Organize a excursion from Lyon is an excellent way to discover the exceptional diversity of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region in a group, without the constraints associated with individual travel.
Whether it's for a club outing, a company day, a school trip, or a getaway with friends, hire a coach with driver in Lyon allows you to travel peacefully, comfortably and at a lower cost, while fully enjoying the destination.
Francebus guides you through the best day trip destinations from Lyon, easily accessible and perfectly suited for group outings: where to go, what to see and what to do around Lyon?
Discover 7 must-see destinations less than 2 hours from Lyon!
Why organize a day trip from Lyon?
Located at the crossroads from the Alps, the Massif Central, the Beaujolais vineyards and the Rhône Valley, Lyon benefits from a unique strategic location. This central position allows quick access to varied landscapes, historic cities and major natural sites.
The advantages of a coach excursion from Lyon:
Optimal comfort for all participants (air conditioning, reclining seats, luggage space)
A friendly trip promoting group cohesion
Budget control thanks to a reduced cost per person
Flexible schedules and routes
Door-to-door transport without parking hassles
1. Pérouges: immersion in a preserved medieval village
40 minute drive
Ranked among the Most Beautiful Villages of France, Pérouges is an unmissable destination for a day trip cultural excursion from Lyon.
Perched on a hill overlooking the Ain plain, this fortified village of 13th century Pérouges has retained a rare authenticity. Its stone and half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and medieval walls offer a true journey back in time. Pérouges charms as much with its heritage as with its peaceful atmosphere, ideal for exploring in a group.
Things to do in Pérouges:
Strolling through the medieval city : strolling through the cobbled streets lined with old houses, where each facade tells a part of local history.
Visit to the fortified church of Saint Mary Magdalene : an iconic monument blending religious and defensive architecture.
Old Pérouges Museum : immersion in the daily life of the inhabitants over the centuries.
Tasting the Pérouges galette : a local sweet specialty to enjoy in the central square.
Lunch in a traditional inn : regional cuisine served in an authentic setting.
An ideal destination for the cultural, school or senior groups.
2. Beaujolais: vineyards, golden stones and the art of living
45 minute drive
Just a few kilometers north of Lyon, the Beaujolais offers a backdrop of rolling hills, stone villages golden and vineyards as far as the eye can see.
A land steeped in winemaking traditions since antiquity, Beaujolais charms with its friendly atmosphere and rural heritage. It's the perfect destination for a day trip combining exploration, gastronomy, and shared experiences.
Things to do in Beaujolais:
Visit to vineyards : discovery of grape varieties and local know-how, accompanied by guided tastings.
A stroll through the villages of golden stone Oingt, Theizé or Bagnols offer a unique architectural charm.
Wine Route Beaujolais : rolling panoramas and iconic vineyard landscapes.
Lunch at an estate or a bouchon : local produce and generous cuisine.
Free time in local shops : wines, regional products and crafts.
Perfect for a incentive or association day.
3. Annecy: canals, lake and alpine charm
1h30 drive
Often nicknamed the "Venice of the Alps", Annecy is one of the most popular destinations for a day trip from Lyon. Nestled between lake and mountains, the city charms with its exceptional natural setting, its preserved heritage and its peaceful way of life.
With just over 130,000 inhabitants, Annecy boasts a rich history, marked by the Counts of Geneva and later the Dukes of Savoy. Its historic center, crisscrossed by canals fed by the pure waters of the lake, offers a unique atmosphere blending medieval influences with Alpine elegance.
Things to do in Annecy:
Strolling through the old town : cobbled streets, colorful arcades, flower-adorned bridges and picturesque canals.
A stroll along the shores of Lake Annecy : turquoise waters, shaded lawns and spectacular mountain views.
Visit to Annecy Castle : exceptional panorama and museum retracing local history.
Guided cruise on the lake : a collective and relaxing exploration of the Alpine shores and peaks.
Savoyard lunch : fondue, crozets and local specialties in a warm atmosphere.
An ideal destination for the intergenerational, associative or corporate groups.
4. Vienna: Roman heritage and historical elegance
40 minute drive
Located south of Lyon, Vienna is a city with an exceptional, often overlooked heritage, which nevertheless constitutes one of the best-preserved ancient sites in France. Gallo-Roman city Major, it offers a dense and accessible cultural excursion, ideal for a group day out.
Marked by over two thousand years of history, Vienna blends ancient remains, medieval architecture and religious heritage. Its relatively compact city centre allows for a smooth and progressive exploration, perfectly suited to groups wishing to combine moderate walking with rich cultural content.
Things to do in Vienna:
Visit to the Temple of Augustus and Livia : remarkably well-preserved ancient monument, emblem of the city and witness to its importance in Roman times.
Discovering the ancient theatre : one of the largest in the Roman Empire, still used today for shows and festivals.
Strolling through the historic center : ancient alleyways, shaded squares and facades steeped in history.
Ascent to Saint-Maurice Cathedral : an impressive Gothic building, offering an interesting view of the city and the Rhône.
Lunch in a restaurant in the center : traditional or contemporary cuisine in a heritage setting.
Vienna is particularly well-suited to cultural groups, schools, seniors or associations, in search of a structured and enriching outing.
5. The Pilat: unspoiled nature and exceptional panoramas
1 hour drive
On the border between the Rhône Valley and the Massif Central, the Pilat Regional Natural Park offers a real breath of fresh air in the immediate vicinity of Lyon. This contrasting territory, alternating between forests, ridges, plateaus and villages, is ideal for a group day trip to nature.
The Pilat region captivates with its diverse landscapes and authentic character. Accessible by coach, it allows for excursions combining contemplation, outdoor activities, and the discovery of rural heritage, without logistical difficulties.
