Things To Do
in Décines-Charpieu

Décines-Charpieu is a charming suburb located just east of Lyon, France, known for its blend of urban and natural environments. It features beautiful parks, a strong community spirit, and convenient access to the vibrant city of Lyon. The town is also home to the Groupama Stadium, where the local football team plays, attracting sports fans from all over.

With its rich cultural offerings and proximity to the Rhône River, Décines-Charpieu is an inviting destination for visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Décines-Charpieu
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Parc de la Tête d'Or in Lyon, then head back to Décines-Charpieu for a leisurely brunch at a local café.

afternoon
:

Explore the historical sites of Décines-Charpieu, including the Church of Saint-Maurice and the local market for unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional French restaurant and take a relaxing stroll through the town center to soak in the evening ambience.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin the day with a hiking adventure in the nearby Parc de Miribel-Jonage, where you can enjoy scenic views and fresh air.

afternoon
:

Visit the local food market to taste regional specialties and buy fresh produce, followed by a visit to the Groupama Stadium for a guided tour.

evening
:

Dine at a trendy bistro and experience the vibrant nightlife in the area, perhaps catching a live music show or local event.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20
Coffee$3
🏨Hotel night$100
🚆Public transport ticket$2
🍺Beer at a bar$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close proximity to Lyon for cultural experiences.
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor activities.
  • Rich local culinary scene.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may be infrequent at times.
  • Less English spoken in smaller establishments.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "Où sont les toilettes?" - Where are the restrooms?
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Je ne comprends pas" - I do not understand

Places to Visit in Décines-Charpieu

Visit one of these nice places.

Parc de la Tête d'Or

A stunning urban park in Lyon, perfect for capturing beautiful landscapes, flowers, and the serene lake.

Groupama Stadium

A modern football stadium that offers striking architecture and exciting scenes during match days.

Church of Saint-Maurice

An elegant church with beautiful architecture, ideal for capturing local culture and history.

Culinary Guide

Food in Décines-Charpieu

Décines-Charpieu offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional French cuisine and local specialties.

Décines-Charpieu Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Quenelle

A classic dish from the Lyon region, made with pike fish and often served in a creamy sauce.

Must-Try!

Boudin Noir

A type of blood sausage that is popular in the region, usually served with apples or in a hearty stew.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché de Décines

A vibrant local market held weekly, offering fresh produce, cheeses, and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Décines-Charpieu experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with averages around 25-30°C (77-86°F), while winters can be chilly, averaging 0-5°C (32-41°F). Spring and autumn provide mild temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is spread throughout the year, with slightly wetter months in late spring and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting with a Smile

Always greet shopkeepers and locals with a friendly 'Bonjour' when entering shops or restaurants.

Dining Manners

Keep hands on the table (not in your lap) during meals, and avoid starting to eat before the host.

Respecting Quiet Hours

Be mindful of noise levels, especially in residential areas, particularly during late evening hours.

Safety Guide

Safety

Décines-Charpieu is generally a safe area, but visitors should take standard precautions. It’s advisable to avoid poorly lit streets at night and secure personal belongings in crowded places. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and local hospitals and clinics are readily available for healthcare needs.

Tipping in Décines-Charpieu

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

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

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild weather and blooming flowers, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities and picnics.

Summer

Summer can be warm, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F). It’s great for enjoying the parks and outdoor festivals.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures, ideal for hiking and exploring the local markets.

Winter

Winter can be cold and rainy, but the festive atmosphere and holiday markets provide a cozy experience.

Nightlife Guide

Décines-Charpieu at Night

Décines-Charpieu features a lively nightlife scene with various bars, bistros, and occasional live music events. While the town is quieter than Lyon, visitors can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere in local pubs, where live sports and music often draw crowds, especially during football season. The nearby city of Lyon offers more extensive nightlife options, including nightclubs and late-night dining.

Hiking in Décines-Charpieu

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentier des Bords de l'Eau

A scenic trail along the banks of the Rhône River, perfect for leisurely hikes and enjoying the natural surroundings.

Monts d'Or Trails

Located a short drive away, these trails offer more challenging hikes with stunning views of the Lyon metropolis.

Airports

How to reach Décines-Charpieu by plane.

Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport

Located approximately 15 km from Décines-Charpieu, this international airport offers connections to numerous destinations worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Décines-Charpieu is quite walkable, particularly in the town center where amenities are clustered. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and many attractions, cafes, and shops are within walking distance. For those wishing to explore further, public transportation is readily available to connect to nearby areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Many young families are drawn to Décines-Charpieu for its parks, schools, and community amenities.

Working Professionals

A significant number of working professionals live in Décines-Charpieu, commuting to Lyon for employment.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in the region, with local team Olympique Lyonnais playing in the top tier of French football.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored activity due to the numerous paths along the Rhône River and surrounding parks.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Décines-Charpieu is generally manageable, though rush hours can see increased congestion, particularly near the main roads leading to Lyon. Public transportation options include buses and trams, providing convenient access to Lyon and the surrounding areas. Cycling is also a popular choice, given the town's bike-friendly paths.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Décines-Charpieu.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Décines-Charpieu offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to check with the staff.

Gluten-Free Options

Some eateries provide gluten-free options, but availability may vary, so it's advisable to inquire ahead.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Décines-Charpieu are accessible with several local clinics and hospitals nearby. The healthcare system in France is known for its quality, and emergency services can be reached via 112. Visitors are encouraged to have travel insurance that covers health care while abroad.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide