Lyon City Card: Public Transport & More Than 40 Attractions

If you’re planning a trip to Lyon, the Lyon City Card might just become your new best travel buddy. We’ve gathered plenty of insights from travelers who’ve used it, and it sounds like a smart way to see the city without breaking the bank. Whether you’re in Lyon for a weekend or a few days longer, this card offers a mix of convenience and access that can make exploring easier and more affordable.

What we really like about the Lyon City Card is its unlimited access to public transportation—perfect for hopping around the city without fuss—and the wide array of attractions included, from museums to river cruises. On the flip side, some travelers mentioned that not all attractions are fully included—some are only partially subsidized, which might mean extra costs for certain places. Still, if you’re a museum lover or enjoy city views from above, this card could be a real game-changer, especially if you’re keen to pack in a lot in a limited time.

This experience suits those who love flexibility and want to get the most out of Lyon without the hassle of buying individual tickets. It’s also ideal for travelers who prefer organizing their days in advance, as the card offers a great way to skip lines and plan efficiently.

Key Points

• Great value for money when visiting multiple attractions and using public transport
• Access to 27 museums and numerous temporary exhibitions
• Unlimited public transport across Lyon’s bus, metro, tram, funicular, and connections
• Includes river cruises, guided tours, and puppet shows, enhancing the cultural experience
• Discounts on shopping and theaters add extra savings
• Flexible validity options—48, 72, or 96 hours—suit different itineraries

You can check availability for your dates here:

What is the Lyon City Card?

The Lyon City Card is a smart, all-in-one pass designed to help you explore Lyon effortlessly. It’s available for 48, 72, or 96 hours, giving you a set amount of time to enjoy the city’s highlights without constantly worrying about buying tickets. For a flat fee (around $37 per person), you get unlimited access to Lyon’s public transport system—which includes buses, metro, trams, and funiculars—and free entry to more than 25 museums and exhibitions.

It’s not just about museums. The card also grants you priority access to river cruises along the Saône, guided walking tours of historic districts, and discounts on theatre tickets and shopping. Plus, some activities like bike tours and visits to the Basilica of Fourvière are included or discounted, giving you a well-rounded way to experience Lyon.

How does it compare to buying individual tickets?

The main advantage here is ease and cost-effectiveness. If you plan to visit even a couple of museums or take a couple of transport rides, the card will likely save you money. For instance, one of the reviews notes, “if you visit even just two attractions, the card has paid for itself.” It’s a good deal if you prefer a stress-free experience with everything sorted in advance.

What to Expect at the Museums and Attractions

Once you activate your Lyon City Card, a world of cultural treasures opens up. You’ll gain free entry to 27 museums, including the impressive Musée des Confluences, the Fine Arts Museum of Lyon, and the Lumière Museum, among others. Many of these museums host temporary exhibitions, so it’s worth checking what’s on when you visit.

Travelers have raved about the priority access to museums, which means skipping long lines and jumping straight into culture. As one reviewer put it, “the museums were definitely worthwhile, and the transport was easy to use.” You might find some museums, like the Museum of Textile, under renovation until 2026, so it’s good to keep an eye on the schedule.

In addition, the guided walking tours and river cruises** add a scenic and informative element to your trip. A boat ride along the Rhône and Saône is included, and many find it a relaxing way to take in Lyon’s riverside views. One person mentioned, “the cruise was good, and the guide was excellent,” adding that it’s a nice break from walking.

Museums with mixed access

While many attractions are fully covered, some, like the Museum of the Textiles or certain temporary exhibitions, may require additional payment or booking. The same applies to shows like the Guignol Theater or the planetarium, which are popular but have limited spots and need reservations.

More Great Tours Nearby

Transportation: Moving Around Made Easy

Public transport is a highlight of the Lyon City Card. You’ll get unlimited access to buses, metro, trams, and funiculars during the validity period, starting from 5 AM on the first day until midnight on the last. It’s a huge time-saver, especially when exploring multiple districts.

Several reviews mention how easy it was to navigate Lyon with the transport system included in the card. One traveler wrote, “the network transport was great,” while another appreciated that “it made it so easy to go everywhere.” The funicular ride up to the Basilica of Fourvière is also included, and many enjoy the panoramic views from the top.

Just a heads-up: you’ll need to pass the card through readers whenever you board a bus or metro, and the card is activated on the first use. Also, check if any services are closed or limited during your visit—some reviewers noted that certain attractions or transport lines may have scheduled closures.

