Things To Do
in Genas
Genas is a small commune just east of Lyon, offering a pleasant blend of rural charm and modern convenience. Its red-brick houses, tree-lined streets, and open fields create a welcoming village atmosphere. Despite its quiet vibe, Genas sits on key transport routes that make day trips to Lyon or the Monts du Lyonnais easy.
The area is known for markets, regional produce, and warm local hospitality, making it a comfortable base for exploring the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey in Genas with a leisurely breakfast at a local boulangerie, sampling fresh croissants and café au lait. Wander through the village center to admire its quaint architecture and friendly atmosphere. Take time to check into your accommodation and settle in before embarking on the day’s adventures.
Head to the Parc du Maison Blanche for a relaxed stroll among oak trees and ephemeral wildflowers. Pop into a nearby café for a light lunch of charcuterie and regional cheese. Chat with locals to gather insider tips on hidden gems in and around Genas.
Dine at a family-run bistro offering Lyonnais cuisine, savoring local dishes such as quenelles or saucisson brioché. Pair your meal with a crisp white wine from the nearby vineyards. End the day with a gentle walk under the lampposts of the village, absorbing the tranquil evening air.
Rise early to capture the soft morning light over the village’s stone houses and tiled roofs. Visit the church of Saint-Barthélemy and admire its 19th-century stained glass windows. Enjoy a light breakfast in a hidden courtyard café, where the scent of freshly baked brioche fills the air.
Explore the artisanal shops lining the narrow streets, browsing handmade soaps, regional honey, and linen textiles. Stop at a local farm stand for seasonal fruits and freshly pressed apple juice. Relax on a bench in the municipal garden while watching families and students go about their day.
Attend a traditional pétanque game in the village square to experience local leisure culture. Order a platter of regional charcuterie from a food truck encircling the greens. Toast to a perfect day with an apéritif of pastis or a chilled rosé.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two | $40 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $110 |
| 🛒Grocery basics for a week | $60 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Lyon with easy access to city amenities
- Quaint village atmosphere and strong local markets
- Pleasant countryside and scenic hiking nearby
- Excellent access to Lyonnais cuisine and wine
- Safe, walkable village center with slower pace
- Nightlife options are limited in Genas itself
- Public transport after evenings may be sparse; a car can be convenient
- Some services and shops close on Sundays in smaller towns
- Limited large-scale tourist infrastructure within the village
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est la gare?" - Where is the train station?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does this cost?
- "Je voudrais…" - I would like…
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
- "Pouvez-vous m'aider?" - Can you help me?
- "Je suis perdu(e)" - I am lost
- "Où sont les toilettes?" - Where are the restrooms?
Places to Visit in Genas
Visit one of these nice places.
A tranquil waterway with tree-lined banks and calm reflections; best at sunrise or golden hour for long shadows and serene portraits.
Historic architecture framed by quiet streets and flowering balconies; ideal for architectural detail shots and candid street photography.
Open countryside views with hedgerows and distant hills; perfect for wide landscape frames and seasonal color photography.
A rustic, photogenic structure with water features nearby; great for moody, textured images of rural life.
Food in Genas
Genas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pale, light dumplings made from de sesame? No, from pike or other fish, served in a rich Nantua cream sauce; a classic Lyonnais specialty often found in bistros near Lyon.
Must-Try!
A grilled sausage with a strong pork-y flavor, best enjoyed with mustard and a crusty baguette in a traditional setting.
Creamy potato gratin baked with garlic and cheese, a comforting staple that pairs with local meats or simply with bread and salad.
A praline-based tart featuring a crisp pastry and a sweet almond-pink praline topping, a nod to Lyon’s famous desserts.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local weekly market offering fresh produce, regional cheeses, meats, bread, and seasonal snacks from nearby farms.
Short trips to Lyon reveal covered markets and street-food stalls where you can sample regional specialties such as quenelles, pâtés, and pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say bonjour when entering shops; greet with a handshake or light cheek kiss among friends. Use formal address (Monsieur/Madame) until invited to use first names, and be mindful of mealtimes and quiet hours.
Keep hands visible on the table, wait to begin until everyone is served, and modestly engage in conversation during meals.
Safety
Tipping in Genas
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not compulsory. If service is not included, rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common in restaurants; many places automatically add service on large bills.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Keep some cash for markets and small shops that may not accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days, plenty of outdoor markets and alfresco dining; carry water, use sun protection, and plan early or late visits to avoid peak heat.
Golden countryside, harvest festivals, and pleasant hiking weather; bring layers for cooler mornings and evenings.
Mild to cool temperatures with occasional cold snaps; some outdoor markets may be smaller, but nearby Lyon offers indoor attractions and café culture.
Blooming fields and fresh produce; ideal for outdoor photography and walks along canal paths.
Genas at Night
Hiking in Genas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic area with forested trails, farmland, and viewpoints over rolling hills; ideal for day hikes and photography.
A classic hill route offering panoramic views and forest trails, accessible from nearby villages.
Expansive landscapes with trails, vineyards, and cliff-top viewpoints within a short drive.
Airports
How to reach Genas by plane.
Main international airport serving the Lyon metro area; about 25-40 km from Genas with easy rail or road connections.
Second regional airport within reasonable distance; useful for some domestic or seasonal international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A common demographic in the village with good schools, parks, and family-friendly activities.
Many residents commute to Lyon and surrounding towns for work, benefiting from easy transit links.
Nearby universities in Lyon bring a student presence and cultural exchanges to the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Most popular team sport in the region with local clubs and recreational leagues.
Hilly terrain near the Monts du Lyonnais offers scenic routes for road riding and mountain biking.
Local clubs and parks provide opportunities for running crews and court sports.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Genas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options abound in markets and many restaurants; ask for meat-free stocks and sauces, and enjoy seasonal vegetables, legumes, and dairy-based dishes.