The Auberge de Jeunesse du Vieux Lyon is the official HI Hostels France property in Lyon's UNESCO-listed Old Town, situated on Montée du Chemin Neuf, a steep cobbled pathway climbing the hillside between Vieux-Lyon and the Fourvière plateau in the 5th arrondissement. The hostel is perched on the hillside, commanding a panoramic terrace with an exceptional view across the red-tiled rooftops of Vieux-Lyon, the church of Saint-Georges, the Saône river, and the Presqu'île skyline beyond. The terrace is one of the best vantage points in Lyon and is a highlight of any stay. Accommodation comprises 4-bed and 6-bed dormitory rooms with individual locker storage, alongside private double rooms for those seeking more privacy. Communal areas include a self-catering kitchen, a lively bar, luggage storage, and WiFi throughout. The property operates within the HI Hostels network, maintaining consistent cleanliness and security standards. Despite its hillside position, the hostel is very accessible from central Lyon: the Vieux-Lyon metro station on line D is at the base of Montée du Chemin Neuf, approximately five minutes on foot downhill. Saint-Jean Cathedral, the Traboules, and the Gadagne museums are within five to ten minutes on foot. The Fourvière Basilica and the ancient Roman theatres are accessible either by continuing up the Chemin Neuf on foot or by taking the funicular from Saint-Jean station. This hostel is the most affordable option for exploring Lyon's historic core and is particularly popular with younger travellers, cyclists completing the EuroVelo 17 route along the Rhône valley, and backpackers travelling through Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.
Room types
- 4-bed dorm
- 6-bed dorm
- private double room
Amenities
- WiFi
- kitchen
- terrace with Lyon views
- bar
- lockers
- luggage storage
Location
41–45 Montée du Chemin Neuf, 69005 Lyon
45.7588, 4.8260 View on map
Highlights
- Panoramic terrace with one of Lyon's best views over Vieux-Lyon rooftops and the Saône valley
- Located in the UNESCO-listed Vieux-Lyon 5th arrondissement, steps from the Traboules and Fourvière
- HI Hostels member with dormitory and private room options at budget-friendly rates
- On-site bar, communal kitchen, and social atmosphere ideal for solo travellers
- Direct metro access at Vieux-Lyon station (line D), 5 minutes downhill on foot
Tips for visiting
- The terrace is best at sunset when Fourvière Basilica illuminates and the Presqu'île lights come on
- Arrive with a HI membership card for a small discount on nightly rates
- The 4-bed dorm is recommended over the 6-bed option for lighter sleepers
- The ascent up Montée du Chemin Neuf is steep with luggage; consider a taxi for the final stretch on arrival
- Book well in advance for June and July when backpacker traffic through Lyon peaks on the EuroVelo cycling routes
Accessibility
The Auberge de Jeunesse du Vieux Lyon is situated on a steep hillside pathway, and the surrounding streets of Vieux-Lyon are cobblestoned and hilly. The property is not suitable for wheelchair users or guests with significant mobility limitations due to the steep access route and multi-level building structure.
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Frequently asked questions
What types of accommodation are available?
The hostel offers 4-bed and 6-bed dormitory rooms with locker storage, plus private double rooms for guests seeking more privacy. All guests share communal bathroom facilities.
Is the hostel affiliated with an international network?
Yes. The hostel is a member of Hostelling International (HI) and is operated by HI France (Fédération Unie des Auberges de Jeunesse). A HI membership card provides a nightly rate discount.
How do guests get to the hostel from the train stations?
From Lyon-Part-Dieu, take metro line D southbound to Vieux-Lyon station. The hostel is then a 5-minute uphill walk along Montée du Chemin Neuf. From Lyon-Perrache, take metro line D from Perrache station.
Is the terrace open to the public?
The terrace is reserved for hostel guests. Several public viewpoints along Montée du Chemin Neuf and at the top of the Fourvière hill offer comparable panoramic views and are freely accessible.
Is there a minimum age to stay?
The hostel accommodates guests of all ages. There is no upper age limit for HI hostels. Private rooms or family rooms are recommended for families travelling with younger children.