Things To Do
in Francheville
Francheville is a tranquil commune on the southwestern edge of Lyon, blending village charm with easy city access. Set on gentle hills, its shaded lanes, central square, and nearby markets showcase Lyonnais produce and regional specialties. It serves as a springboard for exploring the Monts du Lyonnais and the Beaujolais countryside while staying within reach of Lyon’s museums and eateries.
The atmosphere is warm and family-friendly, making it ideal for relaxed strolls, scenic walks, and day trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Francheville, where historic architecture meets modern cafes. Stop by the local bakery to savor a fresh croissant and a cup of rich French coffee as you watch the town come to life. Don’t forget to visit the town's small artisan shops that showcase local crafts and products.
After lunch, explore the beautiful Parc de la Mairie, a perfect spot for a picnic or a relaxing walk amidst lush greenery. Spend some time visiting the local museum to learn about Francheville's history and cultural heritage. As the afternoon sun bathes the town in golden light, take a few moments to enjoy the view from the hilltop lookout points.
As the sun sets, head to a traditional French bistro for dinner, where you can indulge in classic dishes like coq au vin or ratatouille. Immerse yourself in the local ambiance with live music or a small art exhibition happening in the square. After dinner, take a leisurely walk back through the illuminated streets, soaking in the magical atmosphere of Francheville at night.
Begin your morning with a refreshing walk or jog around the scenic paths of Parc de la Mairie, surrounded by tall trees and blooming flowers. Grab a light breakfast at a nearby café, perhaps a fresh fruit tart or a quiche, as you enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Engage with the locals who frequent the park, sharing smiles and friendly greetings.
Spend your afternoon indulging in the natural beauty of the park by renting a bicycle or rollerblades from a nearby shop. Explore the various trails and take a moment to relax on one of the benches, taking in the sights and sounds of nature. If you’re feeling adventurous, join a guided nature walk to learn about the local flora and fauna.
As evening approaches, find a cozy spot for a picnic dinner in the park, perhaps with local cheeses, a baguette, and a bottle of wine. Enjoy the sunset as you share stories with friends or family, creating lasting memories in this tranquil setting. Before leaving, find a spot to watch the stars appear in the night sky, a perfect end to a day filled with nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in mid-range cafe | $3-6 |
| 🚌One-way public transport ticket | $2-3 |
| 🍷Mid-range dinner for two | $40-70 |
| 🏥Doctor’s visit | $100-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Lyon with easy access to culture, cuisine, and transport.
- Charming village atmosphere with scenic hillside views and nearby nature trails.
- Limited nightlife within Francheville itself; broader options require travel to Lyon.
- Smaller town amenities may require travel for some services and larger markets.
- "Bonjour, madame/monsieur." - Hello, good day.
- "S'il vous plaît." - Please.
- "Merci beaucoup." - Thank you very much.
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est [cet endroit] ?" - Where is [this place]?
- "Je voudrais [un plat/unboisson], s'il vous plaît." - I would like [a dish/drink], please.
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît." - The bill, please.
Places to Visit in Francheville
Visit one of these nice places.
Sweeping views of Lyon’s skyline framed by rolling hills, especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.
Rooftops, narrow lanes, and the ancient charm of the city captured from elevated spots near Francheville.
Lakes, flower gardens, and the grand expanse of the park with reflections on calm days; great for wide-angle and portrait shots.
Ridge trails offering panoramic photos of the countryside and distant hills on clear days.
Golden-hour shots with boats, bridges, and silhouettes of the historic city.
Food in Francheville
Francheville Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Delicate dumplings made from creamed fish or meat, often served in a light sauce or with Nantua sauce; a classic Lyonnais specialty.
Must-Try!
Pork sausage with strong, distinctive flavors, typically grilled or seared and served with potatoes or onions.
A hearty salad featuring frisée, bacon, a poached egg, and croutons—great as a light, flavorful meal.
A regional chicken dish prepared with a rich cream sauce, showcasing local poultry and dairy traditions.
A praline-topped dessert that reflects Lyon’s pastry heritage; a sweet finish to any meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A village market offering fresh produce, cheese, charcuterie, bread, and seasonal specials, ideal for picnics or cooking at your accommodation.
A famed market complex in Lyon where you can sample specialty cheeses, prepared dishes, and fresh seafood—worth a visit for culinary inspiration.
Several trendy spots near the river offer short queues for crêpes, quenelles-on-the-go, and local pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always say 'Bonjour' (good day) or 'Bonsoir' when entering shops and restaurants; greet staff with a polite hello. A handshake is common in formal settings; friends may kiss on the cheek (la bise) in informal contexts.
Wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat. Keep your hands on the table (not on your phone) during meals when appropriate, and maintain a relaxed, courteous demeanor.
If you don’t speak fluent French, try a few phrases in French; locals appreciate effort and politeness. Use 's’il vous plaît' and 'merci' generously.
Safety
Tipping in Francheville
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service is usually included in the bill (note the mention 'service compris'); if the service is good and not included, a tip of 5-10% is customary. Cash tips are common, but you can add it to the card payment as well.
Credit and debit cards (Carte Bancaire) are widely accepted, as are contactless payments and mobile wallets. Small shops and rural markets may still prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming orchards; great for cherry and apple harvest hues in nearby countryside. Pack light layers and umbrella for intermittent showers.
Warm to hot days with occasional thunderstorms; stay hydrated, seek shade, and enjoy long evenings on outdoor terraces. Perfect for riverside strolls and hilltop viewpoints.
Cooling air and vibrant foliage in the hills; ideal for scenic drives, hikes, and harvest-time markets. Dress in layers and be prepared for early sunsets.
Cool to cold with a chance of frost or light snow; days are shorter but the city lights create a festive atmosphere. Layer up and enjoy cozy cafés and indoor cultural venues.
Francheville at Night
Hiking in Francheville
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic regional park with woodlands, viewpoints, and varied trails suitable for day hikes and longer treks.
Gentle to moderate hillside trails offering panoramic views and pastoral landscapes.
Rolling countryside with vineyard-adjacent paths and charming villages ideal for a relaxed hiking and wine-tasting day.
Airports
How to reach Francheville by plane.
Primary international airport serving the Lyon region; roughly 25-40 minutes from Francheville by road and public transit, with frequent flights across Europe and beyond.
Smaller regional airport about an hour’s drive from Francheville, offering some domestic and seasonal connections.
Another regional option within a couple of hours’ drive, useful for broader Alps access and some European routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of residents are families with children, drawn by the safe environment and access to Lyon’s opportunities.
Professionals who work in Lyon but live in Francheville, taking advantage of a quieter home base with quick city access.
A stable retiree presence, appreciating the slower pace, local services, and community events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A favorite pastime with local clubs and regional teams; games and training are common in nearby towns.
Popular both as a recreation and sport, especially on the hills around Lyon and along river routes.
A strong rugby culture in the broader region, with community clubs and local matches.
Nearby Alpine resorts offer seasonal skiing and snow activities within a few hours’ drive.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Francheville.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many menus feature vegetables, gratins, and cheese-focused dishes. When dining out, ask for vegetables, mushroom or cheese-based plates, and request sauces on the side to keep meals light. In Lyonnais settings, vegetarian options are common in bistros and cafés; for stricter needs, opt for cheese, egg, and vegetable combinations or ask for a custom preparation.