences, this can be a very cost-effective way to do it.

If you’re someone planning to spend several days or even weeks in Lyon, this pass would suit you perfectly. It’s especially good if you like having the freedom to pick your activities without the pressure of buying tickets on the spot.

Key Points

• Flexible 1-year validity allows you to explore Lyon at your own pace over an extended period.
• Includes 4 free attractions from a selection of over 40 options, covering museums, tours, and shows.
• Unlimited discounts make dining, shows, and certain tours more affordable.
• A variety of experiences like boat trips, puppet shows, and guided walking tours are available.
• Mobile access means you can carry your pass on your phone — no need for physical tickets.
• Not included: public transportation and meals, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Practical Benefits of the Lyon City Card

When we first looked into this card, what caught our eye was how it’s designed for long-term visitors who want a richer, more flexible experience. Instead of rushing to hit the highlights in a few days, you can spread out your visits over the course of a year, picking and choosing what interests you most as you go.

It’s a smart way to get priority access to many of Lyon’s top museums and attractions. For example, the Musée des Confluences and Gadagne Museums offer deep dives into Lyon’s history and art without the hassle of standing in long lines — a real plus, particularly during busy seasons.

The availability of guided tours, like the Old Town walk or Croix Rousse exploration, is another advantage. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides, helping you get a real sense of Lyon’s neighborhoods and history, which can be hard to do on your own, especially if you’re new to the city.

And if you enjoy a touch of entertainment or unique experiences, options like puppet shows, the planetarium, or even visiting the roof of the basilica make this pass quite well-rounded. The unlimited discounts are an added bonus, making dining and additional activities more accessible.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For the €41 (roughly $41) you pay per person, you get four free attractions chosen from a list that covers museum visits, guided tours, boat trips, puppet shows, and more. It’s a flexible way to prioritize your interests—perhaps a visit to the Lumière Museum for film buffs, or a Silk Workshop demonstration for those curious about Lyon’s textile heritage.

The list of attractions is extensive — including modern art, religious art, history, and even the Gallo-Roman Museum. Many of these are especially good if you want a deep culture. There are also specialty visits like the roof of the basilica or cruise on the Rhône and Saône rivers, which add a nice outdoor or scenic element to your trip.

However, the card does not include public transport like the TCL system, so if you plan to move around a lot on buses or metros, you’ll need to purchase separate tickets. Also, meals, beverages, and tickets to shows or performances (beyond those included in the discounts) are not covered, so budget for those on your own.

How the Experience Works

Once you purchase the card, you’ll receive a QR code delivered via email. This digital pass is valid for 365 days from the first activation — giving you incredible flexibility. Whether you want to start using it immediately or wait until you arrive, it’s up to you.

Using the pass is straightforward: just download the app, show your QR code at the attractions, and enjoy. Reservations may be needed for some activities, like guided tours or shows, so it’s worth planning ahead if you have particular experiences in mind.

Most reviews mention that the process is smooth, and the priority access makes visits more relaxed, especially during busy times. While the pass is non-refundable and not suitable for wheelchair users, it offers a lot of value for those who want an in-depth, flexible experience over a year.

The Value for Money

At about $41, the cost might seem modest for the amount of flexibility it provides. If you plan to visit more than four attractions, the savings can really add up. For example, a typical museum ticket can cost around €8-€12, so four free visits already cover a significant part of that initial cost.

Plus, the discounts on shows and tours can help make dining out or special excursions more affordable. If you’re staying in Lyon for an extended period, the ability to explore at your own pace without constantly buying individual tickets is a real plus.

Some reviews highlight that guides are knowledgeable and the experiences well-organized. Travelers appreciate the convenience of a mobile pass and the variety of activities available, from cultural visits to fun puppet shows — something for every taste.

More Great Tours Nearby

How to Make the Most of Your Year

To really maximize this card, plan your visits around the most popular attractions early on. While it’s tempting to visit everything, focusing on the museums and tours you’re most interested in will give you the best value.

Mix indoor visits with outdoor experiences like river cruises or basilica roof access. The flexibility of the pass means you can also revisit favorites later in the year, which is perfect if you find yourself falling in love with Lyon’s neighborhoods and sights.

Remember, since the card doesn’t include transportation, consider pairing it with separate transit tickets or a transportation pass if you plan to move around the city frequently.

Who Should Consider This?

This pass is best suited for longer-term visitors who want to experience Lyon more deeply without the stress of buying tickets on the spot. It’s ideal if you’re a cultural enthusiast who values museums, guided tours, and shows.

It’s also great for those who enjoy a flexible, self-paced schedule, and don’t mind arranging transportation separately. If you’re traveling with children, some attractions like puppet shows or the planetarium could be particularly appealing.

However, if you’re just visiting for a few days, the one-year validity might be more than you need, and a shorter pass could be more practical.

Final Thoughts

The Lyon City Card offers a smart way to explore at your own pace over an entire year, making it particularly valuable for visitors planning a longer stay. Its strength lies in the combination of cost savings, priority access, and broad activity options. The flexibility to choose your free attractions and enjoy discounts throughout the year makes it a compelling choice for those who want a more immersive experience.

While it’s not a package for quick visits, if you’re in Lyon for an extended period and want to soak up the city’s culture without worrying about individual ticket costs, this pass could turn out to be an excellent investment. Just remember to plan ahead for transportation and some paid extras, and you’re all set for a memorable exploration.

FAQ

Is the Lyon City Card valid for a full year?
Yes, the card is valid for 365 days from the first time you activate it, giving you plenty of time to explore at your own pace.

Do I need to print the card?
No, the card is delivered via a QR code on your mobile phone, which you can show at attractions.

What attractions can I visit for free?
You can choose four free attractions from a list of over 40, including museums, guided tours, boat trips, puppet shows, and more.

Are public transportation costs included?
No, the card does not include public transportation like TCL; you’ll need separate tickets for that.

Can I revisit attractions later in the year?
Yes, the pass remains valid for 365 days from activation, so you can revisit your favorite spots whenever you like.

Is the pass suitable for families?
The info doesn’t specify family-specific considerations, so it’s best for individual travelers or groups. Some attractions like puppet shows may appeal to children.

Do I need to reserve activities in advance?
Reservations are recommended for some experiences like guided tours or shows, especially if there are limited spots.

Can I buy the pass on the spot in Lyon?
You receive the pass via email, and download it onto your phone, so it’s convenient to activate once you arrive.

What’s the price point for this pass?
It costs about $41 per person for a full year of access, making it an economical choice for long-term visitors.

Will I get guided tours included?
Yes, guided walking tours of Old Town, Croix Rousse, and the traboules are part of the included activities, led by knowledgeable guides.

Overall, if you’re looking for a flexible, cost-effective way to learn about Lyon’s culture, this annual City Card is worth considering — especially if you plan to spend some time exploring beyond the usual tourist spots.

You can check availability for your dates here: