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Why Lyon Is the Perfect Base for a Beaujolais Day Trip
Lyon, often called the gastronomic capital of France, is also the ideal starting point for exploring the Beaujolais wine region. Just a 30-minute drive north, the rolling vineyards of Beaujolais produce some of the world’s most beloved wines, including Beaujolais Nouveau and Cru Beaujolais. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a casual traveler, staying in Lyon gives you access to world-class dining, historic sights, and easy day trips to the vineyards. But choosing the right hotel can make or break your experience. In this guide, we’ll explore the best hotels in Lyon for a day trip to Beaujolais, considering location, comfort, and convenience.
What to Look for in a Lyon Hotel for a Beaujolais Excursion
When selecting a hotel for a day trip to Beaujolais, prioritize proximity to train stations or major roads, as well as amenities like early breakfast and luggage storage. Many travelers prefer staying near Part-Dieu or Perrache stations for easy access to regional trains. Others opt for the Presqu’île district for its vibrant atmosphere and central location. Below, we break down the top hotels by category.
Luxury Hotels: Elegance and Convenience
If you’re looking to combine a wine tour with a touch of luxury, these hotels offer exceptional service and prime locations.
Villa Maïa
Perched on the Fourvière hill, Villa Maïa is a boutique hotel with panoramic views of Lyon. Its rooftop restaurant is perfect for a post-wine-tasting dinner. The hotel’s concierge can arrange private transfers to Beaujolais vineyards, making your day trip seamless. Rooms are spacious and soundproofed, ensuring a restful night after a day of wine tasting.
InterContinental Lyon – Hotel Dieu
Housed in a historic 18th-century building on the Presqu’île, this five-star hotel offers unparalleled elegance. Its central location means you’re steps from the metro and train stations. The hotel’s spa and gourmet restaurant provide a relaxing retreat. For Beaujolais day trippers, the hotel can organize guided tours with a sommelier.
Mid-Range Hotels: Value and Comfort
These hotels strike a balance between price and quality, ideal for travelers who want a comfortable base without breaking the bank.
Hôtel Carlton Lyon
Located near the Part-Dieu train station, this Belle Époque hotel offers classic charm and modern amenities. Its location makes it easy to catch a train to Villefranche-sur-Saône, the gateway to Beaujolais. The hotel’s breakfast buffet is generous, perfect for fueling up before a day of exploration.
Okko Hotels Lyon Pont Lafayette
This design-forward hotel features a free-flowing pantry and a rooftop terrace with views of the Rhône. It’s a short walk from the city center and close to the metro. The hotel offers bike rentals, allowing you to cycle to the train station or explore Lyon’s riverside paths before your Beaujolais trip.
Budget Hotels: Affordable and Practical
For budget-conscious travelers, these options provide clean, comfortable rooms near transport hubs.
Ibis Lyon Centre Perrache
Located right next to Perrache station, this hotel is a top choice for early morning departures. Rooms are compact but well-equipped, and the 24-hour reception allows flexible check-in. The hotel’s location also puts you in the heart of the vibrant Perrache district, with plenty of affordable eateries.
Hôtel des Savoie
A family-run hotel near Part-Dieu station, offering simple rooms at a great price. The owners are known for their hospitality and can provide tips for visiting Beaujolais. The hotel does not have a restaurant, but there are many nearby options.
Comparison Table: Top Hotels for Beaujolais Day Trips
| Hotel | Category | Location | Beaujolais Access | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Villa Maïa | Luxury | Fourvière | Concierge can arrange private car | €€€ |
| InterContinental Lyon | Luxury | Presqu’île | Metro to Part-Dieu; guided tours available | €€€ |
| Hôtel Carlton Lyon | Mid-range | Part-Dieu | Walking distance to train station | €€ |
| Okko Hotels Lyon | Mid-range | Presqu’île | Metro to Part-Dieu; bike rentals | €€ |
| Ibis Lyon Perrache | Budget | Perrache | Adjacent to train station | € |
| Hôtel des Savoie | Budget | Part-Dieu | Near train station | € |
How to Plan Your Day Trip from Lyon to Beaujolais
A well-planned day trip maximizes your time in the vineyards. Here’s a step-by-step checklist to ensure a smooth experience.
Step 1: Choose Your Transport
- Train: The fastest option. From Lyon Part-Dieu or Perrache, take a TER train to Villefranche-sur-Saône (25 minutes), then connect to a local bus or taxi to the vineyards. Alternatively, some trains stop at Belleville or Saint-Georges-de-Reneins.
- Car rental: Renting a car gives you flexibility to visit multiple domaines. Many hotels offer parking, but check in advance. Book early, especially during harvest season.
