Erasmus in Lyon

Information and tips for Erasmus students in Lyon

Are you wondering why to choose an Erasmus in Lyon? Many international students choose Lyon for an exchange or to study in. This city can be the perfect destination to study for a year, as it’s not an excessively big city but it has everything you might need. It will also give you the opportunity to make friends from all over the world, a must when you go on Erasmus!

Cost of living in Lyon, France

The cost of living in Lyon is cheaper than in larger cities such as Paris. The biggest expense you'll have is the rent. Since Lyon is a very popular destination, with a large number of students arriving each year, you should start looking early to find good accommodation.

Exchange students often choose to rent a room in a shared flat, as you usually have more freedom than if you live in a residence. A student in Lyon can spend around €800 per month, but this varies depending on the type of accommodation and your weekly expenses (food, leisure, partying, travel, etc).

Student life, Erasmus parties and leisure in Lyon

Lyon is a popular destination for Erasmus students, ensuring a lively student atmosphere all year round. Nightlife is in the Vieux Lyon area; there are a variety of bars and nightclubs. However, there are also clubs and bars all over the city.

Some of the most popular places for Erasmus students are Le Sucre, a club with electronic music and a spectacular terrace, and Ninkasi, an iconic Lyon bar with craft beer and live concerts, or KBOX Karaoké.

If you're looking for quieter plans, Lyon has many parks and riversides where you can relax, such as the Parc de la Tête d'Or, ideal for sports or a walk in the open air. There are also student associations which organise events, trips and cultural activities - join them to meet people as soon as you arrive in town!

Culture and gastronomy in Lyon, France

When it comes to culture, Lyon has an impressive historic heritage. You can't miss the old town of Vieux Lyon, the Roman theatre of Fourvière and the Croix-Rousse neighbourhood. In addition, Lyon has important museums, like the Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon) and the Museum of Natural History (Musée des Confluences).

Lyon is considered the gastronomic capital of France, so food plays a key role in the Erasmus experience. You can't miss typical dishes such as:

• 'Quenelle': a type of fish or meat dough with a soft texture and sauce.
• 'Salade Lyonnaise': salad with lettuce, poached eggs, bacon and croutons.
• 'Cervelle de Canut': fresh cheese with garlic, chives and spices.
• 'Bugnes': fried sweet dusted with icing sugar, perfect with coffee.

You can try some of these dishes at places like Le Laurencin, Betty's Bar and Café Bouillet.

Advantages and disadvantages of doing Erasmus in Lyon.

Advantages

• Discover one of the most culturally and historically rich cities in France, with many artistic and literary references.
• Learn or improve your French! It’s surely a language that will be very useful both personally and professionally.
• Taste the delicious local dishes, such as the delicious 'Bugnes'.
• Lyon is not as big as Paris, but you'll find everything you need and a lively international atmosphere.
• It’s located in the centre of Europe, which makes it easy to visit other French cities or even nearby countries such as Switzerland or Italy.

Disadvantages

• Accommodation can be difficult to find if you don't look in advance.
• Winter weather can be rainy and cold.
• Nightlife is lively, but not as intense as in cities like Paris.
• Some French people may be cold with foreigners if you don't speak French.

Cheap student accommodation in Lyon, France

Do you need accommodation in Lyon and don't know how to find it? At Erasmus Play we compare the best student flats, rooms and residences in Lyon for you.

FAQ about doing Erasmus in Lyon

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