Things To Do
in Corbas

Corbas is a small commune in the Metropolis of Lyon, located just southwest of Lyon city center. It blends residential streets with green spaces and convenient access to the Saône valley. The town serves as a quiet base for exploring Lyon’s historic core and the surrounding countryside.

With a friendly local vibe and easy public transport links, Corbas offers a laid-back, well-connected stop in the Lyonnais region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the charming Place de la République, where you can enjoy a fresh croissant and café au lait at a local boulangerie. Wander through the narrow streets, appreciating the beautiful architecture and vibrant market stalls. Don’t forget to stop by the Église Saint-Étienne to admire its stunning stained-glass windows.

afternoon
:

After a leisurely lunch at a nearby bistro, continue your exploration by visiting the Musée des Beaux-Arts in Lyon, which is a short drive away. Spend the afternoon admiring the impressive collection of artworks and the historical artifacts that showcase the region's rich culture. As you walk through the museum, take a moment to relax in the beautifully landscaped gardens surrounding it.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head back to Corbas and dine at a traditional French restaurant, experiencing the local cuisine. Indulge in regional dishes, paired with exquisite wines, while soaking in the warm ambiance of the eatery. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the town, enjoying the peaceful evening atmosphere.

day 2
Nature Walks and Picnics
morning
:

Begin your day with a refreshing walk through the Parc de la Tête d'Or, where you can enjoy the serene lake and botanical gardens. Take in the fresh morning air as you watch swans glide across the water and admire the beautiful flower beds in full bloom. A morning picnic setup with fresh fruits and pastries from a local market would be a delightful addition.

afternoon
:

After your picnic, spend the afternoon exploring the park further, perhaps visiting the zoo that houses a variety of animals. Enjoy the tranquility of nature as you stroll through the park's winding paths or relax under a tree with a good book. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a pedal boat and enjoy a unique perspective of the park from the water.

evening
:

As evening approaches, find a cozy café near the park to unwind with a cup of hot chocolate or a glass of wine. Engage in conversation with locals or fellow travelers as the sun sets, casting a golden hue over the city. This serene end to your day will leave you feeling rejuvenated and connected to nature.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee in a café$3-6
🥖Bakery lunch or snack$4-8
🍷Three-course restaurant dinner$25-40
🏨Hotel room per night$90-150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Excellent access to Lyon’s culture and cuisine
  • Calmer, more affordable base outside the city center
  • Good tram and road connections to Lyon and surrounding areas
  • Limited nightlife directly in Corbas
  • Smaller local attractions compared to central Lyon
  • Public transport to some outlying areas can require coordination
  • "Bonjour" - Hello / Good day
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Où est… ?" - Where is…?
  • "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The check, please
  • "Pouvez-vous recommander un plat végétarien ?" - Can you recommend a vegetarian dish?
  • "Je suis perdu(e)" - I’m lost

Places to Visit in Corbas

Visit one of these nice places.

Vieux Lyon rooftops and traboules

Historic narrow passageways and Renaissance rooftops offer dramatic photography opportunities, especially at golden hour.

Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière viewpoint

Panoramic city views from Fourvière Hill, ideal for sweeping cityscapes of Lyon beyond Corbas.

Parc des Berges de la Saône

Riverside paths along the Saône provide reflective water shots and peaceful green backdrops.

Culinary Guide

Food in Corbas

The Lyonnais region is renowned for its gastronomy, and Corbas benefits from easy access to iconic bouchons and fresh markets. Expect hearty, meat-friendly dishes, delicate sauces, and regional cheeses, all anchored by seasonal produce from nearby farms.

Corbas Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Quenelle de brochet with Nantua sauce

A light, fluffy fish quenelle served with a rich crayfish Nantua sauce, a classic Lyonnais specialty found in many bouchons.

Must-Try!

Saucisson Lyonnais

Coiled, cured sausage often enjoyed with crusty bread, mustard, and a glass of wine.

Salade Lyonnaise

Frisée lettuce with bacon lardons, a poached egg, croutons, and a tangy vinaigrette.

Pralines roses

Sweet, pink almond pralines from Lyon, a beloved dessert embellishment or treat.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché de Corbas

Weekly market in Corbas offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and local specialties.

