Commercial Production in Lyon and the French Alps: Locations, Permits and Local Crew

Dreaming of snowy peaks, dramatic landscapes, or vibrant city scenes for your next commercial? Shooting in the French Alps and Lyon offer breathtaking backdrops and world class production resources. Here’s how to plan a successful shoot in these iconic French locations.

Why Lyon Is a Strong Commercial Production City in France

Lyon is France's third city and one of its most compelling commercial production destinations yet it remains significantly underused by international brands and agencies. The city offers a genuinely distinctive visual environment: the Renaissance old town of Vieux-Lyon (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the sweeping Presqu'île peninsula between the Rhône and Saône rivers, the contemporary Confluence district with its striking modern architecture, and the bohemian creative character of the Croix-Rousse neighbourhood. This visual range — from historic grandeur to contemporary design gives productions genuine location variety without travelling between cities.

Lyon's connection to cinema runs deep: the Lumière brothers filmed their first sequences here, and the city's production culture reflects that heritage. The film office is experienced and efficient, local crew are strong and familiar with international commercial standards, and the city's creative and gastronomic scene makes it an excellent location for food and beverage, lifestyle, and cultural brand campaigns.

Combining Lyon and the French Alps in One Production

The proximity of Lyon to multiple Alpine locations makes it a natural logistics base for combined productions. Chamonix and Megève are accessible within two hours by road, and the Chartreuse massif begins just 45 minutes from the city. For agencies producing multi-day shoots that require both urban and alpine environments sports brands, automotive, outdoor lifestyle, Lyon provides the operational base while the Alps deliver the dramatic natural locations. This is one of the most efficient production combinations available in France.

Why Choose the French Alps for Commercial Production?

• The Alps: Majestic mountains, pristine lakes, charming alpine villages, and four-season appeal (winter sports, summer adventure, autumn colours)

• Lyon: France’s culinary capital, historic old town, modern riverside architecture, and a thriving creative industry

Permits and Planning in the French Alps

Lyon's film office manages commercial filming permits efficiently. The Vieux-Lyon UNESCO district and major public squares require advance coordination, and drone operations in central Lyon require aviation permits given the urban density. As with all French productions, crew must be engaged through the intermittent du spectacle framework via a French-registered production company.

Alpine shoots often require permits from local councils or park authorities, especially for drone use or filming in protected areas. Winter shoots may need extra planning for weather and access.

In Lyon, city permits are required for most public locations. The city is film friendly, but advance notice is advised for busy squares or historic districts.

Local Crew and Equipment

• Both regions have highly skilled, bilingual crew familiar with international standards. In the Alps, local fixers like us know how to handle mountain logistics, lightweight gear, and weather contingencies.

Sustainability and Comfort

• Both locations are ideal for sustainable production, with local suppliers, eco-friendly transport options, and a focus on minimising environmental impact.

Whether you’re filming on a glacier or in a Lyonnais bistro, local expertise is key.

Contact And So Production or email us on production@andsoproduction.com for seamless logistics, crew, and creative support.