Things to do in the Pilat:
Panoramic stop at the Crêt de l'Œillon or the Crêt de la Perdrix : spectacular views of the Alps, the Rhône Valley and, on a clear day, Mont Blanc.
Guided walk or gentle hike : routes accessible at different levels, in the heart of forests and hilly landscapes.
Discovering the villages of the park Malleval or Pélussin offer an overview of the local rural and wine-growing heritage.
Visit to a local producer cheeses, cured meats, honeys or wines from the Rhône Valley.
Lunch in the countryside or at an inn : simple and generous regional cuisine, linked to the local area.
The Pilat region is perfectly suited to Nature groups, works councils, associations or intergenerational outings, seeking peace and quiet, wide open spaces and a change of scenery.
6. Chambéry: Savoyard history and alpine charm
1 hour 20 minute drive
Former capital of the Dukes of Savoy, Chambéry is a city on a human scale, rich in historical heritage and a peaceful atmosphere. It is a An ideal cultural destination for a day trip from Lyon, between Savoyard tradition and Alpine gentleness.
Marked by several centuries of political and religious history, Chambéry retains an elegant old town center, made of narrow streets, shaded squares and remarkable buildings. Easy to explore in a group, the city can be discovered at a leisurely pace, in an environment conducive to strolling and discovery.
Things to do in Chambéry:
Visit to the castle of the Dukes of Savoy : former princely residence and symbol of Savoyard power, today a major administrative and historical center.
Strolling through the old town Traboules, inner courtyards and colorful facades reveal the discreet charm of the old town center.
Discovering the Elephant Fountain : an iconic monument and an unmissable landmark of the city.
Stroll through the historic gardens and squares : pleasant breaks between two visits.
Lunch in a Savoyard restaurant : tasting of local specialties in a friendly atmosphere.
Chambéry is perfectly suited to cultural, senior, or community groups, looking for a calm, structured and enriching excursion.
7. The Cerdon Caves: an underground adventure and fun discovery
1 hour 10 minute drive
Located in the Ain department, the Cerdon Caves offer an original and immersive experience, ideal for a day trip in a group from Lyon. This spectacular natural site combines discovery geological, gentle adventure and educational approach.
The caves are explored by descending, through galleries, underground chambers and fossil rivers, in a safe and guided environment. The experience is accessible to a wide audience and particularly appreciated for its fun and participatory nature.
Things to do at the Cerdon Caves:
Guided descent of the galleries : spectacular underground journey among stalactites, natural chambers and limestone formations.
Discovering the geology of the site : clear explanations on the formation of caves and the work of water over millennia.
Prehistoric workshops : introduction to ancestral skills (flint knapping, fire making, hunting), which is very popular with school groups.
Outdoor leisure time : natural area and panoramic views over the Ain valley.
The Cerdon Caves are perfectly suited to school groups, large families or associations, looking for an outing that is both educational and a change of scenery.
8. Lake Bourget: thermal elegance and alpine panoramas
1 hour 15 minute drive
The largest natural lake in France, the Lake Bourget offers a spectacular setting blending deep waters, mountains and elegant heritage. Associated with the spa town of’Aix-les-Bains, it constitutes a ideal day trip from Lyon, combining relaxation, scenery and cultural discovery.
Frequented since antiquity for its thermal springs, the site experienced its golden age during the Belle Époque, attracting royalty and artists. Even today, Aix-les-Bains retains this refined atmosphere, while the lake captivates with its diverse viewpoints and gentle shores, perfectly suited for group visits.
Things to do at Lake Bourget:
Walk along the lakefront promenade : vast pedestrian area offering an unobstructed view of the mountains and the waters of the lake.
Guided cruise on the lake : discovery of the riverbanks, Hautecombe Abbey and the Alpine landscape, in a comfortable setting accessible to groups.
Visit to the city center of Aix-les-Bains Belle Époque architecture, historic thermal baths and lively streets.
A cultural break at Hautecombe Abbey : a major Savoyard heritage site, accessible by boat or coach.
Lunch in a restaurant with a view : regional or contemporary cuisine showcasing local produce.
Lake Bourget is particularly well-suited to senior groups, cultural associations or company outings, seeking a balance between comfort, landscapes and heritage.
9. Royal Monastery of Brou: Gothic masterpiece and monumental serenity
1 hour drive
Located in Bourg-en-Bresse, the Royal monastery of Brou is one of the most remarkable monuments in France. This masterpiece of Flamboyant Gothic architecture constitutes a major cultural destination for a day trip from Lyon, often overlooked by the general public.
Built at the beginning of the 16th century Built by Margaret of Austria, the monastery impresses with the finesse of its architecture, the richness of its sculpted decorations, and the serenity of its cloisters. The site is easily visited in a group, with a clear and not very tiring route, conducive to an in-depth discovery.
Things to do at the Brou monastery:
Visit to the abbey church finely sculpted facades, a remarkable rood screen and princely tombs of great artistic richness.
Discover the three cloisters : calm and harmonious spaces, ideal for contemplative strolling.
Museum tour : art collections, altarpieces and architectural elements explained in an educational way.
Free time in the gardens : a calming setting for a group break.
Lunch in Bourg-en-Bresse : discovery of local gastronomy, particularly around Bresse poultry.
The Royal Monastery of Brou is particularly recommended for the cultural, senior, school or community groups, looking for a structured, elegant and enriching visit.
Conclusion
Thanks to its central location, Lyon offers a privileged access to diverse and enriching destinations. By opting for the hire a coach with driver in Lyon, You ensure your group a smooth, friendly, and perfectly organized journey. Francebus helps you design a tailor-made excursion, tailored to your needs and your audience.
Contact Francebus today to organize your next excursion from Lyon.