Visiting Lyon’s Neighborhoods and Cultural Spots

Beyond museums, the card includes guided tours through Lyon’s historic districts, like Vieux Lyon and Croix-Rousse. These are neighborhoods full of charm—cobbled streets, traboules (hidden passageways), and lively cafes. Many reviewers loved their walking tours, describing the guides as “knowledgeable and engaging,” helping bring Lyon’s streets and stories alive.

The roof of the Basilica of Fourvière is accessible from April to November, offering breathtaking views over the city, and is a must-see if you’re into city panoramas. You can also explore the House of Canuts, showcasing the silk industry’s history, or visit the Museum of Religious Art.

Additional Activities and Discounts

The Lyon City Card also offers discounts on shopping and theaters. If you plan to indulge in some retail therapy or catch a show, these discounts can add up. With options for guided cycling tours, Segway rides, and urban escape games, the card supports a range of ways to see Lyon beyond the usual museums.

Some experiences, like evening city buses or dinner cruises, are not included but can be added separately. So if you’re interested in evening tours, it’s worth booking those directly.

User Experience and Practical Tips

From reviews, it’s clear that many travelers found the process of getting the card straightforward. You can book online, download an app, or pick it up at the tourist office. One user appreciated the helpful staff at the tourist info center, who provided maps and guided tours.

However, a couple of reviews mentioned small inconveniences—like having to pick up a physical card, which could feel a bit rushed if you arrive late or are short on time. Others pointed out that some attractions require booking in advance or may be closed on certain days, so check schedules beforehand.

A common tip from experienced travelers: plan your visits to maximize the value of your pass. Using the included transport to hop from one museum or attraction to another can save both time and money, especially if you’re trying to fit a lot in.

Cost-Effectiveness and Final Thoughts

At about $37 per person, the Lyon City Card offers good value, especially if you’re planning to see multiple attractions or use public transport extensively. Travelers have noted that for just a couple of visits, the card pays for itself. For those wanting a flexible, all-in-one solution, it’s a solid choice.

It’s particularly suited for museum enthusiasts, cultural explorers, or anyone looking to simplify city logistics. If you prefer to plan your days around specific events or attractions, this card provides a good framework for efficient sightseeing.

That said, if your visit is very short or you’re not planning to visit many museums or use public transport much, the cost-benefit might be less compelling. Also, keep in mind that some attractions require advance reservations or additional payment, so it pays to research your specific interests before purchasing.

Who Should Consider the Lyon City Card?

If you want to maximize your time and savings in Lyon, especially with an interest in museums, river cruises, and exploring neighborhoods, this card will serve you well. It’s a good fit for independent travelers who like flexibility, as well as those eager to avoid long lines and busy ticket counters.

For travelers keen on discovering Lyon at a relaxed pace, with access to guided tours and transportation, the card offers a well-rounded approach. However, if you prefer very specific experiences or are sticking to a tight schedule, it’s worth checking the individual costs of attractions beforehand.

The Lyon City Card balances convenience and affordability—it’s a reliable companion for making the most of your Lyon adventure.

FAQ

Does the Lyon City Card include public transportation?
Yes, it offers unlimited access to buses, metro, trams, and funiculars across Lyon during the validity period, starting from 5 AM on the first day.

How long is the card valid?
You can choose from 48, 72, or 96 hours, depending on your travel plans, and it activates with your first use.

Are all museums fully included?
Most museums and exhibitions are free with the card, but some, like the Museum of Textile, are under renovation until 2026. Others may require extra payment or booking.

Can I buy the card in advance?
Yes, you can reserve it online, and some reviews mention the convenience of booking ahead and skipping ticket lines. Remember, you need to pick up a physical card or activate the digital one at the tourist office.

What if I want to do evening activities?
Some activities like the Lyon City Bus and Les Bateaux Lyonnais in the evening are not included but can be purchased separately.

Is the card suitable for families or kids?
While not specifically marketed as family-oriented, Junior cards for children aged 4-15 are available, and many attractions are kid-friendly, but check individual activity details in advance.

In the end, if you want a flexible, cost-effective way to explore Lyon’s cultural sights, enjoy scenic cruises, and hop around the city easily, the Lyon City Card is worth considering. Prepare your itinerary, take advantage of the included transport, and let Lyon unfold at your own pace.

You can check availability for your dates here: