Table des matières:
Why Lyon Is a Top Destination for Digital Nomads
Lyon, France’s gastronomic capital, is rapidly becoming a hub for remote workers. With its affordable cost of living compared to Paris, excellent public transport, and thriving tech scene, it’s no wonder digital nomads are flocking here. But finding a hotel with reliable Wi-Fi, comfortable workspaces, and a productive environment can be tricky. This guide cuts through the noise to present the best hotels in Lyon for digital nomads, focusing on connectivity, comfort, and coworking facilities.
What to Look for in a Digital Nomad Hotel in Lyon
Not all hotels are created equal for remote work. Before diving into our top picks, here’s a checklist of features that matter most:
- High-speed Wi-Fi: At least 50 Mbps download speed, preferably with a dedicated business network.
- Work-friendly room: A desk with ergonomic chair, ample power outlets, and good lighting.
- Coworking space or lounge: A quiet area with communal tables, coffee, and printing facilities.
- Location: Near public transport, cafes, and co-working spaces for variety.
- Long-stay discounts: Weekly or monthly rates for extended stays.
- Kitchenette or breakfast: To save time and money on meals.
- Gym or wellness: To balance work and health.
Best Hotels in Lyon for Digital Nomads: Our Top Picks
We’ve evaluated dozens of hotels based on remote work amenities, guest reviews, and location. Here are the best options.
1. Hôtel Carlton Lyon – MGallery
Located in the heart of Presqu’île, this 4-star hotel combines classic elegance with modern connectivity. The business center offers free high-speed Wi-Fi, and rooms feature spacious desks with ergonomic chairs. The hotel’s lounge area is perfect for informal meetings. Guest reviews consistently praise the reliable internet and quiet rooms. Nearby, you’ll find numerous cafes and the Part-Dieu business district.
2. OKKO Hotels Lyon Pont Lafayette
OKKO Hotels are designed with remote workers in mind. The coworking area is open 24/7, with complimentary coffee, tea, and snacks. Each room includes a large desk, fast Wi-Fi, and soundproofing. The hotel also offers a fitness room and a sauna, ideal for unwinding after a workday. Located near the Rhône river, it’s a short walk to the city center. Long-stay rates are available.
3. Mama Shelter Lyon
Mama Shelter is a favorite among creatives and digital nomads. The lobby doubles as a coworking space with eclectic decor, power outlets everywhere, and free Wi-Fi. Rooms are compact but functional, with a desk area and smart TV for presentations. The rooftop bar and restaurant are great for networking. Located in the 7th arrondissement, it’s close to the Jean Macé train station and many startups.
4. Hôtel Le Royal Lyon – MGallery
This historic hotel on Place Bellecour offers a business center, meeting rooms, and a quiet library lounge. The rooms are soundproofed with dedicated work areas. Wi-Fi is fast and free for all guests. The central location puts you steps away from the best cafes and restaurants in Lyon. Perfect for digital nomads who want a touch of luxury while working.
5. Novotel Lyon Confluence
Located in the modern Confluence district, this hotel is ideal for nomads who prefer a contemporary vibe. The coworking space is well-equipped with printers and meeting pods. Rooms have a separate work area with ergonomic seating. The hotel also features a fitness center and a pool. The nearby shopping center and tram stop make errands easy. Long-stay packages are available.
6. Hôtel des Savoies
A budget-friendly option in the 6th arrondissement, close to the Part-Dieu business district. The rooms are basic but include a desk and free Wi-Fi. The hotel has a small business corner with a computer and printer. While not as flashy as other options, it offers great value for nomads on a tight budget. The surrounding area is full of affordable eateries.
Comparison Table: Key Features at a Glance
| Hotel | Wi-Fi Speed | Coworking Space | Desk in Room | Long-Stay Discount | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hôtel Carlton Lyon | High (100 Mbps) | Business center | Yes | Yes | €€€ |
| OKKO Hotels | Very high (200 Mbps) | 24/7 coworking | Yes | Yes | €€ |
| Mama Shelter | High (100 Mbps) | Lobby coworking | Yes | No | €€ |
| Hôtel Le Royal | High (80 Mbps) | Business center | Yes | Yes | €€€ |
| Novotel Confluence | High (100 Mbps) | Dedicated coworking | Yes | Yes | €€ |
| Hôtel des Savoies | Moderate (50 Mbps) | Business corner | Yes | No | € |
Neighborhood Guide: Where to Stay in Lyon for Remote Work
Your choice of neighborhood can impact productivity and lifestyle. Here’s a breakdown of the best areas for digital nomads.
Presqu’île (1st & 2nd Arrondissements)
The historic center between the Rhône and Saône rivers. Packed with cafes, coworking spaces like La Cordée, and public libraries with free Wi-Fi. Hotels here are central but can be noisy. Look for soundproofed rooms.
Part-Dieu (3rd Arrondissement)
Lyon’s business district, home to the largest train station and many corporate offices. Ideal for nomads who need proximity to business facilities. Hotels here often have better long-stay rates.
