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Finding the Perfect Hostel in Lyon: A Practical Guide
Lyon, France’s gastronomic capital, is a city of vibrant neighborhoods, Roman ruins, and world-class museums. For budget-conscious travelers, choosing the right hostel can make or break the experience. Whether you’re a solo backpacker, a group of friends, or a digital nomad, this guide covers the best hostels in Lyon based on location, atmosphere, cleanliness, and value. We’ve analyzed reviews, amenities, and insider tips to help you book with confidence.
Top-Rated Hostels in Lyon
1. Hostel 7 – Best for Social Travelers
Location: 7 Rue de la Baleine, 69005 Lyon (Vieux Lyon)
Atmosphere: Lively, modern, with a bar and common area
Price range: €25–€40 per night
Hostel 7 is consistently praised for its friendly staff, clean rooms, and central location in Vieux Lyon. The on-site bar and organized events (wine tastings, walking tours) make it easy to meet people. Dorms are spacious with privacy curtains and individual lockers. The free breakfast includes fresh croissants and coffee. Perfect for solo travelers who want a social vibe without sacrificing comfort.
2. Slo Living Hostel – Best for Design & Comfort
Location: 5 Rue de la Charité, 69002 Lyon (Presqu’île)
Atmosphere: Trendy, artistic, with a co-working space
Price range: €30–€50 per night
Slo Living combines hostel affordability with boutique hotel style. The interior is filled with local art, and the rooftop terrace offers stunning views of the city. Dorms feature memory foam mattresses and reading lights. The hostel also has a café and a co-working area, ideal for digital nomads. It’s a short walk to Place Bellecour and the main shopping streets.
3. Away Hostel & Coffee Shop – Best for Quiet & Quality Sleep
Location: 21 Rue de la Baleine, 69005 Lyon (Vieux Lyon)
Atmosphere: Relaxed, intimate, with a café
Price range: €28–€45 per night
Away Hostel focuses on a calm environment and high-quality sleep. Each bed has a thick mattress, privacy curtain, and personal outlet. The ground-floor coffee shop serves specialty coffee and homemade pastries. The hostel is smaller than others, so it’s easier to find peace. Great for travelers who want a good night’s rest after exploring.
4. Hôtel des Savoie – Budget Option with Private Rooms
Location: 24 Rue de la Baleine, 69005 Lyon (Vieux Lyon)
Atmosphere: Simple, no-frills, mixed dorms and privates
Price range: €20–€35 per night
If you’re on a tight budget, Hôtel des Savoie offers the cheapest dorms in the city. It’s basic but clean, with a central location. The private rooms are a good value for couples or small groups. Note that there’s no common area or breakfast, but you’re steps away from cafés and bakeries.
5. Cosmo Hostel – Best for Party & Nightlife
Location: 3 Rue de la Baleine, 69005 Lyon (Vieux Lyon)
Atmosphere: Energetic, bar crawls, live music
Price range: €25–€38 per night
Cosmo Hostel is the place for night owls. It organizes nightly bar crawls and has a lively bar on-site. The dorms are basic but functional, with lockers and reading lights. If you want to experience Lyon’s nightlife and meet party-minded travelers, this is your spot. Not recommended for light sleepers.
How to Choose the Best Hostel in Lyon for Your Trip
Consider these factors before booking:
- Location: Vieux Lyon (Old Town) is historic and close to attractions; Presqu’île is central for shopping and dining; Croix-Rousse offers a local, artistic vibe.
- Atmosphere: Do you want social events and parties (Hostel 7, Cosmo) or quiet and comfort (Away, Slo Living)?
- Amenities: Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, lockers, laundry, and kitchen access can save money and add convenience.
- Price: Dorms range from €20 to €50; private rooms from €50 to €100. Book early for best rates.
- Reviews: Check recent reviews on Hostelworld or Google for cleanliness, staff friendliness, and safety.
Comparison Table: Best Hostels in Lyon
| Hostel | Location | Vibe | Price (dorm) | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hostel 7 | Vieux Lyon | Social | €25–€40 | Solo travelers, groups |
| Slo Living | Presqu’île | Trendy | €30–€50 | Digital nomads, design lovers |
| Away Hostel | Vieux Lyon | Quiet | €28–€45 | Light sleepers, couples |
| Hôtel des Savoie | Vieux Lyon | Basic | €20–€35 | Budget travelers |
| Cosmo Hostel | Vieux Lyon | Party | €25–€38 | Nightlife enthusiasts |
Neighborhood Guide: Where to Stay in Lyon
Vieux Lyon (Old Town)
This UNESCO-listed district is packed with Renaissance architecture, traboules (hidden passageways), and bouchons (traditional restaurants). Most hostels are concentrated here. You’ll be close to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière and the Saône River. Perfect for sightseeing on foot.
