Things To Do
in Écully
Écully is a tranquil commune just northwest of Lyon, set among green hills and vineyards. It blends rural charm with easy access to the city’s renowned gastronomy and cultural attractions. The area is known for its historic châteaux, leafy streets, and strong agricultural heritage that continues today.
As a convenient gateway to Lyon and the Beaujolais wine region, Écully offers relaxed countryside mornings with vibrant city life nearby.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey at the Écully Market, where you can discover local delicacies and artisanal crafts. Stroll through the quaint streets and enjoy the charming architecture of the town. Take a moment to sip a café au lait at a nearby café, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Visit the Musée des Arts Décoratifs to delve into the region's rich history and artistic heritage. After immersing yourself in culture, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a traditional French bistro, sampling regional specialties. Spend the afternoon wandering through the serene Parc de l’Yzeron, where the natural beauty invites relaxation.
As twilight approaches, head to a local restaurant renowned for its Lyonnaise cuisine. Savor a beautifully prepared multi-course meal, complemented by an exquisite selection of regional wines. Cap off the night with a stroll along the banks of the Saône River, where the dazzling reflections of the city lights create a magical ambiance.
Take a short train ride into Lyon to explore the historic Old Town, famous for its Renaissance architecture. Visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière for stunning views of the city. Enjoy a traditional Lyonnaise breakfast with a fresh pastry at one of the local bakeries.
Discover the lively vibrant food scene at Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, where you can sample local cheeses, charcuterie, and pastries. After lunch, wander through the Parc de la Tête d'Or, one of the largest urban parks in France, enjoying the beautiful botanical gardens. Spend some time at the nearby Musée des Confluences, a stunning architectural marvel showcasing a variety of exhibits.
Return to Écully for a cozy dinner at a bistro featuring classic French cuisine. Engage in conversations with locals who can share their favorite spots and stories. End the evening at a local wine bar, tasting regional wines and enjoying the warm, welcoming vibe.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥐Lunch for 2 at mid-range cafe | $25-40 |
| 🧀Local cheese and wine snack | $8-20 |
| 🍷Glass of wine | $4-8 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Lyon's culinary scene and Beaujolais wine region
- Safe, walkable village with green spaces
- High quality of life and efficient public services
- Easy day trips to Lyon for culture and nightlife
- Limited nightlife within Écully itself
- Public transport to some rural spots can be less frequent
- Smaller shopping options within the village compared to Lyon
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est…?" - Where is…?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît." - The check, please.
- "Je suis végétarien(ne)." - I am vegetarian.
Places to Visit in Écully
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic church and charming stone streets ideal for daytime photography.
Terraced vines and rolling hills provide classic countryside shots, especially at sunrise.
Shaded paths, fountains, and seasonal blooms for tranquil photos.
Elevated viewpoints just outside Écully offer sweeping views over Lyon and the Saône river.
Food in Écully
Écully Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Light dumplings typically made from pike or meat, served with a rich Nantua sauce or similar accompaniment.
Must-Try!
Creamy, garlicky potato gratin baked to a golden finish—comfort food in the region.
Traditional cured sausage from the Lyon area, great with bread and cheese.
A sweet almond praline tart common in Lyon’s patisseries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Iconic covered market offering fresh produce, cheese, meats, and ready-to-eat bites—perfect for a sampling stroll.
Weekly market with seasonal fruits, vegetables, and regional specialties right in the village.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say Bonjour/Bonsoir when entering shops; a handshake is common in formal settings, la bise among friends.
Maintain a polite tone and use courteous phrases; avoid speaking loudly in public.
Wait for everyone to be served; bread is often placed on the table; keep hands visible.
Safety
Tipping in Écully
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is often included (service compris) in restaurants; you may round up or leave a small tip for exceptional service.
Cash and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments common; many shops accept mobile wallets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, long days ideal for outdoor dining and vineyard strolls; stay hydrated and use sun protection.
Cool to cold with possible frost; shorter days and festive lights in Lyon; bring a warm coat.
Mild temperatures with blooming landscapes; great for markets, walking tours, and photography.
Crisp air and grape harvest season; colorful vineyards and pleasant hiking conditions.
Écully at Night
Hiking in Écully
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest and hill trails with viewpoints toward Lyon and the valley.
Rolling hills with scenic routes and small villages.
Gentle to moderate trails through wine country with vineyard stops.
Airports
How to reach Écully by plane.
Major international airport serving Lyon and the surrounding region, connected by rail, tram, and road to Écully.
Regional airport about an hour from Écully, serving domestic and some European flights.
Regional airport in Grenoble area; offers seasonal and low-cost international flights; about 1.5 hours from Écully by car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Écully due to the calm setting and good schools.
Commuters and working professionals who travel to Lyon for work.
A mix of younger residents and retirees in the village and nearby areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Lyon is home to a top-tier club; football is popular across the region.
Rugby union is widely followed in the broader Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes area.
Hilly countryside and vineyards attract local and visiting cyclists, especially during the Beaujolais season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Écully.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared vegetarian by request; ask for stock to be vegetable-based and avoid meat broths.