- Organized tour: Many hotels can arrange private or small-group tours that include transportation and wine tastings. This is the most hassle-free option.
Step 2: Select Your Wineries
Beaujolais has 12 crus (named villages) like Morgon, Fleurie, and Brouilly. For a day trip, focus on one or two areas. Popular choices include:
- Morgon: Known for structured, age-worthy wines. Visit Château de Bellevue or Domaine Jean-Marc Burgaud.
- Fleurie: Produces elegant, floral wines. Domaine des Quatre Vents is a must.
- Brouilly: The largest cru, with lighter wines. Château de La Chaize offers stunning grounds.
Step 3: Book Ahead
Many wineries require reservations, especially for tastings. Call or email a few days before. If you’re visiting in November for Beaujolais Nouveau, book hotels and tours months in advance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Booking a Hotel for a Beaujolais Day Trip
- Choosing a hotel too far from the station: If you’re relying on trains, pick a hotel within walking distance of Part-Dieu or Perrache. Otherwise, you’ll waste time commuting.
- Ignoring breakfast hours: Some hotels serve breakfast from 7 AM, but if your train leaves earlier, ask for a packed breakfast or choose a hotel with 24-hour service.
- Not checking parking availability: If you’re driving, ensure your hotel has secure parking. Many central hotels charge extra or have limited spaces.
- Overlooking luggage storage: If you have a late flight after your day trip, see if your hotel offers luggage storage. Most do, but confirm.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best train station in Lyon for going to Beaujolais?
Lyon Part-Dieu is the main station with frequent TER trains to Villefranche-sur-Saône, the gateway to Beaujolais. Lyon Perrache also has some services, but Part-Dieu is more convenient.
Can I visit Beaujolais without a car?
Yes, by train or organized tour. From Villefranche, local buses and taxis can take you to wineries, but it’s easier to join a guided tour that includes transportation.
What is the best time of year for a Beaujolais day trip?
Spring (April-June) and early autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather and beautiful vineyard colors. November is famous for Beaujolais Nouveau, but expect crowds.
How much time should I allocate for a day trip?
Plan for at least 6-8 hours, including travel time. Leave Lyon by 8 AM and return by 6 PM to enjoy dinner in the city.
Are there hotels in Beaujolais itself?
Yes, but staying in Lyon offers more dining and entertainment options. If you prefer a countryside stay, consider Château de Bagnols or Domaine de la Serve in Beaujolais.
Do Lyon hotels offer wine tour packages?
Many luxury and mid-range hotels can arrange private tours. Check with the concierge in advance. Some hotels partner with local tour operators for exclusive experiences.
Final Recommendations for Your Stay
Choosing the best hotel in Lyon for a day trip to Beaujolais depends on your budget and preferences. For a luxurious experience with personalized service, Villa Maïa or InterContinental Lyon are top picks. If you value convenience and affordability, Hôtel Carlton Lyon or Ibis Lyon Perrache are excellent choices. Remember to book early during peak seasons and plan your transport ahead. With the right hotel, your Beaujolais adventure will be unforgettable. Cheers!
Photo by scronfinixio on Pixabay
I’m on a tight budget. Are there any cheap hotels near the train station that you’d recommend for a Beaujolais day trip?
For budget options, consider hotels near Part-Dieu like ibis Lyon Part-Dieu or Campanile Lyon Centre – Part-Dieu. They are affordable, practical, and close to the station. While not listed in the article, they offer good value for a day trip base.
Do any of these hotels offer early breakfast for early morning departures? I want to catch the first train to the vineyards.
Yes, Hôtel Carlton Lyon offers a generous breakfast buffet that starts early. Villa Maïa can also arrange early breakfast upon request. It’s best to confirm directly with the hotel when booking.
Great article! I’m planning a day trip to Beaujolais from Lyon. Which hotel would you recommend for easy access to the train station? I’ll be traveling solo and want something convenient.
Thanks! For train station access, Hôtel Carlton Lyon near Part-Dieu is a solid choice. It’s right next to the station, offers a hearty breakfast, and has classic charm. Alternatively, Okko Hotels near Pont Lafayette is a short walk from the metro and also convenient.
I’m torn between Villa Maïa and InterContinental Lyon – Hotel Dieu. Which one is better for a wine tour? I like luxury but also want a central location.
Both are excellent. Villa Maïa offers a more boutique experience with a rooftop restaurant and can arrange private transfers to vineyards. InterContinental is more centrally located on Presqu’île, with easy metro access and guided tours with a sommelier. If you prefer a quieter hilltop setting with panoramic views, go with Villa Maïa; if you want to be in the heart of the city, choose InterContinental.