1. Playing it smart with the Lyon City Card
The first thing to do if you want to discover Lyon on a student budget is to get yourself the Lyon City Card. This magical card gives you access to over 40 attractions and museums, as well as unlimited public transportation. You can visit the Lyon Cathedral, the Museum of Cinema, the Tête d'Or Park, the Fourvière Hill, and many other must-see places. The card costs between 27 and 42 euros depending on the duration, but it quickly pays off if you enjoy cultural tourism. And on top of that, you can show off to your friends by showing them all the places you've visited!
2. Finding Affordable Accommodation
Alright, this is the REAL crucial first step when you arrive in Lyon: finding a cozy nest that's not too expensive. Forget about the dream apartment in the city center if you have a small budget, aim instead for neighborhoods a bit further out like Gerland or Villeurbanne. We also recommend looking in Mermoz or even Monplaisir, which isn't too far from the universities (if you're a student of course). And don't forget: roommates are your best friends! You split the rent and make some friends as a bonus (well... hopefully you get along). Otherwise, university residences and Crous are affordable options but very popular. So hurry up and make your application!
3. Hitting up flea markets to furnish your apartment and dress affordably
Alright, now that you have your own little place, it's time to fill it up! If you enjoy bargain hunting, you can't miss out on the Puces du Canal, the largest flea market in the region. Every Sunday, you can find furniture, clothes, books, records, jewelry, and collectibles there. The Puces du Canal are accessible by bus or bike, and entry is free. So don't hesitate to take a look, you might just stumble upon a hidden gem (and since you're on a student budget, it won't hurt)! For second-hand clothes, we recommend Frip' and Cheap, a solidarity thrift store that offers clothing and accessories at low prices, or Emmaüs for a bunch of clothes (and furniture) at affordable prices!
4. Eating Without Having Pasta Every Day
Cooking for yourself is the key to saving money. Markets are full of fresh products at affordable prices: stock up on fruits and vegetables at the Saint-Antoine market or the Croix-Rousse market. Discount supermarkets like Lidl and Aldi will be your best allies for budget-friendly student groceries. There's also the option of anti-waste baskets offered by restaurants and stores partnered with the Too Good To Go app. You can pick up unsold items of the day at reduced prices, in the form of surprise baskets. It's good, it's cheap, and it's eco-friendly! And finally, we also recommend checking out La Fabuleuse Cantine, an anti-waste restaurant that offers takeaway organic meals pasteurized in reusable glass jars. For students, don't forget about the University Restaurant that offers meals for student at a reduced price. Welcome to La Fabuleuse Cantine! 1€ only!
La Fabuleuse Cantine
163 avenue Jean Mermoz - Lyon 8
Open from Tuesday to Friday, from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm
More info
5. Going out without breaking the bank
For fun nights out, choose craft beer bars or happy hours by the Saône River. You can enjoy drinks without breaking the bank and emptying your monthly budget, all while enjoying the view of the city. There are also student discount cards like Carte Emblem Lyon and Carte Mojjo which have partnerships with many establishments, allowing you to enjoy your nights out on a small budget. And if you want to catch a movie, see a play, or attend a concert, know that there are student discounts available at most venues. So don't hesitate to inquire, you may be able to treat yourself without breaking the bank!
6. Getting Around on a Budget
; (or free) !.
Biking is your best friend in Lyon! The city is very bike-friendly, and you can rent Vélo'v bikes at reduced prices. You can also take advantage of the Freevélo'v offer, which allows you to borrow a bike for free for a year if you are between 18 and 25 years old and a student, job seeker, or in job integration. It's eco-friendly, economical, and practical! Otherwise, public transportation is efficient and affordable with the Student TCL Pass, giving you access to the metro, tram, bus, and funicular for €25 per month. And for short trips (and if you're really on a tight student budget), don't hesitate to lace up your sneakers: the city is easily explored on foot, and you'll be doing good for your body and your mood!
Register to get your Freevélo'v