The Three Best Places to Let Loose in Lyon
With plenty of engaging museums, impressive galleries and nightlife hotspots, Lyon is fast becoming a rival to Paris when it comes to style and culture. The original home of France’s 90s rave scene, Lyon remains a dynamic and exciting force on the nocturnal landscape.
From elegant wine bars and exquisite cocktail dens to all-night dancing, Lyon nightlife has something to suit every taste. The only question is, what will your poison be?
International wine tasting
A wine bar is a great option for a laid-back evening, or to kick off your night on the town. Aromo is a classic Lyon bar a vin with a difference. It offers some of the best wines from all over the world; Croatia, Greece, Argentina, Lebanon, Germany and, of course, France all put in an appearance. A relaxed after-dinner experience, it offers oenological tasting events, art exhibitions and even international language evenings with the Polyglot Club Lyon (every Wednesday from 8.30pm). Sharing boards with antipasti, cheese and smoked duck breast are available to sample. If you feel the urge to dance, there’s no need to look elsewhere – live jazz, soul and blues play every Friday night.
Show some spirit
If you prefer caipirinhas to Côtes du Rhône and Black Russians to Beaujolais, keep the party going at one of Lyon’s tempting cocktail bars. Travel back in time at L’Antiquaire – the perfect spot as midnight approaches, its décor has a striking 1920s theme and a lively speakeasy ambience. Ask the knowledgeable bartender for a recommendation, or choose a classic from the extensive cocktail list – the negroni is especially good. Whether you stay all night or simply pop in for a tipple before heading on to a club, L’Antiquaire is a great spot for a romantic date.
Dance the night away
As the night gets younger and your feet start itching, bars and pubs just won’t cut the mustard – head for a ‘big night out’ at one of Lyon’s incredible night clubs.
Le Petit Salon opened in 2014; despite the quaint tea room-sounding name, it’s actually the crowning gem of the city’s nightlife scene. A cultural hub and renowned haunt of night owls and music lovers alike, the venue consists of two dance rooms, a bar and a smoking terrace. Le Petit Salon has hosted some of the world’s top DJs, as well as a never-ending supply of up-and-coming talent. While trance, rap, house and disco dominate on Friday nights, Saturdays are usually all about techno. Slip a pair of flats in your bag so you can dance your way into the wee small hours. Admission prices vary, though management tries to keep admission under €14 to retain the club’s youthful, exuberant crowd.