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15 Best Things to Do in Lyon (France)

Lyon is one large World Heritage Site, with a big renaissance old town, Roman ruins, historic industrial districts and the regal 19th-century Presqu’île quarter. The city was founded 2,000 years ago at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône Rivers, and built its fortune on the silk trade. This industry furnished it with beautiful renaissance architecture in Vieux Lyon, where semi-hidden passageways called Traboules connect courtyards with the Saône.

You can’t talk about Lyon without mentioning the food, as the gourmets agree that Lyon is the world’s culinary capital. It’s the city of the chef, Paul Bocuse, revered as a god of French cuisine.

Lets explore the best things to do in Lyon :

1. Vieux Lyon

You can set foot in one of the largest renaissance old quarters in Europe.

In the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries Lyon’s silk industry was thriving, and rich merchant families from across France, Flanders, Germany and Italy settled in the city.

They built sumptuous homes, in the gothic, Italian renaissance and French renaissance styles, and there are still 300 of these remaining in the districts of Saint-Jean, Saint-Georges and Saint-Paules.

During the 16th century it was estimated that there were 180,000 looms in the city, and you can see the resourceful ways this industry combined with the fabric of the city in Vieux Lyon’s characteristic traboules.

2. Traboules

In Vieux Lyon and La Croix-Rousse Saône are an architectural feature unique to this city: Traboules are delightful renaissance passageways, some 40 of which are open to the public, running beneath buildings in the direction of the Saône River.

They gave the city’s silk workers direct access to riverbank, making it quick and easy to transport textiles, while also offering shelter from the elements.

Nearly all of these passageways are part of residential properties, so it’s a good idea to go quietly.

The best place to start your adventure is around Quai Fulchiron Rolland and Rue des Trois Maries.

3. Fourvière Basilica

This magnificent church, ever visible on the Fourvière hill to west of the city is one of a series of iconic hill-top churches built in major French cities in the late-19th century.

The basilica is in the oldest part of the city, Lyon’s pilgrimage site and where several Roman sites have been discovered.

Go inside to see the extravagant interiors and the Museum of Sacred Art, and to ascend the north tower for one of Lyon’s best photo ops.

The church is the focus for the famous Fête des Lumières, which takes place at the start of December every year.

This is in praise of the Virgin Mary, to whom Fourvière is dedicated, for protecting the city from the bubonic plague in the 17th century.

4. Parc de la Tête d’Or

A little way north of the centre is one of the largest urban parks in the country, with a zoo and France’s foremost botanical garden within its boundaries.

If you’re around in spring then the international rose garden should be one of your first ports of call in the city.

The botanical attractions are spectacular too, with more than 20,000 plant varieties and the most graceful 19th-century greenhouses you could hope to see, thick with the scent of chlorophyll.

For families with kids the park is a must-do, thank to the African Plain, with zebras, lions and giraffes, and the expansive lake for epic pedal-boating voyages in summer.

Related tour: Lyon: 3-Hour Guided E-Bike Tour with a Tasting Break

5. Presqu’île

A  finger of land between the Rhône and Saône, Presqu’île was man-made by a humungous 18th-century urban engineering project, draining marshes and connecting what was once an island with dry land.

It’s where most things “happen” in the city, a district of glorious 19th-century architecture, wide plazas, shops, cultural institutions, restaurants, cafes, bars and nightclubs.

Lyon’s opera house and city hall are located here, while if you’re peckish Rue Mercière is basically one long line of superb restaurants.

If you’re here for the shopping, start at the pedestrianised Rue de la République where all the high-street brands await.

6. Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon

Housed in a former abbey from the 1600s, the Musée des Beaux-Arts is France’s largest fine art museum after the Louvre in Paris.

There are 70 rooms here, with paintings from the 1300s to the 1900s, sculpture and displays of both Egyptian and Oriental art.

You don’t need more than a passing knowledge to  be impressed by the wealth of famous French and European artists on show: Degas, van Gogh, Renoir, Cézanne, El Greco, Canaletto, Picasso, Max Ernst and Francis Bacon, and that’s just an overview.

The Antiquities department is a trove of some 600 Ancient Egyptian artefacts, including reliefs, busts, statuettes and sarcophagi, as well as monumental gates recovered from the Medamud temple.

7. Ancient Theatre of Fourvière

This monument is also high on the left bank of the Saône River.

And 2,000 years after it was built it is still a performance venue during the Nuits de Fourvière drama festival every June and July.

At its peak it would have held 10,000 spectators, but only the middle and lower terraces of the cavea remain.

Where the seating has been lost though, you can see the fascinating substructure of the cavea, which continues far up the hillside.

The theatre was rediscovered in the late-19th century and restored over the next 40 years.

Artefacts found here and at the neighbouring Odeon are displayed at the Gallo-Roman museum, listed below.

8. Gallo-Roman Museum of Lyon-Fourvière

If Fourvière’s extensive Roman ruins leave you thirsty for more ancient history, this modern museum is on site to give you some background.

The building deserves a mention, as it’s partly underground and has been dug from the hillside next to the roman theatre.

Futuristic, bunker-like galleries are arranged around a spiralling concrete ramp.

There’s a lot to get through at the museum, but one piece that you need to see is the Circus Games Mosaic, dating to the 2nd century and depicting a chariot race with staggering technical skill.

There’s also the Gauilish Coligny Calendar, and the Lyon Tablet, transcribing a speech made by the Roman Emperor Claudius in the 1st century.

9. Lyon Cathedral

The city’s fabulous cathedral is a mostly gothic construction built between the 12th and 15th centuries.

The majority of the original stained-glass windows are still here and date to the 1300s.

They had been dismantled and packed away during the Second World War to save them from bomb damage.

The most captivating are the north, south and west roses, as well as the apse’s lancet.

The astronomical clock inside is nine metres tall and was installed in the 1300s.

Under the main clock-face is an astrolabe, added in the 1600s, that can show the position of the earth, sun and moon.

Above it are automated figures that put on a little show when the chimes are rung on the hour.

10. Institut Lumière

Anybody who goes to the cinema should be excited to pay homage to the Lumière brothers, who are held as the fathers of the movie-making art.

The museum was set up by a descendant of Louis Lumière, who, working with August, helped invent the cinematograph, the first motion picture camera and projector.

They also made more than a thousand films together, shown at the world’s first cinemas.

The attraction is in Villa Lumière, a lovely art nouveau mansion built by the brothers’ father in 1899. In these elegant surrounds you can view many of their movies and check out the ingenious creations, like the cinematograph, that helped change entertainment forever.

11. Musée Gadagne

Essentially Lyon’s city museum, this attraction is named after the sublime 16th-century renaissance palace that houses it, built by two Florentine brothers.

In 30 rooms and across four floors there are some 80,000 items, dating between medieval times and the mid-19th century.

Antique maps and sketches indicate how Lyon has changed and show some of the city’s landmarks being built.

You’ll find out about the instrumental role the silk industry played in the city’s evolution in the 1500s and 1600s with the help of artefacts and documents, and can see the lavish lifestyles afforded by those who made their fortune here.

Also part of the attraction is the Musée des Marionnettes, with 2,000 antique puppets.

12. Musée Miniature et Cinéma

Also In Vieux-Lyon, this museum is in the “Maison des Avocats”, a beautiful  17th-century World Heritage building five storeys in height and with a loggia.

The collection is split in two: The main attraction is some 100 “hyper-realistic” miniature scenes.

These have been made by the world’s best miniaturists, including the museum curator Dan Ohlmann, and possess such painstaking detail and craftsmanship that you’ll need minutes to see everything happening in each one.

They recreate famous locations like Maxim’s Restaurant in Paris or everyday French scenes from days gone by.

There’s also a cinema exhibition with more than 300 authentic props, artefacts and models relating to movies from the last 50 years.

13. Lyon’s Murals

Another reason Lyon demands to be explored is for its murals.

There are around 100 large paintings on walls around the city, often in working-class neighbour and on social housing, so they can draw you to places you might not otherwise venture.

There are some vital ones to see though: In États-Unis there’s an outdoor museum with 25 murals painted mostly in the 80s recounting the career of the architect Tony Garnier, who planned this district in the 20s.

To get acquainted with Lyon’s main personalities there’s Fresque des Lyonnais, 24 historical figures and six contemporary people (two of whom have since passed) relevant to the city.

Then there’s Lyon’s original fresco: The Canuts Mural, telling the history of the Croix-Rousse neighbourhood, and updated every ten years.

14. Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse

This food market is named after one of France’s culinary giants, in France’s capital of cuisine, so you can be sure of the quality of what’s inside.

It’s a food-lover’s dream, a hand-picked assembly of the region’s  best food merchants, selling charcuterie, cheese, meat, fruit and vegetables.

There are also several proper restaurants in the complex, full of locals at lunch.

So it’s a place to do your food shopping if you’re self-catered, get a delicious Lyonnaise meal and also buy regional specialities to take home.

As with most French food markets, Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse is best visited in the morning, long before the stalls close down for lunch.

15. Lyonnaise Cuisine

Lyon has more restaurants per capita than any other city in the country and for centuries has been lauded for the high-quality of its produce and the prestige of its cuisine.

You can dig into traditional Lyonnaise cuisine at “bouchons”, typical restaurants , and the best of these (awarded the label, Authentique Bouchon Lyonnais) tend to be around Presqu’île.

They prepare meals that would usually have been eaten by workers in times gone by, so are filling, rich and make use of parts of the body you might not usually consider: There’s marinated deep-fried tripe, usually served with a garlic and herb sauce. Andouilette, a sausage made from tripe, or gras double, tripe cooked with onions.

Don’t worry; it’s not all tripe! Coq au vin is also a tradition here, as is Lyonnaise potatoes, which are sliced and pan-fried with onions and parsley.

15 Best Things to Do in Lyon (France):

• Fourvière Basilica
• Parc de la Tête d'Or
• Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon
• Ancient Theatre of Fourvière
• Gallo-Roman Museum of Lyon-Fourvière
• Lyon Cathedral
• Institut Lumière
• Musée Gadagne
• Musée Miniature et Cinéma
• Lyon's Murals
• Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse
• Lyonnaise Cuisine

Lyon   Travel Guide

Courtesy of RossHelen | Getty Images

10 Best Things To Do in Lyon

Updated Feb. 11, 2021

Whether it's meandering the renaissance streets of Vieux Lyon or touring the expansive Musée des Beaux Arts, visitors will find an array of things to do in Lyon. Along with the fine arts, there are museums dedicated to miniatures and movies (Musée

• All Things To Do

Theatres Romains de Fourvière Theatres Romains de Fourvière free

Built in 15 B.C., the Theatres Romains de Fourvière are the ruins of three ancient Roman sites, including a theater, a smaller theater and a temple located on the hill of Fourvière. It's also the site of the ambient Nuits de Fourvière , an annual performing arts festival that takes place during June and July. 

Recent visitors recommended tacking on a visit to the Theatres Romains de Fourvière after visiting the Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière, since it's located on the walk down. Others remarked that the acoustics are amazing, and the view of surrounding Lyon is spectacular. However, some were disappointed with the limited signage. You'll find a museum next to the ruins, but all of the information is written in French. Consider reading up on the site or hiring a tour guide if you want a richer experience. 

Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière free

The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière crowns Lyon from its perch on Fourvière hill, which is also known as "the praying hill." It was built in the late 19th century by architect Pierre Bossan, who incorporated neo-Byzantine styles in the design. Inside, visitors will find awe-inspiring mosaics on the walls, richly colored stained glass, gilt sculptures and a crypt. Gardens, also designed by Bossan, surround the basilica.

Recent travelers raved about the ornate Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière, saying that the mosaics that line the wall are exquisite. Recent visitors recommended taking the Saint-Jean - Fourvière funicular or a taxi up to the hilltop basilica but walking down to enjoy the scenery without quite the strain on your legs.

Vieux Lyon Vieux Lyon free

Vieux Lyon, or Old Lyon, is the city's renaissance district located in the 5th arrondissement. Here, visitors will find many attractions, such as the Place du Change, the former business square of the city, and Rue St-Jean, a popular place to walk – partly for its traboules (secret pathways and staircases that pass through buildings). It's believed that these passageways date back to the fourth century, when residents needed a way to get from their homes to the river (their source of fresh water) without having to weave through the town's winding streets. They were later used by the silk trade and then by the resistance during World War II. 

The fact that this history remains intact is thanks to Andre Malraux, the French Minister of Culture in 1962, who saved the district from demolition plans by designating it a protected area. This jumpstarted a revitalization of the area. Just decades later, the refurbished renaissance district was named a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

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Musée Miniature et Cinema Musée Miniature et Cinema

The Musée Miniature et Cinema (Museum of Miniature and Cinema) is really two museums in one. First, the museum contains the miniature scenes of artist Dan Ohlmann and the work of dozens of other miniature artists. It also holds hundreds of film set props, including the original costume from "Batman Forever" and a triceratops head from "Jurassic Park." 

Recent visitors called this museum unexpected and delightful, saying that they recommend it highly for both children and adults. Others say the beautiful, 16th-century building is an added bonus to the interesting, even entrancing exhibits. 

Musée des Beaux Arts Musée des Beaux Arts

More than 70 rooms filled with artwork, such as "Dancers on the Stage" by Edgar Degas and "La Tentation de saint Antoine" by Auguste Rodin, among other French and European masterpieces, fill the Musée des Beaux Arts. Works date from antiquity and include everything from paintings and sculpture to decorative arts. The Musée des Beaux Arts, which is housed in a 17th-century former Benedictine convent, is also accompanied by a large garden. 

Not only is the art enjoyable, but the food is too, according to recent visitors, who recommend enjoying a lunch in the museum's dining hall. Recent visitors said you could spend hours here, so if you're short on time it's best to pick the two or three areas that interest you most and go from there. Make sure to pick up a free audio guide. 

Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse free

Called a "heaven for foodies," Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse is the city's premier indoor food market boasting nearly 50 vendors and several bars and restaurants. Here you'll find everything from fruits and vegetables to cheese, truffles, spices, flowers and everything in between. 

Past visitors raved about the market and were especially impressed with the variety of cheeses and cured meats. If you're in need of picnic supplies, this is the place to go, according to reviewers. Buying the food here and eating it elsewhere may be your best bet as some past travelers complained of limited seating inside the market. If you're interested in perusing some of the city's outdoor markets, St Antoine Market and La Croix Rousse Market are two popular options. 

Musée des Confluences Musée des Confluences

The Musée des Confluences, established in 2014, is one of Lyon's newest institutions set in the city's newest neighborhood. Lyon's natural history museum, it aims to tell the story of the world from origins to visions of eternity, from the viewpoint of many different cultures and even animals with the help of more than 2 million artifacts.

Recent visitors said both the building and the setting are spectacular, recommending that travelers take in the views from the terraces. Many travelers described the museum's exhibits as eclectic and imaginative. Even if visitors don't have time to stop in, reviewers recommend walking alongside the Rhone to enjoy the architecture from the outside. 

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🇫🇷 31 Best Things to Do in Lyon for an Amazing Trip

• Post author: Lisa Garrett
• Post last modified: May 2, 2024
• Post category: Lyon Things to Do

Planning a trip to Lyon? You’re going to have a fantastic time! I’ve got your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Lyon. With so many great attractions, everyone is sure to find something they’ll love!

I’ve visited this incredible French city several times — most recently on a solo trip last May. And I loved it so much that I’ve got two extended trips to Lyon planned for this year!

I’ve put together a fabulous list of top Lyon attractions as well as hidden gems that you won’t want to miss.

From the stunning Notre Dame Basilica to the gorgeous Bartholdi Fountain and the gourmet market Les Halles de Lyon, I’ve got all the information you need to have a fabulous trip to Lyon.

Ready for some fun? Lace up your shoes and let’s go!

Disclaimer :  This page may contain affiliate links.  I earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links (at no additional cost to you).

Quick Picks: Top Lyon Tours

• Old Town Walking Food Tour (Vieux Lyon sightseeing + tasty local favorites)
• Beaujolais Golden Stones Wine Tour (The best day trip for wine lovers!)
• Market Tour, Cooking Class + Lunch (Perfect for those who love to cook!)
• E-Bike Tour of Lyon (A great way to see Lyon’s top sights!)
• Lyon City Card (Amazing value! I buy this every time I visit Lyon)

Table of Contents

Best Lyon Things to Do and See

Even though Lyon is the third-largest city in France, it feels like a hidden gem. Surprisingly, 2/3 of Lyon’s visitors are business travelers!

Lyon is a lot less ‘touristy’ than its big sister, Paris — but there are plenty of must-see attractions in Lyon that make it definitely worth a visit!

1. Visit Place Bellecour

One of the first places you should visit during your stay in Lyon is Place Bellecour.

This grand pedestrian square is in the heart of Lyon in the Presqu’île neighborhood, bordered by the Rhône and Saône rivers.

It’s also literally the city’s center, as it marks ‘kilometer zero’ for the roads in the region.

Dominating the square is an imposing statue of Louis XIV, the Sun King, proudly mounted on a horse. This is truly a sight to behold! Place Bellecour is also where you’ll find the city’s tourist office (and that’s the reason to go here first!).

I highly recommend buying a Lyon City Card , especially for first-time visitors to Lyon who want to ‘see it all’.

I purchase one on every visit. They are a great way to save money, as they give you free access to over 20 museums, free city tours, a sightseeing river cruise, free public transportation, and lots of discounts to other Lyon attractions.

(For full details, read my Lyon City Card review .)

Save time and money on your Lyon trip — purchase your Lyon City Card today!

2. Uncover the Historic Charm of Vieux Lyon

A visit to Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon) should be at the top of your itinerary — even if you only have one day to spend in Lyon .

This vibrant neighborhood is recognized as part of Lyon’s UNESCO World Heritage site . It’s rich in history, dazzling architecture, unique museums, and restaurants serving up delicious Lyonnais cuisine.

As you wander through its quaint cobblestone streets and passageways, known as traboules, you can’t help but feel connected to the city’s deep-rooted past.

Start your exploration at Saint Jean Cathedral , a stunning example of Gothic architecture. If you’re taking a tour of Old Lyon , you’ll likely meet at the Place Saint Jean in front of the cathedral.

From there make your way to Rue Saint-Jean and Rue du Boeuf , the neighborhood’s main streets, lined with traditional bouchons, charming boutiques, and pastel-colored buildings.

3. Explore Lyon’s Mysterious Traboules

You’ll absolutely love seeking out the charming “traboules” of Lyon. These are hidden passageways that sneak from one street to another, passing through historic buildings.

If you look closely, you’ll find these secret passages tucked away in Old Lyon and the Croix-Rousse neighborhoods. As you wander through the traboules, you’ll find inner courtyards, each with their own unique and sometimes beautiful architectural details.

Look for the special markers on the buildings – there are quite a few of them open for public exploration.

Exploring the traboules is a must-do Lyon experience! If you want to make sure you’ve seen the best ones, take this guided traboules tour .

Did you know? Traboules played an interesting role in Lyon’s history.

Back in Roman times, they provided a quicker route to the Saône for water access, skipping the winding lanes. As Lyon’s famed silk industry grew, these traboules turned into undercover routes for transporting textiles, shielding them from the rain.

Even in the grim times of WWII, the traboules played a pivotal role as hidden meeting spots for the French resistance against the Nazis. All these historical tidbits add rich layers as you explore these historic passages.

Take this guided traboules tour in Vieux Lyon — it’s a great way to learn about Lyon history!

4. Visit the Notre-Dame de Fourvière Basilica

Perched atop Fourvière Hill, you’ll find the magnificent La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière . This stunning 19th-century monument dedicated to the Virgin Mary is a must-see when you’re in Lyon.

To get there, hop on the funicular for an easy ride up the hill. You get a fabulous view of the basilica as you exit the funicular station.

While the exterior might give off fortress vibes, the interior tells a different story with its breathtaking mosaics and stained glass.

According to my tour guide, the mosaics contain 8,000 different shades of color. Quite impressive, isn’t it?

The Notre-Dame basilica welcomes visitors every day but remember to check mass times as you can’t tour the basilica during services.

Good news – there’s no entrance fee to explore the gardens, the basilica itself, or the crypt (also known as the Chapel of the Virgin).

5. Take in the Panoramic Views of Lyon

Although the Notre-Dame Basilica is a Lyon must-see in my opinion, many people come to the top of Fourvière Hill just for the views!

The terraces surrounding the basilica are definitely one of the best Instagram spots in Lyon .

From this hilltop vantage point, you can see the city of Lyon spread out in front of you. In the foreground are the buildings of Vieux Lyon, with a particularly good view of the Saint-Jean Cathedral.

Extending beyond the Old town you’ll spy the Rhône and Saône rivers, with Presqu’île sandwiched in between. The more modern sections of Lyon extend out into the distance.

The basilica’s esplanade is one of the best places to visit in Lyon to get stunning photos!

I’ve even seen people sitting on the ledge to get better pictures, but I’ve got a pretty healthy fear of heights, so I keep my distance from the edge.

6. Admire the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral

Nestled next to the Saône, the awe-inspiring Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste is one of the most magnificent buildings in Lyon.

This cathedral, a splendid blend of Roman and Gothic styles, features a large stained-glass window and a 16th-century astronomical clock you simply can’t miss. (It’s tucked away into the back corner of the church.)

(If you’ve never come across an astronomical clock , you’re in for a treat!

Besides showing the time of day, they also display information like the positions of the sun, moon, and stars. Some even house automated displays that are activated at specific times of day – quite the marvel of engineering!)

The Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral is a main attraction in Lyon’s most celebrated festival, the Fête des Lumières .

Take this customized private tour of Lyon and see everything on your Lyon bucket list!

7. Celebrate Lyon’s Fête des Lumières

The Fête des Lumières ( Festival of Lights ) is one of Lyon’s most famous and beloved events. It takes place every December, usually over four nights. The key date to watch out for is December 8.

Like many French holidays , this festival originated as a religious event to honor the Virgin Mary.

In 1643, the city promised to pay tribute to Mary if it was spared from the plague that was sweeping the land. It was, so on December 8th, the people of Lyon celebrated by lighting candles in Mary’s honor.

Things kicked up a notch in 1852 when the gilded statue of Mary was installed atop the Notre Dame Basilica. Over time, this celebration evolved into the stunning light show that we enjoy today.

During the Fête des Lumières, the city is lit up with beautiful light installations, projections, and performances. It’s a truly magical experience that attracts visitors from around the globe.

One of the best things about the Fête des Lumières is that it’s completely free! You can wander around the city and experience all of the different installations at your own pace.

So, if you’re visiting Lyon in December, make plans to attend the Fête des Lumières. You won’t want to miss out!

8. Treat Your Taste Buds on a Lyon Food Tour

Are you passionate about food? You’re going to love eating in Lyon!

Lyon was declared the world’s gastronomy hotspot by a renowned food critic back in 1935. Trust me, this is a big reason to visit Lyon !

With twenty Michelin-starred restaurants calling Lyon home, you’re guaranteed some unforgettable meals. But don’t forget about the city’s charming bouchons – these small, family-run bistros serve up traditional Lyonnaise cuisine, using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

To fully experience the city’s culinary delights, I definitely recommend taking this Vieux Lyon food tour . It’s the best way to ensure you don’t miss a single one of the region’s delectable specialties.

(Want more options? Check out this post about more amazing Lyon food tours .)

Sample Lyon’s savory favorites, such as quenelles de brochet – tender fish dumplings bathed in a rich, seafood-infused cream sauce.

If you’ve got a sweet tooth (like me), the praline rose is a must – imagine almonds enveloped in caramelized pink sugar. You can eat them on their own, but you’ll find them in bakeries across the city baked into pastries (my personal favorite!), and the famous Lyon tarte aux pralines.

Lyon is also the perfect base for wine lovers, and a great place to enjoy wine tasting ! Lyon is also an ideal starting point for taking a day trip to local wineries .

Your best bet is taking this walking food tour in Vieux Lyon , where you can combine sightseeing with delicious Lyon dishes!

9. Marvel at the Famous Mur des Canuts Mural

Lyon is not just about history and food – it’s also a city of incredible art. And Lyon’s trompe-l’oeil murals are beyond amazing!

They cover entire buildings, creating an illusion so real, you’ll do a double-take. These murals are scattered around the city, and I can’t recommend them enough. They are one of the most Instagrammable places in Lyon!

My personal favorite is the stunning Mur des Canuts mural . It’s a beautiful tribute to Lyon’s silk workers and a favorite among tourists. It’s also one of the largest murals in the world!

The Mur des Canuts (Wall of the Silk Workers) is located in the Croix-Rousse area, the center of Lyon’s silk industry.

What makes this fresco so fascinating is that it has been painted to blend right in with the neighborhood. The talented artists have painted the mural to look like apartment buildings, shops, and people going about their daily activities.

10. Shop at Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse

You can’t visit Lyon without stopping by Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse , also known as the “Mecca of French gastronomy.” This indoor food market is a must-see for any food lover, offering a wide range of high-quality gourmet products.

From fresh fish and meat to cheeses, pastries, and chocolates, you’ll find everything here to create a perfect picnic or take home as souvenirs for friends and family. Or splurge and enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants inside the market!

You can also join a private gourmet tour of Les Halles Paul Bocuse for an even more immersive experience.

Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll learn about the history of the market and its famous chef namesake, Paul Bocuse. Taste some of the best products available from locally produced sausages to Lyon’s signature praline rose.

So whether you’re looking for a unique shopping experience or just want to indulge in some delicious food, Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse is not to be missed. Bon appétit!

Indulge your inner foodie with this private tour of Les Halles de Lyon !

11. Discover Ancient History at Lyon’s Roman Ruins

Lyon, once known as ‘Lugdunum’ during Roman times, wears its historical heart on its sleeve. Its well-preserved ancient Roman architecture has earned it a UNESCO World Heritage site tag.

( A surprising fact about France is that Lyon was more important than Paris during Roman times!)

At the top of your Lyon itinerary should be the ancient Roman amphitheater and odeon, both top tourist spots in the city. Their historical charm is further enhanced by modern-day concerts and festivals held here, like the Les Nuits de Fourvière in June and July.

If you’re keen to uncover more, head to Lyon’s Croix-Rousse area to explore the Amphitheater of the Three Gauls. Although the amphitheater in Vieux Lyon steals the show!

12. Enjoy the Music at Les Nuits de Fourvière

Founded in 1946, Les Nuits de Fourvière (Fourvière Nights) is one of the most popular festivals in Lyon. This cultural festival occurs for about two months, typically from June through July, and it’s a top reason to visit Lyon in the summer.

What’s special about Les Nuits de Fourvière is its eclectic mix of performances. There is truly something for everyone!

In one season, you might see a cutting-edge hip-hop act, a traditional folk concert, a classic piece of theater, and a cutting-edge modern dance show. It’s no wonder that this festival continues to grow in popularity (attendance is well over 100,000 a year!).

The Roman Amphitheater, where the festival takes place, adds a unique historical touch to the event. Imagine watching a Shakespeare play or listening to a world-renowned orchestra in the same space where Roman citizens once gathered – it’s like traveling back in time.

When I visited last May, they were installing the high-tech stage equipment in the theater. I must say, that is a strange combination of modern and ancient!

The festival is also expanding into other performance locations, such as the Opera House and the Théâtre des Célestins.

If you’re in Lyon during June and July, you won’t want to miss this amazing festival!

13. Explore the Wonders of the Lugdunum Museum

Are you a history buff? Intrigued by the Roman era?

Then you won’t want to miss the Lugdunum Museum during your trip to Lyon! This museum brings the fascinating Gallo-Roman civilization of Lyon to life with its collection of mosaics, statues, and other Roman artifacts.

The Lugdunum Museum definitely tops the list of must-visit museums in Lyon . One of the highlights (and surprises) is the stunning views of the Roman amphitheater through the museum’s large windows!

And don’t worry if you’re traveling with little ones – the museum has plenty of exhibits that are both educational and entertaining for kids.

(Location: Vieux Lyon/ Fourvière Hill. The museum is closed Mondays).

14. Unwind with a Saône River Cruise

After a delightful day of exploring Lyon on foot, why not treat yourself to this Saône river sightseeing cruise ?

These sightseeing cruises offer a unique perspective of Lyon, with the added bonus of giving your feet a well-deserved rest!

There are three river cruises to choose from. My favorite is the Cap Presqu’île. It’s charming journey that begins by cruising upstream, offering picturesque views of Vieux Lyon, the basilica, and the quaint Tour Métallique de Fourvière (Lyon’s very own ‘Little Eiffel Tower’).

Your adventure continues as the boat turns and sails downstream, heading to the confluence of the Rhône and the Saône Rivers.

Along the way, you’ll be treated to glimpses of Vieux Lyon’s majestic churches, including the striking Saint Jean Cathedral and the Church of Saint George. You’ll be amazed by Lyon’s diverse architecture, spanning centuries—from historical French landmarks and cathedrals to the ultra-modern Musée des Confluences.

To top off your memorable day in Lyon, book this sightseeing dinner cruise . Treat yourself, you deserve it!

15. Dine at a Traditional Lyonnais Bouchon

Lyon is the capital of French gastronomy, so you know you’ll be eating well during your stay! Enjoy authentic Lyonnais dishes at a bouchon, a traditional type of restaurant in Lyon.

These cozy restaurants typically have red and white checked tablecloths and serve up hearty dishes like quenelles (a kind of dumpling made from pike fish), andouillette (tripe sausages –not for me), and coq au vin.

Make sure to try some of the local wines as well, such as Côtes du Rhône or Beaujolais. And don’t forget to finish off your meal with a delicious dessert, like praline tart (tarte aux pralines).

In addition to enjoying the delicious food and wine, dining at a traditional bouchon is also an opportunity to immerse yourself in Lyon’s rich history and culture.

These restaurants are part of the city’s heritage and have been serving up traditional dishes for centuries. Many bouchons have a rustic and cozy ambiance, making them the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring the city.

If you’re not sure which bouchon to try, look out for the “Les Bouchons Lyonnais” label on restaurant windows. This is a prestigious award given to restaurants that adhere to strict traditional standards in terms of their menu, decor and atmosphere.

Vieux Lyon has several authentic bouchons to tempt your taste buds!

16. Take in the Sights in the Place des Terreaux

Place des Terreaux is a must-visit spot when you’re in Lyon.

It’s a stunning plaza that’s nestled between Lyon’s intricate 17th-century City Hall, the Hôtel de Ville de Lyon, on the east and the treasure-trove Fine Arts Museum on the south.

The plaza is home to the gorgeous Bartholdi Fountain , masterfully crafted by the renowned French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi. He’s known worldwide for his iconic creation – the Statue of Liberty!

With plenty of cafes lining the square, the Place des Terreaux is a great place to relax and do some people-watching!

17. Experience the charm of the Musée des Beaux-Arts

One of my favorite museums in Lyon is the Musée des Beaux-Arts . I’m a big fan of classical art, and Lyon’s Fine Arts Museum does not disappoint!

It’s the second-largest Fine Arts museum in France (after the Louvre Museum in Paris, of course). And it’s conveniently located on the Place des Terreaux.

The Fine Arts Museum is a treasure trove filled with an impressive collection of European paintings, antiquities, and sculptures. There is also an extensive collection of coins and medals.

Part of the museum’s charm is that it is located in a former 17th-century abbey.

If you’re looking for a moment of tranquility amidst your sightseeing adventures, the museum’s serene, statue-studded garden located in the courtyard makes a perfect oasis. (Plus, it’s free to visit the gardens!)

Location: Presqu’île. Closed on Tuesdays.

18. Find the Fresque des Lyonnais Mural

I talked about the Mur des Canuts mural earlier. But that’s certainly not the only famous mural in Lyon! Keep your eyes open as you roam the city and you’re sure to run across more fine examples of public art from murals to painted staircases.

You should make it a point to find the Fresque des Lyonnais . It’s been painted to look like an apartment building, with famous people from Lyon’s past and present depicted on the building’s balconies and windows.

This fabulous fresco features thirty famous people from Lyon, from the Lumière brothers to Antoine de Saint Exupéry, the celebrated aviator and author of The Little Prince . (Fun fact, the Lyon airport is named after him!)

The ground floor is painted to look like shops peopled by more famed Lyonnais personalities.

Take a peek at this short video, highlighting the intricate details of the first level of the Fresque des Lyonnais mural. Can you spot Chef Paul Bocuse?

Be sure to check out both sides of the building — most of the characters are painted on the larger side (facing the north), but the mural continues on the narrow western edge facing the Saône.

Tip: If you’re taking the Cap Presqu’île river cruise, you’ll be able to see the narrow edge of the Fresque des Lyonnais.

In my opinion, these murals are one of the best reasons to visit Lyon .

19. Visit the Musée des Confluences

At the meeting point of Lyon’s two rivers, you will find the Musée des Confluences , a remarkable blend of a science center and an anthropology museum.

Here you’ll find fascinating exhibits that explore the history of mankind and our relationship with the natural world.

The museum’s building is an architectural marvel. Its ultra-modern architecture is a big contrast to the historic buildings and cathedrals in Vieux Lyon.

Although it’s a bit out of the way, don’t worry! It’s easily reachable by public transportation. You can even combine two great Lyon activities and take a scenic river cruise that comes with a museum ticket!

Take your time and immerse yourself in the captivating exhibits of the Musee des Confluences, truly one of the finest museums in Lyon !

(Location: Presqu’île. Closed on Mondays). 

20. Fool Your Eyes at the Musée de l’illusion Lyon

While most of Lyon’s top attractions are rooted in history, there are plenty more modern attractions to visit.

One really fun museum to visit is the Musée de l’illusion Lyon. It’s the perfect place for the whole family to explore and enjoy!

This museum’s collection of illusions and games will make you question reality. Your eyes will be tricked by the interactive exhibits showcasing holograms, kaleidoscopes, visual puzzles, and optical illusions.

Although you can visit solo, it’s best if you’re visiting with a friend so that you can take pictures of the illusions! It’ll be a one-of-a-kind memento from your Lyon trip!

21. Shop at the Saint-Antoine Market

Sometimes when I’m traveling, I don’t want to have a big meal three times a day. But you need to have something to fuel a long day of sightseeing.

The solution? A visit to a farmers market, or fresh food market. Every town in France has at least one market day. It comes as no surprise that Lyon has markets available nearly every day of the week!

My favorite is the Marche Saint-Antoine . It’s located on the banks of the Saône, with excellent views of Vieux Lyon. The market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, local specialties, and even rotisserie chickens for a quick and delicious meal.

The Saint-Antoine market is open every day of the week (except Mondays) but is especially bustling on Saturdays. It is a great place to stock up on ingredients for your own cooking or simply wander around, sampling various foods along the way.

Make sure to arrive early if you want to avoid crowds and get first pick of the freshest produce available. Pick up a loaf of bread, some cheese and whatever else strikes your fancy.

Then enjoy a tasty picnic lunch on the banks of the river or in the Parc de la Tête d’Or. (Enjoying a picnic in a beautiful park is one of the most romantic things to do in Lyon !)

22. Picnic in the Parc de la Tête d’Or

If you’re a nature lover visiting Lyon, you definitely won’t want to miss the Parc de la Tête d’Or (Park of the Golden Head).

This charming park, sprawling over 100 hectares, is a great place to relax on a bright sunny day. And it’s one of the best places in Lyon to enjoy an alfresco picnic!

Stroll (or jog) across the grass or along the park’s trails. Check out the central lake, the Lac de la Tête d’Or. In the summer, you can even rent a boat and have some nautical fun.

There’s more to explore in this enormous park, from Lyon’s botanical gardens to a zoo and a stunning rose garden showcasing hundreds of rose varieties.

Traveling with kids? Hop on the Petit Train for a ride around the park or watch a delightful Guignol puppet show.

A visit to the Parc de la Tête d’Or is one of the top things to do in Lyon , for both young and old!

23. Uncover the Magic at the Cinema and Miniatures Museum

Get ready to step into a world of imagination at Lyon’s very own Cinema and Miniatures Museum . It’s like having two exciting adventures in one place!

One part of the museum takes you behind the scenes of some of your favorite blockbuster films like Alien and Pirates of the Caribbean , revealing the magic of cinematic special effects and authentic movie props.

The other part? It’s a miniature wonderland, filled with intricately designed scenes from restaurants to shops to markets.

(Location: Vieux Lyon. Open every day.)

24. Dive into the World of Cinematography at the Musée Lumière

On the topic of movie magic, did you know that Lyon is the birthplace of cinematography? Yes, that’s true!

And the Musée Lumière is proudly located at the very spot where the Lumière brothers invented the Cinématographe.

This fantastic film museum takes you on a journey through the evolution of moving images and also hosts a variety of movie screenings.

The Lumière Museum is a must-visit for movie enthusiasts!

(Location: East Lyon. Closed on Mondays.)

25. Stroll Through the Place des Jacobins

Place des Jacobins is a charming little square in Lyon’s Presqu’île. It’s often overlooked but is definitely worth a visit.

The star of this square is the beautiful Fontaine des Jacobins, added in 1856 and carved from pristine white marble by Gaspard André. This fountain honors four of Lyon’s renowned artists and is a popular location for art students practicing their craft.

Next time you’re strolling through the neighborhood, why not pause and soak in the beauty of this spectacular fountain? (It’s only a 3-minute walk from Place Bellecour.)

The Place des Jacobins is particularly stunning at night when the fountain and the buildings surrounding the square are beautifully illuminated.

26. Explore the Charm of Musées Gadagne

Immerse yourself in Lyon’s history at the Musées Gadagne , a distinctive gem situated in the city’s oldest Renaissance building.

This museum is a two-in-one treat, with the Lyon History Museum and the unique World Puppet Museum that showcases Lyon’s famous Guignol puppet.

For a serene break from sightseeing, visit the building’s inner courtyard. Enjoy the roses and the hanging gardens. (Plus, visiting the garden is free!)

(Location: Vieux Lyon. Closed on Tuesdays.)

27. Step into the World of Silk Weaving at Maison des Canuts

Take a journey back in time to Lyon’s thriving silk-making era at the Maison des Canuts, or the House of the Silk Workers .

This museum offers an in-depth exploration of the city’s rich textile history, focusing particularly on the evolution of silk production.

Consider joining a guided tour for an unforgettable weaving demonstration on a Jacquard loom. The invention of the Jacquard loom was a game-changer for the silk-making industry.

Before you leave, stop by the gift shop to grab a gorgeous silk scarf — it’s the perfect Lyon souvenir.

(I love buying scarves as souvenirs in France — they’re light, easy to pack, and an amazing fashion accessory!)

(Location: Croix-Rousse. Closed on Sundays and Mondays.)

Learn more about Lyon’s history by taking this Lyon silk tour !

28. Climb Lyon’s Painted Staircases

Adding to Lyon’s fabulous public art are several painted staircases scattered throughout the city.

These outdoor masterpieces are found in various neighborhoods, each with a unique design and style.

One beautiful example is the Escaliers Prunelle. This painted staircase is located at 2 Rue Prunelle. The base of the staircase (where you can take an Instagram-worthy photo) is on Rue Rivet.

Another great painted staircase is the Escaliers Montée des Carmélites. It’s a hidden gem in Lyon. You’ll find it in the southwestern corner of Lyon’s Jardin des Plantes.

And to round things out, visit the Escalier Mermet at 25 Rue René Leynaud.

29. Reflect on History at the Resistance and Deportation History Center

Venture to the eastern side of Lyon and immerse yourself in the poignant and evocative Resistance and Deportation History Center .

This museum serves as a profound reminder of the trials and tribulations experienced during World War II.

The part I liked the best was the collection containing hundreds of firsthand video accounts from resistance fighters and deportees. These stories really put a personal touch on this tragic time in history.

(Location: East Lyon. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

30. Visit the Opéra National de Lyon

Looking for some culture? The Opéra National de Lyon is your destination.

It’s a feast for the eyes, inside and out! From concerts and dance performances to operas, there’s always something happening here to check your ‘culture’ box.

What’s more, the Opera House hosts a rooftop terrace, offering breathtaking views of the city that you’ll definitely want to capture.

Conveniently located just east of the Place des Terreaux and the Hôtel de Ville and right by a metro stop, you’ll likely pass this landmark often during your visit. (My hotel was very close to the Opera House, so this was certainly true in my case!)

31. Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at the Salon du Chocolat

If you love chocolate as much as I do, you won’t want to miss the Salon du Chocolat!

That’s right, you’ll find chocolate in endless varieties at this fabulous festival celebrating all things chocolate.

The Salon du Chocolat is the world’s largest chocolate festival and is held in Lyon for three days in November.

Enjoy chef demonstrations, pastry workshops, and chocolate exhibitions.

All I can say is, ‘Yum!’

Lyon attractions maps

With such a long list of great things to do in Lyon, it can be hard to know where everything is located, and which attractions are close to each other.

If you’re short on time, you don’t want to waste a lot of time backtracking around the city.

Check out this map of Lyon attractions to help you get a good idea of where things are located. Use this to help group your must-see attractions based on location.

For example, on a 3-day trip to Lyon, I’d spend one day just exploring Vieux Lyon and Fourvière Hill. Then another day I’d focus on checking out the attractions in Presqu’île.

The third day is a catch-all day for more far-flung attractions like Les Halles de Lyon, the Croix-Rousse area, and the Parc de la Tête d’Or. (And any good stuff that I didn’t have time to fit into days 1 or 2!)

Lyon Travel Tips and FAQ

The best way to get from Paris to Lyon is by train . Take the TGV (high-speed train) and you’ll be in Lyon in just 2 hours. Relax and enjoy the scenery along the way!

No, you don’t need a car in Lyon. It’s very easy to explore Lyon’s attractions on foot or to take public transportation. Driving and parking in Lyon can be a challenge, so it’s easier to visit without a car.

Lyon is known as the capital of gastronomy in France. Lyon is also known for its history in silk production, and it’s the birthplace of cinematography. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its rich history and architecture.

Lyon is a very walkable city . Many of Lyon’s top attractions are rather close to each other, in the neighborhoods of Vieux Lyon and Presqu’île. You can easily use Lyon’s public transit to explore farther-flung sights.

It’s best to spend three days in Lyon . With three days, you have plenty of time to visit Lyon’s top sights. You’ll also have some free time to enjoy leisurely strolls along the river and enjoy Lyon’s renowned cuisine!

The best time to visit Lyon is from May through October. You can do a lot of sightseeing since the days are long and the weather is nice! If you’re visiting in June and July don’t miss the festival Fourvière Nights (Les Nuits de Fourvière).

Yes, Lyon is one of the best day trips from Paris by train . It’s only a 2-hour trip by high-speed train. You won’t be able to see everything, but if you plan your one-day itinerary right, you can still see many of city’s top attractions.

Final Thoughts:

As you can see, there are so many incredible things to see and do in Lyon. I definitely recommend three days in Lyon for the most enjoyable visit, so that you have time to see the famous murals , explore the historic neighborhood of Vieux Lyon , or nibble your way through the city on a Lyon food tour .

If you are visiting Lyon on a day trip, you’ll be hard-pressed to see everything I’ve included in this post. But you can still see a lot of Lyon’s top attractions! Check out this post for my one-day Lyon itinerary .

Happy Travels!

Are you ready to book your trip to Lyon?

Looking for the top picks for your trip to Lyon? Here are some of the best tours, hotels, and more to help you plan the perfect vacation!

Top Tours and Experiences in Lyon

• E-Bike Tour of Lyon (A fun & easy way to see Lyon’s top sights!)
• Market Tour, Cooking Class+ Lunch (Perfect for those who love to cook!)
• Beaujolais Golden Stones Wine Tour (The best day trip for wine lovers)

Top Hotels in Lyon

• Villa Florentine (Fabulous 5-star hotel in Vieux Lyon)
• Grand Hotel des Terreaux (I stayed here! Great location)
• Hôtel Bayard Bellecour (Highly rated budget-friendly hotel)

Planning a trip to Lyon, France? Don’t miss out on any of these great Lyon attractions! Pin it for Lyon travel inspiration!

Lisa Garrett

Lisa Garrett is the founder of Travel to Lyon.

She has explored Lyon with her husband (Chris) as well as on solo trips to France. She will be living in Lyon this summer to bring you even more tips to help you plan the perfect trip to Lyon!

Learn more about Lisa !

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A Blog About Life & Travel in France

33 Incredible Things to Do in Lyon (Local’s Guide 2024)

• By Jen Ciesielski
• Updated: 24 January 2024
• 7 September 2023

Searching for the best things to do in Lyon?

I’ve been living and traveling in France for more than a decade. Not only that but I’ve been to Lyon several times.

From its ancient Roman amphitheater to its secret passageways or traboules, there isn’t a place I haven’t been to. And today I want to share with you my top recommendations on what to do while you’re here.

In this post, I’ll cover popular sites like the Fourvière Basilica, Vieux Lyon, and La Croix Rousse. I’ve even added some unusual spots to get you off the typical tourist path.

Whether you’re looking for cultural activities or outdoor adventures, this guide will help you discover all that Lyon has to offer!

Please note : This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking on a link (at no extra cost to you). Privacy Policy .

33 Best Things to Do in Lyon

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.

Below I’ll cover Lyon’s top 33 attractions that I recommend you do while you’re here.

So, let’s get started.

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.

Book your Lyon Cruise here ➔

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.

But that’s not all there is to do here. You can also picnic in the grassed areas or even rent a bike.

Nearest Station : Masséna (Line A)

Book your Bike Tour of Parc de la Tête d’Or here ➔

5. Wander Around Place Bellecour

If you’re visiting Lyon, then a stop by Place Bellecour is an absolute must.

It’s 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:

• Bouchon Les Lyonnais – 19 Rue de la Bombarde
• Daniel & Denise Croix-Rousse – 8 Rue Cuire
• Les Fines Gueules – 16 Rue Lainerie
• La Meunière – 11 Rue Neuve
• Le Bouchon des Cordeliers – 15 Rue Claudia

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 one of the best things to see in Lyon.

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 .

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.

Useful Tip : Next to the Théâtre Gallo Romain de Lyon-Fourvière you’ll find the Lugdunum – Musée & 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

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.

Book your Silk Tour here ➔

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

One of the most unique things to do in Lyon is to visit the Musée des Arts de la Marionnette (Marionette Museum). It 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

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.

Useful 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.

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

Bibliothèque de la Cité

• Address : 6 Rue de la Platière

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

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.

Useful 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!

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!

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.

Book Your Segway Tour Here ➔

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.

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.

Useful 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 one of the most unusual things to do in Lyon. 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.

So, if you’re looking for things to do near Lyon, taking a day trip to Dijon should be at the top of your list.

Book and Purchase your Train Tickets here ➔

Map of Lyon’s Attractions

Below is a map of all the attractions that are on this list. Click the map to open Google Maps.

Where to Stay in Lyon

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 in Lyon

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.

Public Transportation in Lyon

Lyon is a tourist-friendly city, so it’s very easy to get around.

Buses, metros, trams, and funiculars are the main forms of public transport. You could also walk, but if you’re short on time, you’ll need to use one of these options.

In my opinion, the metro is the most convenient.

Tickets cost €1.90 for a single ride or there are different bundles, like the 24-hour pass for €6.50.

Useful Tips : 

• All public transport is free with the Lyon City Card .
• Funiculars are also useful, but they can only be used to reach Fourvière Hill.
• Tickets are valid for all forms of public transport (i.e., a metro ticket and a bus ticket are the same.).

Lyon City Card

The Lyon City Card offers exclusive discounts, free access to public transport, and dozens of other benefits that will make your stay even more enjoyable. Plus, they have different options, depending on how long you’re staying. It’s a great way to save money while you’re here!

Get your Lyon City Card here ➔

FAQs About What to Do in Lyon

Is lyon a foodie city.

Yes, Lyon is a foodie city! It even holds the title of the Gastronomical Capital of France. From Michelin-starred restaurants to quaint bistros, you’ll have your choice of places to eat here.

Is Lyon cheaper than Paris?

Yes, Lyon is generally cheaper than Paris. Prices for food and attractions are usually lower in Lyon but accommodation can sometimes be just as expensive as in Paris. So, if you want to save money try to visit during the low season.

Do I need to speak French in Lyon?

No, you don’t need to speak French in Lyon. Although French is the main language, plenty of locals speak English. Not only that but popular attractions always have some form of English signage available. But you should still try to learn some words in French like “Bonjour” or “ Merci .”

Is Lyon colder than Paris?

No, Lyon is generally not colder than Paris. Lyon has a temperate climate and is typically warmer in the winter months than Paris.

What is the best time of year to go to Lyon, France?

The best time of year to visit Lyon is from April to June and September to November. During this period, temperatures are mild, and tourists are few and far between. Summer (July and August) tends to be the most popular time of year. Prices are high and the streets are crowded, but the weather is perfect.

What is Lyon famous for?

Lyon is famous for its authentic cuisine, fascinating historical sites, beautiful architecture, and vibrant nightlife. It’s a great place for anyone looking for an exciting getaway.

Conclusion: Top Things to Do in Lyon

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 on what to do in Lyon and found it useful. Here are some other articles that I think you might enjoy.

• 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)

Jen Ciesielski

Jen Ciesielski is the creator of Dabbling in Jet Lag. She has lived abroad for over ten years, traveled to more than 50 countries, and speaks French and English fluently. Her areas of expertise include moving abroad, learning languages, and travel planning. Originally from the United States, she now lives in France, where she has been for more than six years. She has also traveled extensively around the country. She shares her experiences as an expat living in France and helps thousands of people plan their trips every month.

Best Things to Do in Lyon, France

Article written by Elisa - Travel Writer & Local in France This article may contain compensated links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

What to Do in Lyon, the City of Lights

Lyon is one of the most beautiful cities in France . The capital city of the Auvergne-Rhône Alpes region is also one of France’s oldest cities, founded around 2,000 years ago. The city is basically a World Heritage site, filled with Roman ruins, historic districts, and a Renaissance Old Town.

Located at the meeting of the Rhône and Saône Rivers, Lyon has the perfect size to explore on foot, with interesting Lyon attractions, public spaces, as well as beautiful architecture. And if this isn’t enough, Lyon is known as one of the culinary centers of the world, and the cuisine is simply spectacular!

In summer 2024, Lyon will be one of the host cities of the Summer Olympics 2024 , so it’s the perfect excuse to discover or re-discover the city! Keep reading to discover our suggestions for things to do in Lyon, France, for an unforgettable holiday.

Are you planning a Lyon trip last minute?

Below are some of the best Lyon tours, hotels, and more!

• Book your flight tickets to Lyon (LYS) ; Book your train tickets to Lyon
• Book your transfer from Lyon Airport to the city with Welcome Pickups

Looking to travel around Lyon independently? Click here for the best rental car rates in Lyon .

Top Experiences and Tours in Lyon

• Lyon Guided Sightseeing Cruise
• Vieux Lyon 4-hour Food Tour with Tastings
• Lyon E-bike Guided Tour
• Day Trip to Beaujolais Wine Region

Want skip-the-line access at museums & attractions in Lyon? Get your hands on a  Lyon City Card !

Top Lyon Accommodation and Lodging

• Villa Florentine (in the Old Town and with the best panoramic view of Lyon)
• Hotel de l’Abbaye Lyon (beautiful hotel located in a former abbey in Vieux Lyon)
• Hotel des Remparts Perrache (3-star hotel in the Presqu’Ile of Lyon)
• Check out the full list of favorite hotels in Lyon

Don’t forget your travel insurance!

Compare plans, prices, and coverage with  Travel Insurance Master , a comparison site that will find the perfect fit for you amongst the world’s leading programs.  Travel Insurance Master is also the best place to look for senior travelers .

Top Things to Do in Lyon, France

Lyon is one of the best weekend getaways from Paris by train and a must-stop during any road trip from Paris to Nice . Wondering what to do in Lyon for a day, a weekend, or a longer stay? Here’s the list of the best things to do in Lyon, France, to get the most out of the city. This Lyon things-to-do list includes historical sites, cultural attractions, and some of France’s best vineyards.

Spend two days in Lyon to cover the best places to visit in Lyon and get a good taste of what the city has to offer. Spend more time if you are willing to explore the city’s surroundings on day trips from Lyon.

GOOD TO KNOW: While Paris is referred to as “La Ville Lumière” (City of Light), Lyon is also known as “La Ville des Lumières” (the City of Lights) because of the famous winter festival Fête des Lumières, Lyon’s Festival of Lights .

Notre Dame de Fourbière

Exploring the history and architecture of Notre Dame de Fourbière is a must-do in Lyon. The basilica was built between 1872 and 1884, and it sits on top of Fourbière Hill in Lyon’s Fifth District.

The basilica is magnificent from the outside, but the inside is something else, filled with stained glass images, beautiful mosaics, and interesting crypts. The hike up the hill to the basilica is well worth doing, particularly if you do it in the early morning or evening to see the Old Town at sunset or sunrise.

Vieux-Lyon (Old Lyon)

Vieux-Lyon is Lyon’s Old Town, and it’s one of the largest Renaissance areas in all of Europe. It is located on a narrow stretch of land between the Fourbière Hill and the Saône River, which constrained Old Lyon to grow vertically.

Between the 15th and 17th centuries, Lyon was home to a thriving silk industry, and the city was full of wealthy people. You can see the city’s wealth when you visit Vieux-Lyon, with its exquisite old houses in the Italian and French Renaissance styles.

LA RENAISSANCE DU VIEUX-LYON: In the 1960s, some neighbors of Old Lyon formally opposed the project of Mayor Louis Pradel, who planned to raze part of Old Lyon, then considered unhealthy, to build an expressway there. La Renaissance du Vieux-Lyon association was born. The association bought and restored one of the most iconic buildings in Vieux Lyon and invited André Malraux, then the Minister of Culture, to visit. Thanks to the association’s strong mobilization and the decision by André Malraux (1962) to create the first French protected area in Lyon, Old Lyon was saved. Subsequently, the association endeavored to revive Old Lyon, restore it with the help of the inhabitants, and introduce it to tourists.

Wandering around the Old Town is one of the best things to do in Lyon. Old Lyon is divided into three neighborhoods around its three main religious buildings – Saint-Jean, Saint-Georges , and Saint-Paul – just make sure that you linger in the Quartier Saint-Jean , where you’ll find the Cathedral of Saint-Jean Baptiste and most of the Lyon sightseeing.

This part of the city is also filled with interesting museums like the MAM – Musée des Arts de la Marionette , the MHL – Musée de l’Histoire de Lyon (both in the same building), and the Musée des Automates de Lyon .

TIP: To get the most out of Old Lyon, take this top-rated Lyon walking tour with an expert guide.

Explore the Presqu’Ile

La Presqu’Ile is one of the more interesting places to visit in Lyon. It’s a tiny area between the Rhône and Saône rivers made in the 18th century to connect this island with Lyon’s mainland.

This is the city’s busiest and most interesting part, filled with pretty shops and cultural buildings like the Opera House and City Hall . At night, it has a good concentration of restaurants and bars, ideal for casual dining in the summer (but not only).

Whether you enjoy shopping, bar hopping, or cultural attractions, you’ll love this part of the city!

La Croix-Rousse

Located on the city’s second hill of the same name, La Croix-Rousse is an interesting neighborhood to visit during your trip to Lyon. The area is filled with 18th-century architecture and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998.

The Croix-Rousse is known as “the Hill that Works,” as opposed to the Fourvière Hill, “the Hill that Prays.” In the 19th century, the Croix-Rousse was Lyon’s silk district, home to 30,000 canuts (the name given to silk workers in Lyon) who made the city a major textile center in Europe.

Take a stroll to discover the soul of this district, where past and present mingle, and the buildings are specially designed to house the looms between traboules and stairs. While you’re there, you can enjoy the neighborhood’s local charm, its cafés, shops, and street art, and then enjoy the views of Lyon from the plateau at the top.

Take an E-bike Guided Tour

This guided e-bike tour is an excellent introduction to the city of Lyon. In three hours or so, we visited Lyon’s top attractions on two wheels, from the banks of the Saône River to the Parc de la Tête d’Or.

The bonus was having a local guide with us, who helped us navigate through the city and entertained us with the history of the city and its main landmarks.

After a break with some wine, cheese, and cold cuts, we climbed up to Fourbière Hill (very easy with an e-bike!), where we visited the Basilica, the Roman Theater (from outside) and admired the incredible vistas over the Old Town.

For me, this guided e-bike tour was one of the best things to do in Lyon, and I highly recommend it! – Click here to book this guided e-bike tour of Lyon

Relax at Parc de la Tête d’Or

Strolling around this beautiful park is one of the most relaxing things to do in Lyon, France. The Parc de la Tête d’Or is one of the largest urban parks in the country and boasts a lot to do. While you’re there, check out the botanical garden, which contains over 20,000 plant varieties.

There’s also a zoo in the park that kids love and an international rose garden that’s absolutely stunning in the spring.

Visit the Musée des Confluences

The Musée des Confluences is one of the main Lyon tourist attractions. Located in the Second District of Lyon, at the confluence of the Rhône and the Saône rivers, the Musée des Confluences is a science center and anthropology museum. The museum’s building is an attraction in itself, set up in the heart of a monumental structure between crystal and cloud.

Inside, you’ll find collections of natural science and Earth science, as well as art and crafts exhibitions. You’ll learn about everything from the Big Bang theory to the history of the universe and the birth of life within it. 

Whether you have kids or just enjoy learning more about the world, you’ll love this museum – Click here to buy your tickets

Explore the Hidden Traboules

The traboules of Lyon are a Lyon must-see. Traboules are secret walkways through the buildings that communicate two different streets. They always have an inner courtyard to get more natural light and a staircase with galleries that gives access to two different buildings.

There are around 400 traboules in the city, and most of them are located in Vieux-Lyon. Around 40 of them are open to visitors, so don’t hesitate to get the free map of traboules from the Office of Tourism to explore the best ones.

The traboules curve between buildings, up staircases, and through pretty courtyards. They were used as shortcuts to move quickly from the Saône River – where the boats with merchandise arrived – to the city center.

Because of their secret nature, some of them were the landmarks of the 19th-century Canuts Revolt. In the 20th century, the traboules were also used by the resistance fighting against occupying German forces during the Second World War. 

Enjoy Lyon’s Local Food

France is known for its delicious food, so when people say that Lyon is the best place in the country to eat, then you know that the cuisine must be really good!

Lyon is France’s gastronomical capital. It’s where young chefs learn their trade, and you can be the lucky recipient of all this experimentation.

No matter where you eat in Lyon, you’ll find that the food in Lyon is pretty amazing! To learn more about what Lyon has to offer from a culinary point of view, try this Lyon Old Town Food Tour with a local guide, which explores the Old Town from a gourmet’s perspective, combining cultural discovery and local flavors. If you are vegan, you can explore Lyon through its local food with this Vegan Food Tour of Lyon .

For lunch or dinner, make sure that you visit one of the local bouchons , which are typical restaurants of Old Lyon where you can eat specialties like the tablier de sapron, quenelles (kind of dumplings), Lyonnaise salad, and canut brain. Everything is generally served very copiously and washed down with a glass of Beaujolais or Côtes-du-Rhône.

Winter Wonder at the Fête des Lumières (Lyon’s Light Festival)

If you are considering visiting Lyon in winter, then make it around the time of the Fête des Lumières . Lyon’s Light Festival is a popular event and is held every year around December 8th to honor Mary, the mother of Jesus.

The festival lasts four days, and during it, the locals place candles on the outsides of their windows, and the city’s main monuments are beautifully illuminated in a spectacular light display. During the festival, there are also other activities involving light, including the light show at the Place des Terreaux.

The Fête des Lumières is one of the must-see winter festivals in France, that’s why we recommend Lyon as one of the best places to visit in France in the wintertime – book your hotel and train tickets well in advance!

Explore the Wine Regions near Lyon

Wine tours from Lyon are very popular among visitors and usually include the visit of a couple of wineries and some tastings, plus the possibility to buy as many bottles of great wine as you want directly from the producers.

This Beaujolais wine tour explores the Beaujolais wine region and comes with a couple of tastings. Famous for its Beaujolais Nouveau, which is a Burgundy wine, the region is also dotted with charming little golden stone villages. Actually, this area of Southern Beaujolais is nicknamed Vallée des Pierres Dorées because of these golden stones.  

Wine tours to the Rhône Valley wine region are also popular. The distance to cover during this tour is longer, so tours usually last a full day, with a break for lunch (usually not included in the tour price).

Côtes du Rhône produces some of the most renowned wines in France, most notably its full-bodied reds. This Northern Rhône Valley wine tour mostly explores wineries in the Hermitage and Côte-Rôtie appellations and comes with many tastings (compared to wine tours in other regions in France). Be sure to eat a proper meal during the tour and get ready for the snores of your travel mates on the way back!

TIP: If you have a car, there are many wineries in the area that offer tours with tastings in French and English. They are usually small businesses, so be sure to book in advance so they can make the necessary arrangements to welcome you.

Take a Day Trip from Lyon

There are lots of interesting things to see in Lyon, but it is also worth using one day to explore Lyon’s surroundings on a day trip. France is known for its amazing countryside, so make sure you get out and enjoy one of our suggested Lyon day trips .

Take the time to see the medieval town of Pérouges with its medieval walls, rural countryside, and beautiful old town.

A little bit further from Lyon, the alpine city of Annecy is also beautiful to visit. With its canals, cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and medieval castle, the town is serene and picture-perfect, and it is very easy to visit from Lyon by train – Click here to buy your train tickets from Lyon to Annecy .

A visit to Saint-Etienne is another of the top things to do around Lyon. Saint-Etienne is another of the Olympic host cities, and it is the perfect destination for you if you are into design and unique museums.

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3 Days in Lyon: The Ultimate Lyon Itinerary (with Map Locations!)

Posted on Last updated: January 9, 2024

Lyon is often called a small Paris, with the charm of a smaller French village on one side of the river and a more modern Parisian look on the other. With 3 days in Lyon, you’ll be able to visit each area of Lyon, through all the can’t-miss spots as well as a few hidden gems along the way.

This 3-day Lyon itinerary is split into 3 different main areas/neighborhoods in Lyon: Vieux Lyon & Fourviere, Presqu’île, and Croix Rousse.

You can switch around these days in any order that fits your travel plans best! If you are in Lyon for fewer days, it’s definitely possible to combine 2 of these days into 1.

In my opinion, if there is any area to skip because you are short on time, I would skip the Presqu’ile day!

But you can look at all the stops below on each day and decide based on what you enjoy doing most.

Each location has the Google Maps location included so that it is easy to plan and even change around the itinerary if you choose to do so!

I recommend marking each stop on your own Google Maps by clicking on the link after each stop that interests you.

Where to Stay in Lyon

Lyon is one of those cities where it is super difficult to find really good-budget accommodation.

Check out this list if you’re looking for a luxurious, treat-yourself stay in Lyon.

If you’re looking for budget accommodation, HostelWorld is the best place to book . However, you need to be booking a month or more in advance or the prices are about the same as a hotel.

This hostel is only 26 euros for a dorm and it has great reviews, with a central location.

For a hotel stay, one of the best options is Fourviere Hotel Lyon, which is in an amazing location, has a pool, and still comes in at around $115 to $135 per night.

Day 1: Vieux Lyon & Fourviere

The first day is split between the two most visited areas of Lyon: Vieux Lyon and Fourviere.

Depending on where you are staying in Lyon, I recommend taking the metro to the first stop mentioned in the Day 1 Itinerary.

All of these days are set up so that if you choose to walk the whole day, you have plenty of time and it won’t be too much walking if you talk the metro to the first stop and then walk back to your accommodation or vice-versa.

One thing I wish we had done while in Lyon (especially Vieux Lyon) was take a walking tour. It’s such a historic city and I definitely plan to head back and learn more about it next time.

The way I like to travel is by marking each place on Google maps and making my way through the city that way. Each location below has a link to Google Maps where you can mark it.

I’ve also made a walking map using Google Maps, which had to be split into two parts.

Day 1 Walking Map: Part 1 (Saint George’s Suspension Bridge to La Longue Traboule)

According to Google Maps, this first section is a 16 minute walk (not including stops) and exactly 1 km long on mostly flat streets.

Day 1 Walking Map: Part 2 (La Longue Traboule to Communautaire Jardin du Belvédère Garden)

This second half of the walk is 1.5 hours of walking (if you choose to walk instead of taking the Funiculaire which you’ll see later) and 5.9 km long. This section is not flat (258 meters up and 204 meters down).

You should definitely go through each of the locations below and mark them on your map so you can change the order if you need to or skip locations you don’t want to visit!

Saint George’s Suspension Bridge (Passarelle)

The most iconic view of Lyon is our very first stop! This bridge gives you one of the best vantage points and leads you directly into Vieux Lyon.

Here’s the link to the location on Google Maps.

Saint George Church

The beautiful Saint George Church is directly across the Saint George suspension bridge and is definitely worth a visit.

Here’s the location of Saint George Church of Lyon on Google Maps.

Traboule Passage #1

One of the greatest and most fun things about visiting Lyon is that you can go on a treasure hunt!

Hidden all throughout the city are secret passageways through buildings to hidden courtyards that you can actually visit.

There is usually a door that looks like any other door on the street, except that it is unlocked and you are able to go through and see a beautiful, hidden area of Lyon!

Some of them you can spot even though the doors are locked and you can’t go inside, like this one we found in Vieux Lyon.

The traboules are also historically important because they were used for secret meetings during World War II, making it so that the Nazis were never able to occupy the city.

This first one is behind a red door, so use this map and keep your eye out for Traboule Passage #1!

Here is the location on Google Maps.

UPDATE: You can no longer visit this Traboule without a guided tour. Check out this Traboule tour that may show this one plus a bunch of others that aren’t available to the public!

Pretty Streets in Vieux Lyon

Of course, there are so many picturesque streets in Vieux Lyon that wandering them without a destination in mind is definitely a must!

I recommend wandering around the streets between the Saint George Church and the stop for the Funiculaire until you feel like you’ve seen it all!

If you are looking for some specific stops along the way, they are listed below.

La Maison de Guignol

The Maison de Guignol is the House of Puppets. Lyon is famous for its puppet shows, and if you would like to see one, this is the best place to do it!

You’ll most likely have to plan in advance and you can find the scheduled puppet shows on their website .

The shows last about 50 minutes and cost about 11 euros per person.

However, even if you’re not interested in viewing a puppet show, the outside of this shop is one of the most beautiful areas of Vieux Lyon.

Here’s the link for the location of La Maison de Guignol on Google Maps.

Impasse Turquet

Just up the small street next to the Maison de Guignol, you can visit the oldest wooden balconies of Lyon that date back to the 14th century.

It’s a little dead-end street with the oldest buildings left in Lyon!

Here’s the location of Impasse Turquet on Google Maps.

View from Impasse Turquet

As you exit the Impasse Turquet, don’t forget to look up and spot one of the most incredible views of Lyon!

You can spot the Cathedral Saint-Jean Baptiste (where you’re headed next!) in the distance looming over the chimneys and rooftops of the city.

Place Saint-Jean & Cathedrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste (Lyon Cathedral)

The Place Saint-Jean and the Cathedrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste (also known as Lyon Cathedral) are just a short walk from the Impasse Turquet.

You can enter the Cathedral for free as well as fill up your water bottle at the fountain in the middle of the place.

Here is the location of the Place Saint-Jean on Google Maps.

The Long Traboule

This pink Traboule is known as the “Long Traboule” because it winds through 4 different buildings between 54 Rue Saint-Jean and 27 Rue de Boeuf.

Here’s the location of La Longue Traboule on Google Maps.

Boulangerie Du Palais

A visit to Lyon wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Boulangerie Du Palais, which is so well-loved that there is a line out the door no matter what time of day you visit.

However long the wait, it is definitely worth it to get your hands on some of the best pastries in town.

The famous praline pastries, which are dyed deep red, are incredibly sweet and very unique to Lyon. I recommend the Allumettes aux Pralines, which are one the best pastries I’ve ever had!

Here’s the location of Boulangerie du Palais on Google Maps.

The second best boulangerie in Vieux Lyon is La Marquise, only a few steps away from the Boulangerie du Palais.

We loved the pastries at the first bakery so much that we never got around to trying the second, although it came highly recommended!

If you’re a foodie, Lyon is the perfect city for you. Take a food tour to make sure you hit all the major spots famous for Lyonnaise cuisine while you’re there!

Court of Appeal of Lyon

After grabbing a pastry at Boulangerie du Palais, you can walk straight down that street toward the Saone river and you’ll immediately see the Court of Appeal of Lyon.

It is a very impressive view, although you are not able to enter.

Here’s the link to the location of the Court of Appeal on Google Maps.

Where to Eat in Vieux Lyon

If you are looking for traditional restaurants in Lyon, then you would want to head to Bouchon and get some traditional Lyonnais dishes.

I would definitely try a food tour or a dinner cruise along the river if you want to try some of the best food in Lyon.

However, this will definitely be quite expensive. We wanted to try to have this experience, but we leveled with the waiter at Bouchon Les Lyonnais and asked if he would allow us to share a dish or to just get one course and he said it wouldn’t be allowed.

Most of the French restaurants in this area are most likely the same. There is nothing wrong with this, of course!

Here is the location on Google Maps if you’d like to try one of the most famous Bouchon restaurants in Lyon: Bouchon Les Lyonnais.

If you’d like to eat at a more budget-friendly place, there are two cheaper takeout restaurants further away from the main part of Vieux Lyon: Le Digor 2 and Rawal Tandoori. We chose Le Digor 2 to get a few cheap and delicious kebabs.

Since the cheaper restaurants are takeout, you can walk over to the Saone and find a place to sit and enjoy your meal.

Take the Funiculaire or the Stairs to Fourviere

After you’ve wandered every inch of Vieux Lyon, it’s time to head to Fourviere! Fourviere is the hill with the giant Cathedral on it that is immediately behind Vieux Lyon.

There are two ways to get up to Fourvière hill: by the stairs or by the Funiculaire. I highly recommend the stairs since the views on the way up are absolutely amazing.

Here’s the location of the start of the stairs on Google Maps.

However, the Funiculaire is quite cheap and will get you up much faster if you don’t want to walk!

Here’s the location of the Funiculaire de Lyon on Google Maps.

A round-trip ticket on the Funiculaire costs 3 euros. You can catch one about every 5 to 10 minutes, so there is no need to buy tickets in advance. The hours may change according to the season.

Park Des Hauteurs

If you choose to walk to Fourviere, you will not only pass by some incredible views, but you also walk through the Park Des Hauteurs, which has some beautiful gardens and walkways.

If you take the Funiculaire, you can walk down from the Fourviere viewpoint and visit the park without walking too far.

Here’s the location of Parc des Hauteurs on Google Maps.

Fourviere Viewpoint

Depending on the season, the Fourviere Viewpoint may be partially blocked by trees. Since we went in the fall, the trees were still there, however, in the winter the view is much more open.

Although the view is amazing, we found another one even better (which is mentioned further down in the itinerary).

Here’s the location of this viewpoint on Google Maps.

La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière

Right next to the viewpoint, you can’t miss the giant Basilique Notre Dame de Fourviere which was built in the late 19th century.

It costs 6 euros per person to enter and it is definitely worth the cost.

You can also choose to go to the top of the Basilica for an extra fee.

Here’s the location of the Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourviere on Google Maps.

Metallic Tower of Fourviere

In the same area as the viewpoint and Basilique, you can spot the Metallic Tower of Fourviere. There isn’t anything over there, so you can choose to walk over or just view it from the Basilique.

Here’s the location of the Metallic Tower on Google Maps.

Theatre Gallo Romain

Next, you can head over to the Roman ruins at Theatre Gallo Romain, which is just a short walk from the Basilique.

Here’s the location of the Theatre Gallo Romain on Google Maps.

Secret (and Best) Viewpoint of Lyon

If you are taking the Funiculaire down and do not want to walk a lot, you will probably just head back after viewing the Theatre Gallo Romain.

The Fourviere Viewpoint that you visited earlier was probably packed with people, but if you continue on to this secret viewpoint, you will probably have it all to yourself.

On the way down the hill, you will spot a small park called the “Communitaire Garden” (Don’t worry, I have the location marked down below so you won’t miss it!)

It is very small and doesn’t look like much, but if you step up to the gate and look down, you’ll see an incredible, unobstructed view of Lyon below!

The only downside to this viewpoint is that there is a fence, but to get around that, I stuck my camera lens through the holes and was able to get some of my favorite pictures from the whole trip.

Here’s the exact location of the Communitaire Garden on Google Maps.

Day 2: Presqu’ile

Day 2 takes you to Presqu’ile, which is the area just opposite Vieux Lyon along the Saone River.

Day 2 Walking Map Through Presqu’ile on Google Maps (from Saint Vincent Suspension Bridge to Place Bellecour).

According to Google Maps, this walk would take 37 minutes (without stops) and is 2.7 km long. It’s also mostly flat.

Saint Vincent Suspension Bridge

The first stop is at the Saint Vincent Suspension Bridge, where you can see the bend of the Saone and all the colorful buildings that line the edge of the river.

Here’s the location of the Saint Vincent Suspension Bridge and the start of the Day 2 itinerary on Google Maps.

Fresque des Lyonnais

From the bridge, it’s just a short walk to the Fresque des Lyonnais. This building is completely covered in paintings that depict famous people from Lyon.

Around this area, you can spot several other murals besides the main building, so keep your eyes peeled!

Here’s the location of the Fresque des Lyonnais on Google Maps.

Place des Terreaux, Lyon City Hall & Bartholdi Fountain

This large place has 3 stops in one. Don’t forget to head to the back of the Lyon City Hall as well for a different view!

Here’s the location of the Place des Terreaux on Google Maps.

Le Bal des Ardents

If you’re a fan of searching out quaint bookstores, you’ll love this little stop! You can find used and new books (although it was still a bit expensive).

Here’s the location of Le Bal des Ardents bookshop on Google Maps.

Church of Saint-Nizier of Lyon

The Saint-Nizier church has two asymmetrical spires which you can see peeking above the buildings from multiple viewpoints in Lyon.

The Gothic spire on the left dates back to the 15th century and is made of brick. The other spire was built in the 19th century and is made in nep-Gothic style.

The Church of Saint Nizier is closed on Mondays, so make sure to plan accordingly.

Here’s the location of the Church of Saint Nizier on Google Maps.

Palais de la Bourse & Church of Saint Bonaventure Lyon

These two stops are facing each other and are quite quick. However, this area is where you start seeing the department stores and shopping areas so there is plenty to do in this area if you love shopping!

Here’s the location of the Palais de la Bourse de Lyon so you can mark it on your Google Maps.

If you are big into shopping, then Presqu’ile might be your favorite day in Lyon!

You can find most major stores in this area as well as a few European favorites like Decathlon and Monoprix on the streets Rue de la République (a UNESCO-protected shopping street) and Rue Tupin.

Passage des Imprimeurs Traboule

At this traboule, you can head up the stairs and explore a bit! This is one of the more beautiful traboules in Lyon (according to me!)

Here’s the super secret location (lol jk, but you can pretend, finding traboules is like following a treasure map!) of the Passage des Imprimeurs on Google Maps.

Le Coin Vert & Place des Jacobins

Le Coin Vert is a covered passage with small shops and restaurants. It isn’t always open, so if you would like to visit, you’ll need to double-check the day and time that you pass by.

If the Le Coin Vert is closed, it’s still worth visiting the Place des Jacobins nearby, with a beautiful fountain and multiple shopping streets branching off from it.

Here’s the location of Le Coin Vert on Google Maps.

Place Bellecour

Place Bellecour is the third-largest square in Paris and one of the largest in all of Europe. It spans 15 acres and is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Cheap Lunch Places

To save money, you can get pre-made sandwiches at Casino stores or small Carrefours. You can also buy a baguette, cheese, and meat and make your own fresh sandwiches!

There is also a McDonald’s and a Subway in Presqu’ile.

Day 3: Croix Rousse

Last day in Lyon, with some of the best views to go!

Mur des Canuts

The first stop is the Mur des Canuts. If you’re not interested in the giant murals, you can go ahead and skip this stop since it is a little out of the way.

If you plan to go, make sure you take the metro all the way to the nearest stop, which isn’t the main stop for Croix Rousse.

You may need to take a couple of metros to get there depending on where you’re staying. The C line metro will take you to the Hénon stop which is a 1 minute walk from the mural.

Here’s the Google Maps location of Mur des Canuts.

Croix Rousse Place Area

Around Croix Rousse Place, you can get a feel of the hill above Lyon before heading down to some of the destinations listed for the day.

Here’s the location of the Place de la Croix-Rousse on Google Maps.

La Vue du Coquillat

La Vue du Coquillat is down a flight of steep stairs, so some may need to skip this viewpoint.

However, if you can make it, you will be rewarded with some of the best views of the chimneys of Vieux Lyon.

Cour des Voraces Traboule

Not far from the viewpoint, you can head to the last traboule of your trip to Lyon! (Unless, of course, you choose to go hunting for some on your own!)

Montee de la Grande-Cote – An Incredibly Beautiful Street

After the last traboule, you have to make a stop at one of the hidden gems Jake and I found while in Lyon. This street wasn’t on our original itinerary, but it is definitely worth a stop!

Head to the Librairie-Café Un Petit Noir and from there, enjoy an incredible view of the street from above.

This street is a Scenic UNESCO-protected street, as well!

You can choose later on in this day to head back to this street and walk all the way back down the Saone, so don’t worry about heading down there just yet.

Escaliers Colores

The next stop is a set of Instagram-friendly colored stairs. You can definitely skip these if you aren’t interested, though.

Place Rouville

These next two stops though should not be skipped as they are two of the best viewpoints in Lyon! The first is Place Rouville, which has a great view although it’s a little more obstructed than the next one.

Jardin Des Rigolards

The Jardin Des Rigolards is a small park area with benches and one of the most incredible views of Lyon that you’ll ever see.

You can sit and soak in the view for a while, if you like, or take a million pictures like I did!

Head Back to Montee de la Grande-Cote & Walk Down the Hill

Next, head back to Montee de la Grande-Cote Street and walk down the hill until you hit the Saone. There are tons of little shops and beautiful buildings on the way down.

The street doesn’t lead straight down to the Saone, so you’ll need to head to the right towards the Saint Vincent Suspension bridge.

Once you get to the bottom, you can still take a metro back to your hotel/accommodation.

At the bottom, if you’re looking for a meal under 10 euros for two people, I recommend Planete Tandoori or Frite Alors!

The spicy Poulet Tikka Tandoori (Chicken wrap) is only 4 euros and was super delicious.

Here’s the location of Delhi Tandoori on Google Maps.

Walk Down the Saône River

If you still have time (or the energy!) after walking down the Croix Rousse hill, you can take a stroll along the Saone River.

There are some really beautiful buildings right in front of the bend of the river and you can choose how far you’d like to walk.

Grab some lunch or snacks and rest a while!

If you have some extra time (or maybe you’re a little tired of walking!!), you can also take a 1-hour river cruise down the Saône for a more relaxing way to see Lyon from the water.

See Lyon at Night

One more thing you need to do before leaving Lyon is to find a night to see Lyon at night.

One of the days, we chose to head back to our hotel for a few hours to conserve some energy, and then we went back and walked around the Saone while Lyon was lit up.

Markets in Lyon

I saved this for last because depending on the days that you plan to visit Lyon, you may have to switch around your itinerary a tad so that you don’t miss these!

We only made it to a few, but they were beautiful and had tons of great food.

1. Mercato Ortfrutticolo (Along the Saone)

I couldn’t find the hours for this market, however, it was set up at the same time as the next market, so I’ve included the hours for that in the next section.

Here’s the Google Maps location of Marché Saint Antoine.

2. Marché Alimentaire Saint-Antoine Célestins

This market runs every day except Monday. Tuesday through Thursday it is open from 6 am to 1 pm and Friday through Sunday it is open from 6 am to 1:30 pm.

Here’s the Google Maps location for the Marché Alimentaire Saint-Antoine Célestins.

3. Marché Alimentaire de la Croix-Rousse

This market also runs every day except Monday. Tuesday through Thursday it is open from 6 am to 1 pm and Friday through Sunday it is open from 6 am to 1:30 pm.

This market stands out from the others because it also sells clothes and other items along with meats and fresh produce.

4. Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse Market

This is the only market I have listed that we didn’t make it to. This covered market is in Presqu’ile and has fresh meats and fruits.

The Halles Market website shows all of the vendors that will be at the market so you know what you expect. It is also a great place to head for lunch.

It is open every day of the week starting at 7 am and stays open until 10:30 pm except for Sundays when it closes at 4:30 pm.

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Dayna Brockbank is a travel and language-learning blogger who has lived around the world but has now settled in Nice, France. She speaks 3 languages at varying levels of fluency: Spanish, Italian, and French, and graduated with a Bachelor’s in Spanish Education. She and her husband focus on making travel part of life by living cheaply and traveling on a budget.

Friday 14th of July 2023

Lyon, in my opinion, is one of France's most underrated destinations. Your itinerary captures the essence of the city so well!

Vieux Lyon and Fourviere are indeed a great start to a Lyon trip. These historic districts give visitors a sense of the city's rich history and offer some of the most picturesque views. Saint George’s Suspension Bridge, or Passerelle Saint-George, is indeed a fantastic spot for a panoramic view of the city and it provides a great starting point for exploring the old town.

I agree with you that Presqu'île could potentially be skipped if time is tight, but it's worth noting that it's the city's commercial heart and boasts some gorgeous architecture. However, prioritizing based on personal interests is always the best approach.

Looking forward to the rest of your itinerary! I'm sure it's as insightful as this part.

Getty Images/Robert Harding World Imagery

Commanding a strategic spot at the confluence of the Rhône and the Saône Rivers, Lyon has been luring people ever since the Romans named it Lugdunum in 43 BC. Commercial, industrial and banking powerhouse for the past 500 years, Lyon is France's third-largest city, and offers today's urban explorers a wealth of enticing experiences.

Free Things to Do

Leave the planning to a local expert.

Experience the real Lyon. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Musée des Confluences

This eye-catching building, designed by the Viennese firm Coop Himmelb(l)au, is the crowning glory of Lyon's newest neighbourhood, the Confluence, at…

Musée des Beaux-Arts

This stunning and eminently manageable museum showcases France's finest collection of sculptures and paintings outside of Paris, from antiquity onwards…

Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière

Crowning the hill, with stunning city panoramas from its terrace, this superb example of late-19th-century French ecclesiastical architecture is lined…

Lyon Confluence

Lyon's race toward the future is personified in this reborn industrial district near the southern tip of Presqu'île. Once a landscape of empty warehouses…

Cathédrale St-Jean-Baptiste

Lyon's partly Romanesque cathedral was built between the late 11th and early 16th centuries. The portals of its Flamboyant Gothic facade, completed in…

Musées Gadagne

Housed in a 16th-century mansion built for two rich Florentine bankers, this twin-themed exhibition space incorporates an excellent local history museum,…

Place des Terreaux

The centrepiece of the Presqu'île's beautiful central square is a 19th-century fountain made of 21 tonnes of lead and sculpted by Frédéric-Auguste…

Opéra de Lyon

Lyon's neoclassical 1831-built opera house was modernised in 1993 by renowned French architect Jean Nouvel, who added the striking semi-cylindrical glass…

Top picks from our travel experts

Explore lyon with these 15 free things to do.

Parc de la Tête d'Or

If you're museumed out, head to this lovely space north of the centre, which provides a green haven for nature lovers and families. Spanning 117 hectares,…

Théâtre Romain

Lyon's Roman theatre, built around 15 BC and enlarged in AD 120, sat an audience of 10,000. Romans held poetry readings and musical recitals in the…

Fresque des Lyonnais

Well-known Lyonnais peer out from this beautifully executed seven-storey mural, including loom inventor Joseph-Marie Jacquard (1752–1834), Renaissance…

Place Bellecour

One of Europe’s largest public squares, gravel-strewn place Bellecour was laid out in the 17th century. In the centre is an equestrian statue of Louis XIV.

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Things To Do In Lyon, France: 12 Ways to Explore Like A Local

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We have finally made it to Lyon – the food capital of France and the “world capital of gastronomy!” Every food enthusiast should plan a trip to Lyon. Even if you think you already adore French food, the traditional Lyonnaise cuisine will make you fall in love even more!

Where exactly is Lyon and what is there to see and do? In this Lyon travel guide, we cover all the essentials to ensure your next vacation to France goes as smoothly as possible — even if you only have 24 hours in Lyon! Read on to find our best Lyon travel tips and favourite places to visit in Lyon.

Where is Lyon in France?

Let’s start with geography: Lyon is located in the central eastern part of France , about 2 hours by train south of Paris. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , Lyon is considered the third largest city in France  after Paris and Marseille.

The Saône river and the Rhône river wend their way through the city of Lyon. Two picturesque hills, La Croix-Rousse and Fourvière, are iconic features of the city’s skyline.

Is Lyon Worth Visiting?

We love Lyon for many reasons. Nouvelle French cuisine originates in Lyon, and as such the city draws some of the best international chefs. The city boasts 21 Michelin star restaurants (in 2021), a remarkable feat for the city’s size.

Lyon doesn’t just attract foodies, though. The city has a rich history spanning more than 2000 years. Walking through the Vieux Lyon (Old Town), you will notice many historical buildings and landmarks from the Renaissance era, when the city thrived on silk production and trade.

Outside the Old Town you will find a completely different world: stunning contemporary architecture fills the city landscape, drawing the attention of photographers.

So, whether you’re into food, history and culture, or art, there are plenty of things to do in Lyon to fill your itinerary!

Getting to Lyon

Taking a train is the most popular way to get to Lyon from other cities in France. Direct trains from Paris to Lyon are operated by SNCF. Trains depart every day (except Sundays) from Paris’ Gare de Lyon train station and take about 2 hours to arrive at Lyon’s Part-Dieu train station.

Flying is the quickest way to get to Lyon if you’re short on time. Both HOP! and Air France fly directly from Paris to Lyon. The only difference is that HOP! flights depart from Paris-Orly airport whereas Air France flights depart from Paris-Charles de Gaulle airport.

From Lyon Airport to City Centre

To get to Lyon by air, the closest airport to fly into is Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS) , the main international airport serving Lyon. The tram shuttle Rhônexpress runs every 15 minutes and will get you from Lyon airport to the city centre in just 30 minutes. Tickets cost €16,30 (one way) / €28,30 (return).

If you’re carrying large suitcases, we recommend taking a cab. A taxi ride from Lyon airport to city centre costs €50-€100, depending on where you get off. Taxi can be requested at the airport taxi stand or by Uber.

Getting Around Lyon

The first thing you should do when planning your trip to Lyon is buy a Lyon City Card .

This exclusive Lyon city pass helps you save on public transport, activities, and entertainment by giving you:

• free admissions to 23 museums and other Lyon tourist attractions
• unlimited access to Lyon public transport (with the option to include Lyon airport train service via Rhônexpress)
• one guided tour (chosen among many others offered by Lyon Tourism)
• a river cruise tour from the city centre to the Confluence shopping centre (available from April to October)
• VIP shopping offers in Galeries Lafayette Part-Dieu, Printemps, Confluence Shopping Centre and Hard Rock Cafe
• 50% off on Hippocketwifi
• Bike rental with Vélo’v for €5 for 72 hours
• …and more!

With all these benefits, you are sure to discover the best of Lyon sightseeing during your stay! Cards are available in 1-, 2-, 3-, or 4-day options, and can be purchased online or at the Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport.

By TCL Network

Lyon’s public transport network is run by TCL. With 4 metro lines, 2 funicular railways, 5 tramways and numerous bus routes, the TCL transport network will get you to all corners of Lyon! 

Pro tip: Don’t rely on Google Maps to plan your trip in Lyon as it won’t give you directions for public transportation. Download this Lyon metro map to help you get around Lyon city centre. Or download the TCL mobile app for your iPhone or Android phones!

For those looking for a luxurious stay, consider hotels in Vieux Lyon (5e arrondissement). This neighborhood is set on a hill and is home to a few luxury hotels in Lyon like Villa Maïa and Villa Florentine. Be prepared for the steep slopes, but the views are definitely worth it!

By Bike or E-Scooter

Sometimes it is too far to walk to a metro station. But that’s okay, Lyon offers many other modes of transportation to help you explore the city!

The city of Lyon has designated bike lanes to help cyclists feel safe. For bike rentals, look into Vélo’v . This bike sharing system is available 24/7 and gives you the flexibility to pick up and return a bicycle at any of the 349 Vélo’v stations across the city!

Pro tip: with Lyon City Card, you can rent a Vélo’v bike for just €5 euro for 72 hours!!

Our favourite way to see Lyon is by e-scooter, which has become widely popular in France. It is fun, fast, and super addicting!

Renting an electric scooter is easy , all you need is a credit card and a mobile phone with internet connection. Download the app from one of the operating companies ( wind , voi or lime ), scan the QR code of an available scooter, and you’re ready to go! Unlike Vélo’v, you can park your scooter anywhere you like, as long as you stay within the city limits!

Travel Restrictions (as of 2021)

Masks are mandatory for indoor public spaces and on public transport.

In addition, Health Pass ( pass sanitaire ) is required to get  into bars, restaurants, and malls, as well as leisure events and venues with a capacity of more than 50 people, which includes museums, theatres, and most tourist attractions.

• If you are a non-EU tourist, you can apply for a health pass using this online system . Make sure you have your vaccination certificate, a valid passport and return airline tickets ready in digital format.
• For those travelling from the EU, you can present your EU digital COVID certificate.

For more details and the latest updates, please refer to the government’s official site .

12 Non-Touristy Things to Do in Lyon, France

1| eating your way through bouchon lyonnais.

With more than 4000 restaurants in the city, you will never run out of places to eat in Lyon. But bouchons are uniquely Lyon and were a favourite place for silk workers to go to grab a bite. Today, people specifically go to bouchons to taste traditional Lyonnaise cuisine .

Some of the Lyonnaise specialties you must try include Salade Lyonnaise , Cervelle de Canut, Andouillette , and Coq au Vin .

Pro tip: For an authentic, high-quality culinary experience, select a restaurant with the “Les Bouchons Lyonnais” label on the window. Or go to the Les Bouchons Lyonnais website to search for the best bouchons in Lyon!

2| Make a trip to Paul Bocuse Restaurant

A visit to the world-renown Paul Bocuse Restaurant in Lyon is every foodie’s dream.

Also known as L’Auberge du Pont de Collonges , the Paul Bocuse Restaurant is located just outside Lyon in Collonges-au-Mont-d’Or. The luxury restaurant is where the culinary giant Paul Bocuse built his reputation and has maintained three Michelin stars since 1965 for a record-breaking number of years! In 2020, it has been demoted to a two-star rating.

There are many Michelin star restaurants in Lyon, France, but if you only have the time or budget for one, save it for the Paul Bocuse Restaurant. The exceptional food and service are worth a special journey!

Another spot worth visiting is the Lyon food market, Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse. It sells the finest produce in the region and has several bars and restaurants on-site. Make sure to go hungry so you can try everything in sight!

3| Explore Les Traboules

Wondering what to see in Lyon? Put traboules on your list!

The traboules are secret passageways found only in the city of Lyon. Built between buildings are weaving through courtyards, these secret alleyways and staircases were used in the 19th century by silk workers to transport their products quickly between places without getting them wet or damaged in poor weather.

There are as many as 400 traboules in Lyon, mainly found in the Vieux Lyon and Croix-Rousse areas, but only 40 of them are open to the public today .

Join a guided tour if you want to visit traboules as they can be quite difficult to find (well, they were supposed to be *secret* afterall…). 

But if you are adventurous like us andare determined to explore on your own, we recommend checking out Cour des Voraces , located at 9 Place Colbert / 14 bis montee Saint Sebastion. If there is any doubt where the entrance is, look for the lion sign! It is one of the most unusual things to do in Lyon, and it will earn you bragging rights! 

Pro tip: Only visit the traboules during daytime and remember to keep your voice as low as possible (these passages connect through residential buildings).

4| Stroll through Croix-Rousse

Located up on a hill in the north of Lyon, Croix-Rousse was once the heart of Lyon’s silk industry. Today, it has become the hub of creativity for young designers and artists , exploding with eclectic shops, hip cafes, and modern bistros.

We recommend taking the metro line C to Hénon station first and make your way down the hill. Take the stairs down Montée de la Grande-Côte and finish at Passage Thiaffait , a former traboule that has been converted into shops and boutiques.

Most shops open quite late in Croix-Rousse. It is best to visit in the afternoon!

5| Go on a Winery Tour at Rhône Valley and Beaujolais

Interested in a wine tasting tour? No problem! Rhône Valley and Beaujolais are popular day trips from Lyon.

As the second largest wine region in France , Rhône Valley stands among the top destinations for wine tourism. It offers as many as 14 wine routes for you to explore – either by car, on foot, by bike, on horseback, or in the air!

Beaujolais vineyards , spread across the hills and village, are known for its fruity, red, Gamay-based wines. The best way to discover the magnificent Beaujolais wine is by driving along the 140-km long Beaujolais Wine Route –we guarantee it will  awaken your taste buds!

6| Spend a day museum hopping in Vieux Lyon

The Old Town is packed with many popular Lyon attractions. Traboules are one, another are the museums!

In fact, Lyon is home to some of the best museums in France. Musée Gadagne and Musée Cinéma et Miniature are particularly interesting!

Musée Gadagne houses two museums, the Lyon History Museum and the Puppetry Museum. It is Lyon’s largest Renaissance building dating back to the end of the 15th century. Your admission gives you access to 4 levels (there’s a hillside hanging garden on the top floor) and to the inner courtyard.

Musée Cinéma et Miniature is another 2-in-1 museum. It introduces you to the magic of special effects in films, and the poetic world of miniature artists.

7| Climb up to Fourvière Hill for the best views in Lyon

Looking for the best place to photograph Lyon’s city skyline? Head to the top of the hill of Fourvière! It is accessible by stairs (around 120 m) or by funicular from Vieux Lyon.

Crowning the hill is the iconic Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière , built in Romanesque and Byzantine style. The panoramic view from the esplanade is breathtaking. If you don’t mind a bit of a workout (i.e. climbing 345 stairs), join the guided rooftop tour to get an ultra-exceptional view (€10 / free with Lyon City Card; in French only).

8| See the modern side of Lyon at La Confluence

Lyon doesn’t just preserve historic buildings. We were most surprised by the wealth of modern architecture you can find throughout the city.

Stroll around the Confluence district and you’ll find eye-popping, futuristic structures all over the neighbourhood. Formerly an industrial wasteland, La Confluence is Europe’s biggest urban renewal project to rejuvenate the area.

The Musée des Confluences , resembling a floating crystal cloud, is an absolute must-see in Lyon. Other great photo spots you shouldn’t miss include the vibrant green cuboid building of Euronews headquarters, the orange cube following the same concept, and stacked modular housings on Quai Antoine Riboud .

9| Shop till you drop at Presqu’île

So where should you go shopping in Lyon, France? The best place in Lyon is Presqu’île , the narrow peninsula in between the Saône and Rhône rivers.

From large department stores to quirky boutiques, the Presqu’île area offers a wide variety of shopping experiences to get your retail fix. Most shops are located on rue Victor Hugo , rue du Président Edouard Herriot , rue de la République as well as around Place Bellecour . Whether you’re searching for the latest designer handbag or a stylish vintage dress, Presqu’île has the perfect shop for you!

10| Visit the local markets

Marché Saint-Antoine by the Saône River is the perfect place to start your mornings in Lyon. This outdoor food market is the largest in Lyon and is where the locals go to buy fresh produce and meat. Cooked items (e.g., rotisserie chickens), cheese, bread and even regional wines can be found there!

The market stretches from Pont Bonaparte to Pont Alphonse Juin, and is open daily (except Mondays) from 6 am to 1 pm.

11| Celebrate La Fête des Lumières

Each year, Lyon hosts La Fête des Lumières (the Festival of Lights) on December 8th. For four consecutive nights, bewitching light displays will illuminate the city with dazzling colours and transform the city’s historic landmarks in magical and surprising new ways.

This Lyon tradition dates back to 1852 when the city’s residents lit up candles to inaugurate the statue of the Virgin Mary to thank her for saving the city from the plague.

Today, this annual festival has become the world’s biggest light show, attracting millions of visitors from near and far!

12| Go mural hunting

This one is for art lovers and instagrammers: Lyon is basically a massive outdoor art gallery, with more than 150 murals across the city!

See if you can find the following:

• Fresque des Lyonnais : painted on a seven story building where 30 well-known Lyonnais peer out of the shop windows and on the faux balconies. 
• Le Mur des Canuts: the largest public art in Europe extending over 1200 m², paying tribute to the silk workers in the 19th century.
• Bibliothèque de la Cité: a huge bookshelf referencing work by writers from Lyon and the Rhône-Alpes region.
• Fresque Lumière: a futuristic image of Lyon, a vision of what the city could be.
• Parcours des Roses: Did you know Lyon was once the international capital of old roses and had bred more than 3000 roses in the 19th century? This mural reminds visitors of just that!

Map of Lyon, France

Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t be. We have marked all the Lyon attractions mentioned in this article in the map below so it is easier for you to plan out your route!

Where to Stay in Lyon, France?

Lyon is divided into nine arrondissements. Hotel rates vary depending on which Lyon district you stay in.

In our opinion, the best district to stay in is Part-Dieu (3e Lyon arrondissement) , located on the east bank of the Rhône river. It is less touristy than other districts yet very conveniently located. Right by the river is a charming designer hotel called OKKO Hotels Lyon Pont Lafayette . Offering a magnificent view of the Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière, this boutique hotel in Lyon promises a truly memorable stay.

For those looking for a luxurious stay, consider hotels in Vieux Lyon (5e arrondissement). This neighbourhood is set on a hill and is home to a few luxury hotels in Lyon like Villa Maïa and Villa Florentine . Be prepared for the steep slopes, but the views are definitely worth it!

With so many things to see and do, it is impossible to visit Lyon in one day. We recommend spending at least 3 days in Lyon to get a snapshot of what this enchanting city has to offer!

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15 comments leave a comment ».

This all seems so interesting. Lovely place to be during vacations!!

It’s really nice that they have E-scooters and bikes for rent. It can be quite fun to explore Lyon like that. Not only that it helps the environment by not consuming fuels, but we could also always use a great exercise.

I’ve wanted to visit Lyon for a long time!! Thanks for the trip inspiration

I’m planning to do a long weekend off in Southern France and of course I’m planning to head to Lyon too. So thanks for this awesome post. Special thanks for the tip about not using Google Maps. Lyon Card sounds very useful. Les Troubles would definitely be my top priority. It’s just fascinating.

I would love to explore France beyond Paris and this world heritage site is perfect start. Nice to know that the transportation is do easily accessible. I love the vineyards

Oh Lyon, I love it, such a fabulously foodie French city! I really like the look of Part-Dieu, I think we’d take your advice and stay there next time we go, I love modern boutique hotels, Okko looks wonderful. We hit some of the bouchons but didn’t eat at Paul Bocuse, that looks epic! Another miss for us was the Croix-Rousse neighbourhood, looks like it’s a modern day creative hub. We had our car with us, so we continued on from Lyon to explore some of the wine region of the Rhone valley, so beautiful.

I have heard a lot about Lyon lately, and I am surely including this to my France itinerary. Thanks for sharing important tips like how to get there, how to get around, and what to see. It really helps a traveler if such information is handy. I can actually travel like a local and stroll around the beautiful places of Lyon with a guide like this in mind.

Somehow I haven’t made it to Lyon yet, but it’s always popping up as a great place in France to visit. This is a great guide with lots of interesting local looking things to do. I’d definitely be up for the tour of the Rhône Valley and Beaujolais – some of my favourite wines are from that area. Thanks for sharing.

I have always relied on the tips and recommendations of the locals whenever I travel. It gives us a more genuine experience plus it actually saves us money when we follow their recommendations. Thank you so much for sharing these secrets. Keeping them in mind should we be in Lyon in the next couple of months.

I’m going to be cycling through France in a few weeks – including Lyon – so will definitely be doing some of these ideas! I’ve heard time and time again how great it is for food so I’m excited to eat everything ?

This post is timely as I have been looking at visiting Southern France. With the gorgeous pictures , this certainly bumps up my urge to visit. Definitely thanks for the detailed tips especially on transportation. I love vineyards and also hills over cities – so this covers just what Im looking forward to.

This post really timely as we have been looking for. Thumbs up!!!!

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Having visited Lyon myself, I can wholeheartedly agree with your recommendations! This city is a paradise for foodies, with an outstanding culinary scene. I was particularly impressed with the vibrant atmosphere at Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse – a must-visit for any food enthusiast. I also loved exploring the traboules, hidden passageways in Vieux Lyon. It felt like stepping back in time! For those who enjoy panoramic views, I recommend taking the funicular to Fourvière hill – the vista over the city is simply breathtaking. Lyon truly is a city with something for everyone, a blend of history, gastronomy, and culture that will leave a lasting impression.

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17 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Lyon

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

France's second-most important city after Paris is surprisingly undiscovered. Although Lyon doesn't always make it onto tourist itineraries, many cultural treasures await those who take the time to explore the city.

With a history dating back to ancient Roman times, Lyon has earned a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list . The city boasts France's oldest ancient ruins, medieval quarters, and handsome Renaissance houses.

The atmospheric neighborhoods of Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon) found along the Rhône and Saône Rivers reflect the city's rich heritage. The Quartier Saint-Jean and Colline de la Croix-Rousse districts have an enchanting character, while the Presqu'île exemplifies 19th-century elegance. These captivating historic quarters are the best places to visit in Lyon for a taste of the city's old-world charm.

The happiest of all visitors are the ones who journey here to sample the famous cuisine. The celebrated Michelin-starred Auberge du Pont de Collonges, 10 kilometers from Lyon, was helmed by legendary French chef Paul Bocuse for decades and is still a top destination for gourmands. Authentic Lyonnais gastronomy can also be enjoyed all over Lyon at bouchons , small cozy bistros that serve traditional local specialties.

Explore the city with our list of top attractions and things to do in Lyon.

See also: Where to Stay in Lyon

1. Musée des Beaux Arts

2. quartier saint-jean and quartier saint-georges (old town), 3. musée de la civilisation gallo-romaine, 4. gourmet restaurants, culinary boutiques, and cooking classes, 5. colline de la croix-rousse, 6. presqu'île district, 7. musée des tissus et des arts décoratifs, 8. centre d'histoire de la résistance et de la déportation, 9. basilique notre-dame de fourvière, 10. cathédrale saint-jean baptiste, 11. basilique - abbaye saint-martin d'ainay, 12. cultural performances, 13. parc de la tête d'or, 14. musée de l'imprimerie et de la communication graphique, 15. mural of famous people from lyon, 16. aquarium de lyon, 17. musée des confluences, where to stay in lyon for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to lyon, lyon, france - climate chart.

The impressive cultural heritage of Lyon is evidenced in this Musée des Beaux-Arts, considered the next best fine arts museum in France after the Louvre. At the Place des Terreaux near the Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall), the museum occupies the 17th-century Abbaye Royale des Dames de Saint-Pierre (Royal Abbey of the Sisters of Saint-Pierre).

This museum has one of Europe's largest collections of artwork, with an especially impressive assortment of paintings and sculptures from the 14th through the 20th centuries. The antiquities, ancient coins, and graphic arts collections are also noteworthy.

The quality of the collection is exceptional. There are many renowned works by European masters such as Delacroix, Fragonard, Géricault, Rembrandt, Rubens, Poussin, and Véronèse.

The museum displays an excellent collection of Impressionist paintings and modern art. Highlights include works by Claude Monet, Alfred Sisley, Paul Gauguin, Henri Matisse, and Pablo Picasso.

The museum's restaurant and tea salon, Les Terrasses Saint-Pierre , offers a casual dining option for lunch, snacks, coffee, and tea. During summertime, guests may dine al fresco on the terrace in the gardens.

Address: Palais Saint-Pierre, 20 Place des Terreaux, Lyon

Official site: https://www.mba-lyon.fr/en

Lyon's atmospheric Quartier Saint-Jean is the place to discover the old-world ambience of Vieux Lyon . This medieval quarter north of the cathedral is filled with narrow cobblestone lanes and quiet little courtyards.

Begin exploring around Rue du Boeuf and the Place Neuve Saint-Jean , a picturesque square filled with traditional restaurants. Then wander around the pedestrian streets of Rue Saint-Jean and Rue des Trois-Maries . There are many inviting shops, crêperies , bouchons , casual restaurants, and cafés along the way.

Continue until reaching the Hôtel de Gadagne at the Place du Petit Collège. This 16th-century mansion houses two excellent museums: The Musée d'Histoire de Lyon (History Museum) illustrates the history of the city-from antiquity through the Middle Ages and Renaissance up to the 20th century. The Musée des Arts de La Marionnette (Puppet Museum) displays marionettes from all over the world.

A short stroll away from the Gadagne museums is Théâtre Le Guignol de Lyon (2 Rue Louis Carrand), where the Compagnie M.A. marionette company performs. Attending a traditional puppet show is one of the most entertaining things to do in Lyon. Performances are in French.

Another place to watch a marionette performance is in the Quartier Saint-Georges, at the Théâtre La Maison de Guignol puppet theater (Place de la Trinité, 2 Montée du Gourguillon). Performances are in French; check the schedule in advance.

La Maison de Guignol theater is a quick walk from the Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste , and a few steps away is the Café du Soleil (2 Rue Saint-Georges), a great place to enjoy an authentic Lyonnais meal.

Also just steps away from the cathedral is La Maison du Chamarier (37 Rue Saint-Jean). This classified Historical Monument, built between the 13th century and the early 16th century, shows the evolution from Flamboyant Gothic to Renaissance architecture.

A la Marquise (37 rue Saint Jean at Rue Bombarde), a historic pâtisserie shop with a refined salon de thé (tea room), occupies the ground floor of La Maison du Chamarier. This esteemed boutique prepares classic French pastries and Lyonnaise specialties, such as tarte à la praline (praline tart) and bugnes (beignets). The pâtisserie boutique is open Wednesday through Sunday from 9am until 7:30pm; the tea room serves breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea.

Lyon stands on the site of the ancient Roman city called Lugdunum, founded in 43 BC, which was the capital of Gaul. The Museum of Gallo-Roman Civilization (Museum of Archaeology) displays Gallo-Roman-era objects including vases, gravestones, mosaics, statues, coins, and ceramics.

The antiquities presented in the museum's exhibits are from onsite digs (from the city of Lugdunum) as well as nearby Roman archaeological sites of Saint-Romain-en-Gal and Vienne.

The collection is renowned for its breadth and variety. Highlights include a monumental Hercules sculpture, decorative marble work from ancient baths, and a magnificent 100-square-meter floor mosaic depicting images related to the God of Oceans.

The museum is located next to an archaeology site that boasts the oldest ancient ruins in France, including two Roman theaters. The Grand Théâtre dating back to 15 BC was where tragedies and comedies were performed. The Odéon was the theater for musical performances. There are also the foundations of a temple that was devoted to the Goddess Cybele.

Address: Museum, 17 Rue Cléberg, Lyon; Archaeological Site, 6 Rue de l'Antiquaille, Lyon

Lyon is widely considered the capital of French gastronomy. While visiting Lyon, one should definitely indulge in the famous regional cuisine. The local cooking features hearty dishes such as steak, lamb stew, roast chicken with morels, and poached eggs in red wine sauce. The most unique culinary specialty is something known as " quenelles ," a type of dumpling (made with ground fish) in a rich cream sauce.

The best places to visit in Lyon for authentic cuisine are the " Bouchons Lyonnais ," friendly family-run bistros that offer simple yet delicious meals. Generally bouchons serve classic regional specialties.

The city has several renowned restaurants created by Paul Bocuse in addition to the Michelin two-starred Restaurant Paul Bocuse outside Lyon. In the Presqu'île district, the Brasserie Le Nord serves Lyonnais specialties in a warm, convivial setting. The Brasserie Le Sud near the Place Bellecour specializes in Mediterranean cuisine. On the Quai du Commerce, the Brasserie L'Ouest offers classic French meals and international dishes in a casual dining room.

For an elegant dining experience, the Grand Café des Négociants (1 Place Francisque Régaud) is an excellent choice in the Presqu'île district. This historic brasserie (dating to 1864) offers traditional Lyonnaise cuisine. Waiters in old-fashioned uniforms serve meals to guests seated at white-linen-covered tables in an opulent Second Empire dining room. The restaurant's name " café des négociants " ("coffee shop of traders") refers to its original purpose as a place where silk merchants and diamond vendors met. The Place Francisque Régaud is still home to many luxury retail boutiques.

Tourists will also have fun shopping for gourmet food products in Lyon. Chocoholics should make a beeline for Palomas boutique (2 Rue du Colonel Chambonnet), an acclaimed chocolatier in Lyon since 1917, and Boutique Voisin (28 Rue de la République and other locations throughput Lyon), a prestigious chocolate shop founded in 1897.

A highly recommended foodstuff shop is Giraudet (2 Rue du Colonel Chambonnet), which sells high-end culinary items; the shop also offers cooking classes. The boutique A L'Olivier (33 Cours Franklin Roosevelt) is a purveyor of the finest olive oils made in France.

Also be sure to visit Les Halles de Lyon - Paul Bocuse (102 Cours Lafayette). This covered marketplace has more than 50 different shops and restaurants that offer regional products, including charcuterie, locally made cheese, fresh bread, quenelles, truffles, fruits, vegetables, pâtisserie, and chocolate bonbons.

Built on the slopes of the Croix-Rousse hillside, this historic neighborhood was an important center of weaving in the early 19th-century. Because of the high gradient of the streets, there are many charming curves and staircases.

The most unique aspect of the neighborhood is its collection of traboules , covered passageways that run through courtyards, buildings (including private houses), and pedestrian staircases. In the 19th century, these special alleyways were used by silk workers to transport their fabrics. Tourists will have fun wandering around the neighborhood to discover the architectural curiosities of the winding streets and hidden traboules .

There are passageways starting at 9 Place Colbert and continuing to 14 Bis Montée Saint Sébastien; from 20 Rue Imbert Colomès to 55 Rue des Tables Claudiennes; and from 30 Rue Burdeau to 19 Rue René Leynaud (Passage Thiaffait). The traboules are open to the public, but visitors should be quiet, out of respect to the residents.

Another tourist attraction in this area is the Maison des Canuts (House of Silk Workers) at 10/12 Rue d'Ivry. This small museum is dedicated to the art of creating silk. During a visit, tourists can discover the invention of the Jacquard loom and watch hand-weaving demonstrations on traditional looms.

Lyon's Presqu'île district is a piece of land, sort of like an island, within the river. This neighborhood is distinguished by its beautiful architecture and monumental town squares.

The Place des Terreaux is worth visiting just to see the fountain by F.A. Bartholdi. This grandiose work of art depicts the triumphal chariot of the Garonne River. Notice the four marvelously sculpted horses that look very hardworking, they represent the four different rivers that flow into the ocean.

Lyon's Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall) is found on the east side of the square. Originally built between 1646 and 1672, the Hôtel de Ville was rebuilt (after a fire) by Jules Hardouin-Mansart in his signature Baroque style.

Another monumental edifice in this area is the Palais de la Bourse et du Commerce , on Rue de la République. Although the building has a Renaissance architectural style, it was constructed in the 19th century. Continuing south of the Palais de la Bourse, tourists will come across the Eglise Saint-Bonaventure , a former Franciscan church built in the 14th-15th centuries.

Lyon's finest square in the Presqu'île district is Place Bellecour , between the Rhône and Saône Rivers. The square's centerpiece is an equestrian statue of Louis XIV created by the Lyon-native sculptor F. Lemot. Elegant 19th-century buildings line the east and west sides of the square. From the north side of the square, there is a view of the Fourvière hill.

A few steps away from the Place Bellecour is the Hôtel-Dieu de Lyon , a splendid 17th-century building that once served as a hospital. Another lovely square, the Place Carnot , is found by way of Rue Victor-Hugo. This square features an immense monument to the Republic created in 1890.

Housed in an 18th-century mansion are two superb museums: the Fabric Museum and the Museum of Decorative Arts. The Musée des Tissus (Fabric Museum) is a unique museum that allows visitors to discover the fascinating history of Lyon's silk trade, dating back to the Renaissance period.

The collection includes rare fragments of clothing from the 13th and 14th centuries, exquisite tapestries from the 18th century, as well as more modern 19th- and 20th-century pieces. Also on display is a splendid silk dress of the Empress Josephine. Among the most precious items in the collection is a pleated tunic from Egypt's 5th Dynasty era, dating to around 2,500 BC.

The Musée des Arts Decoratifs (Museum of Decorative Arts) offers a rich collection of decorative pieces of artwork painted on faïence, paper, wood, and other materials; small religious sculptures; Japanese figurines; Italian majolica pieces; vintage dinnerware; antique furniture; and clocks.

The items are displayed in real-life settings to provide cultural context. Some of the museum's rooms feature lavish decor. Visitors feel as if they are taking a peek into a wealthy family's home of a bygone era.

Note: The museum has been closed since April 2021 for renovation work.

Address: 34 Rue de la Charité, Lyon

During the Second World War, Lyon was known as the "Capital of the Resistance" because of the strength of its struggle against the Nazi regime. The Resistance and Deportation History Centre is housed in the building that was used by the Head of the Gestapo in Lyon. This building is now dedicated to the remembrance of the victims who were held in the building's cellars.

The Centre d'Histoire de la Résistance et de la Déportation is open to the public (Tuesday through Sunday) as a museum. The History Center tells the story of the deportees, the hidden children of deportees, members of the resistance, and others who lived through the Second World War. A permanent exhibition outlines the major events of WWII and focuses on the years of occupied France.

The center also screens a documentary film about the trial of Klaus Barbie, the SS officer who was the head of the Gestapo in Lyon. The film features eyewitness accounts and extracts from the court trial of Barbie.

An audio guide helps visitors make sense of the historical information, which is presented in videos, photos, and written documents.

The center aims to honor the citizens in the resistance and pay homage to the memories of the victims of deportation. It is constantly updating its content and continually seeks out WWII eyewitnesses to share their stories.

Address: Espace Berthelot, 14 Avenue Berthelot, Lyon

In a majestic location on the Colline de Fourvière (the hill that overlooks Vieux Lyon), the Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière rises to a height of 130 meters above the Saône River. The Basilica is accessible by funiculars running up the hill.

This stunning church was built after the Franco-Prussian War (between 1872 and 1884) when the people of Lyon had vowed to create a Marian sanctuary if their city was spared. The Basilica is a blend of Gothic and Byzantine styles with a richly decorated interior.

Spend time in the sanctuary to admire the sumptuous mosaics and paintings. After touring the interior, climb the northeast tower to take in the sensational views of Lyon's cityscape and surrounding areas.

For awe-inspiring panoramas, head to the Esplanade de Fourvière , on the left side of the Basilica, which provides a sweeping outlook onto the city of Lyon. The views extend to the Croix-Rousse and the Terreaux districts, the Quartier Saint-Jean further down the hill, and the Place Bellecour on the right.

Address: Place de Fourvière, Lyon

Built in the 12th-century, the magnificent Cathedral of Saint-John is renowned for its 13th- to 14th-century stained-glass windows. The large rose window dating from 1392 allows in a kaleidoscope of colorful light.

The cathedral is mainly Romanesque with a Late Gothic facade. One of the most interesting features is the astronomical clock created by Nicolas Lippius in 1598.

The cathedral also has a remarkable bell (cast in 1622) named "Anne-Marie de la Primatiale" that is one of the largest ever made and is only rung on Catholic feast days.

For a good view of the cathedral from a distance, go to the embankment near the Pont Bonaparte. This perspective allows you to see the soaring twin towers from a distance.

The cathedral is open to the public for prayer and meditation every day. Opening hours on weekdays are from 8:15am until 7:45pm and on weekends from 8am until 7pm.

Mass is celebrated Monday through Saturday at 9am, and additionally on Fridays at 7pm. On Sundays, Mass is held at 8:30am and 10:30am.

Address: Place Saint-Jean, Lyon

The oldest church in Lyon, the Basilique - Abbaye Saint-Martin d'Ainay was built in the 11th century on the site of a 4th-century Roman temple (which was later replaced by a 9th-century Carolingian church). The basilica originally belonged to a Benedictine abbey founded in the 6th century.

A wonderful example of Romanesque architecture, the church contains four classical columns, a 12th-century mosaic pavement in the choir, and 19th-century gilded paintings by the Lyon artist Hippolyte Flandrin.

Address: Place d'Ainay or 11 Rue Bourgelat, Lyon

On the Place de la Comédie, the Opéra de Lyon is an opulent 19th-century opera house with a majestic dome. The original theater was renovated by Jean Nouvel, who tripled the size of the building using modern architectural techniques. The Opéra de Lyon presents a wide variety of opera, as well as dance performances and classical music concerts.

Tourists may visit the Opéra de Lyon on guided tours Wednesdays and Saturdays at 1pm and Thursdays at 5:30pm. Guided tours are in French, and tours last for 90 minutes. Tickets for tours must be reserved in advance and may be purchased online, by phone, or at the Opéra de Lyon ticket office. Groups may organize visits Monday through Saturday (at 1pm or 3pm) by contacting the theater ahead of time.

The Théâtre des Célestins (4 Rue Charles Dullin) is a dazzling Neoclassical theater built in 1881. The exquisite Italian-style auditorium is one of the most beautiful in Europe. Guests marvel at the breathtaking ceiling painting and gilded décor while lounging in plush red velvet seats.

The Célestins Theater presents dramatic performances (in French), ranging from classical repertory to contemporary plays. Outside of performances, the theater is only open to the public for guided tours on specific days.

The Parc de la Tête d'Or was named for a golden statue of Christ that, according to legend, was buried here by Crusaders. Nestled on the left bank of the Rhône River, this luxuriant park is a haven of tranquility in the heart of the city.

The park has a zoo , an eight-hectare botanical garden , and a rose garden with heirloom varieties. There is also a lake ( L'Embarcadère ) where families can rent boats to sail around and admire the scenery.

Highlights of the park for children are Le Grand Carrousel , a delightful merry-go-round created in 1895; the pony rides ; the " Petit Lac " ("Little Lake"), with its mini paddleboats designed for little ones; and an old-fashioned choo choo train called " La Dauphinoise " that youngsters adore.

Address: Place du Général Leclerc, Lyon

Official site: http://www.loisirs-parcdelatetedor.com/en/

The printing press was a revolutionary technology that changed the world, and Lyon was an important center of bookmaking during the 15th to 16th centuries. The Museum of Printing and Graphic Communication offers an insightful overview of the history. Exhibits explain graphic printing techniques, as well as the cultural effect of printed books.

Address: 13 Rue de la Poulaillerie 69002 Lyon

At the Quai Saint Vincent, this 800-square-meter mural features 31 famous people from Lyon, with 25 historical figures and six contemporary figures. The mural was created by the Cité de la Création organization in 1994-1995. Look for Paul Bocuse in front of "Le Pot Beaujolais" restaurant.

Address: 49 Quai Saint Vincent and 2 Rue de la Martinière

Opened in 2002 and renovated in 2010, the Aquarium of Lyon is dedicated to educating the public about marine ecosystems and environmental issues related to the ocean. Aquarium tanks represent various ocean zones, such as tropical and temperate waters.

Through its exhibits on coral reefs and unique marine species, the Aquarium of Lyon aims to increase public awareness about the importance of protecting biodiversity.

The Aquarium of Lyon is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10:30am until 6:30pm.

Address: 7 Rue Stéphane Déchant, La Mulatière

Official site: https://www.aquariumlyon.fr/en/

An eye-catching ultra-modern building provides the exhibit space for this comprehensive and cutting-edge museum. The museum displays collections of natural science, natural history, archaeology, and anthropology. The natural science department includes minerals, shells, zoology, and entomology sections. The archaeology department covers paleontology and Egyptology.

Highlights of the museum's collections include the pre-Columbian archaeological objects from Peru, the artifacts from Eastern Siberia, the Chinese religious puppets, an assortment of African headdresses, and the sub-Saharan ceramics.

The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:30am until 6:30pm. On the first Thursday of every month, the museum stays open until 10pm.

Address: 86 Quai Perrache, Lyon

Lyon's compact center is easy to navigate, with the Presqu'île quarter tidily enclosed between the converging Rhone and Saone rivers. At its center is the large Place Bellecour, with the Tourist Information Office. Behind Presqu'île, streets and stairways rise steeply to the hilltop Croix Rousse. On the right bank is the UNESCO-listed Vieux Lyon. The highly rated hotels below are handy to the main tourist attractions in or near these areas:

Luxury Hotels :

• Convenient to shopping and restaurants, the four-star Mercure Lyon Centre Beaux-Arts is in the center of the Presqu'île district, near Place Bellecour.
• The sumptuous guest rooms at the five-star Hotel Le Royal Lyon - MGallery Collection overlook a quiet courtyard or Place Bellecour.
• Between the Saône River and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, the four-star Grand Hotel des Terreaux offers stylishly decorated guest rooms in a 19th-century townhouse. The hotel also has an indoor pool and provides a gourmet breakfast.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Near the colorful riverside cafés of Quai Saint-Antoine, the three-star Hotel des Celestins is in a happening neighborhood with many restaurants and shops.
• Directly across the Saône River from the cathedral and near the Théâtre des Célestins, the three-star Hotel des Artistes is a family-friendly hotel with excellent amenities.
• The three-star Hotel Bayard Bellecour occupies a graceful 19th-century mansion that is a listed historic monument, right on Place Bellecour.

Budget Hotels:

• Near the Musée des Tissus et des Arts Décoratifs, the two-star Hotel Vaubecour offers stylish accommodations in a neighborhood of antique shops and artisan studios.
• In the Presqu'île district near the Perrache railway station is the two-star Hotel du Simplon , which offers basic accommodations and a casual restaurant.
• A short walk from Vieux Lyon and steps away from the Musée des Beaux-Arts, the two-star Hotel Saint-Pierre des Terreaux has small contemporary-style rooms with mini refrigerators, but no elevator.

Lyon is a big enough city that it helps to take an organized tour. This allows you to visit the top tourist attractions in an enjoyable and easy way, led by a knowledgable local guide. Soak up the town's historic ambience and admire the cultural highlights while you learn interesting stories and historical details. Below are several tours that include visits to Vieux Lyon (the Old Town) and other must-see sights:

See the City Highlights:

• To make sure that you see all of the top sights, go on a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour that stops at over a dozen different attractions, including museums, parks, and historic monuments.
• For a more customized experience, take the Lyon Guided City Tour by Electric Tuk-Tuk for one or two hours of a private guided tour that takes you to Lyon's main highlights such as Place Bellecour and the Colline de Fourvière.

Explore Vieux Lyon:

• Wander the narrow, winding streets and ancient alleyways of the Old Town and feel as if you are stepping back in time on this Storytelling Walking Tour of Old Lyon . Your guide will tell stories of the people who lived here during the Renaissance era; the tales bring the city's intriguing past to life.
• To explore the quaint Colline de la Croix-Rousse district, take the Lyon City Tram , which includes a guided tour by mini train.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Places to Visit by Train from Lyon . Thanks to the country's TGV (high-velocity) train system, Lyon is easily accessible to many of France's top tourist attractions . By TGV train, it takes less than two hours to arrive in Paris , while Avignon , in Provence , with its UNESCO-listed 14th-century Palais de Papes, is just over an hour away.

Highlights of the French Alps and Jura Region : Less than 90 minutes away by car, Grenoble boasts a charming historic center, top-notch cultural attractions, and gorgeous alpine scenery. The quaint alpine village of Chamonix and the mythic Mont-Blanc mountain in the French Alps are a 2.5-hour drive away. The verdant landscape of the Parc Jura Vaudois in the Jura Region is a 2.5-hour drive away.

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Home » Europe » France » Lyon

17 COOL Things to do in Lyon – Activities, Itineraries & Day Trips

With an incredible amount of history stretching all the way back to 43 BC, Lyon is one of France’s oldest cities. It is also the nations third-largest city and is very well known as a centre of culinary excellence. Now that’s saying something!

Obviously, being the huge city that it is (and with all those restaurants and markets), there are definitely a lot of  things to do in Lyon . Exploring the Renaissance architecture of Vieux Lyon and hitting up anywhere that serves food is usually the top of most tourists’ to-do lists when they plan a trip to this French city. But that’s only scratching the surface; digging deeper reveals a local, authentic side to Lyon.

To help you discover the “real” side of this place, we have created this guide to the very best  off the beaten track things to do in Lyon . This means that, with the aid of our list, you will be able to discover some amazing un-touristed areas, see some lesser-seen sights, drink with the locals, explore authentic neighbourhoods and soak up some great city views. If you’re ready for all that, then let’s do this!

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Top Things to Do in Lyon

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From seeking out the culinary delights, to hiking up to Basilicas’, there is a lot of stuff going on down in Lyon. Let’s take a closer look to see just what there is to do in Lyon.

1. Discover the city of gastronomy

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Lyon is pretty well known as a capital of food in France, a fact that – being France – is a big deal. Needless to say, this is the place for foodies to visit. Exploring what this gastronomic heavyweight has to offer for food, is definitely where you should start when considering things to do in Lyon. Dubbed “the stomach of France”, Lyon is often the training ground for young chefs to learn their trade.

With this in mind, it’s actually pretty difficult to find a bad meal in Lyon. Try saucisson brioche (a sausage in pastry), the tart lyonnaise  (a red, praline tart), the delicious bresse  chicken, and  saint-marcellin cheese (soft goat’s cheese), topped off with a carafe of local wine. Where? Head to the historic  bouchons , rustic eateries with “Authentique Lyonnaise Bouchon” signs in the window.

2. Hike up to La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière

Yes, there is a lot of food to try out in Lyon but Lyon also boasts a whole lot of history and architecture. One of the most unmissable things to do when staying in Lyon is visiting La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière (you actually can’t miss it) should be on your to-do list.

Sitting atop Fourvière Hill (“Praying Hill”) in the Fifth District, the basilica was built between 1872 and 1884 and is a landmark of the city overlooking everything below. Inside, there are intricate mosaics, crypts and stunning stained glass, but also the view of Lyon from here is well worth a hike – especially early in the morning or early evening before sunset.

La Presqu’Ile

La Presqu’Ile is the most central neighbourhood you can stay in Lyon. It includes the area around the city hall all the way down to the Perrache train station.

• Walk around the Place Bellecour, the largest pedestrian square in Europe
• Check out some European painting masterpieces at the Museum of Fine Arts
• Stop for a coffee on the Place des Terreaux and admire the Bartholdi fountain

3. Wander Lyon’s famous ‘Traboules’

We said that Lyon has a lot of history and, like all good historic places, it’s got some amazing narrow lanes and secret passages to explore. In fact, in Lyon, there are around 400 of these and they’re called (as you might have guessed) ‘Traboules’. Trying to find these historic, hidden walkways is one of the best, off the beaten track things to do in Lyon.

But it can be tricky. They weave their way between buildings, over staircases, and across courtyards. Today there are 40 open for the public to discover. With the first Traboule appearing over 1,000 years ago in the 4th century AD, exploring the city via these old walkways is one of the coolest things to do in Lyon. Tip: Look out for the yellow and green markings with arrows.

4. Hang out in Vieux Lyon

Vieux Lyon translates as “Old Lyon” and this is where you will find the oldest part of the city. In fact, many of the area’s buildings and sites are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This part of town dates back to the 16th century and features many examples of Gothic and Renaissance architecture.

It’s divided into three areas: St Paul, St Georges and, at its centre, the St Jean Quarter. It’s in the latter district where numerous famous buildings are waiting for you to discover. You will find the St Jean Cathedral and La Tour Rose (“The Pink Tower”), amongst others. Exploring Vieux Lyon is definitely one of the top things to do in Lyon.

5. Soak up the creativity at the Contemporary Art Institute

Though there are numerous museums, if you’re looking for artsy things to do in Lyon, then this museum and gallery space dedicated to contemporary art should be high on your to-do list. There’s plenty of exhibition space here, and not just in the galleries: you’ll see it in the staircases and the entrance, too.

A symbol of the openness and the creativity of the city, the Contemporary Art Institute – or Musée d’art Contemporain de Lyon (MAC) – was first opened in the 1980s. Set between the leafy Parc de la Tête d’Or and the banks of the River Rhone, you will find the Contemporary Art Institute located across three storeys in the Cite Internationale quarter. We suggest booking tickets online .

6. Have coffee in the Place des Jacobins

When sightseeing has all got a bit much for you and you feel like taking a breather, we recommend making sure that you do this in the historic Place des Jacobins. Located in the 2nd arrondissement, this beautiful square was first developed in 1556, with the addition of the central fountain in 1856. You can easily see why it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There are a fair few good cafes situated on the edge of the square where you can grab a coffee, a bite to eat, and simply watch the world go by. You can thank recent developments in 2011 for making the square the open, pedestrian-friendly green space with terrace cafes that it is today. Definitely one the most chilled things to do in Lyon.

With a Lyon City Pass , you can experience the best of Lyon at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Once you’ve seen the headline sights, it’s time to dig a little deeper and peer beneath the surface. Let’s look at the top unusual things to do in Lyon!

7. Let sparks fly at the Electricity Museum

Dubbed in French the Musee Ampere, the Electricity Museum is situated in the estate that once belonged to Andre-Marie Ampere (1775 – 1836). If that name sounds familiar, it should: this guy gave his name to the “amp”, the unit of measurement for electric current. So if you are looking for unusual, non-touristy things to do in Lyon, you should make a beeline to this place.

Situated in Greater Lyon, the museum is spread across 11 rooms. It’s jam packed full of historical documents, plenty of information and artefacts such as electrostatic machines, telecommunications systems, generators, motors and early photovoltaic technology. The museum (successfully, we would say) shows how important Ampere was in the development of electricity. It’s fascinating and educational .

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8. Find the Mur des Canuts

This vast fresco, taking up around 1,200 square metres on the side of the building, actually holds the title of one of the largest of its kind in Europe. It isn’t the size that makes the Mur des Canuts worth a visit – it’s painted in the trompe-l’oeil  style, this huge painting literally tricks your eye into thinking you’re looking at a 3D scene.

Mur des Canuts ( canut meaning “weaver”) was painted in 1987 to pay tribute to the normal, everyday life of the La Croix-Rousse neighbourhood: the former silk industry hub of the city. Once upon a time, half of Lyon’s population was employed by the silk industry, but La Croix-Rousse is still known for being a hardworking part of town.

9. Soak up city views from the Parc des Hauteurs

Parc des Hauteurs is a municipal park that runs from Loyasse Cemetery to the Montee de l’Onge, part of which covers an old tramway. The park itself is the perfect spot for a peaceful walk along the banks of the Saone River – simply walk across the Quatre Vents footbridge, along a viaduct, for amazing views of both the Saone and the Croix-Rousse district.

Definitely one of the best outdoorsy things to do in Lyon, the Parc des Hauteurs is a good place to take a breather. Come here to get away from the historic buildings of the city and the traffic and the tourists, and simply admire how it all looks from a vantage point above the sprawl. Walk down the hill through the beautiful orchards and rose gardens for extra scenery.

Though one of the largest cities in France, Lyon is generally pretty safe. However, being a large, urban area, there are general problems.

Policing generally keeps most serious crime away from the biggest tourist sights, but pickpocketing and scams still exist. It’s best not to trust any over-friendly strangers or people who approach you out of the blue. These sorts of things mean you should be especially vigilant in popular, much-touristed areas.

In addition, metro stations, as well as main train and bus stations can be a hotbed for pickpockets and petty thieves. Stay alert, keep your belongings close to you, and perhaps consider a money belt – to be on the extra-safe side! Something like the very discreet Pacsafe Money Belt will work wonders.

Lyon has also experienced terrorist attacks in recent years. These understandably make people warier, but statistically, you have a higher chance of being killed by a toaster.

Weekends in Lyon can get a little rowdy, with people getting pretty drunk especially around Rue Sainte Catherine. If it feels overwhelming or you feel unsafe, remove yourself from the situation.

Other than that, Lyon is not a dangerous city, but like everywhere you should pay attention to your surroundings.

Read our tips for traveling safely before you fly and always get travel insurance. Check out our roundup of the best travel insurance .

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Lyon is charming after dark. In case you have some left over energy from a hard day’s exploration, check out these things to do in Lyon at night.

10. Take a night cruise

If simply walking around the town wasn’t doing it for you, then a boat along the Saone and Rhone is in order. Then again, if you were looking for a thing to do in Lyon at night that involves eating at a restaurant, for something more unusual you could opt to hop on the Hermes Restaurant Boat (amongst others).

It’s pretty cool. You get to set sail just as the city starts lighting up for nighttime, illuminating the ornate structures of Vieux Lyon as well as more modern buildings. It’s a relaxing way to see the city, without having to worry about the crowds, plus you get to indulge in some of Lyon’s speciality whilst you’re doing it: food!

11. Drink with the locals

Lyon is a laid back, local city, but it can still be a little tricky to steer clear of the tourist traps. So if you really are looking for something non-touristy to do in Lyon, then head to one of the city’s local establishments; it’s here that you will find real people doing what real people do in Lyon (namely: eating, drinking and socialising).

There are a number of places that you can choose from, tucked away along the city’s streets. But for somewhere particularly cosy, the Le Terrier du Lapin Blanc boasts a local crowd and a suitably homely feeling. Dam’s Pub is another chilled local spot for a beer (or two). There’s also Bar du Passage , with its jazz music and mural-covered ceilings for something a little different.

You’ll need a good place to crash in Lyon. Check out these top picks for Where To Stay.

Best Hostel in Lyon – Ho36 Hostel

The Ho36 Hostel is located in the 7th district of Lyon, in the Guillotière area. It offers private rooms with an ensuite bathroom as well as single beds in mixed or female only dormitory rooms. The hostel also has a restaurant serving food all day, a bar at night and a room where guests can gather and get to know each other.

If you love hostels, you should check out our list of the coolest ho s tels in Lyon!

Best Airbnb in Lyon – Cosy Centrally Located Ensuite Studio

This small cosy and comfortable studio is ideal for first-time visitors in Lyon. With a very convenient location, it is only a minute’s walk from Place Bellecour in a very charming French neighbourhood. Walk down and discover various restaurants, cafes, markets, shops and beautiful sights. Note that the common areas are shared with the hosts.

Best Mid-Range Hotel in Lyon – Radisson Blu Hotel Lyon

ocated in the iconic building dubbed as “the pen” by locals, it is just a stone’s throw away from the Part-Dieu shopping centre and the Part-Dieu train station. Each room boasts wonderful views over the city, that can stretch to the Alps on a clear day.

Fine French food, good wine and old buildings, Lyon is great for couples. Check out these top Romantic things to do in Lyon.

12. Visit the Les Halles Paul Bocuse together

Les Halles Paul Bocuse is a marketplace that is, in fact, one of the reasons that Lyon is so famous for its culinary fare. Inside this historic covered market and food hall  you can see all types of food on offer and, most importantly, try all types of food, too.

The trick is to get there early: that’s when there will be the most vendors and the most hustle and bustle (you know, to get the full atmosphere). You’ll find charcutiers, pastry chefs, fromagers, and wine specialists manning all the stalls, who will be more than happy to get you to grips with the speciality they’re serving up. Get sample plates or have a full-on sit down meal. Awesome.

13. Have lunch on l’Île Barbe

For one of the most romantic things to do in Lyon together with your partner, we would recommend heading over to l’Ile Barbe. This island in the middle of the Saone is a former commune of its own. It was annexed by the city of Lyon in 1963 and is connected by a bridge to the rest of the city.

With a name deriving from Latin meaning “Barbarian’s Island”, nothing could be further from the truth today. Stroll around and take in views of the city from all sides of this lesser touristed island. Most of all you should make sure you stop off at Auberge de L’Ile Barbe, a top restaurant where you can get some delicious food. Perfect for a couple’s day out in Lyon.

France isn’t exactly cheap (although the wine is well priced). But when your wallet is empty, check out these free things to do in Lyon.

14. Take some snaps of the Metallic tower of Fourvière

The Metallic tower of Fouvriere, built between 1892 and 1894, was built three years after the much more famous (and much bigger) Eiffel Tower in Paris. Still, this monument atop Fouvriere Hill still looks the part. It’s an interesting slice of French history and is, naturally, one of the top free things to do in Lyon.

Built to balance out the religious symbolism of the neighbouring basilica, the 200-foot metal tower is literally just called “Tour metallique de Fouvriere. You used to be able to go up it in an elevator (22 people at a time, and with a restaurant at the top, too). Sadly, however, that stopped in 1953 and today, this landmark acts as a television mast. Still, though, it’s an interesting sight.

15. Go for a stroll around Parc de la Tête d’Or

With a history dating back to the 1530s, Parc de la Tête d’Or opened as a public park in 1857. It’s now a sprawling urban park that takes up 290 acres of the city in the classy 6th arrondissement and, if you’re on a budget and you’re looking for free things to do in Lyon, you should head here; it’s a popular spot for locals to stroll, wander and otherwise explore.

It features rolling, grassy lawns, riverside walks, and a boating lake.  There’s also as a botanic garden, a zoo and even a velodrome, amongst many other activities. One of the top things to do in Lyon in summer, you could quite easily spend all day here, hitting up the main attractions, or simply finding a spot and staying put with a picnic.

Books to Read in Lyon

A Moveable Feast — Fancy having a look into what life was like for expats living in Paris in the 1920s? If you yearn for the Golden age of the Lost Generation like I do, this Ernest Hemingway classic is a must read.

The Little Prince — Few novels have been as inspirational as “The Little Prince” by Antoine de Saint-Exupery. Now one of the most famous literary works of the 20th century, TLP is a true classic. Follow the tale of the Little Prince as he discovers the universe and learns lessons about life and love.

Satori in Paris —  Satori in Paris is a rollicking autobiographical account of Jack Kerouac’s search for his heritage in France and lands the author in his familiar milieu of seedy bars and all-night conversations. This book is one of ol’ Kerouac’s last novels.

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We were all kids once, even the French. Lyon is a great place to bring your whole brood and these are the best things to do in Lyon with kids.

16. Visit one (or both) of Lyon’s two Roman amphitheatres

Formerly called Lugdunum, Lyon was once a territory of the Roman Empire and a pretty big deal when it came to provincial cities. One way that you can tell this is that the city boasts not one, but two amphitheatres, which easily shows you just how long that Lyon has been in existence for (over 2,000 years). It’s bound to spark children’s imaginations, making it one of the top things to do in Lyon with kids.

The Amphitheatre of the Three Gauls , dating back to 19 AD, is located at the bottom of La Croix-Rousse Hill and features some pretty amazing inscriptions. The other, situated in Fouvriere, is even older: it was first built in 15 BC and still puts on concerts in the form of the Nuits de Fouvriere, a summer event of music, theatre, dance and other performances.

17. Chug around town on a tram

There’s no way that your children aren’t going to love hopping aboard the mini tram that winds its way around the best sights and attractions of the city. It’s easily one of the best things to do in Lyon with kids in tow. It’s not only fun, it also heads up the slopes to save little legs from getting over-tired (or overly hungry, too).

This cute tram resembles the former Croix-Rousse Cable Car. Except of course, for the panoramic roof which allows you to see what’s going on without having to crane your necks out the window, with enough room for you to marvel at all the ornate buildings of the city. Grab yourself some tickets and take a ride . It’s a perfect way to introduce children to Lyon if you’ve only got a couple of days in the city.

So there you have it: a whole load of awesome things to do in Lyon. But although this historic city has a lot going on (especially in terms of food), there is still a ton of things waiting for you to discover on the doorstep. We’ve got together a couple of the best day trips from Lyon.

Go wine tasting

Leave the sights, sounds and crowds of Lyon behind and head out to wine country. Specifically, this day trip from Lyon will be taking you to Beaujolais, a famous wine-producing region that is known for, well, Beaujolais wine . It’s a must for wine lovers (trust us!).

Not only will you get to try a load of wine if you hit up some of the vineyards here, you will also get to explore an utterly charming region of Southern France. Here you will find charming medieval villages, such as Oingt, which you will wind through on the way to family-run wineries. Whilst you’re in Oingt, make sure you get to sample a machon – the traditional breakfast of the canuts, or the silk workers.

Uncover Vienne’s Roman ruins

Lyon isn’t the only place in France that has a whole lot of Roman heritage to explore. For history buffs and architecture seekers alike there’s nearby Vienne to consider. In fact, Vienne – much less visited and generally less busy than the city of Lyon – is just a 20 minute train ride away. This is a great little excursion if you feel like getting out of the city on a day trip from Lyon to escape.

Vienne became a Roman colony in 47 BC, under Julius Caesar, and today there are some amazing remnants and relics of the past that point to the two millennia of history at work here. The main things to see here are, the Temple of Augustus and Livia, a monument known (fittingly) as the Pyramid and an early Romanesque church of St Peter (5th century AD). There is also an ancient amphitheatre (still used to this day).

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Lyon is the sort of city that will have you very busy. There are thousands of years of history, an incredible food scene, hidden passages, and more, to explore. So it’s important to know what you want to do, when you want to do it. Sound tricky? Of course it does, so we’re helping you out with this very handy 3 day Lyon itinerary.

Day 1 – Historical Lyon

Being the historic city that it is, your first day in Lyon should be all about exploring and learning about the historic credentials of this French city. To get a good lay of the land from up high, head to La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière . Grab a pastry at nearby Pignol Fouvriere , admire what the locals call “the upside down elephant”, see what it’s like inside, enjoy city vistas from this viewpoint.

To get back down to the city, it’s time to wind your way through Parc des Hauteurs , making sure to stop off to check out the statues and chill out in shady seating areas if you feel like it – oh, and to snap awesome pictures of the view (and the cathedral from a different angle) too. Head to  Vieux   Lyon,  which is where you’ll be spending the afternoon soaking up sights via the cool old passageways,  Traboules .

It’s a 20 minute walk from the park to Old Lyon. Once you’re there, you may want to grab something (very tasty) to eat at the rustic eatery Le Laurencin and start your exploration. There’s  St Jean Cathedral for one thing, and  La Tour Rose , for another, and cobbled streets like Rue du Bœuf to discover. Dine at Les Fines Gueules (a traditional bouchon) and drink at  The Smoking Dog  next door.

Day 2 – Laid Back in Lyon

Start your second day in Lyon with an easy wander to the 16th century Place des Jacobins . This historic square is a great place to sit and watch the world go by with a coffee and some breakfast, so we would recommend heading to one of the fine establishments here:  Le Pain des Jacobin  is a great, family-run bakery. When suitably fall, simply stroll around the square, soaking up the beauty of it all.

From here it is a half an hour stroll through the city along the banks of the Rhone – a great thing to do in Lyon by itself, if we’re honest – until you get to Parc de la Tête d’Or  in the 6th arrondissement. This park is huge, so take your time admiring the cool botanic garden, strolling the many pathways, and maybe even take a boat out on the boating lake. If you’re hungry for lunch, then head to l’Ile Barbe .

Once you are on the island – which is a 12 minute drive (Uber, 15 Euros) away from the Parc de la Tete d’Or – locate your fancy lunch spot at Auberge de L’Ile Barbe . Once you’re full of the delicious food they serve up here, explore the island and appreciate the pretty natural setting of it. Once night falls, it’s time for your cruise along the Rhone; make sure you book a reputable boat ( Hermes is good) and enjoy.

Day 3 – Local Lyon

Your third day in Lyon is will be off to an amazing start if you, first of all, make your way to Les Halles Paul Bocuse   (named after 3 Michelin-starred chef, Paul Bocuse). Go as early as you can (opens at 7 am) to catch all the vendors. Get yourself a tasting plate or sit down for a meal of whatever you feel like. Take your pick of whatever looks good – trust us: it won’t disappoint. There’s even a cheese bar!

After this, take a half an hour stroll to the  Croix-Rousse  district, which is where you will find the hyperreal (and very, very impressive)  Mur des Canuts  – a huge, trick-of-the-eye fresco paying homage to this former silk workers’ hub. This area also happens to be a pretty local, pretty authentic part of Lyon, so choose a cafe like  Cafe Canut  (with friendly staff) for a snack, a coffee, or lunch.

Then after this, it’s onwards to one of Lyon’s Roman ruins, Amphitheatre of the Three Gauls , which is around a 15 minute walk from your last stop; then it’s 26 minutes on foot from there to the  Ancient Theatre of Fouvriere for yet more Roman history. As evening falls, make your way towards  Le Terrier du Lapin Blanc  (1st arrondissement) for a homely, local place to drink and eat for the night.

Don’t forget your travel insurance for Lyon

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They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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Here are some quick answers to common questions about what to do and see in Lyon.

Best things to do in Lyon?

Hiking up to the La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière is not to be missed. It Combines amazing history with incredible architecture and spectacular views.

What are some things to do in Lyon in winter?

Head inside and indulge in all the capital of French food has to offer on a food tasting tour . The hearty local meal of saucisson brioche (sausage in pastry) is sure to warm you up!

What are the best things to do in Lyon at night?

Take a night cruise along the Saone and Rhone rivers. Dine as you take in the illuminated city at night from the water. It’s also great for couples too.

What are the best free things to do in Lyon?

Take a stroll around the beautiful and historic Parc de la Tête d’Or that features a boating lake and botanic garden.

Lyon is already well and truly placed on the map. It’s the 3rd largest city in France. It’s world-famous for its gastronomic credentials. It’s got a whole lot of history to soak up. Because of that, finding some of the top things to do in Lyon is not exactly difficult – it’s finding the authentic stuff that can be a little harder, which is why we made this epic guide.

Travelling to a city doesn’t have to mean doing exactly what your guide book tells you. If you’re a curious traveller, you’ll prefer a balanced list of popular and lesser-known sights (much like ours) to really bring a destination into life.

Mathilde Magnier

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18 Top Tourist Attractions in Lyon, France

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 6, 2024

The third-largest city in France, Lyon is loads of fun to explore with impressive cultural landmarks and charming historic neighbourhoods wherever you go. Known for everything from its cinema and silk to its fabulous food and secret traboule tunnels, it lies at the confluence of the Rhone and Saone rivers in the southeast of the country.

Founded 2,000 years ago by the Romans, the city flourished during the Renaissance as an important centre for the silk trade. Thanks to all the untold riches pouring in, countless merchants and bankers built lavish homes and palaces across its hills and what is now known as ‘Vieux Lyon’; the historical heart of the city.

Many of the top attractions in Lyon are illuminated at night, earning Lyon the nickname of Capital of Lights. Lyon also has plenty of top-class museums and traditional bouchon restaurants to check out. These shine a light on the role the city played in the history of cinema, the French resistance and just why it is considered France’s gastronomic capital.

Map of Lyon

Over the course of a week visiting Lyon, we had a great time exploring all its hidden corners and enticing arrondissements. Here’s our list of the best things to do in Lyon, so you too can make the most of your days spent ambling around the enchanting city.

18. Lyon Cathedral

Situated in the heart of the Vieux Lyon district, the Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Lyon was built over a span of 300 years, and remnants of each period of the church’s construction are evident throughout the structure.

Stained glass windows and the crosses on either side of the alter date back to the 1200s. The 14th-century astronomical clock was a triumph of technology for its time. The impressive cathedral organ was rebuilt in the 1800s and updated with three keyboards and 30 stops.

Featuring remains of the 4th-century buildings that occupied the site before the cathedral’s construction, the archeological garden next door is worth a visit as well.

17. Croix-Rousse Neighborhood

Long known as ‘the hill that works’ due to all its silk weaving workshops, the popular Croix-Rousse Neighborhood sprawls across a plateau in Lyon’s fourth arrondissement. One of our favorite parts of the city, it has a lovely small-town feel with cute little cafes and local boulangeries bordering its maze of leafy squares.

Here you’ll find the massive Mur des Canuts mural and the superb museum of the same name; both of which highlight the hill’s unique history and architecture. To gain a greater insight into the area’s rebellious past and actually find some of its hundred or so hidden traboule passageways, we decided to take a guided tour. Well worth the money, it included a silk-making demonstration and stops at Croix-Rousse’s symbol the Gros Caillou and the beautiful Belvedere viewpoint.

To get back to the center, you can stroll to the bottom of the historic neighborhood’s slopes (known as ‘Les Pentes’). Its narrow streets also contain loads of trendy bars, interesting art galleries and the ancient Amphiteatre des Trois Gaules which was constructed by the Romans in 19AD.

16. Musee Lumiere

As a huge fan of early cinema, we were very excited to visit the Musee Lumiere which is now located in the family’s former villa and factory. Across its two floors, you’ll learn about the brothers’ incredible contributions to both film-making and photography and see some of their many inventions.

Founded in 1982, the museum covers the lives of Auguste and Louis Lumiere and how they created countless devices to capture moving images and colored pictures. Alongside all its antique cameras and magic lanterns, you can watch some of the first movies ever made. If you don’t speak French, it is a good idea to get an audio guide that explains the exhibits and the huge technological discoveries they made.

Just as impressive is the elegant Art Nouveau mansion itself which was built by their father in 1899 in the Monplaisir part of town. Right next door, you can also watch iconic films and arthouse pieces in the Institut Lumiere’s brutalist-style cinema.

15. Fresque des Lyonnais

Along with the Mur des Canuts, the Fresque des Lyonnais is one of the city’s biggest and best-loved public art pieces. Overlooking the tranquil Saone River, the enormous trompe-l’oeil painting depicts thirty famous people from throughout Lyon’s more than 2,000 years of history.

Painted in the mid-nineties by the CiteCreation cooperative of artists, the colourful work covers two windowless sides of a large building located not far from Place des Terreaux. Looking out from the mural’s balconies, windows and shop entrances are important figures such as Emperor Claudius, Le Petit Prince and, of course, the Lumiere brothers.

Very life-like, its saints, artists and entrepreneurs all make for some fantastic photos – just watch out when stepping back to take a picture as the road beside the building gets quite busy.

14. Musée des Confluences

One of the most unique and imaginative buildings we’ve seen in a long time, the spaceship-like Musée des Confluences lies right at the southern tip of Presqu’ile. Inside is just as thought-provoking as its four main exhibits cover the origins and meaning of life, different species and societies and various visions of the future.

Set at the spot where the Rhone and Saone rivers meet, the museum was unveiled in 2014 as part of a larger urban renewal plan for the former industrial area. Almost impossible to describe, it has been said to resemble ‘a floating crystal cloud of stainless steel and glass’ – just go and see it for yourself, you really won’t regret it!

Its extensive collections are also sure to have something that will interest everyone as millennia-old meteorites and Egyptian mummies are displayed alongside dinosaur skeletons, samurai armour and even classic cars.

13. Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse

If after all the sightseeing and traipsing about you’re after a much-needed snack and break, then Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse is one of the best places to head. An absolute must for foodies, its sixty or so stands are all immaculately presented with everything from local cheeses and meats to freshly-baked pastries and elaborate seafood platters on sale.

First opened in 1971, the chic and stylish indoor market is named after the famous French chef Paul Bocuse who was based in Lyon and helped popularize the nouvelle cuisine movement. Here you can sample some sumptuous regional specialties or pick up some boxes of chocolate and bottles of fine wine to take home with you.

While we found it a bit expensive, the fresh food is definitely delicious and hey, when you’re in the culinary capital of the country, you just have to try some of the dishes France is famous for.

12. Musee des Tissus et des Arts Decoratif

As Lyon was long an important centre for the silk trade, it is well worth checking out the Musee des Tissus et des Arts Decoratif when in town. Located in its second arrondissement, it contains textiles, tapestries and other expertly made artworks from all around the world.

Impressively established back in 1864, its vast collection of over two and a half million objects now occupies two historic old houses that themselves date to the 1730s. As you wander around its dimly lit galleries, you’ll see silks from Marie Antoinette’s chambers, haute couture creations by Christian Lacroix and fine fabrics woven in China, Japan and Iran among other places.

In the other part of the museum are some fantastic furniture and period pieces that highlight how the wealthy used to live in Lyon in centuries gone by. While the displays were quite dated when we went, renovations are undergoing to refresh the collection and present the works in a more modern light.

11. Musee Miniature et Cinema

Asides from its silk and gastronomy, the city is also known for the huge role it played in the history of cinema. At the Musee Miniature et Cinema in Vieux Lyon, you can see cool film props, costumes and carefully recreated sets with excellent exhibits, and also look at special effects and miniature art.

Sprawling across three floors of the sixteenth-century Maison des Advocats, the private gallery was opened in 2005 by artist Dan Ohlmann. While some rooms focus on stop motion, animatronics and prosthetics, other levels contain full-size models from movies like Alien and Robocop.

Possibly the most fascinating part however are its 120 hyper-realistic dioramas that depict everyday life in shops, restaurants and homes either in Lyon or further afield. Painstakingly painted down to the last detail, you’ll find yourself examining these tiny scenes for much longer than you’d expect.

10. Mur des Canuts

Located on the Boulevard des Canuts in the Croix Rousse district, this expansive mural depicts the heritage of the neighborhood that was once home to the city’s many silk weavers, or canuts. Painted in the trompe-l’oeil style, the scenes illustrated in the mammoth fresco blend in seamlessly with their surroundings, challenging viewers to examine the line between art and reality.

First painted in 1987, the largest mural in Europe has been revised several times to reflect changes made to the nearby structures and has become a popular tourist attractions in Lyon.

9. Resistance and Deportation History Centre

Simply one of Lyon’s must things to do for those interested in the past, the Resistance and Deportation History Centre can be found in the seventh arrondissement, not all too far from the train station. Home to lots of impactful exhibits and heart-wrenching oral testimonies, it shines a light on Lyon’s resistance movement and the tragic deportation of Jews during the Nazi occupation.

Founded in 1992, the moving museum is located on the site of a former military health school that was later used by the Gestapo as its headquarters. It was here that chief Klaus Barbie, infamously known as ‘the Butcher of Lyon’, tortured both Jews and members of the French Resistance.

Its well-done displays show what life was like in Lyon under German occupation with authentic old documents and artifacts featuring alongside replicas of people’s homes and streets. Texts and video clips also share the true stories of those who resisted, fought and died during the Second World War.

8. Traboules

Built from wealth generated from the production of silk, Lyon is famous for its “traboules,” the unique covered passageways constructed to protect the delicate fabric from inclement weather as it was transported from one spot to another.

The Vieux Lyon district has one of the longest traboules in the city, stretching from the Rue St-Jean to the Rue du Boeuf, though there are many others in the city. Hidden behind nondescript doors, the corridors proved useful during World War II by providing a way for locals to escape raids by the Gestapo.

Today, most traboules are on private property, serving as entrances to local apartments. However, visitors can access several traboules in Vieux Lyon during daylight hours by pressing a service button near the door.

7. Place Bellecour

A primary attraction of the Presqu’île district located between the Saône and the Rhône rivers, the Place Bellecour is the largest pedestrian square in Europe. The square’s massive size has made it the ideal site for local festivals, outdoor concerts and special events, and the recent addition of a large Ferris wheel adds to its appeal.

Several statues are worthy of attention as well, including an 19th-century sculpture of King Louis XIV seated on horseback, but it’s the plaza’s proximity to Lyon’s luxury shopping district that generates the most foot traffic. Four major streets lined with shops begin at the Place Bellecour.

6. Roman Theatre of Fourviere

The oldest Roman theatre in the whole of France, Lyon’s ancient amphitheatre was built between 17 and 15 BC on the side of Fourviere hill. In its heyday, 10,000 cheering spectators would cram onto its steep stone seats to watch dramatic games, theatre pieces and dance performances.

Remarkably well-preserved, the impressive old theatre was lost to time until being rediscovered and restored in the late nineteenth century. Nowadays, guests can marvel at its magnificent architecture and amble about the crumbling ruins of the cavea that used to continue even further up the hillside.

From the top of the theatre, you can enjoy fabulous views over the city and the stage area below. Before heading off, make sure to stop by the outstanding archaeological museum next to it for more info on Lyon’s Roman past. The fun Nuits de Fourviere cultural festival also takes place here each summer.

5. Musee des Beaux-Arts de Lyon

Constructed from stones gathered from the tumbled walls that once stood on the site of Place des Terreaux, the massive Musee des Beaux-Arts de Lyon was once home to the convent of Saint-Pierre.

When the nuns were expelled from the city during the French Revolution, the Municipal Council established the building as a place to conserve the city’s cultural treasures.

Officially opened in 1803 and completely renovated during the 1990s, the museum today rivals the Louvre in volume and diversity, with collections that range from ancient Egyptian antiquities to 20th-century paintings by the likes of Matisse, Picasso, Braque and Miró.

4. Place des Terreaux

With beginnings that date back to the 13th century, the Place des Terreaux located in the Presqu’île district has long played an important role in Lyon’s history. Originally built as part of a walled fortification, the site was turned into a city plaza in the 1600s.

The site of many beheadings by guillotine during the French Revolution, the central square is today bordered by the Lyon City Hall to the east and the Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon on the south. On the north side of the square is a fountain designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, creator of the Statue of Liberty.

3. Parc de la Tete d’Or

The largest urban park in France, the Parc de la Tete d’Or is a popular destination for families, joggers and cyclists.

Many of the park’s attractions are aimed towards children, including a carousel, a small zoo, a miniature train and a puppet theater, and there’s a variety of sports facilities on the grounds as well. A lake offers opportunities for boating, waterside picnics and scenic strolls along the shoreline.

For visitors, the highlight of the park is the Jardin Botanique de Lyon, which features picturesque 19th-century greenhouses filled with a wide range of tropical plants, including century-old camellias, carnivorous plants and water lilies from the Amazon.

2. Fourviere Basilica

Dominating Lyon’s “Hill of Prayer,” the Fourvière, the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière was built in the late 19th century from a design by architect Pierre Bossan.

he architecture of the church is unique in that it has both Byzantine and Romanesque styles. In addition to four corner towers rising over the structure, the basilica features a bell tower with a golden statue of the Virgin Mary.

The upper sanctuary of the church is ornamented with mosaics and stained glass. Visitors can take a funicular to the site from the metro station in Vieux Lyon or can climb the steep ascent to the summit of Fourviere Hill on foot.

1. Vieux Lyon

The heart and soul of life in town, Vieux Lyon is almost certainly one of the most beautiful historic quarters in Europe. Getting lost amidst its little cobbled lanes and hidden traboules is a magical way to spend the day before dining at one of the area’s traditional bouchon restaurants in the evening.

Mostly built between the fifteenth and seventeenth centuries, its hundreds of charming old buildings are packed tightly together in between both Fourviere hill and the Saone River. The wealthy Italian, German and Flemish merchants who settled here due to the silk trade commissioned elegant Gothic and Renaissance-style houses, many of which now contain little family-run bars, cafes and bakeries.

Aside from strolling along the bustling (but touristy) Rue St-Jean, one of the district’s standout sites is the soaring Lyon Cathedral and its fourteenth-century astronomical clock. Other than enjoying its lovely ambience and architecture, you can also take the funicular up to Fourviere for fine views of all its pretty terracotta roofs below.

Best Time to Visit Lyon

Averaging 26 to 27°C (79 to 80°F), July and August are by far the most popular times to visit Lyon. Although they are the busiest and most expensive months, big events like the Nuits de Fourviere, Fête de la Musique and Lyon Street Food Festival take place during this period.

With slightly cooler temperatures of 17 to 23°C (62 to 73°F), September and October are also great times to visit. The autumn colors only add to the city’s beauty though the increased rainfall can put a bit of a damper on things. As this is also the harvest period, you can explore its nearby vineyards and sample some great wines.

Another massively popular time to visit is in December. Although much colder, its lovely Festival of Lights and cozy Christmas markets create a truly magical atmosphere. Some ski resorts also lie within driving distance if you want to hit the slopes.

January to March is quiet until things pick up again in April and May. Way cheaper and more relaxed than the summer, they see temperatures of 15 to 19°C (59 to 66°F) and have some events like the Nuits Sonores music festival to partake in.

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April 14, 2019 at 2:01 am

Very compact summary. Thank you!

January 27, 2016 at 5:45 pm

very informative. Thanks

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Around Lyon: 30 Beautiful Places to Discover

Last Updated:  1 August 2023

Is there any need to introduce Lyon , the capital of the Gauls and the capital of French gastronomy? The city offers visitors an incredible architectural and cultural heritage. But beyond the ancient Lugudunum, there are many sites to explore. Of course, the Monts d’Or and the Beaujolais vineyards are also natural sites, beautiful ruins, and charming localities. What are the 30 places to see in the region around Lyon ? Follow the guide, and let’s go on a trip less than 40 km from Lyon city centre!

Around Lyon

What does Lyon mean to you?

The historic Hill of Fourvière ?

Lyon’s gastronomy and its bouchons ?

The Renaissance houses of Old Lyon and their traboules ?

The opera and its unusual roof?

The banks of the Saône and the Rhône?

Lyon is all this… and much more!

But for now, let’s leave the city walls to explore its surroundings…

Staying around Lyon

To plan your accommodation around Lyon, click on this link to booking.com or browse the map below:

What to see around Lyon?

Lyon is located in the heart of a tourist region. If you venture 30, 40 or 50 km from the city centre, you can discover hundreds of points of interest. Of course, it is not possible to list them all. I have selected 30 sites grouped into ten destinations within a 40 km radius of Lyon.

► Do you have any suggestions for visits to and around Lyon? Write them in the comments at the bottom of the article!

Here are the ten main destinations we will discover around Lyon:

Ambérieux-en-Dombes

• Villefranche-sur-Saône

Oingt and Theizé

Monts d’or, rochetaillée-sur-saône, signal de saint-andré, vienne and saint-romain-en-gal.

Check the exact location of the 30 places on our Google Map.

To help you, I have included links to the corresponding tourist offices for most of the destinations around Lyon. Don’t hesitate to go there to get personal information on natural or cultural sites to discover, hikes to find or the programme of upcoming events.

Let’s start this little trip around Lyon with a historic town in the Isère département on the road to the Alps.

Town 40 km east of Lyon

Crémieu is a small town of 3,375 inhabitants, part of the Dauphiné province. Today, Crémieu is part of the department of Isère, not far from the Jura.

The charming old town has picturesque squares, narrow streets with colourful facades, 16th and 17th-century houses and the remains of its medieval ramparts.

The Saint-Jean-Baptiste church in Crémieu is a hall church dating back to the beginning of the 14th century. It houses a unique collection of Augustinian paintings created at the end of the Middle Ages.

The fortified hills of Crémieu

Two hills dominate the old town:

• Saint-Laurent Hill, on the east side
• Saint-Hippolyte Hill, on the west side

The ruins of the Château Delphinal (or Château Saint-Laurent) occupy the top of the Saint-Laurent hill to the east of the town. It was strategically important because the border between the Dauphiné and Savoie lay there—the remains of the fortress date from the 13th and 15th centuries.

To the west of the town and opposite the Delphine castle, Saint-Hippolyte Hill is home to the ruins of a Benedictine monastery, surrounded by its fortifications.

