Le Flâneur Guesthouse

This review comes from someone who lived at Le Flâneur Guest House for four months—during some of the hardest days of my life. Before coming here, you’ll probably read the reviews. You’ll see comments saying the beds are noisy or uncomfortable, the bathrooms aren’t clean, the staff is rude, or that some people stay here long-term. None of these statements are completely false—but they’re also not really true. Let’s clear one thing up immediately: the bathrooms are extremely clean. They are cleaned by the staff every single day. No exceptions. Le Flâneur is genuinely one of the best things that happened to me after coming to France. This is the place where I learned a language I didn’t know. A place where I hope I made friends for life. A place where I met people not just from France, but from Germany, Sweden, Finland, the UK, Italy, Eastern Europe, Africa, and South America. It’s truly a melting pot. Yes, it’s one of the cheapest places you’ll find in Lyon—but also one of the best value-for-money options. What people often don’t understand is that Le Flâneur isn’t “staff vs guests.” The team works on rotating roles. The person at reception might clean your bathroom. The person cleaning the kitchen might be at reception the next day. There’s equality of work here—and above all, humanity. Misunderstandings can happen. People are human. I’ve had misunderstandings too—but never rudeness, and never bad intentions. Overall, the staff is genuinely kind, helpful, and welcoming. The beds? They’re perfectly fine—no complaints at all. The kitchen is beautiful and fully usable for cooking your own meals. The neighborhood might look a bit intimidating in the evening during your first few days—but it’s just that: looks. You have excellent access to the city, and I always felt safe. If there’s anything this place might lack in luxury (which I don’t think it does), it more than makes up for it in warmth, effort, and human connection. Come here with an open mind—or even with your eyes closed. This is a place where you can feel safe, welcomed, and at home. If you’re a backpacker or a traveler, you’ll likely meet some amazing people here. Or not. That part’s up to luck. But the place itself? It’s special.

Even though the hostel staff was very nice and helpful, this place lacks the very basics of a hostel. The bunker beds and mattresses are probably the worst. No privacy for the guests in their bed and I had to choose between charging my phone and using the lamp since only one power outlet was available

Super good value for money. Rooms are basic but thats what you expect and they are clean and beds are comfortable. Really good kitchen facilities and lovely communal areas so its super easy to meet other people staying there. Staff was super friendly and really helpful one of my friends got stuff stolen here (obviously not in any way the hostel's fault) and the staff did everything they could to help. |The area was also really nice, we came here with no expectations because it cut a long train journey in half and the area ended up being one of my favourite places we went while interailing.

Great hostel if you’re into low-key social vibes and authenticity. It’s in a great location within a vibrant neighborhood, close to the river, and small cafes, supermarkets, and laundry places. There’s always a staff member available to help, and I believe they’re also involved in some social projects in the neighborhood. I’d definitely come back if I’m ever in Lyon.

Can't expect much with the price, so it was alright. Wouldn't consider this a youth hostel as it seems like there are people living here long term and a lot of the people aren't travelers. The breakfast was great and there's a huge kitchen for you to cook where necessary. The bathrooms were okay, not the cleanest definitely but acceptable (unfortunately they were not ensuite and the entire hostel is sharing 4 bathrooms I believe?? (2 for each gender). I stayed in a six person all female dorm and the rooms were big so it didn't feel crowded. It was alright for a 3 night stay.

The front desk forgot to refund our pricey key deposit and can't return the money I think we gave in debit except in person in cash... The staff are quite friendly and helpful especially one tall, dark-haired girl I owe saving this stay to. The 4 bed room was okay but every faucet including the shower has a button you press for a very short period of water. It's unthinkable in a shower. The beds should have curtains on the outside of the bunk itself which is regular at many other hostels but not here. The location is situated in the part of the city with the most trash lying about and uncharming characters lurking around + communist/antifa propaganda everywhere which is sort of sad to wake up to. It's not a great value for the 4 room bunk. A hotel in Lyon for two people is the same price if you split it.

I stayed in this hostel only for one night, but I think I can recommend it if you need a place for 1-2 days. The stuff is very nice and speaks english. The room was only for women, but with 16 beds which I find a little bit too much. Breakfast included and kitchen is open to your use at any time. The rooms and bathrooms are comparatively clean. There is lobby and terrace where you can spend your time. Location is nice, but I felt a little bit unsafe walking there at the late evening.

I stayed there for two nights and I really loved the community spaces. The Service was great and the people were very kind. The vibe of the hostel was also very cozy. I liked that there were generall rules that made the stay for everyone better. The Hostel was very clean what I really appreciate. I would've loved to have more space to put my stuff on then just the little box on the wall and I didn't see a Socket on my bed but I know that there were ones on the other beds so I'm not sure if I just didn't see mine. The location was pretty good. It was very easy to get everywhere with the tram or Metro. At Daylight I did feel safe in the neighborhood but at night I wouldn't have so I came back earlier. All in all I must say I really enjoyed my stay and I can definitely recommend anyone to go there!