Top 16 Cool and Unique Hotels in Lyon 2023

Mama Shelter, tucked away on a quiet street near bustling Place Jean Macé, quickly became one of my favorite places. While visiting, the metro station, just a two-minute walk away, effortlessly transported me into the city center and the heart of all the sightseeing action.

The urban and edgy design of the hotel immediately caught my eye. The hi-tech guestrooms, with their functional design, radiated light. Staying in one of the 156 rooms, I couldn’t help but admire the funky polished concrete walls, jazzy carpets, and the vibrant decor that surrounded me. The full-length designer mirrors, sparkling bed heads, and graffiti-styled Lyonnaise expressions added a unique touch to the ambiance.

What I loved most was the large iMac computer on the wall, serving as a TV, sound system, and radio. The bathroom products by Absolution were a luxurious touch, all organic and adorned with playful messages like ‘Mama loves you from top to bottom’.

The restaurant, pulsating with an upbeat party vibe, was a delight. Centered around an open kitchen, it boasted a cozy lounge area, a DJ stage, and a central bar. While staying at Mama Shelter, I experienced starting my day with a hearty American buffet-style breakfast or enjoying a weekend brunch. The added bonus was the in-house DJ playing soul, hip-hop, and jazz music from Thursday to Sunday.

As the summer sun set, the Mojito Bar on the wooden decked terrace became my go-to spot to end the day. It was the perfect place to soak up the charm of this graceful urban abode.

Okko Hotels on Quai de Rhône quickly became one of my favorite places. The 18th-century building exudes grandeur, set against the lively Quai de Rhône. Summer evenings brought the avenue to life with Lyonnaise hipsters. Just a 25-minute stroll eastward led me to the Part-Dieu shopping mall and the train station, a gateway to the airport in 30 minutes.

Stepping into the Nordic-inspired interior felt like entering a realm of modern sophistication crafted by French designer Patrick Norguet. The fusion of sassy urban design and hi-tech elements created a captivating atmosphere. Colorful seating areas dotted the space, perfect for unwinding with a book.

The 85 guestrooms, spread across six floors, were cozy cocoons of intelligent design. My space boasted a desk, a Nespresso coffee machine, a hybrid telephone-iPod dock, and a smart TV with complimentary films. Opting for the staircase over the lift at least once proved rewarding, as the ornate features transported me to the 19th century.

Each morning, the continental breakfast showcased local delights – cured meats, sausages from Charcuterie Bobosse, and fresh cheese and eggs from the famed food market. Soft and hot drinks complemented the spread. As the day unfolded, the Italian-inspired aperitivo beckoned, offering a delightful buffet alongside local Côtes du Rhône wine, Ninkasi craft beer, and French cider.

The convenience of online check-in and a digital room key code via SMS added a tech-savvy touch. The same code granted access to Le Club, a lavish 24/7 lounge. Here, iMac computers, printers, lifestyle books, and complimentary drinks and snacks awaited, creating an opulent retreat for guests like me.

While visiting Lyon, I found this jazzy, eco-friendly downtown gem nestled next to the Brasserie Georges, conveniently close to Bellecour and the Perrache station. The Confluence neighborhood, where it resides, is a vibrant hub with one of the city’s most eclectic shopping centers, buzzing with activity every day.

The flamboyant interiors instantly became one of my favorite places, offering a harmonious blend of vivid colors and cozy décor that set the stage for a lively welcome to the city. From the quirky bar area to the charming outdoor hang-out spots, my visual frame was always filled with something eccentric.

Opting for a Classic or a Standard Room, I was peacefully cocooned in plush linens, soft fabrics, bright colors, and soul-soothing artwork, ensuring a blissful night’s sleep. There’s even the option for rooms with two double beds. The in-room amenities, including a wall-mounted TV, a wooden bedside table, a desk, and light-up mirrors, added a touch of luxury.

During my stay at the Green Hotel, I loved spending time at the Mademoiselle Simone Bar Jazz. The melodies of piano and trombone sound welcomed me throughout the day, and the two terraces were perfect for summer evenings. Crafted cocktails and fine wines accompanied a hearty mix of French dishes and international curations in a vintage space adorned with ambient lights, intricate ceiling art, and colorful bar seats.

This boutique hotel near Lyon’s Place Bellecour became one of my favorite places, surrounded by the Basilique de Fourvière and central shopping streets. Nestled between the Rhône and the Saône, its 19th-century charm provided an enchanting retreat.

Immersed in Italian design, the hotel’s embrace of velvet, black marble, Vicenza stone, and refined fabrics heightened my love for this opulent haven. It’s no wonder luminaries like Martin Luther King and French cinema stars were drawn to Boscolo’s allure.

French finesse blended seamlessly with Italian design in the spacious rooms. From marble details in the Upper Rooms to Parma armchairs in the Deluxe Suites, even budget-friendly units exuded pampered elegance. Opting for a Deluxe or Executive Room with a Rhône view promised an authentic Lyon experience.

The hotel’s heartbeat, Angelo restaurant, transported me through authentic Italian culinary traditions. Brunches surprised me with Chef Michele Tarantino’s mastery in a cozy atmosphere, while evenings at Bar Angelo unveiled Italian classics and original mocktails.

What truly captivated me was the spa—an oasis in Presqu’île with a rare swimming pool. Stone walls, vaulted cellars, saunas, and massage cabins embodied pampered elegance, aligning perfectly with the holistic ESPA brand philosophy. My stay here was a firsthand experience of luxury and tranquility.

MOB Hotel, crafted by entrepreneur Cyril Aouizerate, instantly became one of my favorite places. Nestled in Lyon’s revived Confluence neighborhood, it stands boldly by the River Saône, neighbors to La Sucrière and the Lyon Confluence shopping mall, creating an avant-garde haven.

Entering the hotel, I loved its daring design—a metal lacework-covered shoebox. Inside, industrial pipework, polished concrete, and quirky decor fueled my curiosity. On four floors, the ninety-nine rooms, each with a terrace, offered views of the riverfront and Euronews TV station. Pastel walls, pale wood furniture, and designer lighting created a charming atmosphere. Opting for the Master Mob upgraded my experience, providing a sofa twinset, Smeg fridge, coffee machine, and a movie projector. An iPad, loaded with curated films, was available for rent.

The lounge, boasting an industrial vibe with exposed pipes and vintage fans, served a delightful organic breakfast buffet, catering well to vegans. Dinner featured treats like velvety humous with thyme-spiced toast, a perfect match for a French aperitif.

The front-of-house shop, doubling as reception, offered toiletries, groceries, and exclusive Mob merchandise. I enjoyed relaxing on the summer terrace or in the guest lounge, surrounded by a library of captivating paperbacks. My stay at MOB Hotel was a genuine immersion into avant-garde luxury.

While visiting Lyon, I discovered one of my favorite places, Hotel Dieu, nestled in the heart of the Presqu’île. The entrance, through six elegant courtyards in the Hôtel Dieu shopping complex, sets the stage for a truly enchanting experience. Just a five-minute walk from Lines A and D of the Bellecour metro station, its central location adds to its charm.

The grand 280-meter façade, designed by 18th-century architect Jacques-Germain Soufflot, welcomed me to an opulent stay. Stepping inside, the coffered dome ceiling, Verel de Belval silks, altar-like floral displays, and rustic stone-flag flooring beautifully echoed the hotel’s rich history.

Spread across three floors, the 144 rooms offered tranquil courtyard or road-and-river views. Dressed in a sophisticated color palette of gold, black, charcoal-grey, and pale state blue, each room featured original elements like arched windows, extra-high beamed ceilings, and mosaic-tiled showers. Silk bed cushions from Lyon added a touch of luxury.

Epona, the shimmering-white restaurant, showcased Lyonnais dishes and global flavors, and its exceptional outdoor garden terrace was a delightful spot. I loved starting my day here with a buffet breakfast that included gluten-free and vegan options, as well as organic farm produce.

Le Dôme Bar, fast becoming a hotspot, blended local influences with international flair in its drink list, attracting city locals, international visitors, and even A-listers.

For relaxation, the hotel offered a well-equipped fitness room, complimentary use of a sauna, a steam room, yoga classes, and indulgent body massages. My stay at Hotel Dieu was truly a blend of historical elegance and contemporary luxury.

Collège Hôtel instantly became one of my favorite places, transporting me back to my school days. Nestled at the base of Fourvière Hill in Lyon, this 1930s building captures the essence of a bygone secondary school era while maintaining a modern flair. As I entered, a humorous sign reminded ‘pupils’ not to spit on the floor or stick pens in their ears, setting the tone for a playful experience.

The public spaces authentically recreated an old-school ambiance with intricate artwork and vintage wooden accents. The 40 designer guestrooms, all in dazzling white, featured a standout bright-red Eames Daw chair and a flat-screen TV cleverly embedded in a blackboard. Staying true to the theme, Artemide bedside lamps adorned recycled breeze blocks, and the superior rooms offered a private balcony or terrace.

Waking up each morning felt like a treat with a generous buffet breakfast—croissants, fresh bread, fruit bowls, charcuterie, and eggs, a far cry from a typical school canteen. The wooden tables, chairs, and book-filled shelves added a nostalgic touch to the dining experience.

The hotel’s South American-inspired bar, Barãgones, opened its doors at 4.30 pm daily, offering crafted cocktails and delectable cheese platters. I couldn’t resist the nachos and the mouthwatering beef or vegetable-filled empanadas. Just a 10-minute walk away, Daniel et Denise, a popular Old Town joint, and several traditional Lyonnais bistros awaited exploration.

To top it off, the expansive roof terrace, adorned with comfy deck chairs, beckoned for relaxation. On each floor, a 1960s fridge stocked with complimentary soft drinks added a thoughtful touch to an already delightful stay.

Villa Florentine is one of my favorite places—a trio of chic Italianate Renaissance houses perched high above Lyon on the hilltop Fourvière. While visiting, I found Vieux Lyon, the Medieval Old Town, just a delightful 10-minute walk downhill, and another 10-minute stroll uphill took me to the 18th-century Basilica Fourvière and the Musée Gallo-Roman.

I love the ochre, peach, and caramel facades that greet you, radiating the warmth of Florence. This theme continues inside, from the frescoed entrance to the prosperous period furnishings and captivating Renaissance art. My stay in one of the 29 rooms, the classic doubles, was just perfect. They’re the most affordable yet offer the same breathtaking Old Town views as the pricier deluxe and junior suites. The classic chocolate and cream color palette, complemented by traditional furnishings and swirly patterned carpets, provided an authentic welcome to the city.

While staying at Villa Florentine, I experienced the charm of sinking into a leather armchair in the lobby bar or savoring the stunning city views at the poolside bar. And let’s not forget the culinary delight at the on-site Michelin-starred restaurant Les Terrasses de Lyon. Renowned Parisian chef David Delsart crafts succulent seasonal dishes, and once a month, he pairs a bespoke menu with five exceptional wines selected by the Sommelier.

The showstopper of this fantastic place is the panoramic outdoor pool, surrounded by a hot tub, a sauna, and a pair of heated black-marble chaise Longues. The hotel also offers a cardio-fitness room, a hammam, a massage & beauty spa, and terraced gardens.

Staying at Fourviere Hotel, one of my favorite spots, I loved the blend of historic charm and contemporary art. Housed in a 19th-century convent on Fourvière Hill, the red-brick building by Pierre-Marie Bossan, with a holy cross and stained glass windows, felt like stepping into the past.

My room featured a photo of a historical figure on the door, from Louise Labé to Hector Guimard, each explained inside. Compact and functional, the entry-level doubles boasted Scandinavian-style armchairs and walk-in showers. Upgrading to a classic double offered panoramic views, a lounge, and a work desk.

The on-site eatery, Le Bouchon, served delightful local cuisine, while Les Téléphones, a French bistro, provided a unique dining experience. The bar, overlooking a tranquil courtyard, became my daily retreat for breakfast. Exploring the 25-meter heated lap pool in the gardens was a perfect way to unwind.

Fourviere Hotel seamlessly blended history, art, and modern comforts, offering a unique and immersive experience.

During my stay at Cour des Loges, one of my favorite places, I found myself on a charming narrow street in the heart of Lyon’s Old Town. Nestled amid medieval and Renaissance wonders, the five-star hotel’s location was a dream. The intertwining of four Renaissance townhouses created a labyrinth of spiral staircases, Italianate loggias, and intimate verandas, showcasing the hotel’s Lyonnais originality.

Inside, the period furnishings welcomed me with a rich color scheme that added to the cocooning atmosphere. The individually designed guestrooms were a delight – some open plan with claw-footed tubs, while others, like the charming mezzanine rooms, cleverly maximized space. The superior rooms, with their beamed ceilings, embodied the Renaissance charm of Lyon.

In the interior courtyard, a sky-high glass roof adorned the space where I enjoyed a sumptuous breakfast. This area transformed into the Michelin-starred Les Loges restaurant at night, its tables illuminated by romantically flickering candles. The bold and lavish menu featured creative dishes like Char lake fish with cocoa bean confit and black truffle paired with veal sweetbreads and onion cream.

The hotel offered more than just gastronomic delights. A fitness room and the Pure Altitude Spa, featuring a whirlpool tub, hot tub, sauna, steam room, and indoor pool with a waterfall, provided relaxation and rejuvenation. The hanging gardens, a series of terraced, bamboo-shaded sundecks, added a touch of peace to my stay at this extraordinary place.

While visiting Lyon, I discovered an intimate boutique hotel that instantly became one of my favorite places. Nestled in the heart of the Presqu’île between the Rhône and the Saône, it boasts 45 bright rooms and a charming restaurant. The Hauassmann-style architecture of this extraordinary building caught my eye, providing unrivaled views over Lyon’s rooftops.

Staying at this hotel felt like a retreat from the city’s hustle. The original rooms surrounding the atriums were a tailored haven for peace and quiet. The Club Room and Masterpiece Room, adorned with pale wood and light colors, offered a unique ambiance for my business trip. The Atrium Cinema Rooms, my personal favorite, provided not only views of the interior atrium but also featured a HD projector, a Bowers & Wilkins sound system, and a variety of channels.

The bar & restaurant became a frequent spot for me, serving gourmet cuisine with a charming terrace boasting a panoramic city view. The Rooftop restaurant on the hotel’s top floor, with its glass roof and terrace, provided a unique dining experience bathed in soft natural light and utilizing local, seasonal produce.

I loved the attention to well-being here. The light-filled fitness room and Zen sauna allowed me to re-energize and focus on the connection of body, mind, and soul. This place truly offered an experience beyond the ordinary, making my stay in Lyon memorable.

This fantastic urban retreat in Lyon became one of my favorite places to soak up the city’s charm. Nestled in the heart of Monplaisir, this historic district offers an authentic local experience. A quick 2-minute walk led me to the metro station, swiftly connecting me to the lively Part Dieu area in just 5 minutes, where shops buzzed with activity.

The hotel, with its white-washed walls adorned with vibrant artwork, immediately caught my eye. Cozy seating areas added a touch of color, creating an elegant and relaxing atmosphere flooded with natural light. My stay in one of the 130 apartments, including 104 studios and 26 one-bedroom apartments spread across five floors, combined both comfort and functionality. The backdrop of majestic city panoramas enhanced the experience.

Entering the room, modern furniture, refined decorations, and plush linens welcomed me. The kitchenette, equipped with a ceramic hob, microwave, kettle, coffee maker, and toaster, provided convenience for a homely feel. Although there wasn’t an on-site restaurant, the state-of-the-art in-room cooking facilities more than made up for it. Exploring the surrounding area, I discovered a plethora of charming urban eateries offering top-notch cuisine.

The true gem of this stay was the rooftop Jacuzzi area. Lounging on a sun lounger, I admired the gleaming rooftops of the city—a truly enchanting experience.

MiHotel Bizolon became one of my favorite places with its innovative 100% digital concept, offering a unique hospitality experience in the city’s heart. While visiting, I found myself less than 1 km from Fourviere Roman Theatre, a mere 17-minute walk from the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourviere, and just 3.6 km from Part-Dieu Train Station, putting the city’s attractions at my fingertips.

Entering the chic suites, the navy-blue on-white color palette immediately caught my eye, radiating modern sophistication. The intricate wall embellishments added a touch of urban glamour, setting the tone for a stylish stay.

