Things To Do
in Meyzieu
Meyzieu is a lively suburb northeast of Lyon that blends residential calm with easy access to urban culture. Set along the edge of green spaces like the Grand Parc Miribel-Jonage and near the Rhône, it serves as a convenient base for exploring Lyon's surroundings. The town center preserves a village feel with markets, bakeries and small eateries, while modern amenities and reliable transport links connect you to the city.
With its friendly, diverse community and close proximity to nature, Meyzieu offers a balanced gateway to both countryside walks and big-city experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Wander through the cobblestone streets around Place de la République and admire the pastel facades that line the square. Pop into a local boulangerie to sample warm viennoiseries and a freshly brewed café au lait. Continue on to visit Saint-Jean-Baptiste church with its modest yet charming façade.
Head to the recently renovated Maison Forte, a historical manor turned cultural center showcasing regional art exhibitions. Relax in the adjacent Jardin des Terres Froides with its fragrant flower beds and shady benches. Stop by a small café for a fruity sorbet or gelato to recharge.
Reserve a table at a riverside brasserie facing the Rhône to enjoy fresh fish from the region. Sample a crisp Côtes du Rhône white wine while watching the sun dip behind tranquil waters. Finish the evening with a leisurely stroll along the Quai du Roussillon lit by softly glowing lanterns.
Catch an early tram to Parc de Miribel-Jonage and breathe in the fresh forest air along leafy trails. Rent a paddleboard at the Lac des Eaux Bleues and glide across the calm, reflective water. Keep an eye out for herons and common kingfishers skimming the surface.
Enjoy a picnic by the riverbank with charcuterie, local cheese and fresh baguette from Meyzieu’s market. Cycle the park’s dedicated bike lanes to explore hidden groves and secret viewpoints over the Rhône. Cool off with an ice cream from the park’s eco-kiosk perched on stilts above the marsh.
Return to town for dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant showcasing organic produce from the Dombes region. Sip a glass of local pétillant naturel alongside seasonal vegetable dishes. Top off the night with a walk under starlight toward the park entrance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕️Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚇Public transport ticket | $2-3 |
| 🍷Beer in a bar | $5-7 |
| 🛒Weekly groceries | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy access to Lyon's culture and cuisine
- Good balance between urban and natural experiences
- Strong public transport links to Lyon and beyond
- Quiet, family-friendly neighborhoods with markets
- Limited nightlife within Meyzieu itself
- Can require a short trip to Lyon for major sights and larger events
- Occasional weekend crowding around market days
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où sont les toilettes ?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
- "Pouvez-vous recommander un plat végétarien ?" - Can you recommend a vegetarian dish?
Places to Visit in Meyzieu
Visit one of these nice places.
Expansive water, open skies and tree-lined shorelines provide reflections and wide-angle landscape shots at golden hour.
Cobbled streets, colorful storefronts and weekly market scenes offer candid urban photography opportunities.
Across the river, Lyon’s historic architecture, narrow traboules and riverfront views provide dramatic cityscape photos.
Food in Meyzieu
Meyzieu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A signature Lyonnais dumpling made with pike fish, light and delicate, traditionally served with a rich blue Nantua sauce.
Must-Try!
A pork sausage with bold flavors; often grilled and served with mustard and potatoes in Lyonnais bouchons.
A hearty salad featuring frisée, bacon lardons, croutons and a poached egg, a staple of Lyonnais brasseries.
A fresh herbed cheese spread; perfect on warm bread or crackers as an apéritif or light starter.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering cheeses, charcuterie, breads, pastries and seasonal produce; a good place to observe daily life and pick up picnic supplies.
Iconic market in Lyon with a vast array of local meat, seafood, cheeses and produce; great for tasting regional ingredients.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say bonjour or bonsoir when entering shops or restaurants; use vous with strangers and elders unless invited to use tu.
Be polite with vendors, say thank you (merci) and be patient; avoid loud conversations inside small shops.
Safety
Tipping in Meyzieu
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charge is often included in restaurant bills; leaving a small extra tip (5-10%) for good service is common but not mandatory.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. ATMs are available in town centers and Lyon.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming parks; great time for outdoor markets and riverside walks. Pack light layers and a bottle of water for longer strolls.
Warm to hot days; take advantage of long daylight hours near the lake and parks. Stay hydrated and use sun protection; expect occasional thunderstorms.
Golden light and cooler temperatures make for beautiful photos along the lakes and hills. Bring a light jacket for early mornings and evenings.
Cool to cold with possible rain; indoor markets and Lyon's cultural sites provide warm alternatives. A waterproof layer is handy for short outdoor excursions.
Meyzieu at Night
Hiking in Meyzieu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of lakeside and woodland trails suitable for all levels.
Rolling hills with scenic overlooks and moderate hikes within a short drive.
Hiking in forest and vineyard landscapes with panoramic views of the Lyon basin.
Airports
How to reach Meyzieu by plane.
Main international gateway for the region, about 25-40 minutes by car or public transport from Meyzieu; frequent flights to Europe and beyond.
Regional airport with seasonal and domestic connections; typically a longer drive from Meyzieu.
Smaller airport with limited routes; useful for certain destinations and a reasonable drive from Meyzieu.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Suburban neighborhoods with schools and parks; a welcoming environment for children.
Commuters to Lyon who value easy access to the city and local services.
Diverse residents contributing to the multicultural texture of the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular among locals, with strong club culture in Lyon and nearby areas.
Renowned in the Lyon region; many cyclists ride along river paths and countryside roads.
Part of the broader regional sports scene with local clubs and regional competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Meyzieu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adapted; ask for vegetable-based quiches, salads without meat, and dairy-free options at most cafés and bouchons.