Presqu’île
The peninsula between the Rhône and Saône rivers is the commercial heart. Place Bellecour, Rue de la République, and the Opera House are here. Hostels like Slo Living offer easy access to shopping, dining, and public transport. It’s a bit more upscale but still affordable.
Croix-Rousse
Known as the “hill that works,” this former silk-weaving district has a bohemian atmosphere. Fewer hostels, but some private rentals and budget hotels. Great for those who want a local, artistic experience away from tourist crowds.
Practical Tips for Booking a Hostel in Lyon
- Book in advance during peak seasons (spring and fall) and during major events like the Fête des Lumières (December). Prices can double.
- Check cancellation policies – some offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before, others are non-refundable.
- Use hostel booking sites like Hostelworld or Booking.com, but also check the hostel’s own website for direct booking discounts.
- Read recent reviews for cleanliness and noise levels. A hostel that was great two years ago may have changed management.
- Consider luggage storage if you arrive early or leave late. Most hostels offer it for a small fee.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Booking the cheapest without checking location: A hostel far from the center may cost more in transport and time.
- Ignoring the atmosphere: If you want to sleep early, don’t book a party hostel.
- Not reading the fine print: Some hostels charge extra for towels, breakfast, or late check-in.
- Forgetting to bring a lock: Most lockers require your own padlock.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hostels in Lyon
Are hostels in Lyon safe?
Yes, most hostels in Lyon are safe, especially those in Vieux Lyon and Presqu’île. They have 24-hour reception, key card access, and lockers. Use common sense and keep valuables secure.
What is the average price for a dorm bed in Lyon?
Dorm beds range from €20 to €50 per night, depending on the season and amenities. Private rooms cost €50 to €100.
Do hostels in Lyon offer free breakfast?
Some do, like Hostel 7 and Away Hostel. Others may offer a paid breakfast or have a kitchen for self-catering. Check before booking.
Which hostel is best for solo travelers?
Hostel 7 and Slo Living are highly recommended for solo travelers due to their social atmosphere and organized activities.
Can I work remotely from a hostel in Lyon?
Yes, Slo Living has a dedicated co-working space. Hostel 7 and Away Hostel also have good Wi-Fi and common areas suitable for working.
What is the best area to stay in Lyon for first-timers?
Vieux Lyon is ideal for first-time visitors because of its central location, historic charm, and proximity to major attractions.
Final Recommendations for Your Lyon Hostel Stay
To summarize, the best hostel in Lyon depends on your travel style. For a social experience with events and a bar, choose Hostel 7. If you prefer design, comfort, and a co-working space, Slo Living is unmatched. For quiet nights and quality sleep, Away Hostel is your best bet. Budget travelers can rely on Hôtel des Savoie, while party-goers will love Cosmo Hostel.
No matter which you choose, Lyon’s hostels offer a fantastic base to explore this beautiful city. Book early, pack a lock, and get ready for an unforgettable trip to the capital of Gaul!
Photo by WASSIM AHMED on Pexels
Thanks for the tips! I’m a digital nomad and Slo Living Hostel sounds perfect. Does the co-working space have reliable WiFi and power outlets?
Yes, Slo Living Hostel has reliable WiFi and plenty of power outlets in the co-working area. The rooftop terrace also has good connectivity. It’s a popular choice among digital nomads.
Great list! Are there any hostels near the Part-Dieu train station? I have an early train.
Most of the top hostels are in Vieux Lyon or Presqu’île, not directly at Part-Dieu. However, the metro connects quickly. Slo Living Hostel is about a 15-minute metro ride from Part-Dieu. For proximity, you might check Ibis Budget, though it’s not a hostel.
I’m a solo traveler looking for a social atmosphere. Between Hostel 7 and Cosmo Hostel, which would you recommend for someone who wants to meet people but also get some sleep?
Hostel 7 is a better balance for you. It has a lively bar and events but quiet hours are respected. Cosmo Hostel is more party-focused, so sleep can be harder to come by.
I’m traveling with a friend and we’d like a private room but on a budget. The Hôtel des Savoie private rooms look good. Are they clean and safe?
Yes, Hôtel des Savoie private rooms are clean and safe, though basic. They offer good value for the price. Just note there’s no common area or breakfast, but you’re in a central area with many cafés.