Rain is a bit like cilantro: you either love it or hate it. And in Lyon, this question really divides people. On one side, you have those who find a certain charm in the city under a gray sky, with shimmering reflections on the cobblestones of Vieux Lyon and the smell of wet earth wafting from the banks of the Rhône. On the other side, you have those who get frustrated when their umbrella turns inside out in a gust at Place Bellecour or who curse the endless downpours during rush hour. And yet, whether we like it or not, Lyon is indeed among the top 10 rainiest cities in France.
According to a study conducted by Holidu, the capital of Gauls sees an average of 7.70 rainy days per month, with 2.93 mm of daily precipitation. It's not surprising to see this large city in the Rhône valley make the list, alongside its neighbors Villeurbanne, Vénissieux, and Vaulx-en-Velin, which also feature prominently.the 11th, 12th, and 13th spots. In simple terms, if you live around here, it's a good idea to invest in a nice raincoat and waterproof shoes, because the raindrops fall regularly, whether we like it or not.
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On the flip side, the residents of Perpignan must be having a good laugh discovering this ranking. With only 4.10 rainy days a month on average, this Catalan city is at the bottom of the list and proudly basks under its nearly permanent blue sky. It's enough to make anyone crave a getaway from those who are tired of seeing their bike turn into a sponge every week.
But after all, rain has its upsides too. It sets the mood, enhances the facades, and provides the perfect excuse to cozy up in a little café away from the drizzles. So, in Lyon, do we grumble about the rain or savor it? The answer will likely depend on your mood... and your stash of umbrellas in good shape.
