Lyon

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Short-Term Rentals

Sections

1. Types of Short-Term Accommodations in Lyon

Lyon offers a variety of short-term rental options to suit different needs and budgets:

a. Vacation Rentals (Tourists)

  • Apartments: Fully furnished apartments are the most common option for short-term stays. They range from studio apartments to multi-bedroom units.
  • Airbnb: Popular in Lyon, Airbnb offers a wide range of properties, from private rooms in shared apartments to entire homes.
  • Apart-Hotels: These are serviced apartments that combine the comfort of a home with hotel-like amenities (e.g., cleaning services, front desk).
  • Hostels: Budget-friendly and ideal for short stays, some hostels in Lyon also offer private rooms.

b. Medium-Term Rentals (1-6 Months)

  • Furnished Apartments: These are ideal for individuals staying for a few months. They come equipped with furniture, kitchenware, and utilities.
  • Coliving Spaces: Shared housing arrangements where tenants have private rooms but share communal spaces like kitchens and living rooms. These are popular among young professionals and students.
  • Student Residences: If you're a student, some residences offer short-term leases during the academic year or summer.

c. Hotels with Extended Stay Options

  • Many hotels in Lyon offer discounted rates for extended stays, especially in business districts like Part-Dieu.

2. Average Costs of Short-Term Rentals in Lyon

The cost of short-term rentals in Lyon depends on the type of accommodation, location, and duration of stay. Below are approximate price ranges:

a. Vacation Rentals (Per Night)

  • Studio/1-bedroom apartment: €60–€120
  • 2-bedroom apartment: €100–€200
  • Luxury apartments: €200+ per night
  • Airbnb private room: €30–€70

b. Medium-Term Rentals (Per Month)

  • Studio apartment: €600–€900
  • 1-bedroom apartment: €800–€1,200
  • 2-bedroom apartment: €1,200–€1,800
  • Coliving spaces: €500–€800 (per room)

c. Apart-Hotels

  • Nightly rate: €80–€150
  • Monthly rate: €1,500–€3,000 (discounts often apply for stays longer than 30 days)

d. Hostels

  • Dormitory bed: €20–€40 per night
  • Private room: €50–€100 per night

e. Student Residences

  • Monthly rent: €400–€700 (depending on location and amenities)

3. Booking Procedures

a. Online Platforms

  • Airbnb: Widely used for short-term rentals. Ensure the listing is verified and read reviews carefully.
  • Booking.com: Offers vacation rentals, apart-hotels, and serviced apartments.
  • Specialized Websites: Platforms like SeLoger, PAP.fr, and Spotahome cater to medium-term rentals.
  • Coliving Websites: Check out platforms like Coliving.com or La Casa.

b. Local Agencies

  • Real estate agencies in Lyon often handle medium-term furnished rentals. Agencies like Lodgis and Appart’Ambiance specialize in short-term leases.

c. Direct Contact

  • Some landlords advertise directly on local classified websites like Le Bon Coin. Be cautious and verify the legitimacy of the listing.

d. Documentation

  • For medium-term rentals, landlords may request:
    • Passport or ID
    • Proof of income (e.g., pay slips, bank statements)
    • Guarantor (optional but common in France)
    • Security deposit (usually 1–2 months’ rent)

4. Legal Regulations for Short-Term Rentals in Lyon

France has strict regulations for short-term rentals, especially in cities like Lyon. Here’s what you need to know:

a. For Tourists

  • Airbnb and Similar Platforms: Hosts must register their property with the local mairie (city hall) and display a registration number on the listing.
  • 90-Day Rule: In Lyon, primary residences can only be rented out for a maximum of 90 days per year.
  • Tourist Tax: A small nightly tax (taxe de séjour) is added to the rental cost. It ranges from €0.50 to €5 per person, depending on the property type.

b. For Medium-Term Rentals

  • Lease Agreement: For stays longer than 1 month, a furnished rental contract (bail mobilité) is often used. This is a flexible lease designed for students, professionals, and temporary workers.
  • Security Deposit: Typically 1 month’s rent for furnished apartments.
  • Utilities: Check whether utilities (electricity, water, internet) are included in the rent.

c. Subletting

  • Subletting is only legal with the landlord’s written permission. Always confirm this before renting a sublet.

5. Local Considerations and Tips

a. Neighborhoods to Consider

  • Presqu’île: Central, historic, and lively. Ideal for tourists.
  • Vieux Lyon: The old town, perfect for those seeking charm and history.
  • Part-Dieu: Business district, convenient for professionals.
  • Croix-Rousse: Artsy and bohemian, popular with young people.
  • Confluence: Modern and trendy, with new developments.
  • Monplaisir: Residential and quieter, good for families.

b. Transportation

  • Lyon has an excellent public transport system (TCL), including metro, trams, and buses. Choose accommodations near a metro or tram stop for convenience.

c. Cultural Nuances

  • Quiet Hours: French law enforces quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM. Be mindful of noise levels in apartments.
  • Sunday Closures: Many shops and services are closed on Sundays, so plan accordingly.
  • Local Markets: Take advantage of Lyon’s famous food markets (e.g., Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse) for fresh produce and local specialties.

d. Safety

  • Lyon is generally safe, but like any city, be cautious in crowded areas and avoid leaving valuables unattended.

e. Language

  • While many hosts speak English, learning a few basic French phrases can go a long way in communication.

6. Practical Advice for Finding and Renting Short-Term Housing

  1. Start Early: Lyon is a popular destination, so book accommodations well in advance, especially during peak seasons (summer, December for the Festival of Lights).
  2. Verify Listings: Avoid scams by using reputable platforms and verifying the legitimacy of listings.
  3. Negotiate for Longer Stays: If staying for a month or more, ask for discounts. Many hosts are open to negotiation.
  4. Inspect the Property: If possible, visit the property before committing, or request a virtual tour.
  5. Understand the Lease Terms: Read the rental agreement carefully, especially regarding cancellation policies and security deposits.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to find and secure short-term housing in Lyon, whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying for several months. Let me know if you need further assistance!