Designed with the business traveler in mind, the accommodations also catered to leisure seekers. The suites, ranging from 30 to 75m2, featured an ultra-comfortable king-size bed, a fireplace, a bathtub, and a kitchen area equipped with a minibar, microwave, Nespresso machine, and kettle. Personalizing my stay was easy with optional extras like in-room massage treatments, personalized gift boxes, tourist maps, and various breakfast options.

While staying at MiHotel Bizolon, I loved the flexibility to order from the room service menu or prepare my own meals in the well-equipped kitchen. Thanks to the prime location, numerous eateries were just a few minutes’ walk away.

Hotel De Verdun 1882 is one of my favorite places, a captivating blend of chic, humor, and relaxation that creates a truly welcoming atmosphere. While visiting, I was situated between the Rhône and the Saône in the Presqu’île, just a 5-minute walk from the enchanting rue Auguste Comte, renowned for its antique dealers.

The hotel itself is a warm haven adorned with a curated collection of furniture, paintings, books, and photos from around the world, each with its own captivating story. The building, standing since 1882, was once the private mansion of Fritz Hoffner, the visionary behind the legendary Georges Brasserie.

As I ascended the intimate landing to my room, the 30 guestrooms unfolded around a beautiful stone staircase. Chic, vintage furniture adorned the space, complemented by wooden paneling along the walls and extending to the ornate windows. The rooms exuded warmth with soothing colors and delicate materials, while personal photos and posters from the owners’ collections added a personal touch. I opted for a Junior Suite, reveling in the breathtaking views of rue de la Charité from my balcony.

Breakfast became a cherished ritual, featuring the finest products from local artisans, savored by the window overlooking the garden and orchard. Come dinner, I either took advantage of the open kitchen to prepare my own feast or ventured into the neighborhood to indulge in Lyon’s exquisite culinary offerings.

The hotel’s library lounge, adorned with low chairs, armchairs, and sofas, set a warm and artsy tone.

Le Royal is one of my favorite places, with a rich history of hosting legends like The Beatles and Sophie Lauren since 1895. Nestled on the chic Place Bellecour in downtown Lyon, it’s a stone’s throw from Europe’s largest square and the UNESCO-protected Old Town of Vieux Lyon.

While visiting, I fell in love with the boutique hotel’s design, a masterpiece by French architect Pierre Perrin. The entrance hall adorned with life-sized bronze bulldogs and cabinets filled with porcelain and black-and-white prints showcased a perfect mix of grandeur and intimacy.

During my stay, I experienced the charm of the 20 rooms, blending vintage and modern aesthetics. Overlooking Place Bellecour, Place Antonin Poncet, and the Rhône, the rooms featured a delightful red and blue color scheme, floral Toile de Jouy wall coverings, and Ralph Lauren fabrics. Opting for an attic room gave me low ceilings and whimsical nautical décor, creating a unique ambiance. The Fragonard toiletries in the bathrooms added a touch of French luxury.

In the breakfast room, styled like a French country kitchen, I indulged in continental and American dishes. For lunch and dinner, L’Institut next door offered French contemporary cuisine focusing on local produce, accompanied by delightful patisserie creations.

Exploring the two on-site lounges, I discovered a treasure trove of family photographs, antique curiosities, and comfortable floral-print sofas, making my stay at Le Royal a truly immersive experience.

During my stay at The Carlton, immersed in Belle Époque charm, the hotel sat at Place de la République, a lively square with wooden horses, a flower stand, and fountains. Cordeliers metro station, conveniently outside, allowed easy city exploration. A 10-minute walk down rue de la République led to the Musée des Beaux-Arts and the opera house.

The pearly white 1894 building retained its original allure, featuring regal burgundy decor, period furnishings, and historic details like stained-glass windows and a 1930s lift.

My room, among 80, showcased taupe, deep red, and white opulence. The 4th-floor view revealed the basilica on Fourvière Hill, while the rotunda suite offered a circular balcony with church views. Retro black-and-white tiled bathrooms boasted Cinq Mondes products.

The first-floor breakfast room treated me to local specialties daily. Le Centre, a neighboring brasserie by Michelin-starred chef Georges Blanc, offered meals with easy room delivery.

The vintage piano bar, with a frescoed ceiling and pink banquet seating, proved perfect for pre or post-dinner drinks.

For city exploration, bike rentals at the reception added convenience to my delightful stay at The Carlton.