Share a pot tonight?

Lyon, between the Rhône and the Saône

In Lyon you don’t order a bottle, you order a pot: the famous Lyon pot, a carafe smaller than a bottle, just right for sharing a drink without making a whole night of it. That sums the city up rather well: it loves good food but keeps a low profile, and likes to take its time.

When the weather is warm, the evening starts on the banks of the Rhône, on a barge or on the grass, then heads up to the slopes of Croix-Rousse or the lanes of Vieux Lyon. Dinner is often part of the night out, in a bouchon (a traditional Lyon bistro) or elsewhere, and in early December the Fête des Lumières turns the centre into one big evening stroll.

Lyon locals have a reputation for being reserved at first. YesTonite makes the first step easier: you see who is out tonight, you write, and the pot gets shared the same evening.

Thursday is student night; on Friday and Saturday the whole city goes out. The barges and riverbanks are busiest from May to September.

Neighbourhoods to go out in Lyon

• Vieux LyonRenaissance lanes at the foot of Fourvière, with bars and pubs.
• Presqu’îleFrom Les Terreaux to Rue Mercière, the lively centre between the Rhône and the Saône.
• Croix-RousseThe slopes and the plateau, local bars and a village feel.
• Berges du RhôneBarges and riverside walkways, busy as soon as it gets mild.
• La GuillotièreOn the left bank, a mix of bars and a down-to-earth vibe.