Living in Lyon during your MSc Financial & Business Performance
Lyon: an enticing European metropolis
Since the Renaissance, the banks of the two rivers, the Rhône and the Saône, that flow through the city, the Fourvière basilica that dominates the city centre, and the Old Lyon, are sights that make Lyon an extremely pleasant place to live in.
Located in the southeast of France, Lyon is a vibrant and dynamic city known as the "capital of French gastronomy." The city offers a rich blend of cultural and tourist activities, beautiful green spaces, and stunning natural sights. It is also well-connected to the Mediterranean Sea and the Alps.
🗺️ Key highlights of Lyon:
- Historic charm: Banks of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Fourvière Basilica, and Old Lyon
- Cultural and tourist activities: museums, festivals, plays, and historical monuments
- Business and innovation hub: home to many of France’s largest corporations and attracts numerous international firms, particularly in sectors like pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and banking
- Major region: Capital of the Rhône-Alpes region, the 6th most important in Europe by GDP
Getting around Lyon
Lyon offers numerous transportation options for getting around the city and traveling to other European destinations.
- Public transport: Lyon offers a comprehensive network of metro, tram, and bus lines managed by Transports en Commun Lyonnais (TCL). A monthly subscription is €25 for those under 26 and €72 for those over 26.
Visit the TCL website > for network details and journey planning.
- Bikes & e-scooters: There are many options to rent bikes or scooters around the city (Velo'v, Dott, Tier, etc.)
- Travel from Lyon to other cities: High-speed trains (TGV) to Paris take under 2 hours, and trains to Marseille are 1 hour long. Many European cities are accessible by train from Lyon : Barcelona, Geneva, Milan, Turin, Luxembourg, etc.
- Airport access: Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport serves numerous European and international flights. The Rhônexpress train connects Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport to Part-Dieu train station in just 30 minutes, making the airport easily accessible.
Restaurants & food in Lyon
Do you want to go out and discover food from across the globe? In Lyon, you will find all sorts of pubs and restaurants. You can also try Lyon’s own cuisine in a Bouchon, a traditional restaurant that serves local specialties.
For more information on eating out in Lyon, you can have a look at the "Petit Paumé" : this guide, made by an emlyon association, gathers the best addresses to go out, drink and eat.
Student associations
There are many student associations at emlyon business school. Whether you are interested in sports, politics, luxury, or simply want to make new friends, the vibrant campus life provides numerous opportunities to engage in events both on campus and throughout around the city of Lyon.
New campus in Lyon
In 2024, emlyon business school has returned to the heart of the city with a new campus located in the 7th district of Lyon. This new campus offers an ideal study environment, thanks to its efficient architecture and incredible connectivity.
- Innovative & sutainable: The new campus features advanced, eco-friendly design, flexible classrooms, and a high-tech makers' lab.
- Prime location: Located in Lyon's central area, the campus offers a vibrant space for events, diverse food options, and convenient access to public transport and nearby institutions.
- Collaborative learning: Focuses on hands-on and interactive learning with opportunities for creativity and teamwork
Housing in France
When living in Lyon, you will have to find an apartment on your own.