Lyon

Terreaux Post Office

Main Post Office

Real security problems in the Lyon center are rare, but the usual advice applies.

Rue Ste Catherine, behind Place des Terreaux, is locally famous for its bars; on weekend nights there are a lot of drunk people on the street, who might be violent. The police keep a close watch but it is probably better to avoid the area if you are on your own, especially after 3AM when the bars are closed. Similar problems may be encountered in Vieux Lyon.

In populated places such as Rue de la République or outside Part-Dieu station, you may come across people advertising for charities; they can be recognised by their specific, coloured clothing. They will not ask you for money but rather give you information documents which encourage you to donate. Homeless people sell newspapers such as Macadam or Sans-abri which help them making some money without begging; they should have an ID card issued by the editors. But there are also people trying to con you and get money for some imaginary charity, sometimes by selling postcards or other items. Never give money directly to someone on the street who claims to be working for charity and does not have official documents, or if the documents look doubtful.

When in the metro, particularly at Part-Dieu station near the main train station, you may be approached by people trying to sell you metro tickets. Ignore them and use the ticket machines which can be set to a number of different languages for your ease of use or ask a metro employee for assistance.

Some areas of the city,paticulary the rather nasty communes of Villeurbanne and Venisseux,are famous for their riots and should be avoided.