Lyon, a city nestled in the heart of France, beckons travellers with its rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. Explore its iconic landmarks, delve into its rich heritage, and immerse yourself in the vibrant local experiences. From the charm of Vieux Lyon to the grandeur of Fourvière Basilica, there's something for every traveller. Planning your trip from Dunedin to Lyon requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure a smooth and cost-effective journey.

The average direct flight duration from Dunedin to Lyon is approximately 24 hours, although this can vary depending on weather conditions, wind speeds and potential air traffic delays. While there are currently no direct flights available between these two cities, several major airlines offer convenient routes with a single stopover. Air New Zealand and Qantas often have connecting flights, often through major European hubs like London, Paris, or Amsterdam. These stopovers typically add 5 to 10 hours to your total travel time.

Finding the cheapest flights requires some planning. The ideal months for budget travellers are generally the shoulder seasons of April, May, September, and October. Booking your flight 2-3 months in advance often secures the best deals. Peak travel season in Lyon is from June to August, coinciding with the warmest weather and many local festivals and events. This period sees higher demand and subsequently higher flight prices. During the quieter periods, like the autumn and winter months, you may also find more cost-effective options.

Lyon enjoys a temperate climate, influenced by its location between the Alps and the Mediterranean. Summers (June-August) are warm, with average temperatures in the low 20s °C, though occasionally reaching the mid-30s °C. Winters (December-February) are relatively mild, with average daytime temperatures around 4 °C. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer pleasant temperatures, ranging from 10 °C to 20 °C, making them ideal times for sightseeing. Autumn is generally the wettest season, while summer, besides being the warmest, is the driest.

Dunedin has one major airport currently in operation serving commercial flights: Dunedin Airport.

Dunedin Airport

Dunedin Airport (DUD) is a relatively small but well-equipped airport serving both domestic and some international flights. It has a single terminal and offers a range of services for passengers. Opened in 1964, it has been upgraded several times and serves a range of airlines, making it a key transport hub in the region.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• Qantas
• LATAM

Lyon is served by two major airports: Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport and Lyon–Bron Airport.

Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport

Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS), the largest airport serving Lyon, is located approximately 25 km east of the city centre. It's a modern facility with two terminals, offering numerous flights to various destinations worldwide. Reaching the city centre is easy, with direct train connections from the airport to Lyon Part-Dieu station, taxis, and car rental services readily available.

Lyon–Bron Airport

Lyon–Bron Airport (LYN) is a smaller airport, primarily focused on domestic and regional flights. It's located closer to the city, only around 5 km from the centre. While public transportation is less extensive, taxis and car rentals offer convenient transport options.

Lyon, a city of history and gastronomy, offers a wealth of experiences for visitors. Whether you're interested in exploring historical sites, indulging in culinary delights or simply enjoying the vibrant atmosphere, Lyon has something for everyone.

• Explore Vieux Lyon: Wander through the narrow, medieval streets of Vieux Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and discover its hidden courtyards and charming shops.
• Visit Fourvière Basilica: Ascend to Fourvière Hill to admire the stunning Fourvière Basilica and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
• Indulge in Lyon's gastronomy: Sample Lyon's renowned cuisine, from bouchons (traditional Lyonnaise restaurants) to modern bistros, and savour local delicacies like quenelles and pralines.