Between Lyon, the largest city in the Rhône-Alpes region, and Marseille, the capital of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, the choice can be difficult. And for good reason the rivalry of these two cities extends over their tourist aspect. So, to find out the winner of this destination match, you must take into account other criteria.
Lyon or Marseille: which one to choose?
In addition to the cultural and natural attractions that play in favor of each destination, it is also important to take into account other selection criteria such as climate, cost of living, budget or the diversity of activities available. This combination of destinations will help you designate the most welcoming and tourist-friendly city.
On the one hand, Lyon, the two-thousand-year-old city in the historic Rhône-Alpes region seduces fans of cultural discovery with its exceptional heritage and archaeological treasures. Roman ruins, medieval and Renaissance architecture (Fourvière Hill and Old Lyon, etc.) make this city a cultural destination par excellence.
La Croix Rousse, Lyon
On the other hand, Marseille, the oldest port city in southeastern France, enjoys a privileged location between sea, hills and streams. A destination of choice for lovers of architectural heritage, Marseille is also popular with nature lovers who will enjoy the sea, the exceptional beauty of the Calanques and the beautiful secluded creeks.
Which city to choose according to climate and weather?
The most climate-friendly city is the one whose conditions allow you to enjoy the greatest number of bright and pleasant days for a city break.
Best weather forecast: Marseille
Although the city of Lyon takes advantage of the Mediterranean influence on its climate, Marseille remains the sunniest city and offers many wonderful days. In fact, the atmosphere is drier there and results in many bright days during the beautiful season. Moreover, the temperatures are particularly mild in winter and, at the same time, the cold characterizes the capital of the Rhône-Alpes region.
Which city to choose according to the price of airline tickets?
You can choose your destination based on the cheapest airline ticket prices during the high and low tourist season.
Cheapest average round-trip airfare: Marseille
Prices of round-trip airline tickets vary depending on the destination. In general, the return flight to Lyon, from cities in the south of France such as Toulouse, Montpellier and Nice, is less expensive than from Marseille. On the other hand, from major cities such as Paris, Nantes, Bordeaux, as well as European capitals such as Brussels and Geneva, Marseille proves to be the cheapest destination.
The cathedral of Sainte-Marie-Majeure, Marseille
The destination to choose according to your budget
Taking into account the costs of living during your stay, it is possible to determine the most affordable city with a reasonable travel budget.
The cheapest city: Lyon
Since Lyon and Marseille are destinations characterized by a lower standard of living than Paris, the difference is hardly noticeable for a weekend getaway or just for 2 or 3 days. Similarly, for a budget traveler like a backpacker, these two cities are tied. But when it comes to aiming for a relatively high level, it is more advantageous to opt for a stay in Lyon. Indeed, the differences become noticeable for a two-week stay for 2 people. The more expensive accommodation puts the city of Marseille at a disadvantage.
Quality of life: health, safety, pollution
Which city should be favored in terms of well-being: Lyon or Marseille? To get the answer, all you have to do is analyze health and safety issues.
It is good to live in Lyon
If Marseille is a cosmopolitan city with a very efficient health system and a better quality of care, it is in Lyon that you can enjoy a sense of security and tranquility. Some streets in certain districts of Marseille lose their reputation after dark. Equally, it is good to live in Lyon because the air is less polluted there than in Marseille.
Colline de Fourvière, Lyon
Which city to choose according to travelers' opinions: Lyon or Marseille?
If you still have trouble deciding, you can also rely on the opinions of travelers who have had a satisfactory stay in Marseille or Lyon.
Travelers prefer: Lyon and Marseille.
Although the city of Lyon has many UNESCO World Heritage sites thanks to its sites and museums, it is hard to compete with Marseille... a magnificent Mediterranean city steeped in history and rich in culture. Thus, opinions differ when it comes to choosing between Lyon or Marseille. Both destinations attract enthusiasts of cultural discoveries, lovers of architectural heritage and lovers of urban attractions, not to mention hikes and nature walks. Those who like to enjoy the sea naturally choose the city of Marseille and its coves.
Which destination to choose for a weekend or a week: Lyon or Marseille?
Which destination to choose according to the time you have available: Lyon or Marseille? To answer, you just need to find out what activities to do during that time.
For a romantic weekend, prefer Marseille
Marseille is the winner in the battle for the best destinations for a romantic getaway because it offers so many things to do for two. Nestled in the majestic natural setting of the Mediterranean coast, France's oldest city reveals a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Romantic strolls along the Old Port and romantic one-on-one seafood tastings are yours for the taking.
Calanque de Morgiou, Marseille
For a week or for a family trip, choose Lyon
For the number of activities to do, the unmissable places and the walks or nature walks, Lyon is a city to discover as a family. You will not have time to get bored because you can vary the pleasures. The parks and gardens, the theaters and shows, a trip to the zoo or the museum, not to mention the unmissable Guignol theater, and the discovery of the Mini World Lyon will surprise young and old alike.
Which city to choose, depending on the places of interest to visit?
The success of a stay depends on the quality of accommodation but also on the diversity of activities to do. So which city is the most attractive, in terms of cultural discovery, Lyon or Marseille?
The city with the most UNESCO-listed sites: Lyon
Lyon has 4 historic districts, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1998. Spread over 500 ha, the districts of Vieux-Lyon, the Fourvière hill, the slopes of Croix-Rousse and a large part of Presqu'île, located between the Rhône and the Saône, will take you back in time. Marseille gives you the opportunity to discover the radiant city of Le Corbusier, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The most cultural destination: Lyon and Marseille
By virtue of their millennial character, Lyon and Marseille offer culture and history lovers the opportunity to discover magnificent historic sites, superb buildings characterized by their particular architecture. In fact, Lyon has preserved buildings from Roman times (the ancient theater of Lugdunum, perched on the Fourvière hill), from medieval times, from the Renaissance and from the industrial revolution (textiles). And it is in Marseille that you can discover the famous Château d'If, made famous in part thanks to the novel "Le Comte de Monte-Cristo" by Alexandre Dumas.
The Château d'If, Marseille
So, which is your choice: Lyon or Marseille?
Now that you have other factors that can influence your decision, you will find it easier to choose between Lyon or Marseille. Either way, you have to be attentive to your desires and passions, to choose your destination well. So, which city did you love the most? Whatever your preference, we are curious about your choice, so share it in the comments.