Confluence (2nd Arrondissement South)
A modern, eco-friendly neighborhood with new hotels and coworking spaces. Quieter than the center, with plenty of green spaces. Good for focused work.
Brotteaux (6th Arrondissement)
An upscale residential area near the Tête d’Or park. Offers a calm environment with easy access to the city center. Many hotels here cater to business travelers.
Common Mistakes Digital Nomads Make When Booking Hotels in Lyon
- Ignoring Wi-Fi reviews: Always check recent guest comments about internet speed. A hotel may advertise ‘free Wi-Fi’ but it could be slow.
- Choosing a room without a desk: Working from a bed or lap desk is uncomfortable long-term. Ensure the room has a proper desk.
- Overlooking noise levels: Central hotels can be loud. Request a room facing the courtyard or higher floor.
- Not asking about long-stay discounts: Many hotels offer reduced rates for stays of a week or more, but you have to ask.
- Forgetting backup internet: Even the best hotels can have outages. Have a local SIM card or portable hotspot as backup.
Alternatives to Hotels: Coworking-Friendly Accommodations
If you prefer a more social environment, consider these options:
- Hostels: Like Hostel Lyon Les Pentes which offers coworking spaces and events.
- Serviced Apartments: Companies like Appart’City and Residhome provide apartment-style living with workspaces.
- Coliving Spaces: Urban Campus in Confluence offers coliving with coworking included.
Practical Tips for Working from a Hotel in Lyon
- Test the Wi-Fi immediately: Upon check-in, run a speed test. If it’s below 20 Mbps, ask for a solution.
- Use the hotel’s business center: For important calls, use meeting rooms or quiet zones.
- Explore local coworking spaces: Many hotels offer day passes to nearby spaces like La Plage Digitale or Rocket.
- Take advantage of breakfast: A good breakfast saves time and money. Hotels like OKKO include it in the rate.
- Join hotel events: Some hotels host networking events for guests. Mama Shelter often has themed nights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there hotels in Lyon with coworking spaces included?
Yes, several hotels like OKKO Hotels and Novotel Confluence have dedicated coworking areas with printers, coffee, and meeting rooms. Mama Shelter’s lobby is also designed for work.
What is the average cost of a digital nomad-friendly hotel in Lyon?
Prices vary by season. Budget options start around €70 per night, mid-range €100-150, and luxury €200+. Long-stay discounts can reduce costs by 20-30%.
Can I find hotels with monthly rates in Lyon?
Yes, many hotels offer monthly rates, especially in the Part-Dieu area. Contact the hotel directly to negotiate. Serviced apartments are also a good alternative.
How reliable is hotel Wi-Fi in Lyon for video calls?
In our recommended hotels, Wi-Fi is generally reliable for video calls. However, always check recent reviews. Some hotels offer a dedicated ‘business’ network for better performance.
Which Lyon hotel is best for digital nomads on a budget?
Hôtel des Savoies offers the best value with basic amenities and a central location. Hostels like Hostel Lyon Les Pentes are even cheaper but with shared spaces.
What is the best area in Lyon for remote work?
Presqu’île is best for access to cafes and coworking spaces, while Part-Dieu is ideal for business travelers. Confluence offers a modern, quiet environment.
Your Next Steps: Booking the Perfect Hotel for Your Remote Work Stay
Now that you know the best hotels in Lyon for digital nomads, it’s time to book. Use this checklist before confirming:
- Check recent Wi-Fi speed tests on review sites.
- Confirm the room has a desk and adequate outlets.
- Ask about long-stay discounts if staying more than 5 nights.
- Choose a location that matches your work style (quiet vs. social).
- Book directly with the hotel for better rates and flexibility.
Lyon is a fantastic city for remote work, with its rich culture, excellent food, and growing digital infrastructure. Pick the right hotel, and you’ll have a productive and enjoyable stay. Bon voyage et bon travail!
Photo by Jens Freudenau on Unsplash
I need a hotel with a proper desk and good lighting. Which of these has the best room setup for working?
For a dedicated workspace, Hôtel Carlton Lyon and OKKO Hotels both feature spacious desks with ergonomic chairs and good lighting. The Carlton’s rooms are particularly noted for their quiet environment, ideal for focused work.
Great list! I’m planning a month-long stay in Lyon. Do any of these hotels offer monthly discounts or long-stay rates?
Yes, several hotels offer long-stay rates. OKKO Hotels Lyon Pont Lafayette explicitly advertises weekly and monthly discounts. It’s always best to contact the hotel directly to negotiate a custom rate for extended stays.
I appreciate the focus on coworking spaces. Do any of these hotels have printing facilities?
Yes, Hôtel Carlton Lyon and Hôtel Le Royal Lyon both have business centers with printing facilities. OKKO Hotels also offers printing services at the 24/7 coworking area. For quick needs, the front desk can often help.
Is the Wi-Fi at Mama Shelter reliable for video calls? I’ve had issues in some hotels with shared networks.
Mama Shelter provides free Wi-Fi throughout, and many guests report it’s sufficient for video calls. However, if you need guaranteed high speed, consider OKKO Hotels or Hôtel Le Royal Lyon, which have dedicated business networks.