What are the best arrondissements and neighbourhoods in Lyon?

In France, for a better management of the largest cities (Paris, Lyon and Marseille) they are divided into arrondissements, administrative districts that work like a city within the city and each with its own local mayor, distinct from the mayor of the entire city.

Lyon is divided into 9 arrondissements, each with its own atmosphere and characteristics. Some are particularly residential, others have a high concentration of cultural attractions and some are business districts.

To help you visualise your future life, here is a presentation of some of the best neighbourhoods and arrondissements in Lyon for living, working and leisure.

The Presqu’Île is a stretch of land nestled between the Rhône and Saône rivers that forms the heart of Lyon. It is divided between the 1st and mostly the 2nd arrondissements.

The 1st arrondissement (the northernmost part of the peninsula) is known for its rich cultural environment. On the famous Place des Terreaux you will find the majestic City Hall and the Museum of Fine Arts, with the Opera close by. This is a great place for people interested in the arts.

On the other hand, in the 2nd arrondissement, which covers most of the peninsula, you will find one of the largest squares in Europe, the Place Bellecour. From there you can enjoy the streets lined with small shops, restaurants and cafés.

The central location of the Presqu’Île and its blend of history, culture and modern life are perfect for those who thrive in a dynamic environment.

Located at the southern tip of the peninsula, the Confluence was once an industrial zone that has been transformed into a modern forward-thinking district famous for its cutting-edge architecture. The most famous building is the Confluences Museum with its futuristic deconstructivist style.

It is one of the best neighbourhoods for startups in Lyon, with the H7 business incubator supporting many projects every year. Its shopping centre offers a unique retail experience with its mix of high street brands, independent boutiques and restaurants overlooking the Saône. This urban area promotes a high quality of life, with pedestrian-friendly streets, cycle paths and easy access to Lyon’s public transport.

Living in this neighbourhood is appealing to young professionals and families looking for a modern lifestyle, but even if you don’t live there, it’s a great place to shop and spend your leisure time.

The Part-Dieu district is best known for its skyscrapers. It is the main business district in Lyon, with many international companies and institutions. It is constantly evolving, with new developments and infrastructure projects aimed at increasing its urban appeal.

Part-Dieu is also home to one of the largest shopping centres in Europe, with many famous brands, restaurants and entertainment facilities.

With its many companies, Part-Dieu is one of the best arrondissements in Lyon to find a job. Its central location puts it at the heart of public transport, which is very convenient if you want to work there while living in a more residential area. The high-speed train station is also located there, making it easy to get to other cities.

The Croix-Rousse, in the 4th arrondissement, is steeped in history and charm. Known as the former heart of Lyon’s silk industry, it has a unique atmosphere and its steep, narrow streets are lined with well-preserved 19th century buildings, many of which were once home to the city’s silk workers, known as “canuts”.

Croix-Rousse is characterised by its village-like feel, with typical Lyon markets selling fresh local products, craft shops and cafes creating a lively and relaxed environment. Due to its elevation, the district is also known for its scenic views over Lyon.

It’s a great neighbourhood to live in Lyon, especially if you like close-knit communities and a slower pace of life while still being connected to the city centre.

This is the historic heart of the city, with its Renaissance buildings and cobbled streets. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s a real journey back in time. The area is famous for its traboules, hidden passageways once used by silk workers to transport goods. They are now a popular tourist attraction. The Fourvière hill is home to the iconic basilica, which can be seen from afar. The hill is also home to Roman ruins, including an ancient theatre.

Being very touristy and central, the cost of living is high, but it’s one of the best arrondissements to enjoy the historic heart and soul of the city. If you come to live in Lyon, you may choose to live elsewhere, but you’ll come back often to enjoy the dynamism and ancient charm of the old streets.

This arrondissement is one of the most affluent in the city, with for example the Brotteaux neighbourhood, known for its boulevards, Haussmann architecture and chic atmosphere. With its upmarket boutiques, gourmet restaurants and stylish cafés, it’s a great place to indulge in luxury.

But it’s also a district that attracts people of all backgrounds, especially thanks to Tête d’Or Park, one of the largest urban parks in Europe. This vast green space offers a quiet place to enjoy warm spring days or a stroll under autumn trees. The park also includes an enchanting lake and is a hub for leisure activities such as jogging, boating and, of course, relaxing in a natural setting.

This makes it one of the best districts in Lyon to enjoy the weekend in a green scenery and, why not, have dinner in a high-class restaurant.

Coming to live in Lyon is a great choice if you want to start a new life abroad. With its diverse districts, it has something to offer for everyone. This is just a selection of some of the best neighbourhoods, but everyone has their own criteria and what could be considered a great place to live is very subjective. If you need more information or if you want to find out more about how to find a job in Lyon or how to set up your business there, we are here to help. Fill in the form below and we’ll be back in touch very soon to discuss your project!