Things To Do
in Givors
Givors is a historic town on the Rhône where the river valley meets the Lyon metropolitan area. It blends a compact, walkable center with remnants of an industrial heritage and a lively riverside atmosphere. Nestled at the edge of the Pilat Regional Natural Park, it serves as a convenient base for day trips into the surrounding countryside.
With a friendly, laid-back vibe, Givors is ideal for relaxed strolls, café culture, and easy access to Lyon and Saint-Étienne.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through Givors' historic center, admiring the beautiful architecture of the old buildings. Visit the Saint-Pierre Church, a stunning example of Romanesque design, and take in the intricate details of its facade. Stop by a local bakery for a fresh croissant and a café au lait to enjoy while soaking in the morning ambiance.
After lunch at a quaint bistro, head to the Parc de la Mairie, a serene park perfect for unwinding and people-watching. Explore the picturesque paths and vibrant flower gardens, which are ideal for a leisurely afternoon walk. As you stroll, take the opportunity to enjoy the local art installations scattered throughout the park.
In the evening, dine at a traditional French restaurant where you can savor local specialties like coq au vin or ratatouille. After your meal, take a gentle walk along the Rhône River, where the lights reflecting on the water create a magical atmosphere. Conclude your night with a visit to a local bar for a glass of Beaujolais wine and some live music.
Begin your day at the Givors Market, bustling with vendors selling fresh produce, artisan goods, and local delicacies. Engage with the friendly stall owners and sample some regional cheeses and cured meats, creating a delightful breakfast spread. The vibrant atmosphere is a perfect way to experience the local culture and connect with the community.
After exploring the market, visit the Maison de la Culture to learn about Givors' rich history and cultural heritage. The exhibitions feature local artists and historical artifacts that tell the story of the area through time. Take a break in the café for a light lunch and reflect on the morning's discoveries.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant with views of the water. Try the fresh fish from the Rhône, paired with seasonal vegetables for a true taste of the region. Cap off your evening with a leisurely walk along the riverfront, enjoying the peaceful sounds of nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $2-5 |
| 🥖Pastry or bakery item | $2-4 |
| 🍷Glass of wine at a restaurant | $6-9 |
| 🏨One-night mid-range hotel stay | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town with riverside charm
- Easy access to Lyon and Pilat regional park
- Affordability relative to larger nearby cities
- Rich local markets and Lyonnais cuisine nearby
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Some services and amenities concentrated in Lyon or Saint-Étienne
- Seasonal tourist crowds at market days and riverfronts
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est la gare ?" - Where is the train station?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
- "Je suis perdu" - I am lost
Places to Visit in Givors
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide banks with boats, docks, and reflections of the town’s buildings; ideal for golden-hour landscape and street photography.
Cobblestone lanes, stone facades, and small squares provide charming architectural shots and atmospheric portraits.
The bridge and viewpoints along the river offer dramatic silhouettes, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Green spaces give you greenery, benches, and elevated perspectives over the town and river.
Food in Givors
Givors Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Light dumplings made from pike or veal, served with a creamy crayfish Nantua sauce.
Must-Try!
Spicy sausage typically served with potatoes or lentils, a traditional Lyonnais favorite.
Coarse-cut pork sausage, tasty on a board with bread, cheese, and pickles.
Braised calf’s head served with a light sauce and vegetables, a regional classic.
Herbed fromage frais dip; a popular cheese plate accompaniment in Lyonnais cuisine.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh Rhône produce, cheese, bread, and regional specialties; street-side bites and crepes appear on market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say bonjour or bonsoir when entering a shop or cafe. Use Monsieur/Madame and a courteous tone; keep conversations polite in public spaces.
Table manners are modest; wait for everyone to be served before starting. It’s polite to thank hosts and staff with 'Merci.'
Safety
Tipping in Givors
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are customary but not mandatory. Leaving 5-10% for good service is common in nicer venues; rounding up the bill is also acceptable in casual spots.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Cash is always handy for small cafés and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with possible afternoon thunderstorms. Stay hydrated, enjoy riverside shade, and expect longer daylight for outdoor activities.
Mild to cool days with colorful foliage. Great for scenic walks, fewer crowds, and harvest-season foods at markets.
Cool to cold with rare snow; daylight is shorter. Cozy cafés, hearty dishes, and indoor activities are common.
Moderate temperatures with blooming trees and greens. Ideal for hiking, markets reopening, and outdoor photography.
Givors at Night
Hiking in Givors
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A range of trails from easy to challenging with scenic viewpoints over the Rhône valley and surrounding countryside.
Sunrise or sunset hikes offer dramatic silhouettes of the town and distant landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Givors by plane.
Major international airport about 35-60 minutes from Givors by car; frequent domestic and international flights; well-connected by rail and road.
Smaller regional airport serving limited flights; convenient for regional travel and connections to Lyon area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families reside in Givors, attracted by a quiet town environment and access to larger cities nearby.
Residents who travel to Lyon or Saint-Étienne for work or study make up a steady portion of the population.
Some younger residents and students commute to universities and training centers in the wider Lyon metro area.
Established neighborhoods with a slower pace and accessible amenities appeal to retirees.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular across the region; local clubs and casual games are common in public spaces and school facilities.
Nothing beats a cycle along the Rhône banks or into nearby hills; cycling is popular among locals and visitors.
Rugby culture is noticeable in the broader Lyon area; local clubs may host matches and practice sessions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Givors.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many bistros offer vegetarian options or adaptable dishes. Ask for sans viande or sans poisson, and look for seasonal vegetables, legumes, and cheese-based plates. In Lyonnais-influenced restaurants, you’ll often find veggie quiches, salads, and risottos labeled on menus.