Things To Do
in Dardilly

Dardilly is a charming suburb located just northwest of Lyon, France, known for its picturesque landscapes and serene ambiance. Nestled in the Rhône department, it offers a perfect blend of urban convenience and rural tranquility. The area boasts a rich history, with remnants of ancient architecture and scenic parks to explore.

Dardilly is an ideal destination for those seeking to experience the French countryside while being close to the vibrant city life of Lyon.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Dardilly
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the Parc de la Mairie, enjoying its beautiful gardens and fountains. Grab a coffee and a pastry from a local boulangerie.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic Église Saint-Romain, a beautiful church showcasing local architecture. Following that, explore the local shops and boutiques for some unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional French restaurant, enjoying local specialties, followed by a peaceful walk along the banks of the River Brévenne.

day 2
Day 2: Exploring the Surroundings
morning
:

Head to the nearby Monts d'Or for a morning hike, taking in breathtaking views of the Lyon skyline and the Rhône Valley.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market at Place des Charpennes, sampling fresh produce and local cheeses. Enjoy lunch at a food truck offering regional dishes.

evening
:

End your day with cocktails at a local bar, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and mingling with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
Coffee$3
🥖Baguette$1
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$20
🍷Glass of wine$5
🏨Night in a hotel$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close proximity to Lyon's vibrant city life while enjoying a peaceful suburban atmosphere.
  • Rich cultural heritage and beautiful parks.
  • Delicious local cuisine and wine.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may not be as frequent.
  • Language barrier for non-French speakers can be challenging.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?
  • "L’addition, s’il vous plaît" - The bill, please
  • "Je suis perdu" - I am lost

Places to Visit in Dardilly

Visit one of these nice places.

Parc de la Mairie

A beautifully landscaped park providing stunning views and serene spots for capturing nature and local life.

Église Saint-Romain

A historic church with intricate architecture, making it a perfect backdrop for architectural photography.

Monts d'Or

The nearby mountain range offers panoramic views of the Lyon skyline, especially breathtaking at sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Dardilly

Dardilly offers a delightful culinary experience with its rich flavors and regional specialties that reflect the essence of French cuisine.

Dardilly Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Quenelle

A traditional Lyonnais dish made from a mixture of creamed fish or meat and served with a rich sauce.

Must-Try!

Tarte aux Pralines

A sweet tart made with pink pralines, a specialty of the region, providing a delicate balance of sweetness and crunch.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Place des Charpennes Market

A vibrant local market where you can find fresh produce, cheeses, and street food options from various vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Dardilly experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are mild and can be rainy, with average temperatures around 3-8°C. Spring (March to May) brings warmer temperatures, ranging from 10-20°C, and is characterized by blooming flora. Summers (June to August) are warm and can reach highs of 25-30°C, ideal for outdoor activities. Autumn (September to November) sees a gradual decrease in temperature, ranging from 10-20°C, with beautiful fall foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

Always greet with 'Bonjour' when entering shops or restaurants, as it shows respect.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal or raise a toast before eating; it's considered polite.

Dress Code

Dress well, especially in dining establishments; casual attire is acceptable, but locals often opt for smart casual.

Safety Guide

Safety

Dardilly is considered a safe area for visitors, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and being cautious in less crowded areas at night. Familiarizing yourself with emergency numbers and local services is also advised.

Tipping in Dardilly

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping in France is generally not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; however, it's advisable to have some cash for small vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is a lovely time to visit Dardilly, with blooming flowers and mild temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer can be warm, with temperatures rising, making it ideal for hiking and enjoying outdoor cafes, but also be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Autumn brings stunning foliage and cooler temperatures, making it a picturesque time to explore the parks and countryside.

Winter

Winter is generally mild, but can get chilly; it's a quieter time to visit, with holiday markets and festive decorations.

Nightlife Guide

Dardilly at Night

Dardilly's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to nearby Lyon but offers a few charming bars and cafes where you can enjoy a relaxed evening. Most establishments close by midnight, making it a perfect spot for those who prefer a quieter scene. Wine bars and bistros often have live music on weekends, creating a cozy atmosphere for enjoying regional wines and local delicacies.

Hiking in Dardilly

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Les Monts d'Or Trail

A scenic hiking trail in the Monts d'Or, offering various routes with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

Parc de l'Industrie

A local park with trails suitable for hiking, walking, and enjoying nature, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Dardilly by plane.

Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport

Located approximately 30 km from Dardilly, this international airport offers numerous domestic and international flights, making it a convenient entry point to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Dardilly is relatively walkable, with many amenities located within walking distance in the town center. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and parks provide pleasant walking routes. However, some areas may require a bit of walking between sites, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Dardilly is home to many families, attracted by its suburban atmosphere, good schools, and parks.

Retirees

The area also has a significant number of retirees seeking a peaceful environment with access to nearby urban amenities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely popular in Dardilly, with local clubs and youth leagues promoting community engagement and competition.

Cycling

Given the picturesque surroundings, cycling is a favored pastime, with trails available for both casual rides and competitive cycling.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Dardilly is generally light, especially compared to urban Lyon. Public transportation options include buses that connect to Lyon and other nearby areas, making it convenient for travelers. It is advisable to check the local transport schedules for the most efficient routes.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Dardilly.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to check the menu in advance.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are becoming more common, particularly in larger establishments; always inquire for specific dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Dardilly is good, with several clinics and pharmacies available. In case of emergencies, the nearest hospital is located in Lyon, which is easily accessible by public transport. Visitors are advised to have travel insurance that covers health services.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide