Lyon is a city of incredible beauty, culture, and history. From its cobbled streets to its breathtaking architecture, it’s no wonder why it has become such a popular destination.
I’ve been living and traveling in France for more than a decade. Not only that but I’ve been to Lyon several times. I know the best restaurants, top attractions, and the lesser-known spots.
And today I want to share with you my top recommendations.
In this post, I’ll share with you all my favorite things to see and do in Lyon so you can plan an unforgettable trip.
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1. Explore Vieux Lyon (Old Town)
As the oldest district in Lyon, a stroll through Vieux Lyon is like taking a step back in time. Here you’ll find stunning architecture, charming alleys, and old-world ambiance.
In fact, the colorful Renaissance mansions that line the narrow streets are one of the reasons why this area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
I walked up and down every street several times. I kept finding a new building or shop I wanted to visit. The most picturesque part was near the corner of Place du Petit Collège and Pt Rue Tramassac.
And there’s no wrong time to visit Vieux Lyon. In the morning, I had the place to myself and felt very safe.
Even if the afternoons were crowded, the hustle and bustle gave life to the area.
Nearest Station: Vieux Lyon – Cathédrale Saint-Jean (Line D)
Book your Guided Walking Tour of Lyon here ➔
2. Take a Cruise Around Lyon
This is one of the most unique experiences in Lyon!
You’ll board a luxurious river boat and cruise along the banks of the Saône and Rhône rivers. As you indulge in a delicious gourmet lunch, your guide will detail the city’s fascinating history. You’ll pass historical sites, monuments, and architectural masterpieces.
And, if you’re spending a few days in Lyon, it’s a great way to take a break from walking around and just enjoy the city.
The tour lasts two and a half hours and there are several meal options available. Seats fill up quickly, so it’s best to book in advance.
3. Check Out Musée des Beaux Arts
Located in the heart of the city, the Musée des Beaux Arts is not only one of the largest museums in France, but it’s also one of the most renowned.
And it’s one of the many reasons why people visit this incredible place!
From ancient Egyptian artifacts to modern sculptures, there are centuries worth of art on display.
They even have paintings by Van Gogh and Renoir. And the exhibits are in chronological order so it’s easy to follow.
Whether you’re an art aficionado or simply want to learn something new, the Musée des Beaux Arts is a must-do in Lyon.
Address: 20 Place des Terreaux
Nearest Station: Hôtel de Ville L. Pradel (Lines A and C)
4. Visit the Parc de la Tête d’Or
There’s no denying that the streets of Lyon can be, at times, chaotic. So, why not take a break and head to Parc de la Tête d’Or?
This unique urban oasis offers a variety of activities.
I woke up early and walked up and down the length of the park a few times. There were so many gardens and hidden areas to explore.
But, if I had to choose, my two favorites were the International Rose Garden and the Madagascar Greenhouse.
I love photographing flowers and insects. So wandering through gardens that are full of such variety is heaven on earth, at least for me.
Nearest Station: Masséna (Line A)
5. Wander Around Place Bellecour
Place Bellecour is most known for its massive bronze statue of King Louis XIV that sits in the center of the square. But that’s not all. It’s also the largest pedestrian square in Europe, which means there are tons of things to do here.
In summer, it’s a great place to relax and watch the city unfold. There are also pétanque competitions throughout the year, the most famous of which is on the weekend of Pentecost.
Nearest Station: Bellecour (Lines A and D)
6. Eat at a Bouchon
A visit to Lyon wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the city’s culinary heritage. After all, it is the Gastronomic Capital of France!
Bouchons are bistro-like restaurants that have been around for centuries. Here you’ll find hearty food, abundant wine, and an inviting atmosphere.
Some of the most common dishes include salade Lyonnaise, pot-au-feu, pâté, and sausages.
To date, only 20 restaurants are officially labeled as ‘Bouchon’. And, since they must adhere to a set list of traditions, their qualifications are evaluated on a regular basis.
Here is a list of the best bouchons in Lyon:
7. Marvel at the Fourvière Basilica
Among the city’s most iconic attractions is the Fourvière Basilica, even though it’s barely one hundred years old.
Its mosaic-lined ceiling and its pristine white exterior are the most notable features. In fact, its outer walls are so bright you can see the church from anywhere in Lyon.
Then, if you visit in the afternoon, as the sun hits the rose windows, the altar outshines all else. It’s easily one of the most impressive churches in the country.
To reach this masterpiece, you can take one of the Funiculars. But I walked. It was a difficult hike to the top but I found the experience to be that much more rewarding.
Plus, the small alleyways along the way are full of beautiful buildings.
Address: 8 Place de Fourvière
Nearest Station: Fourvière (Funiculars F2)
Book your Guided Tour of the Fourvière Basilica here ➔
8. Journey through Lyon’s Traboules
Who doesn’t love exploring hidden passageways?
Well, Lyon is full of secret alleys called traboules.
They connect streets, buildings, courtyards, and even entire neighborhoods!
While they have always been a part of the city, their most significant use came during World War II.
Locals used the traboules to move from one neighborhood to another completely undetected. This allowed them to build resistance groups and outsmart their opposition.
Today, you can tour the remaining traboules, but you’ll need to use your treasure-hunting skills or a good map to find them. Most are tucked away behind unassuming doors or staircases, so they are easy to miss.
To help get you started, here are the most famous traboules in Lyon:
- Cour des Voraces – 9 Place Colbert
- The Longest Traboule – 54 Rue Saint-Jean and 27 Rue du Bœuf
- La Tour Rose – 22 Rue du Bœuf
It took me more than an hour to find the entrance to each one of these. The numbers on the buildings were not clearly visible.
And, for the Longest Trabouble, I had to open a door that looked like someone’s apartment, which was scary.
Book your Guided Tour of Lyon’s Traboules here ➔
9. Go on a Wine Tasting Tour
Of course, no trip to Lyon is complete without sampling some French wine.
You could stop in any restaurant, but going on a wine-tasting tour is an experience like no other.
You’ll embark on a journey through the renowned Rhône Valley and explore its world-famous Côtes du Rhône wines.
Local winemakers will show you their production process and afterward, you’ll get to try some of the best wines in the region.
It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, to say the least.
Book your Wine Tasting Rhône Valley Day Tour here ➔
10. Hang Out in Place des Terreaux
Located on Presqu’Île, Place des Terreaux is one of the liveliest squares in Lyon. It’s surrounded on all four sides and in the middle sits the infamous Fontaine Bartholdi (Bartholdi Fountain).
Some of the most notable buildings are the Hôtel de Ville de Lyon (Lyon’s City Hall) and the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon.
Stop by one of the cafés for an espresso, marvel at the magnificent fountain, or admire the beautiful architecture. Either way, it’s a great place to hang out and enjoy a sunny afternoon, even if you’re only visiting for the day.
Nearest Station: Hôtel de Ville L. Pradel (Lines A and C)
11. Explore Lyon’s Roman Ruins
Lyon, originally known as Lugdunum, was founded in 43 BCE under the Roman Empire.
During its early years, Lugdunum saw rapid growth and prosperity. Forums, theaters, and aqueducts were built at an impressive rate.
And, today, many of these structures are still intact.
While there are lots of excavation sites in Lyon, the most impressive are on Fourvière Hill.
Here you’ll find the Théâtre Gallo Romain de Lyon-Fourvière, Odeon of Lyon, and Thermes Antiques de Lyon. And, best of all, admission to each of these sites is completely free.
Helpful Tip: Next to the Théâtre Gallo Romain de Lyon-Fourvière you’ll find the Lugdunum – Musée et Théâtres Romains. It’s perfect for anyone looking to learn more about the history of Lyon.
Nearest Station: Minimes Théâtres Romains (Funiculars F1)
Book your Tour of Lyon’s Romain Ruins here ➔
12. Head to Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste
Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Lyon is a stunning Gothic-style church located in the heart of Vieux Lyon. Some of the most iconic features include the gigantic nave that stretches to 32.5 meters (16 feet) and the 27-pedaled organ.
It’s also home to Lyon’s astronomical clock. This 14th-century masterpiece not only tells the time but also the location of the sun, moon, and earth. I’d say it even rivals the astronomical clock in Strasbourg’s Notre Dame Cathedral.
Address: Place Saint-Jean
Nearest Station: Vieux Lyon – Cathédrale Saint-Jean (Line D)
Book your Guided Walking Tour of Lyon here ➔
13. Tour Fourvière Hill
Fourvière Hill is most known for its basilica and Roman ruins, but there’s so much more to see here. Some of my favorites were the Tour Métallique de Fourvière, the Parc des Hauteurs, and Église de Saint-Just.
Then, if you have some extra time, I recommend bringing a packed lunch to enjoy at Jardin des Curiosités. That’s what I did.
I relaxed on one of the benches and took in some of the best views of the city while I ate a sandwich that I bought from one of the bakeries in town.
Nearest Stations: Minimes Théâtres Romains (Funiculars F1) and Fourvière (Funiculars F2)
14. Go on a Silk Tour
Since the 15th century, Lyon has played a vital role in the silk industry.
It even became one of the most important cities along the Silk Roads. And, at one point, Lyon had so many looms that it became known as the Capital of Silk.
In 1801, Joseph Marie Jacquard modernized the process with his invention of the mechanical loom.
Silk weavers were now able to produce at an unprecedented rate. Unfortunately, their salaries did not reflect the amount of work they were doing. So, they revolted.
It took three uprisings, known as the Canut Revolts, before their working conditions improved.
Today, you can learn about the history of this fascinating trade on one of Lyon’s Silk Tours.
You’ll meet local artisans who will take you through the production process. They’ll even put on a live weaving demonstration so you can see firsthand how it’s done.
Then, you’ll tour the traboules in La Croix-Rousse.
These are the very same passageways that were used by the silk workers during the Canut Revolts.
Needless to say, it’s a captivating tour that will no doubt leave you in awe.
15. Walk Along the Saône River
Lyon is a city full of history, culture, and beauty.
One of the best ways to explore its many charms is by taking a stroll along the banks of the Saône River.
A tranquil footpath runs next to the river where you’ll have magnificent views of Vieux Lyon and Presqu’Île.
My favorite spots were the Passerelle St Georges de Lyon bridge and Pont de la Feuillée. These are, undoubtedly, the two most instagrammable spots in Lyon.
16. Visit the Musée des Arts de la Marionnette
The Musée des Arts de la Marionnette (Marionette Museum) houses an impressive collection of 300 marionettes from around the world.
And during your visit, you’ll go on a journey through the history of puppets and puppeteers.
I found the museum to be very interactive and engaging.
They even had exhibits where you could play with the different puppets. It’s meant for kids, but, since I’m a kid at heart, I didn’t hesitate.
Opening Times: Sunday to Wednesday: 10:30 am – 6:00 pm
Address: 1 Place du Petit Collège
Nearest Station: Vieux Lyon – Cathédrale Saint-Jean (Line D)
17. Experience Fêtes des Lumières
One of the most exciting events in Lyon is the Festival of Lights, also known as Fêtes des Lumières.
Every year on the 8th of December, locals pay tribute to the Virgin Mary for sparing them from the Bubonic plague in 1643.
The entire city comes alive with a magical choreography of lights and colors. As per tradition, residents place candles along their windows to light up the streets. There are performances, light shows at Place des Terreaux and Fourvière Basilica, and much more.
Helpful Tip: Celebrations carry on for four days, but if you want to see it at its peak be there on the 8th of December.
18. Climb Montée du Gourguillon
Unlock a world full of vibrant buildings and stunning doors along Montée du Gourguillon.
This gently inclining street is full of winding alleyways and unique houses. It’s a place where you can catch a glimpse of local life in Lyon and marvel at some of the most picturesque windows in the city. In short, it’s a street photographer’s dream.
This is, actually, the street I used to go up to Fourvière Hill. And it turned out to be far more beautiful than I anticipated.
Nearest Station: Vieux Lyon – Cathédrale Saint-Jean (Line D)
19. Wonder at Lyon’s Frescoes
If you want to appreciate Lyon’s rich cultural heritage, then a visit to its frescoes is an absolute must. These vibrant murals were commissioned by CitéCréation and make up what is known as Lyon’s Open-Air Gallery.
Each one details a different story and highlights a part of the city’s past.
But the most impressive feature is their size. These murals are so gigantic they look lifelike, giving what the French call a trompe-l’oeil or “trick of the eye.”
There are 30 frescoes spread across the city, but the three listed below were my favorites:
Mur des Canuts
- Address: 36 Boulevard des Canuts
- Nearest Station: Hénon (Line C)
Interesting Fact: This is the largest mural in Europe.
Fresque des Lyonnais
- Address: 2 Rue de la Martinière
- Nearest Station: Hôtel de Ville L. Pradel (Lines A and C)
Bibliothèque de la Cité
- Address: 6 Rue de la Platière
- Nearest Station: Hôtel de Ville L. Pradel (Lines A and C)
When I walked past the Bibliothèque de la Cité mural, I thought it was an actual library at first. That’s how real these paintings are.
20. Peruse around Les Halles de Lyon – Paul Bocuse
For a unique culinary experience head to Les Halles de Lyon – Paul Bocuse. This vibrant market hall is the perfect place to explore local delicacies and discover some of the city’s best-kept secrets.
Named after one of France’s most renowned chefs, this foodie haven serves some of the most tantalizing food in town. And it’s been doing so since 1859.
Opening Times:
- Tuesday to Saturday: 7:00 am – 7:00 pm
- Sunday 7:00 am – 1:00 pm
Address: 102 Cr Lafayette F
Nearest Station: Gare Part-Dieu V. Merle (Line B)
Book your Food Tour of Les Halles de Lyon – Paul Bocuse here ➔
21. Visit the Cinema and Miniature Museum
One of my favorite museums in Lyon was the Cinema and Miniature Museum (Musée Cinéma et Miniature).
Believe it or not, the first motion-picture camera, projector, and film were invented right here in Lyon.
So, a trip to the Musée Cinéma et Miniature is a must.
With hundreds of props, costumes, and miniaturized scenes, you’ll learn how explosions are done, how aliens are made, and much more.
I have to admit that I’m a wimp when it comes to horror movies, so the sections on how aliens were scary. They put up signs to warn you ahead of time, but that didn’t help.
Once I got over the initial fear, I was able to enjoy the exhibits. And I had fun learning about how they designed the costumes and makeup.
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10:00 am to 6:30 pm
- Saturday to Sunday and public/school holidays – 10:00 am to 7:00 pm
Address: 60 Rue Saint-Jean
Nearest Station: Vieux Lyon – Cathédrale Saint-Jean (Line D)
22. Discover La Croix-Rousse
La Croix-Rousse is one of the most charming neighborhoods in the city. With its artisan shops, historic buildings, and vibrant culture you’ll find plenty of things to do here.
Take a stroll along Montée de la Grande-Côte and admire the colorful buildings, relax in Jardin du Gros Caillou, or visit the Amphithéâtre des Trois Gaules.
Nearest Station: Croix-Rousse (Line C)
23. Take Part in Les Nuits de Fourvière
Every summer, since 1946, the city of Lyon has hosted Les Nuits de Fourvière (Nights of Fourvière). This one-of-a-kind festival is dedicated to the arts (theater, music, and dance). It’s a chance for locals to showcase their talents and put on a show.
And, best of all, it takes place in the Théâtre Antique de Fourvière, the most fitting of locations.
There are tons of events, so if you want to see something specific, I recommend checking the schedule ahead of time.
Helpful Tip: Most years the Nights of Fourvière start at the end of May and go until the end of July.
24. Explore Confluence
There’s no denying that Lyon is rich in history and culture, but it also has a modern side.
Confluence has perfectly captured this contemporary spirit. And it’s emerged as one of the most stylish areas in the city. Here you’ll find world-class dining options, swanky bars, and exciting startups.
There are also several quirky buildings, a fantastic museum (Musée des Confluences), and green spaces where you can relax.
Needless to say, it’s a diverse neighborhood with a variety of things to do.
Nearest Station: Hôtel Région Montrochet (Trams T1 and T2)
25. Catch a Show at Opéra National de Lyon
Located in the heart of the city, this stunning opera house has been hosting spectacular shows since it opened in 1831.
From classical ballets to modern musical performances, there’s something here for everyone.
Their goal is to make opera more accessible, so you’ll find tickets as low as €10. Make sure to check their schedule online for upcoming shows.
Address: 1 Place de la Comédie
Nearest Station: Croix Paquet (Line C)
26. Shop in Place de la République
One of the best places for shopping in Lyon is Place de la République. Here you’ll find everything from one-of-a-kind boutiques to big retail stores.
The atmosphere is lively, and the streets are buzzing with enthusiastic merchants. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs or just want to explore local fashion trends, this is the place to be!
Nearest Station: Bellecour (Lines A and D)
27. Party at Nuits Sonores
Every May, Lyon comes alive with the Nuits Sonores. This eclectic music festival is mainly electronic music, so don’t expect to sing along with your favorite bands.
It’s a festival where you can relax and listen to music or dance the night away with some of the best DJs in the world.
I’m a huge electronic music fan. And I’m not talking about David Guetta. I’m talking DJs like Laurent Garnier, Jeff Mills, and Ricardo Villalobos.
So, if you’re the same or willing to try something new, this is what you’ll find at Nuit Sonores. It’s an incredible experience and I never miss an opportunity to go.
28. Shop at a Market
Shopping at local markets is something I do in every French city I visit. And it’s one of the many things I love about France.
It’s a fun excursion that allows you to get up close and personal with the local culture. Not only that but the produce is perfect and the food is delicious. They’re also some of the most affordable places to find gifts for friends and family back home.
There are quite a few markets in Lyon, but my favorite was the Marché Saint Antoine along Quai des Célestines. It gets crowded toward the afternoon, so be sure to get there early.
29. Glide Through Lyon on a Segway Tour
Not only is Lyon the third largest city in France, but it’s also really hilly.
For me, the constant up and down was exhausting. My feet were, actually, on fire after the first day!
So, the best way to avoid sore feet and see everything is to go on a Segway Tour. It’s also one of the coolest activities in Lyon.
You’ll glide effortlessly through the city streets while taking in all the amazing sites. It’s both fun and adventurous. Plus, you’ll cover so much ground in two hours, that you’re sure not to miss a thing.
30. Climb Escalier Mermet
This stunning 80-step staircase connects Presqu’Île with the upper section of La Croix-Rousse. And it’s one of the most unique places to visit in Lyon.
It was designed by WENC, an artist who paints creative patterns that are organic in nature.
Besides the striking beauty of the stairs themselves, the environment is very calm. It’s rarely overcrowded, so you could end up having the place to yourself.
Nearest Station: Croix Paquet (Line C)
31. Observe Lyon From Above
If you love sweeping city views, then Lyon won’t disappoint. There are so many vantage points throughout the city it’s hard to choose which ones to visit.
I, actually, went to every viewpoint that was listed on Google Maps and I found a few others that were not mentioned anywhere else.
Some of my favorites were Belvédères des Jardins du Gros Caillou, Point de Vue along Rue des Fantasques, and the view from Jardin des Curiosités.
Helpful Tip: Try to go at either sunrise or sunset. The sky fills with hues of orange as the sun’s rays light the colorful buildings. It’s absolutely phenomenal.
32. Visit the Quais du Polar Festival
The Quais du Polar Festival is held every year since 2005, this international crime fiction event brings together renowned authors, fans, and publishers.
I would classify myself as a crime fiction nerd.
My all-time favorite author is Michael Connelly. I’ve read every one of his books. So when there’s a festival dedicated to this genre, like Quais du Polar Festival, I’m the first one to arrive.
It’s definitely one of the more unique things to do here.
33. Take a Day Trip to Dijon
Tucked away in the heart of Burgundy lies one of France’s most underrated cities, Dijon.
Yes, it’s small but it packs a punch. And, best of all, it’s less than two hours away by train from Lyon!
There are so many reasons to visit Dijon it’s hard for me to choose only one. I loved everything about it. The Palais des Ducs de Bourgogne is breathtaking, the museums are free, and the food is divine.
It’s also easy to see the highlights in a day with a self-guided tour called Parcours de la Chouette.
Map of Lyon
Below is a map of all the attractions that are on this list. Click the map to open Google Maps.
Where to Stay
As the third largest city in France, there’s no shortage of places to stay in Lyon. The most easily accessible and convenient districts to stay in are Vieux Lyon and Presqu’Île.
Below I’ve compiled a list of the best hotels in both neighborhoods:
- Villa Florentine – Located in the center of Vieux Lyon, this amazing hotel offers some of the most spectacular views. They also have a 24-hour reception and air conditioning for those hot summer nights.
- InterContinental Lyon – Hotel Dieu, an IHG Hotel – Located in Presqu’Île, this hotel is all about amenities. They have everything from currency exchange to concierge services.
- Hotel Le Royal Lyon – MGallery – Another wonderful hotel in Presqu’Île. The beds are comfy and the staff is helpful. There’s even a restaurant where you can take cooking classes.
Where to Eat
Lyon is a foodie’s heaven. You’ll find everything from international cuisine to traditional dishes. Below is a list of some of my favorite places to eat.
- Yummy Pancakes – The best brunch in town. If you love pancakes, this place is for you.
- Agastache Restaurant – Amazing food at a reasonable price. The dishes are elegant but the setting is laid back.
- La Mère Brazier – Elegant cuisine in a 1920s setting. It’s often touted as one of the best restaurants in Lyon.
Conclusion
Lyon is an amazing city filled with so many things to do and see. From exploring world-class museums to uncovering hidden passageways, there’s something for everyone.
So, if you’re looking for the perfect place to spend your next vacation, don’t look any further. Lyon is the place to be.
And, with its mild climate, now is the perfect time to plan your trip. It’s a great addition to any kind of itinerary, especially if you want to visit eastern France.
Read More Articles About France
I hope you enjoyed my post and found it helpful. Here are some other articles that I think you might find interesting.
- One Day in Dijon – The Perfect Itinerary
- 22 Amazing Day Trips from Colmar (A Local’s Guide)
- How to Say Hello in French: 39 Easy Ways (with Audio)
