EU citizens no; others check France's visa policy.

What language is spoken?

French; English is not widely spoken in the village.

Is the city walkable?

Yes, the village center is compact and walkable.

Yes, at the local post office and nearby supermarkets.

Can I drink tap water?

Yes, tap water is safe and of good quality.

What is the currency?

Euro (€). Credit cards accepted widely.

Is there a market day?

Yes, a small market on Saturday mornings at Place de la Mairie.

About 12 km (20 minutes by car).

Fontaines-Saint-Martin

CityRhone-Alpes, France

Fontaines-Saint-Martin is a CITY in Rhone-Alpes, France.

Nestled in the Monts d'Or just northwest of Lyon, Fontaines-Saint-Martin is a serene French commune that blends village charm with easy access to the vibrant Rhône-Alpes capital. Wander through quiet streets lined with traditional stone houses and discover the peaceful Parc de la Mairie, perfect for a leisurely picnic. The nearby Monts d'Or offer gentle hiking trails with panoramic views over the Saône valley and the Alps on clear days. Food lovers will appreciate the local bouchons serving authentic Lyonnaise cuisine, while wine enthusiasts can explore the nearby Beaujolais vineyards. Despite its tranquility, the city is only a 20-minute drive from Lyon's historic center, making it an ideal base for exploring the region's cultural treasures, from Roman theaters to Renaissance architecture.

Best time to visit Fontaines-Saint-Martin

Late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) offer mild weather, blooming gardens, and fewer tourists. Summer (July-August) is warm and lively but can be crowded in Lyon. Winter is quiet with occasional snow on the Monts d'Or, ideal for cozy stays.

October

Now

Right now

Condition: Mostly clear
Temperature: 9°
Feels like: 5°
Humidity: 85%
Wind: 18 km/h
Precipitation: 0 mm

Typical for October

Weather: Cool 9-17°C, autumn colors

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Beautiful foliage

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

LYS

Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport

International

35 km away

GVA

Geneva Airport

International

150 km away

Getting around

"The best way to explore is by car, as public transport is limited. Bus line 70 connects to Lyon's Gorge de Loup metro station. Cycling is pleasant on local roads. Taxis are available but require booking. Walking is ideal within the village. Lyon's TCL network (metro, tram, bus) is accessible via a short drive."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

50 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Widely available in cafes and accommodations

Local SIM

Local SIM available at Lyon airport from $10

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Very safe; minor risk of petty theft in tourist areas of Lyon.

Night safety

8/10

Very safe; minor risk of petty theft in tourist areas of Lyon.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

7/10

"Fontaines-Saint-Martin is very safe, with low crime rates typical of small French communes. Exercise normal precautions against pickpocketing in crowded markets or when visiting Lyon. Emergency services are responsive. Keep valuables secure and avoid poorly lit areas late at night. The main risk is traffic on narrow village roads."

Police

Ambulance

Fire

European Emergency

112

Entry and health

Health information

"France has an excellent healthcare system. EU citizens should carry a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Non-EU visitors need comprehensive travel insurance. Pharmacies (signaled by a green cross) provide over-the-counter medicines and advice. For minor issues, visit a 'maison médicale' or call SOS Médecins (3624). Tap water is safe to drink."

Culture

Local customs

"Greet with 'Bonjour' when entering shops or cafes. Dress smart-casual; avoid overly beachwear in town. Dining etiquette includes keeping hands on the table, not in your lap. Tipping is not mandatory but rounding up the bill is appreciated. Quiet hours (after 10 PM) are observed."

French (official)OccitanGermanArabicPortugueseFrench

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$15 | a three-course meal at a local bouchon ~$15-25

Hotels

$60-100 | budget hotels range $60-100/night

Local transport

$2 | bus to Lyon ~$2 one-way

Cost notes

Prices lower than central Lyon; dining and accommodation offer good value.

Timezone

Europe/Paris
Local time 01:24

More facts

Population

2,873

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Brutus-la-Fontaine, Fontaines-Saint-Martin, Fonten Sen Marten, Fonten-Sen-Marten, Фонтен Сен Мартен, Фонтен-Сен-Мартен

CityHistoricHikingFamily-FriendlyRuralFood & Wine