Lyon markets (Saint-Antoine / Croix-Rousse)

Vibrant markets in Lyon with a wide range of fresh produce, prepared foods, and street-style snacks.

Street food and bouchon stands

Casual spots throughout Lyon offering quick bites and traditional Lyonnais snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Corbas experiences a mild continental climate influenced by its proximity to the Rhône Valley. Summers are warm, sometimes hot, and winters are cool with occasional frost. Rainfall is relatively spread throughout the year, with a tendency for more showers in spring and autumn, and pleasant springs and summers for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Say bonjour or bonsoir when entering shops or restaurants; a polite hello goes a long way.

Language

French is the local language; English is understood in tourist areas, but learning a few phrases helps.

Dining etiquette

Keep hands visible on the table, use polite forms, and wait to be seated in more formal eateries.

Safety Guide

Safety

Corbas is generally safe, with typical urban safety considerations. Take standard precautions against petty theft in busy markets and tourist areas, especially in Lyon during peak times. Use well-lit routes at night and keep valuables secure when traveling on public transport.

Tipping in Corbas

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In France, service is often included. If not, a tip of 5-10% for good service is appreciated in restaurants; small tips for bartenders or café staff are common but not mandatory.

Payment methods

Cards are widely accepted (CB, Visa, Mastercard). Cash is handy for markets and small vendors. Contactless payments are common, and some places may accept checks for larger bills.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures with blooming trees; great for outdoor strolls and market visits.

Summer

Warm to hot days; stay hydrated, seek shade, and enjoy Lyon’s riverside events and open-air dining.

Autumn

Comfortable temperatures and fall colors; ideal for hikes in the Monts d’Or and Pilat areas.

Winter

Cool to cold with potential snowfall; city museums and cozy bouchons provide indoor warmth.

Nightlife Guide

Corbas at Night

Corbas itself is quiet after dark, but the Lyon metropolitan area comes alive with bars, live music venues, and traditional bouchons. In Lyon, you’ll find riverside terraces, energetic student bars around the Presqu’île, and a wide range of clubs and live performances. Expect a mix of casual cafés and refined wine bars, with most nightlife centered in the city rather than in the immediate suburbs.

Hiking in Corbas

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Monts d’Or

Forested ridges and scenic viewpoints just north of Lyon; great for day hikes and nature walks.

Pilat Regional Natural Park

Rolling hills and panoramic overlooks to the south of Lyon, ideal for longer hikes and outdoor adventures.

Lyonnais foothills trails

A network of trails around the metropolitan area offering shorter hikes with city access.

Airports

How to reach Corbas by plane.

Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS)

Major international airport serving Lyon and the region, with direct train and road connections to Corbas and Lyon.

Saint-Étienne – Bouthéon Airport (EBU)

Smaller regional airport offering domestic and some international flights; drive or train links to the Lyon area.

Getting Around

Walkability

Corbas is walkable in town with pedestrian-friendly streets and local amenities. For exploring Lyon’s historic center, a short tram or train ride is typically needed. The surrounding natural areas offer scenic routes for walkers and cyclists, though some trails are best reached by car or local transit.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families reside in Corbas, attracted by quieter streets and accessible schools.

Students and professionals

Proximity to Lyon brings a steady flow of students and commuters who value efficient transit links.

Commuters

Residents who work in Lyon or surrounding towns rely on trains, trams, and highways for reliable connections.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Popular across the Lyon region; local clubs and major matches draw crowds.

Cycling

Hilly routes in the Lyonnais area make cycling a favorite activity, with easy access to scenic riverside paths.

Rugby

A regional favorite with clubs in the city and surrounding suburbs.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is typically light in Corbas but can be congested on major routes during peak hours. Lyon’s public transport network (tram, metro, and bus) provides convenient alternatives. Plan longer travel times when heading into the city center during business hours or events.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Corbas.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many Lyonnais dishes feature meat, but vegetarians can enjoy seasonal vegetable sides, cheese plates, salads, and risottos. Look for dishes labeled with seasonal vegetables or ask for “sans viande” and request cheese or egg-based options when available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in the Lyon area is robust. Local pharmacies are common in Corbas, and residents have access to hospitals and clinics in Lyon, including the public hospital network. For emergencies, dial 112, and for non-emergency medical needs, book with a local GP or a clinic in the area.

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