Lyon vs St. Moritz
Lyon or St. Moritz? Best season, ideal length of stay, neighbourhoods, dining and where to stay, compared side by side.
Lyon or St. Moritz? Side-by-side on best time to go, ideal length of stay, neighbourhoods, dining, costs and where to stay — with a clear verdict.
Lyon, France
As France's gastronomic capital, Lyon offers an epicurean journey like no other, blending centuries of culinary tradition with a vibrant, modern edge. Beyond its culinary prowess, discover a city rich in Roman history, Renaissance architecture, and secret passageways, all nestled gracefully between two majestic rivers. Prepare for an indulgence of the senses in this sophisticated and welcoming city.
- Getting around: For luxurious and efficient transit, private chauffeured services are ideal for airport transfers and excursions. Within the city, the metro and tram network are excellent, but for short distances or a touch of elegance, consider a VTC (private hire car) or even an electric taxi.
- What to avoid: Underestimating the importance of dinner reservations, especially for Michelin-starred establishments.,Rushing your meals; Lyonnaise dining is an experience to be savored.,Missing out on a traditional 'bouchon' experience (but choose a reputable one, not a tourist trap).
Where to base yourself in Lyon
- Presqu'île: Elegant, bustling, central Best for Luxury shopping, grand architecture, central dining, museums. Place Bellecour, one of Europe's largest pedestrian squares.
- Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon): Historic, charming, Renaissance Best for Exploring traboules, traditional bouchons, artisan shops. Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral and its Astronomical Clock.
- La Croix-Rousse: Bohemian, artistic, vibrant Best for Silk weaving history, unique boutiques, scenic views from the 'hill that works'. The 'Mur des Canuts' fresco and exploring the silk workshops.
- Brotteaux & Parc de la Tête d'Or: Upscale, green, architectural Best for Relaxation, fine dining, beautiful park strolls. Parc de la Tête d'Or, a magnificent urban park with a zoo and botanical garden.
Dining in Lyon
- Paul Bocuse (L'Auberge du Pont de Collonges): Haute French, Classic Lyonnaise. The 'Soupe aux Truffes Noires V.G.E.' (truffle soup) – a legendary dish.
- La Mère Brazier: Traditional Lyonnaise, Refined. The 'Poulet de Bresse demi-deuil' (truffle-stuffed chicken) or pike quenelles.
- Takao Takano: Modern French, Japanese influence. The tasting menu, which showcases seasonal ingredients and innovative techniques.
Planning details for Lyon
- Engage a private guide to navigate the 'traboules' (secret passages) of Vieux Lyon and Croix-Rousse, uncovering the city's unique history and architecture.
- Enroll in a bespoke cooking class with a renowned Lyonnaise chef to master regional delicacies like Quenelles de Brochet.
- Consider a private hot air balloon ride over the Beaujolais vineyards just north of Lyon for breathtaking views and exclusive wine tasting experiences.
St. Moritz, Switzerland
Glamorous alpine retreat where caviar collides with pristine slopes and chic chalets.
St. Moritz, an iconic jewel in the Engadin Valley, beckons with its unparalleled blend of natural beauty and high-society charm. From exhilarating winter sports to serene lakeside strolls, this Swiss haven offers a luxurious escape for discerning travelers seeking both adventure and opulent relaxation amidst breathtaking scenery.
- Best time to visit: December–March for world-class skiing and winter festivities; June–September for hiking, watersports, and pleasant alpine weather, avoiding shoulder seasons when many establishments close.
- Ideal length of stay: 4–6 nights
- Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)
- Getting around: St. Moritz is well-connected by local buses (free for guests staying in hotels participating in the 'Hostels have Guests' program) and mountain railways. Many upscale hotels offer private shuttle services. For exploring further afield into the Engadin, renting a car offers flexibility, especially for picturesque drives.
- What to avoid: Thinking St. Moritz is a budget destination – it's notoriously expensive, embrace it.,Not making dinner reservations, especially during peak season; spontaneity rarely works here.,Ignoring the local Engadin culture and only seeking international luxury brands; there's rich heritage.,Visiting in late April/May or late October/November when many restaurants and hotels close for shoulder seasons.
Where to base yourself in St. Moritz
- Dorf: Chic, central, luxurious hub Best for High-end shopping, fine dining, vibrant nightlife. Palace Galerie for luxury boutiques
- Bad: Relaxed, wellness-focused, lakeside Best for Spa treatments, watersports, family activities. OVAVERVA Indoor Pool & Spa
- Champfèr: Tranquil, equestrian, exclusive Best for Secluded luxury, horse riding, gourmet dining off the beaten path. Talvo by Dalsass restaurant
- Celerina: Authentic, charming, convenient Best for Ski access, traditional Swiss atmosphere, quieter stay. Corviglia cable car access
Dining in St. Moritz
- Talvo by Dalsass: Gourmet Alpine & Italian. The 'risotto al Talvo' is legendary.
- Balthazar St. Moritz: Mediterranean Brasserie. Seafood platter or steak tartare.
- Chesa Veglia: Swiss, Italian, French (multiple restaurants). Pizochels in the Stübli or truffle pizza in the Pizzeria Heuboden.
Planning details for St. Moritz
- Arrive by Glacier Express for a truly scenic introduction to the region, reserving first-class seats.
- Rent a classic car (think vintage Porsche) to cruise the scenic mountain passes like Bernina or Maloja.
- Indulge in a bespoke facial or massage at the Kulm Spa, known for its expansive facilities and expert therapists.
- Attend a polo match on the frozen lake in winter (Snow Polo World Cup) or discover the annual Engadin Skimarathon.
How to choose
- Lyon suits travellers who want its particular character
- St. Moritz suits travellers who want Glamorous alpine retreat where caviar collides with pristine slopes and chic chalets.
- Both sit in Western Europe; check distance and transport before combining them.
Lyon city guide · St. Moritz city guide
Keep comparing
Lyon against other cities
St. Moritz against other cities
Plan either trip
Published by Peters Signature Travel.