Things To Do
in Oullins

Oullins is a charming suburb located just south of Lyon, France, known for its picturesque streets and vibrant community. It offers a blend of urban convenience and natural beauty, making it an attractive destination for both locals and visitors. The town features several parks and green spaces, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities.

With its close proximity to Lyon, Oullins serves as a peaceful retreat while still allowing easy access to the bustling city life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Oullins
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Parc de la Mairie, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk or have breakfast at a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Explore the local shops and boutiques along Avenue de la République, followed by a visit to the Oullins market for some local produce and delicacies.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant like Le Petit Oullins, enjoying traditional Lyonnaise cuisine.

day 2
Day 2: A Day in Lyon
morning
:

Take a short train ride to Lyon and begin your day at the iconic Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière for stunning views of the city.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the historic Vieux Lyon district, where you can admire Renaissance architecture and stop for lunch at a bouchon.

evening
:

Return to Oullins for a relaxing evening at a wine bar, sampling local wines and cheeses.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15-25
Coffee$3-5
🍕Pizza$10-15
🍷Glass of Wine$5-8
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming and peaceful atmosphere away from urban hustle.
  • Easy access to Lyon's cultural attractions.
  • Rich culinary traditions and local markets.
  • Limited nightlife compared to Lyon.
  • Less public transport connectivity.
  • Fewer high-end shopping options.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où est…?" - Where is...?
  • "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Oullins

Visit one of these nice places.

Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière

This iconic basilica offers stunning panoramic views of Lyon and beautiful architectural details, perfect for photography.

Parc de la Mairie

A lovely park with landscaped gardens and fountains, ideal for capturing serene moments in nature.

Place de la République

A vibrant square in Oullins, surrounded by shops and cafés, providing great opportunities for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Oullins

Oullins boasts a rich culinary heritage influenced by its proximity to Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France. Visitors can savor traditional dishes and enjoy vibrant local markets.

Oullins Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Quenelle

A light dumpling made from a mixture of creamed fish or meat, flour, and egg, typically served in a creamy sauce.

Must-Try!

Tarte à la Praline

A sweet tart made with a soft almond and sugar praline filling, a specialty of the region.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Oullins Market

A bustling market held weekly, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal products.

Climate Guide

Weather

Oullins experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold and damp, averaging around 3°C (37°F), while summers are warm, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, making it advisable to carry an umbrella.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A polite greeting is important; say 'Bonjour' when entering shops or restaurants.

Dining Etiquette

Keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) during meals, and wait for everyone to be served before starting.

Dress Code

Dress well; the French value style and presentation, especially in restaurants and public places.

Safety Guide

Safety

Oullins is generally a safe area, but standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings. It's advisable to stay in well-lit areas at night and to avoid displaying expensive items.

Tipping in Oullins

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

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

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and picnics.

Summer

Summer can be warm, with temperatures often reaching the high 20s°C (70s°F). It's perfect for enjoying outdoor cafés and parks.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful foliage, and the weather is usually mild, great for walks and local harvest festivals.

Winter

Winter can be chilly, with occasional snowfall. It's a wonderful time to enjoy cozy indoor activities and holiday markets.

Nightlife Guide

Oullins at Night

Oullins features a relaxed nightlife scene with cozy bars and wine cellars, particularly along Avenue de la République. While not as bustling as nearby Lyon, you can still find lively spots to socialize with locals. Wine tasting events and small live music performances are common, creating an inviting atmosphere for a laid-back evening.

Hiking in Oullins

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Monts du Lyonnais Trail

A scenic hiking trail winding through the Monts du Lyonnais, known for its stunning views and diverse wildlife.

Parc Naturel Régional du Pilat

Located a bit further but offers excellent hiking opportunities with breathtaking landscapes and marked paths.

Airports

How to reach Oullins by plane.

Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport

Located approximately 30 km from Oullins, this international airport serves numerous destinations across Europe and beyond, offering a range of airlines and services.

Getting Around

Walkability

Oullins is highly walkable, with compact neighborhoods and well-maintained sidewalks. The town features numerous parks and pedestrian-friendly areas, making it enjoyable for leisurely strolls. Most amenities, including shops and restaurants, are within walking distance.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Oullins is home to many young families attracted by the peaceful environment and good schools.

Students

With its proximity to Lyon, Oullins hosts a number of students attending universities and colleges in the city.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is immensely popular in the region, with local clubs and youth academies fostering talent.

Rugby

Rugby has a strong following in Oullins, with several clubs promoting the sport at various levels.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Oullins is generally manageable, with local roads connecting to Lyon's larger transport network. Public transportation includes buses and trains, offering convenient access to Lyon and surrounding areas. Cycling is also promoted, with bike lanes available for safe travel.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Oullins.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check menus ahead of time.

Gluten-Free Options

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

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Oullins is accessible with several clinics and pharmacies available. The region is served by the Lyon Sud Hospital, which offers comprehensive medical services. Emergency services can be reached quickly, and it's advisable to have travel insurance for any medical needs.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide