Things To Do
in Saint-Genis-Laval
Saint-Genis-Laval is a tranquil suburb just southwest of Lyon, blending village charm with easy access to urban culture. Its narrow streets, winding hillside views, and traditional markets give a sense of timeless Provençal-Lyonnais life. The town serves as a gateway to both Lyon’s world-class gastronomy and the natural beauty of the surrounding Rhône Valley.
Visitors can enjoy a relaxed pace while using Lyon as a backdrop for day trips and dining adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Saint-Genis-Laval and check into your cozy accommodation. Start wandering the charming streets and soak in the local atmosphere, perhaps stopping by a quaint café for a fresh pastry. Visit the local market to get a feel for the ingredients and products the region is known for.
Take a leisurely stroll through the Parc de la Mairie, enjoying the serene landscapes and the beautifully manicured gardens. Engage in a little people-watching as locals enjoy this communal space, providing an authentic glimpse into daily life in this charming suburb. Consider visiting the nearby natural areas for a short hike or a bike ride.
Enjoy dinner at a traditional bistro that offers regional dishes, savoring the flavors of French cuisine. After your meal, meander through the luminous streets as they come alive at night, with lights reflecting off the architecture. Wind down with a nightcap at a local wine bar, sampling some exquisite wines from the Rhône Valley.
Take a short train ride into Lyon, where you can marvel at the vibrant mix of historical and modern architecture. Begin your day at the famous Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, perched atop the hill offering stunning panoramic views of the city. Enjoy a refreshing breakfast at a café nearby, tapping into the local specialty, a buttery croissant.
Stroll through the Old Town (Vieux Lyon), where you'll find cobblestone streets and Renaissance buildings. Be sure to check out the traboules, hidden passageways that have a rich history and lead to various cellars and courtyards. Indulge in a hearty lunch at a 'bouchon', a traditional Lyonnais eatery, which will leave you satisfied.
As the sun sets, head over to the banks of the Saône River for a picturesque evening walk. Discover Lyon’s lively culinary scene with a dinner cruise, where you can relish local delicacies while enjoying the sights from the water. Wrap up your day by exploring the nightlife in Lyon’s bustling bars, each with its own unique ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $3-5 |
| 🍷Dinner for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🚆Monthly public transit pass | $50-90 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $60-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Lyon and easy access to major sights
- Calm, residential charm with village feel
- Limited nightlife in the village itself
- More driving required to reach major attractions in Lyon
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good day.
- "Merci" - Thank you.
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please.
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est... ?" - Where is...?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The check, please.
- "Je voudrais…" - I would like…
Places to Visit in Saint-Genis-Laval
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic church in the village with Romanesque features and a charming façade.
Picturesque square with traditional stone buildings and a fountain.
Scenic river views along the Saône with city skyline in the distance (best at sunset).
Food in Saint-Genis-Laval
Saint-Genis-Laval Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fluffy dumplings made from pike or minced meat served with Nantua sauce.
Must-Try!
Herbed fromage frais spread typically served on bread.
Greens with bacon, croutons and a poached egg.
A pink praline almond tart, a signature Lyonnais dessert.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market with fresh produce, cheese, bread, and local specialties.
Lyon's famous indoor market offering Lyonnais ingredients and street food options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say bonjour when entering shops; use 's'il vous plaît' and 'merci'.
Eat slowly, keep hands visible, and avoid loud behavior in restaurants.
Safety
Tipping in Saint-Genis-Laval
Ensure a smooth experience
Service included? In France, small tips are common for good service; rounding up or adding 5-10% is typical.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; cash is still used in markets; contactless payments common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with fresh greenery; chances of rain; perfect for walking and outdoor photos.
Warm to hot days; occasional thunderstorms; stay hydrated and enjoy evening strolls.
Colorful foliage and cooler weather; great for hiking.
Chilly but rarely extreme; some attractions may have shorter hours.
Saint-Genis-Laval at Night
Hiking in Saint-Genis-Laval
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged hills with scenic viewpoints and gentle-to-moderate trails about 20-40 minutes from Saint-Genis-Laval.
Popular ridge walk with panoramic views over the Rhône valley and Lyon.
Airports
How to reach Saint-Genis-Laval by plane.
Main international airport serving the Lyon region, about 25-40 minutes by car or rail from Saint-Genis-Laval.
Smaller regional airport offering limited services, within about an hour's drive.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in the suburb, contributing to a family-friendly atmosphere.
Proximity to Lyon’s universities and employment centers attracts students and young professionals.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in local clubs and schools; easy participation for travelers with sports facilities nearby.
Cycling is popular in the Lyon region; flat river paths to hilly terrain in nearby hills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint-Genis-Laval.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be made vegetarian; look for salads, cheese boards, and egg-based dishes. In restaurants, ask for no meat or fish.