Things To Do
in Écully

Écully is a picturesque commune in the Metropolis of Lyon, France, known for its beautiful landscapes and rich culinary heritage. Nestled in the hills just west of Lyon, it boasts a blend of urban and rural charm, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and exploration. The town is renowned for its prestigious culinary schools, particularly the Institut Paul Bocuse, attracting aspiring chefs from around the world.

With its lush parks, historic architecture, and vibrant local culture, Écully offers a delightful experience for visitors.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Écully
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Parc de la Villa Bellerive, where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll amidst beautiful gardens and scenic views.

afternoon
:

Explore the local markets, such as the Marché de la Place, where you can sample fresh produce and regional specialties.

evening
:

Dine at a local bistro, La Table de l'Écu, known for its traditional Lyonnaise cuisine.

day 2
Day 2: Culinary and Cultural Delights
morning
:

Take a cooking class at the Institut Paul Bocuse to learn about French culinary techniques and local ingredients.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic Église Saint-Pierre, a beautiful church showcasing Romanesque architecture, followed by a coffee at a nearby café.

evening
:

Enjoy a wine tasting experience at a local vineyard, sampling some of the best wines from the Rhône region.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20
Coffee$3
🍷Glass of local wine$5
🚆Public transport ticket$2
🏨Night in a hotel$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich culinary experiences and local gastronomy.
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces for relaxation.
  • Proximity to Lyon for additional cultural and nightlife options.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to bigger cities.
  • Public transport can be less frequent than in urban areas.
  • Some attractions may require transportation to reach.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "Où est le restaurant?" - Where is the restaurant?
  • "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
  • "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Écully

Visit one of these nice places.

Parc de la Villa Bellerive

A scenic park with beautiful landscapes, perfect for capturing nature photography and peaceful moments.

Église Saint-Pierre

This historic church features stunning architecture, making it a great backdrop for architectural photography.

Vineyards of Écully

The surrounding vineyards offer breathtaking views, especially during sunset, ideal for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Écully

Écully is a gastronomic haven that offers a delightful range of local dishes, reflecting the rich culinary traditions of the Lyon region.

Écully Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Quenelle de Brochet

A delicate fish dumpling made from pike, served in a creamy sauce, often accompanied by rice.

Must-Try!

Saucisson de Lyon

A traditional Lyon sausage, typically made from pork and flavored with spices, perfect for charcuterie boards.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché de la Place

A vibrant local market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and local specialties every Saturday.

Climate Guide

Weather

Écully experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold, with temperatures averaging around 0-5°C (32-41°F). Summers can be warm, with highs reaching 25-30°C (77-86°F). Spring and autumn are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

Always greet with 'Bonjour' when entering shops or restaurants, as it is considered polite.

Dining Etiquette

When dining, keep your hands on the table (but not elbows) and wait for everyone to be served before starting your meal.

Dress Code

Dress stylishly when dining out, as the French value appearance and presentation.

Safety Guide

Safety

Écully is considered a safe destination for travelers. Basic precautions are advised, such as avoiding unlit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Écully

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping in France is generally not obligatory, as service is included in the bill. However, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring in Écully brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring parks.

Summer

Summer can be warm, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F). Enjoy outdoor dining and local festivals during this vibrant season.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful foliage, creating picturesque landscapes. The weather is cooler, perfect for hiking and wine tasting.

Winter

Winter can bring cold temperatures and occasional snowfall. It's a great time to enjoy hearty Lyonnaise cuisine and cozy cafés.

Nightlife Guide

Écully at Night

Écully's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to nearby Lyon, but it offers a cozy atmosphere with several bars and bistros. You can enjoy live music at local venues, or unwind at a wine bar sampling regional wines. The vibrant Lyon nightlife is just a short drive away, providing access to clubs and larger entertainment venues.

Hiking in Écully

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Monts d'Or Trails

A series of trails in the Monts d'Or mountain range, offering stunning views and varying difficulty levels, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.

Val de Saône Trail

A scenic trail along the Saône River, perfect for leisurely hikes and enjoying the beautiful riverside landscape.

Airports

How to reach Écully by plane.

Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS)

Located approximately 30 minutes from Écully, this international airport offers flights to major cities in Europe and beyond.

Getting Around

Walkability

Écully is a walkable town with pedestrian-friendly streets, especially in the town center. Most local amenities, such as shops, cafés, and parks, can be reached on foot. However, some areas, particularly those on hills, may require moderate effort to navigate.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population consists primarily of families and professionals who enjoy the suburban lifestyle while being close to Lyon.

Students

Écully is home to several educational institutions, attracting students from various regions, enhancing the vibrancy of the local culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is one of the most popular sports in Écully and the surrounding Lyon region, with local clubs and community teams actively participating in leagues.

Rugby

Rugby enjoys a strong following in the region, with several clubs and a passionate fan base supporting local teams.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Écully is generally manageable, but can become congested during peak hours, especially during the morning and evening commutes. Public transportation options include buses that connect to Lyon and surrounding areas, making it easy to navigate without a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Écully.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Écully offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check in advance, especially in traditional bistros.

Gluten-Free Options

While gluten-free options are becoming more common, it's best to inform the restaurant staff about your dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Écully is good, with several local clinics and pharmacies available. Lyon, being a larger city nearby, offers comprehensive healthcare facilities, including hospitals with specialized services.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide