Best Things to Do in Lyon
The Travel Pages brings you the best things to do in Lyon, France’s second city, including museums, walks, murals, the Old Town and, of course, eating!
Best Things to Do in Lyon
There’s something truly magical about Lyon that will capture your heart from the moment you arrive. As France’s third-largest city and a UNESCO World Heritage site, this vibrant metropolis offers you a perfect blend of history, culture, and gastronomy. You’ll discover a city where ancient Roman ruins stand alongside Renaissance architecture, and where your taste buds will be treated to some of France’s finest cuisine.
Whether you’re wandering through the charming cobblestone streets of Vieux Lyon or savoring local delicacies in a traditional bouchon, your Lyon adventure promises to be unforgettable.
Key Takeaways:
- Lyon’s historic Vieux Lyon (Old Town) and the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière are UNESCO World Heritage sites that offer stunning architecture and panoramic city views, making them must-visit attractions.
- The city is known as France’s gastronomic capital, with its traditional bouchons (local restaurants) and the Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse food market providing authentic culinary experiences.
- Spring (April-June) and Fall (September-October) are ideal times to visit Lyon, offering pleasant weather and fewer tourists while allowing visitors to fully enjoy both outdoor attractions and indoor cultural venues.
Key Takeaways:
- Lyon’s historic Vieux Lyon (Old Town) and the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière are UNESCO World Heritage sites that offer stunning architecture and panoramic city views, making them must-visit attractions.
- The city is known as France’s gastronomic capital, with its traditional bouchons (local restaurants) and the Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse food market providing authentic culinary experiences.
- Spring (April-June) and Fall (September-October) are ideal times to visit Lyon, offering pleasant weather and fewer tourists while allowing visitors to fully enjoy both outdoor attractions and indoor cultural venues.
Must-See Attractions
For your perfect Lyon adventure, you’ll want to explore the city’s most iconic landmarks. From the charming cobblestone streets of Old Lyon to the majestic hilltop basilica, Lyon’s attractions will delight you. The city’s UNESCO World Heritage sites offer a fascinating journey through 2,000 years of history, while modern museums and vibrant markets showcase Lyon’s contemporary spirit.
1. Explore Vieux Lyon
You can step back in time in Europe’s largest Renaissance district after Venice. Your wanderings through Vieux Lyon will reveal hidden traboules (secret passageways), stunning Gothic and Renaissance architecture, and charming boutiques. Don’t miss Saint-Jean Cathedral and the magical puppet workshops along Rue Saint-Jean. You’ll find the district at its best in the early morning or late afternoon when tourist crowds are thinner.
2. Visit the Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière
The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière stands proudly on Fourvière hill, offering breathtaking views over Lyon. You can reach this magnificent white church, known as Lyon’s “Hill of Prayer,” via funicular or by climbing the scenic steps. The basilica’s stunning Byzantine and Romanesque architecture makes it one of France’s most impressive churches.
This 19th-century basilica is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Inside, you’ll discover spectacular mosaics, intricate stained glass windows, and an observation deck with panoramic city views. For the best experience, visit during the Festival of Lights in December when the basilica becomes a canvas for magnificent light shows. The rooftop terrace is accessible April through November, weather permitting.
Culinary Delights
Any visit to Lyon would be incomplete without exploring its renowned culinary scene. As France’s gastronomic capital, Lyon offers you an unforgettable journey through flavors, from traditional bouchons to Michelin-starred restaurants. You’ll discover why UNESCO recognized Lyon’s culinary heritage as part of humanity’s intangible cultural heritage.
3. Savor Traditional Lyonnaise Cuisine
To experience authentic Lyon, step into one of the city’s charming bouchons, traditional family-owned restaurants serving hearty local specialties. You’ll find yourself surrounded by red-and-white checkered tablecloths while enjoying classics like quenelles, andouillette, or praline tart. These cozy establishments offer you a genuine taste of Lyon’s culinary tradition dating back to the 17th century.
4. Discover the Famous Halles de Lyon
Traditional food markets don’t get more impressive than Les Halles de Lyon-Paul Bocuse. You’ll find yourself among 48 prestigious food vendors offering the finest regional products. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 7:00 AM to 2:30 PM, this gourmet paradise showcases everything from fresh oysters to local cheeses and decadent pastries.
Lyonnaise locals have been shopping at Les Halles since 1971, and you’ll understand why when you taste the exceptional quality of products. While exploring the market, you can enjoy breakfast or lunch at one of several on-site restaurants. The best time to visit is early morning when you’ll see local chefs selecting their daily ingredients. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample Saint-Marcellin cheese and pink pralines, two local specialties.
Cultural Experiences
All around Lyon, you’ll discover a city steeped in rich cultural heritage. From world-class museums to historic theaters, you’ll find yourself immersed in 2,000 years of artistic and cultural evolution. Your journey through Lyon’s cultural landscape will take you from Roman amphitheaters to contemporary art galleries, offering a perfect blend of past and present.
5. Immerse in Art at the Musée des Beaux-Arts
This is France’s second-largest fine arts museum after the Louvre. You’ll find yourself surrounded by masterpieces from artists like Picasso, Rubens, and Monet in this stunning 17th-century former abbey. The museum’s 70 rooms of permanent collections offer you an incredible journey through centuries of art history.
6. Stroll Through Parc de la Tête d’Or
Stroll through Lyon’s green heart, where you’ll discover 117 hectares of natural beauty. You can enjoy the free zoo, botanical garden, and lake while escaping the city bustle. The park’s rose garden with 30,000 roses offers you a spectacular display, especially during late spring blooming season.
Through every season, the park offers you different attractions. In summer, you can rent a boat on the lake, while spring brings magnificent flower displays. The botanical gardens house 16,000 plants, and you’ll find a lovely zoo featuring red pandas and giraffes. Winter transforms the park into a peaceful haven where you can enjoy crisp morning walks.
Unique Activities
Your adventure in Lyon wouldn’t be complete without experiencing some of the city’s most distinctive attractions. From hidden passageways to riverside experiences, Lyon offers activities you won’t find anywhere else in France. Let your curiosity guide you through these unforgettable local experiences that make Lyon truly special.
7. Take a Scenic Boat Cruise on the Rhône
Now you can see Lyon from a completely different perspective aboard a relaxing river cruise. Float along the Rhône River past illuminated bridges and historic buildings, while enjoying local wines and regional specialties. These 1-3 hour cruises operate from April to October, with sunset tours offering the most magical views of the city. Book your cruise with Les Bateaux Lyonnais lesbateauxlyonnais.com for prices starting at €15.
8. Uncover the Secrets of the Traboules
Traboules, Lyon’s mysterious hidden passageways, offer you a fascinating glimpse into the city’s silk-trading past. These covered walkways connect buildings and courtyards throughout Vieux Lyon and Croix-Rousse, creating a secret network that dates back to the 4th century. You can explore over 40 public traboules, each with its own unique architecture and story.
Cruise through these well-preserved Renaissance corridors at your own pace, but be sure to respect the residents who still live here. The most accessible traboules are found between 54 Rue Saint-Jean and 27 Rue du Boeuf in Vieux Lyon. You’ll discover beautiful spiral staircases, Gothic arches, and stunning Italian-style galleries along your journey.
Practical Tips for Visiting
Despite Lyon’s reputation as a tourist-friendly city, you’ll need to plan your visit carefully to make the most of your experience. The city operates on a typical French schedule, with many shops closing for lunch between 12-2 PM and all day on Sundays. Most restaurants serve lunch 12-2 PM and dinner 7-10 PM. Assume that you’ll need to make reservations for popular restaurants, especially in the Vieux Lyon area.
Best Time to Visit Lyon
One of your best choices for visiting Lyon would be during spring (April-June) or fall (September-October) when temperatures are mild and crowds are smaller. You’ll enjoy comfortable weather for exploring outdoor markets and walking tours. The famous Festival of Lights in December transforms the city into a magical wonderland, but be prepared for larger crowds and higher accommodation prices during this period.
Transportation and Accessibility
For getting around Lyon, you’ll find a well-connected public transport system including metros, trams, and buses. Your best option is to purchase a Lyon City Card, which gives you unlimited access to public transport and free entry to major museums. The city center is walkable, with most major attractions within comfortable walking distance of each other.
A comprehensive network of bike-sharing stations (Vélo’v) makes cycling an excellent option for exploring the city. The Part-Dieu train station connects you to major French and European cities, while the Saint-Exupéry Airport is easily accessible via the Rhônexpress tram. Your journey from the airport to the city center takes about 30 minutes. Walking in the historic areas can involve cobblestones and hills, so wear comfortable shoes.
Conclusion
From above, you can see that Lyon offers you an incredible mix of experiences that will make your visit truly memorable. Whether you’re savoring local delicacies at Les Halles, wandering through the historic Vieux Lyon, or taking in panoramic views from Fourvière Basilica, this city caters to all your travel desires. The charm of Lyon’s traboules, the vibrant arts scene, and the warmth of its people will leave you planning your next visit before you’ve even left. Pack your walking shoes and bring your appetite – Lyon is waiting to enchant you with its unique blend of history, culture, and gastronomy.
FAQ
Q: What’s the best time to visit Lyon and explore its attractions?
A: Lyon is most enjoyable from May to September when temperatures are pleasant (20-25°C). Spring and early autumn offer comfortable weather for sightseeing and fewer tourists. The famous Festival of Lights occurs in December, making it a magical time to visit despite colder temperatures. Summer months (July-August) can be quite hot and busy with tourists.
Q: How can I best experience Lyon’s renowned culinary scene?
A: Visit the traditional Bouchons (local restaurants) in Vieux Lyon, especially along Rue des Marronniers. Book a table at Paul Bocuse’s L’Auberge du Pont de Collonges (40 Quai de la Plage) or explore Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse food market (102 Cours Lafayette). Consider taking a cooking class at L’Atelier des Chefs (atelierdeschefs.fr) to learn authentic Lyonnaise cuisine.
Q: Which historical sites should I prioritize during my visit to Lyon?
A: Start with the UNESCO-listed Old Town (Vieux Lyon), explore the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière (8 Place de Fourvière, fourviere.org), discover the Roman theaters at the Lugdunum Museum (17 Rue Cléberg), and walk through the traboules (hidden passageways) in the Croix-Rousse district. The Cathedral of Saint-Jean-Baptiste in the heart of Old Lyon is also important.
Q: How can I efficiently get around Lyon to see all the main attractions?
A: Purchase a Lyon City Card (lyoncitycard.com) for unlimited public transport access and free entry to major museums. The metro system connects all major attractions, while the funicular provides easy access to Fourvière hill. Walking or using Vélo’v bike-sharing system is perfect for exploring the city center. Most attractions are within walking distance in the UNESCO World Heritage areas.
Q: What are the must-visit museums and cultural venues in Lyon?
A: Visit the Museum of Fine Arts (20 Place des Terreaux, mba-lyon.fr), the Contemporary Art Museum (Cité Internationale, mac-lyon.com), and the unique Musée des Confluences (86 Quai Perrache, museedesconfluences.fr). The Lumière Museum (25 Rue du Premier Film) celebrates cinema history, while the Gadagne Museums showcase Lyon’s history and puppet arts. Most museums are closed on Mondays and offer free entry on the first Sunday of each month.
FAQ
Q: What’s the best time to visit Lyon and explore its attractions?
A: Lyon is most enjoyable from May to September when temperatures are pleasant (20-25°C). Spring and early autumn offer comfortable weather for sightseeing and fewer tourists. The famous Festival of Lights occurs in December, making it a magical time to visit despite colder temperatures. Summer months (July-August) can be quite hot and busy with tourists.
Q: How can I best experience Lyon’s renowned culinary scene?
A: Visit the traditional Bouchons (local restaurants) in Vieux Lyon, especially along Rue des Marronniers. Book a table at Paul Bocuse’s L’Auberge du Pont de Collonges (40 Quai de la Plage) or explore Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse food market (102 Cours Lafayette). Consider taking a cooking class at L’Atelier des Chefs (atelierdeschefs.fr) to learn authentic Lyonnaise cuisine.
Q: Which historical sites should I prioritize during my visit to Lyon?
A: Start with the UNESCO-listed Old Town (Vieux Lyon), explore the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière (8 Place de Fourvière, fourviere.org), discover the Roman theaters at the Lugdunum Museum (17 Rue Cléberg), and walk through the traboules (hidden passageways) in the Croix-Rousse district. The Cathedral of Saint-Jean-Baptiste in the heart of Old Lyon is also important.
Q: How can I efficiently get around Lyon to see all the main attractions?
A: Purchase a Lyon City Card (lyoncitycard.com) for unlimited public transport access and free entry to major museums. The metro system connects all major attractions, while the funicular provides easy access to Fourvière hill. Walking or using Vélo’v bike-sharing system is perfect for exploring the city center. Most attractions are within walking distance in the UNESCO World Heritage areas.
Q: What are the must-visit museums and cultural venues in Lyon?
A: Visit the Museum of Fine Arts (20 Place des Terreaux, mba-lyon.fr), the Contemporary Art Museum (Cité Internationale, mac-lyon.com), and the unique Musée des Confluences (86 Quai Perrache, museedesconfluences.fr). The Lumière Museum (25 Rue du Premier Film) celebrates cinema history, while the Gadagne Museums showcase Lyon’s history and puppet arts. Most museums are closed on Mondays and offer free entry on the first Sunday of each month.
RECENT POSTS
