Hotels in Villefranche-sur-Saône

Art, Vineyards, and Enchantment: Discover the Heart of Villefranche-sur-Saône

Nestled in the heart of the Beaujolais region, Villefranche-sur-Saône is a charming blend of culture and history. Known for its picturesque streets and vibrant markets, this delightful city invites travelers to explore its unique attractions, including the fascinating Musée Miniature and the impressive Château de Pizay. Stroll through Bellecour Square, savoring local wines and culinary delights, or immerse yourself in the rich heritage of this hidden gem. With its warm ambiance and stunning landscapes, Villefranche-sur-Saône offers a captivating experience for those seeking an authentic taste of French culture. For the best hotel rates in Villefranche-sur-Saône, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Villefranche-sur-Saône

Some of the best places to stay in Villefranche-sur-Saône are Old Lyon, 7th Arrondissement and Lyon City Centre. Villefranche-sur-Saône is a charming gateway to explore nearby Lyon. Old Lyon offers a glimpse into the city's Renaissance past, while the 7th Arrondissement is known for its vibrant atmosphere and culinary delights. Lyon City Centre is ideal for first-time visitors, providing easy access to major attractions and shopping. Accommodation in these areas varies from quaint boutique hotels to modern establishments, ensuring a comfortable stay. Additionally, travelers can find good options in Villefranche-sur-Saône, including Hotel Plaisance and Hotel Ambiance. Here are some of the best hotels in Villefranche-sur-Saône that our travelers love:

1. Old LyonOpens in a new window: This historic district is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its Renaissance architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can explore charming streets, enjoy local cuisine, and visit cultural landmarks like Bellecour Square and Place des Terreaux. For comfortable lodging, consider Holiday Inn Lyon Vaise, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel offering business amenities and family-friendly features, including an arcade game room. Another option is Hôtel Le PavillonOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5.0-star hotel with a casino and family amenities, making it perfect for both leisure and business travelers. If you're seeking adventure, Chateau de BAGNOLSOpens in a new window combines business facilities with romantic experiences and adventure sports nearby.
2. 7th ArrondissementOpens in a new window: This lively area combines culture with modern conveniences, featuring attractions like Groupama Stadium and Part Dieu Mall. It’s ideal for those who enjoy sports and shopping. Novotel Lyon Bron EurexpoOpens in a new window and DoubleTree by Hilton Lyon Eurexpo & SpaOpens in a new window are both 4.0-star hotels that cater to business and family travelers, providing golf experiences and amenities for children. For a pet-friendly option, The Ruck HotelOpens in a new window is also available, featuring a coworking space and multiple meeting rooms.
3. Lyon City CentreOpens in a new window: As the heart of Lyon, this area offers a mix of cultural and urban experiences, close to shopping and dining hotspots. Attractions like Bellecour Square and Groupama Stadium are just around the corner. For a luxurious stay, consider Intercontinental Lyon Hotel Dieu, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window, which features a full-service spa and pet-friendly amenities. Alternatively, Hotel Le Royal Lyon - MGalleryOpens in a new window offers a boutique experience with unique decor and childcare services, while Villa FlorentineOpens in a new window combines luxury with adventure activities nearby, ideal for business travelers.

Things to do in Villefranche-sur-Saône for first time

Villefranche-sur-Saône is an enchanting destination perfect for a three-day getaway, offering a mix of vibrant landscapes and engaging activities. Travelers can explore scenic parks, enjoy leisurely walks, and indulge in shopping. The region's natural beauty invites hiking and outdoor adventures, making it a memorable French experience. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Villefranche-sur-Saône:

• Day 1: Begin your exploration of Villefranche-sur-Saône with a visit to the Shrine of St. John Vianney, a beautiful spiritual site that offers a glimpse into the life of one of France's beloved saints. After soaking in the serene atmosphere, make your way to Plage du Colombier, where you can relax by the water, enjoy a picnic, or take a refreshing swim. As the day winds down, head to the Château of Flecheres, an elegant 19th-century castle surrounded by stunning gardens, perfect for a leisurely evening stroll.
• Day 2: Start your day in the charming Village de Pouilly le Monial, where you can wander through picturesque streets and savor the local flavors. After exploring, set off for the Château de Jarnioux, a historic site that boasts exquisite architecture and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Conclude your day in the quaint Village de Ville-sur-Jarnioux, where you can enjoy the peaceful ambiance and perhaps indulge in a delightful meal at a local eatery.
• Day 3: Your adventure continues in Lyon, just a short journey away. Begin at Bellecour Square, one of the largest open squares in Europe, which is perfect for people-watching and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Next, take a leisurely stroll through Tête d'Or Park, a beautiful green space ideal for relaxation and outdoor activities. To wrap up your trip, visit the Sanctuaire d'Ars, a place of pilgrimage dedicated to St. John Vianney, where you can reflect on your journey and appreciate the spiritual significance of the site.

5 tips to find a great Villefranche-sur-Saône hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Villefranche-sur-Saône is during January, February, and December, when hotel prices are significantly lower. For international travelers, booking your flight at least two months in advance can help secure more affordable fares. A stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully appreciate the great value for money offered by the local attractions, including various museums. This way, you can enjoy an enriching experience without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Villefranche-sur-Saône, Hotels.com is a great place to start. Head over to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could find attractive discounts on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. To stay in the loop about flash sales and exclusive last-minute offers, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, helping you maximize your chances for great savings.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices may fluctuate due to factors like location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you could save on hotel expenses in Villefranche-sur-Saône.
4. Consider your location: Staying close to the city center and local attractions in Villefranche-sur-Saône is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further away from the center, you can take advantage of transportation options like driving or using public transit to explore the area, which can be more likely to be affordable.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Villefranche-sur-Saône and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Villefranche-sur-Saône

Here are some top-rated dishes in Villefranche-sur-Saône, Rhône, France:

• Quenelles: These delicate dumplings made from a mixture of fish, meat, or vegetables are a true Lyonnais specialty. Often served in a creamy sauce, they embody the region's culinary finesse and can be found in many local bistros. Enjoying quenelles in a traditional setting, perhaps paired with a glass of local wine, offers a genuine taste of Villefranche-sur-Saône’s flavors.
• Rosette: This is a cured sausage that hails from the Rhône-Alpes region. Its distinctive flavor comes from a blend of pork and spices, making it a popular choice for charcuterie boards. Sampling rosette in a relaxed setting, maybe at a local market or wine bar, allows you to appreciate its rich history and local craftsmanship, perfect for a spontaneous snack or light meal.

Best time to go to Villefranche-sur-Saône

Villefranche-sur-Saône experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 34.9°F (1.6°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 66.6°F (19.2°C). May is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Villefranche-sur-Saône, April, June, and July are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, October to December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.