Can tourists obtain weed in Lyon legally? No — tourists cannot legally buy recreational weed in Lyon in 2026 (or anywhere else in France). France’s cannabis laws apply uniformly across the country, and being a visitor doesn’t give you an exemption from those laws.
Recreational Cannabis: Still Illegal
Recreational marijuana (THC cannabis) is illegal in Lyon and throughout France. There are no legal dispensaries, cafés, or delivery services where adults — including tourists — can buy THC cannabis for recreational use.
Possessing, using, selling, transporting, or growing THC cannabis is prohibited under French law and is classified as a narcotic offense. (LegalClarity)
What Happens if You’re Caught?
For small amounts of recreational cannabis, French police typically issue a fixed fine of about €200 (reduced if paid quickly, increased if delayed). This applies to both residents and tourists alike. (LegalClarity)
More serious cases (larger quantities, trafficking, or repeat offenses) can lead to heavier penalties — including higher fines and potential criminal charges under the Public Health and Criminal Codes. (LegalClarity)
Medical Cannabis
France has a restricted medical cannabis program, but it’s not generally accessible to tourists and is limited to very specific conditions under strict medical supervision.
CBD Products — A Legal Alternative
CBD products (with THC below ~0.3%) are legal in France, including Lyon. These include oils, capsules, edibles, and other hemp-derived products sold in licensed shops. (Ganjatravels)
Important: CBD products don’t produce a psychoactive “high,” and raw CBD flowers (even if legal) may be treated like regular cannabis by police if not clearly compliant. (Ganjatravels)
Street or Black Market “Options”
There are informal or black-market sources for THC cannabis (e.g., street dealers or nightlife connections), but these are illegal, risky, and can lead to legal trouble for tourists.
Summary — Lyon 2026
| Category | Legal for Tourists? |
|---|---|
| Recreational THC weed | ❌ Illegal |
| Buying THC cannabis locally | ❌ Illegal |
| Possession of THC cannabis | ❌ Illegal (fine system applies) |
| CBD products (low THC) | ✔ Legal (conditions apply) |
| Medical cannabis access | ⚠ Very limited (not for tourists) |
Bottom line: You cannot legally buy recreational marijuana (weed) in Lyon in 2026 as a tourist. The only legal cannabis-related products you can purchase are compliant CBD items from licensed shops, but recreational THC cannabis remains prohibited under French law. (Ganjatravels)