What to see around Crémieu

The town is bordered by a natural region of hills and plateaus: L’Isle Crémieu . This area is the link between the Lyon Plain and the Bugey Jura. If you have half a day to spare, here are some sites to explore:

• The castle of Saint-Julien dominates the peaceful waters of the pond of Ry on the road to Siccieu-Saint-Julien-Carisieu.
• The archaeological site of Larina is built on a rocky limestone spur overlooking the Rhône by more than 200 metres.
• The Verbois gorges at Hières-sur-Amby and its beautiful waterfall.

Find out more about Crémieu on the blog

For more information, visit the Crémieu tourist office website.

Village 40 km north-east of Lyon

The medieval town of Pérouges is one of the most visited tourist sites in the Ain département. This ancient weaver’s village is located on a hill and is part of the association Les Plus Beaux Villages de France (France’s most beautiful villages).

The historic centre of Pérouges includes no less than 80 buildings listed as historic monuments. To be discovered in Pérouges :

• the town gates (Porte d’En-Bas, Porte d’En-Haut)
• the rue des Rondes (its picturesque appearance is due to its canopy roofs and the stone hooks that mark the weavers’ houses)
• the Rue des Princes, the former main street
• the Place du Tilleul and its 200-year-old lime tree planted shortly after the French Revolution several timber-framed and corbelled houses line the Place du Tilleul, including the Hostellerie du Vieux Pérouges, which dates from the 13th century
• the 15th-century fortified church of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine

As you stroll through the streets of old Pérouges, you may recognise some film locations: Les Trois Mousquetaires (1961) and Angélique, Marquise des Anges (1964).

For more information, visit the Pérouges tourist office website.

36 km north of Lyon

Ambérieux-en-Dombes is located in the centre of a triangle formed by Bourg-en-Bresse, Mâcon and Lyon. The town of 1750 inhabitants is also located in the western part of the Dombes , a marshy region with various shapes and sizes of ponds.

Visitors to Ambérieux-en-Dombes see the old castle from the 12th and 14th centuries. It still has its four towers, including the keep.

In the village, notice the war memorial : it has the particularity of being surmounted by a rooster, a detail uncommon in France.

Excursion to the Dombes

If you have half a day to spare, take the opportunity to explore the Dombes. The natural region has more than 1,000 ponds dug in the Middle Ages by monks. 

As you drive along the small roads of the Dombes, you will discover villages full of flowers, castles made of carrons (red bricks), farms made of pisé (compacted raw earth) and, of course, an array of ponds! Near Ambérieux-en-Dombes, don’t miss:

• the Bouligneux castle (a former fortified house from the early 14th century)
• the charming church of the Nativité-de-la-Sainte-Vierge in Villars-les-Dombes , in Romanesque style and dating from the 12th/13th centuries,
• the bird park in Villars-les-Dombes (one of the oldest bird parks in France. It contains a collection of more than 3,000 birds from all over the world in a 380-hectare reserve, 35 of which are accessible to the public)
• the surprising Ars Basilica in Ars-sur-Formans

For more information, visit the Dombes tourist office website.

Villefranche-sur-Sâone

35 km north of Lyon

Between Mâcon and Lyon, Villefranche-sur-Saône is a gateway to the Beaujolais (to the west) and the Dombes (to the east).

The Rue Nationale crosses the town centre for about 1500 metres. This artery brings together most of the shops, as well as the significant sites of interest in Villefranche:

• the collegiate church Notre-Dame des Marais (16th-century façade and 13th-century Romanesque bell tower)
• the Renaissance houses in the old centre, especially along the Rue Nationale.

Around Villefranche: the Fléchères castle

6 km from the town, in the commune of Fareins, stands the magnificent château de Fléchères . 

It is the largest castle open to the public in the region around Lyon. 

The building is unusual in France, built around a Protestant temple!

The castle was built between 1606 and 1625 on the site of a fortified house. It offers an exceptional testimony to the life of the great notables of Lyon in the 17th century.

The interior features beautiful frescoes that decorate the walls of 10 castle rooms.

The park surrounding Fléchères extends over 30 hectares and comprises beautiful terraces, long shaded paths offering perspectives, an Italian-style pool and topiaries.

More information on the Beaujolais tourist office website

Visit the website of the Château de Fléchères

Around Villefranche: Trévoux

Less than 10 km south of Villefranche, it would be a shame not to stop at Trévoux .

In the Middle Ages, the Saône River acted as a border between the Kingdom of France and the Holy Roman Empire, of which Trévoux was a part.

The town grew wealthy thanks to the river toll established in Trévoux in the 13th century. Its strategic importance was reflected in the construction of a fortified castle and a rampart.

The old town centre has several historic buildings, including 17th and 18th-century townhouses. From the castle of Trévoux, there is a beautiful panorama of the Saône valley, the Dombes, the Beaujolais and the Monts d’Or.

Villages 35 km north of Lyon

To the west of Villefranche-sur-Saône lies the Beaujolais vineyards . The Pays des Pierre Dorées has charming little villages to the southwest. The countryside is often compared to Tuscany or Provence. The Monk and Nun roofing and the warm facades of the villages confirm this image. And yet, we are north of Lyon!

I suggest you visit Oingt and Theizé.

Built at the top of a limestone ridge at over 500 metres, Oingt dominates the Azergues Valley.

The commune belongs to the association of the most beautiful villages in France and attracts many tourists.

The historic village contains small heritage features: wine presses, wells and cadoles (dry stone huts).

The view extends to the Beaujolais vineyards, the Azergue Valley, and the Monts du Lyonnais.

The old village of Theizé occupies a hillside overlooking the Merloux Valley at an altitude of 450 metres.

Its old church dates from the 12th and 13th centuries and was enlarged in the flamboyant Gothic style in the 16th century.

The Rochebonne castle is located at the top of the village. Demolished during the Hundred Years’ War, it was rebuilt in the 17th century by a member of the family of Madame de Sévigné.

At the entrance to the village, the château de Rapetour is a 13th-century fortified house open to the public.

As in Oingt, the small heritage offers visitors many surprises throughout the commune: washhouses, wells, crosses and dry stone huts typical of the Beaujolais.

Le Pays des pierres dorées

The villages of Oingt and Theizé are part of the Pays des pierres dorées (Land of Golden Stones). This is a territory that brings together some forty communes.

Golden stones are limestone quarried in several villages northwest of Lyon. The stone is coloured with iron oxides, giving it its beautiful honey-yellow colour. The inhabitants used them as construction materials for their buildings (houses, castles, churches, etc.).

For more information, visit the Beaujolais Tourist Office website.

27 km north of Lyon

Charnay is a good base for exploring the Pays des pierres dorées.

The perched village occupies a narrow ridge and dominates the surrounding area by over 200 metres. As a result, it offers a clear view of the Beaujolais region.

The village of Charnay is centred on the Place du château (castle square), surrounded by golden stone houses from the 15th and 16th centuries, the church of Saint-Christophe and the castle La Mansarde (late 13th-early 14th century), now the town hall.

Châtillon d’Azergues

A few kilometres south of Charnay, Châtillon d’Azergues is worth a visit. The village of Châtillon is dominated by the imposing ruins of its 12th-13th century castle.

If you leave the village on the D76 in the direction of Alix, notice on the right the picturesque roof-topped well-known as “Sarracen”.

Chazay-d’Azergues

The old fortified town of Chazay-d’Azergues has preserved its belfry and some 15th and 16th-century houses.

Saint-Jean-des-Vignes

This is a charming site with its small church offering a superb view of the Lyon region.

The Espace Pierre Folles

On the territory of the commune of Saint-Jean-des-Vignes is the Espace Pierres Folles . The museum dedicated to the geology and heritage of the Beaujolais region offers a historical retrospective through the geology, fossils, soil and natural resources of the region. Please note: the site is closed for extension and renovation work and should reopen in 2023.

Natural site 30 km north of Lyon

For the people of Lyon, the Monts d’Or are synonymous with Sunday walks in the affluent suburbs of the Lyon conurbation. Indeed, the municipalities established on the slopes of this small massif to the northwest of Lyon are among the hundred wealthiest communes in France (in particular Saint-Didier-au-Mont-d’Or and Saint-Cyr-au-Mont-d’Or).

The Monts d’Or extend from north to south for about ten kilometres. They are bordered to the east by the Saône and the A6, the famous Autoroute du Soleil to the west.

The massif culminates at Mont Verdun (626 metres). The second highest peak is Mont Thou (611 m). These are occupied by military installations whose origins date back to the post-war years of 1871.

The Monts d’Or offer the people of Lyon great hiking opportunities, allowing them to appreciate better the massif’s natural environment and the small heritage (the cabornes or dry stone shelters).

There are plenty of opportunities to see the surrounding countryside. Going to the Croix Rampau is essential to enjoy the most beautiful panorama. An orientation table lets you identify the surrounding sites, from the Puy de Dôme to Mont Blanc !

Further south, the panorama from Mont Thou extends from the Saône Valley to Fourvière . On a clear day, the Jura and the Alps are visible.

13 km north of Lyon

Rochetaillée-sur-Saône , a town perched above the Saône, was once a popular bathing place for the people of Lyon. Today, it is its glazed-tile castle that attracts visitors.

Indeed, the restored former fortified castle is home to the Henri-Malartre automobile museum . Splendid collections can be discovered in the terraced park above the Sâone: automobiles (1890-1986), cycles (1818-1960), motorbikes (1904-1964), and public transport vehicles (1886-1935). Thus, of the 150 models of cars on display, 50 are pre-1914.

Find out more about the Henri-Malartre Automobile Museum.

Paul Bocuse’s restaurant

On the other bank of the Saône, the commune of Collonges-au-Mont-d’Or is home to the famous Auberge du Pont de Collonges , a restaurant founded by Paul Bocuse. The façade of this temple of French cuisine is decorated with paintings and sculptures by Paul Bocuse.

Neuville-sur-Sâone

North of Rochetaillée, make a diversion to Neuville-sur-Sâone to discover the Château de Vimy, or the Château des Abbés de l’Île-Barbe.

Then don’t forget Ombreval Castle , built in 1458 by Monsieur d’Ombreval. The castle’s park has become a public park whose moat still surrounds the building. The castle chapel is in a good state of preservation on the outside, as is the nymphaeum, a pavilion in the form of a grotto (circa 1636).

Locality 40 km west of Lyon

Located in the commune of Saint-André-la-Côte, 20 km from Lyon as the crow flies, the Signal de Saint-André is a summit belonging to the main ridge of the Monts du Lyonnais .

Culminating at 934 m, it is the second-highest summit in the massif, behind the Crêt Malherbe.

It is an important geographical location because it was here that the geographer César-François Cassini (1714-1784) had a marker erected on the summit in 1744 for the production of his famous map of the kingdom of France. It is still there today and indicates why the top was named “signal”.

The panoramic view on a clear day is magnificent. You can see the Monts du Lyonnais, the Lyon conurbation, the Jura and the Alps on the horizon.

In the surroundings, don’t miss the beautiful landscapes of the Monts du Lyonnais, particularly the Ronzey Lake and the countryside of Yzeron . In this village, an orientation table on the church square offers a beautiful view of the Lyon conurbation.

On the D2 road up to Riverie, notice the church in the centre of the village of Saint-Didier-sous-Riverie . It is an imposing sanctuary rebuilt in 1868 with granite bluestone. The church dedicated to Saint Didier de Vienne has the particularity of having two square bell towers, which is rare in the region, especially in a village the size of Saint-Didier-sous-Riverie!

The Route des Crêtes

To get a good overview of the Monts du Lyonnais, follow the route des crêtes from Saint-Didier-sous-Riverie to Vaugneray via :

• Riverie to Saint-Martin-en-Haut (D113)
• Saint-Martin-en-Haut to Yzeron (D122)
• Yzeron to Col de la Luère (D113)
• Then by the D24, downhill to Vaugneray .

34 km south of Lyon

You have to know which Vienne you are talking about!

A little geography revision: don’t confuse Vienne (the French name for Vienna, the capital of Austria), the Vienne river (which gave its name to a French département) and Vienne , a historic city and sub-prefecture of Isère.

Of course, we will mention the latter, located about thirty kilometres south of Lyon.

At the crossroads of roads leading to Lyon , the Alps , the Massif Central and Provence via the Rhône, Vienne’s strategic position is no stranger to the city’s rich built heritage.

Vienne is home to several significant monuments dating from antiquity: the Temple of Augustus and Livia , the ancient theatre from the 1st century AD, and the Roman remains of the Garden of Cybele .

From the medieval period, we can mention the Saint-Maurice cathedral (12th-13th centuries), the Saint-Pierre de Vienne abbey (now an archaeological museum), the Bâtie castle (13th century), the Saint-André-le-Bas de Vienne abbey and its cloister…

The rue Marchande is lined with arcades and old courtyards in the historical centre, reminiscent of the famous traboules in the Old Lyon district .

The city also has several museums : the Fine Arts and Archaeology Museum, Saint-André-le-Bas Cloister Museum, Saint-Pierre Archaeological Museum, and Drapery.

Panoramic views of Vienne

To enjoy a beautiful panorama of the city, go up to Mont Pipet . Near the chapel, the view over the city’s roofs and the cathedral is superb.

On a hillock overlooking the city stands the castle of La Bâtie . The former residence of the archbishops of Vienne in the Middle Ages is now in ruins.

Saint-Romain-en-Gal

On the opposite bank of the Rhône, Saint-Romain-en-Gal reveals an important archaeological site for visitors. The numerous Gallo-Roman remains include thermal baths, a Roman granite road, habitats and mosaics…

More information on the Vienne-Condrieu tourist office website

Practical information

Some practical advice to discover the sites around Lyon:

• You can avoid the traffic jams to get out of/into Lyon by driving outside of rush hour, mainly if you use the eastern ring road (A46-N346).
• These ten places inspire you to discover the region around Lyon (less than 40 km by road). Let yourself be surprised by other discoveries during your escapades, and stay curious! There is so much to discover, especially if you are a lover of small heritage.
• Don’t hesitate to enter the tourist office centres. During my French travels, the receptionists I met know the area and will be happy to help you discover their beautiful region.
• Click here to get ideas about accommodation  in the area around Lyon.
• Visiting the region around Lyon? Think of the following hashtags: #onlylyon – #myauvergnerhonealpes – #enfranceaussi – #frenchmoments

Other blog posts that might interest you

• Read this article in French on our blog Mon Grand-Est
• Practical information for planning your visit to Lyon
• A Culinary Journey into Lyon Gastronomy!
• Discover the old town of Lyon: history and Sightseeing
• The official Tourist Board of Lyon
• Accommodation in Lyon
• Find out more about Tourism in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

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About the author

Pierre is a French/Australian who is passionate about France and its culture. He grew up in France and Germany and has also lived in Australia and England. He has a background teaching French, Economics and Current Affairs, and holds a Master of Translating and Interpreting English-French with the degree of Master of International Relations, and a degree of Economics and Management. Pierre is the author of Discovery Courses and books about France.

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Thank you Pierre, for a wonderful piece! I go to Lyon often but because I take the train, I don't visit the environs, so thanks for the nudge! One thing I would add to the Pierres Dorées village of Oingt which you may not know – in December (which is when I visited) they have an informal crèche competition – it's not really a competition but everyone decorates their windows with scenes from the Nativity. Completely brightens up the village and some are incredibly creative!

Thank you very much Leyla for the information on the Christmas Nativity scenes in Oingt! It is indeed worth a visit in December! 🙂

I will be traveling in France by train Can I visit small villages and towns close to Lyon? I am interested in Roman History.

Some of these sites are accessible by train, but hiring a car for most villages is best.

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24 PLACES TO SEE IN FRANCE

The Best Places To Visit In France For Every Type Of Traveller

F rance, with its rich history, effortless style , exquisite cuisine, fascinating culture , and breathtaking landscapes, beckons us to its shores again and again. 

Fortunately, there’s endless places to visit in France , with each city and region offering its own unique charm. 

You’ll never run out of things to do in France, but if you’re looking for a top line travel itinerary, allow us to help you out. 

The best places to visit in France for every type of traveller:

Best Place In France For Foodies

Best place in france for fashion, best place in france for nature lovers, best wine region in france, best place to stay on the french riviera, the best places to visit in france, 2024, lyon, france.

Key features:

Renowned as the gastronomic capital of France, Lyon tantalises the taste buds with its culinary delights. From traditional bouchons to Michelin-starred restaurants and very cool wine bars, Lyon offers a gastronomic journey like no other. Explore the historic traboules of Vieux Lyon and discover the best small bars and cutting-edge restaurants in La Croix-Rousse. Immerse yourself in the city’s culinary culture with a visit to Les Halles de Lyon-Paul Bocuse, a gourmet food market where you can sample artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and fresh produce. With its rich culinary heritage and innovative chefs pushing the boundaries of French cuisine, Lyon is a paradise for food lovers. No matter where you go in France’s most underrated city, you’ll be minutes from an excellent restaurant, bar or cafe. 

Where to stay:

• In A Trendy Neighbourhood: A cute Airbnb in La Croix-Rousse
• Best All Rounder: Hotel Carlton Lyon
• The Best Budget Choice: Hotel De Verdun 1882

Paris, France

Duh! We could have labelled this section ‘The Best CIty In France’ period. But in the interest of fashion, we’ve singled out Paris as the ultimate destination for fashion enthusiasts.

From luxury boutiques along the Champs-Élysées to trendy designer studios and kilo vintage stores in Le Marais, Paris offers a shopping experience unlike any other. Immerse yourself in the world of fashion at iconic landmarks such as Galeries Lafayette and Printemps, where you can browse the latest collections from renowned designers. Explore the city’s vibrant street style scene in neighbourhoods like Saint-Germain-des-Prés and Canal Saint-Martin, where you’ll find the most avant-garde street style. With its unparalleled fashion heritage and trendsetting allure, Paris reigns supreme as the ultimate destination for fashion lovers.

• The Most Stylish Choice: An Airbnb In Le Marais
• Best Budget Hotel: Astotel 34B
• Best Chic Boutique Accommodation: Hotel Providence Paris

Les Calanques, Marseille, France

For those seeking adventure amidst nature’s wonders, the Calanques in Marseille beckon with their rugged beauty. These stunning limestone cliffs rise majestically from the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea, creating a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike along scenic trails that lead to hidden coves and pristine beaches, perfect for a refreshing swim or a leisurely picnic. Explore the rich marine life while snorkelling or embark on a boat tour to admire the Calanques from the sea. With its dramatic landscapes and unspoiled beauty, the Calanques offer a tranquil retreat for nature lovers.

• In A Trend Neighbourhood: An Airbnb In Le Panier
• Best Luxury Hotel: Intercontinental Marseille
• A Non-Camping Stay In The National Park: Hotel Villa D’Orient

Bordeaux, France

Nestled along the Garonne River, Bordeaux stands as a symbol of sophistication and elegance. Renowned for its prestigious vineyards, Bordeaux is a paradise for wine enthusiasts. Explore the charming châteaux scattered across the countryside, where you can indulge in wine tastings and learn about the art of winemaking. Whether you prefer the bold reds of Médoc or the crisp whites of Graves, Bordeaux offers a diverse array of flavours to tantalise your palate.

Don’t miss the chance to stroll through the historic streets of Bordeaux city, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and savour delectable French cuisine at local bistros.

• An Instagram-worthy Chateau: Langoirain
• For city-lovers: An apartment in the historic centre
• The best winery stay: Chateau Pape Clement

Nice, France

With its Mediterranean climate and vibrant atmosphere, Nice is a city for fun and frivolity. From the iconic Promenade des Anglais to the bustling markets of Old Town, Nice captivates visitors with its fusion of old-world charm and modern sophistication. While you’re welcome to indulge in leisurely strolls along the palm-lined waterfront or soak up the sun on the city’s pristine beaches, the best part of Nice is its proximity and ease-of-access to other parts of the French Riviera.

If Nice is not for you (it is a very touristy city), you can easily catch a train to one of the region’s surrounding cities for the day. Villefranche Sur Mer in the morning, Monaco at night, a Sunday in Aix En Provence – all these are possible with Nice as your base.

While in the city, however, explore the colourful alleys of Vieille Ville and discover hidden gems such as the bustling Cours Saleya market, where you can sample local delicacies and soak in the vibrant ambiance.

• Best View: Hotel La Perouse
• Best Out-Of-The-City Stay: Welcome Hotel in Villefranche Sur-Mer
• Best Budget Option: Aparthotel AMMI Nice Massena

What is the #1 tourist attraction in France?

It will come as no surprise that the Eiffel Tower is the number one tourist attraction in all of France. Located in the 7th arrondisement in the west of Paris, the Eiffel Tower is one of the most iconic structures in the entire world, let alone just France.

Where is the best place to visit in France for the first time?

The above list provides a good jumping off point. Your shortlist of places to visit in France will depend on the time you have and where you’re going. Having said that, most first-time travellers to France will want to spend at least a few days in Paris.

Related article:

• What To Do In Paris, According To A Designer
• The Best Films To Watch When You Can’t Be In Paris
• 9 Of The Best Carry-On Suitcases For Your Next Getaway

The post The Best Places To Visit In France For Every Type Of Traveller appeared first on ELLE .

WWE Backlash France Livestream: How to Watch the Pro Wrestling Event Online

Cody Rhodes faces AJ Styles for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship belt in Lyon, France.

By Rudie Obias

Rudie Obias

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If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Variety may receive an affiliate commission.

Vive la France! Vive la WWE ! The first major event after Wrestlemania XL is also one of the biggest events in Europe. The WWE is going international with Backlash France 2024. This year’s pro wrestling event features five matchups — including four title bouts for the world heavyweight championship, women’s tag team championship and women’s championship triple threat — on Saturday, May 4.

For the main event, Undisputed WWE Universal champion Cody Rhodes is set to defend the belt against AJ Styles, just after Rhodes won the title away from Roman Reigns at Wrestlemania in Philadelphia last month.

Popular on Variety

When is wwe backlash france 2024 date, time.

WWE Backlash France takes place at LDLC Arena in Décines-Charpieu in Lyon, France on Saturday, May 4. The start time for WWE Backlash France is 12:30 p.m. ET/9:30 a.m. PT (or 6:30 p.m. Central European Time).

WWE Backlash France 2024: Main Card

Check out the Backlash France main card below, and stream it on Peacock here .

Main Card,  12:30 p.m. ET/9:30 a.m. PT

• Cody Rhodes (champion) vs. AJ Styles — Undisputed WWE Universal Championship Match
• Damian Priest (champion) vs. Jey Uso — World Heavyweight Championship Match
• Bayley (champion) vs. Naomi vs. Tiffany Stratton — WWE Women’s Championship Triple Threat Match
• The Kabuki Warriors (champion) vs. Bianca Belair & Jade Cargill — WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship Match
• Randy Orton & Kevin Owens vs. The Bloodline — Tag Team Match

Watch all the action by livestreaming WWE Backlash France online with Peacock . Purchase the livestream feed starting at $5.99/month , or $49.99/year when you sign up for an annual subscription here .

Later in the week, tune into WWE Raw and WWE Smackdown after Backlash France.

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WWE Backlash France 2024 results, grades and analysis: Cody Rhodes defeats A.J. Styles in first title defense

The lyon, france crowd was electric start-to-finish in wwe's first major event since wrestlemania 40.

Backlash, WWE's first premium live event since WrestleMania 40, took place on Saturday at the LDLC Arena in Lyon, France. It was the first time in history that a major WWE event (PLE/PPV) has taken place in France.

While four championships were on the line in the historic event, only one changed hands — the WWE Women's Tag Team Championship — as Jade Cargill and Bianca Belair defeated The Kabuki Warriors. Despite a relative lack of major changes, it was an overall strong show, with seemingly every match delivering at a high level.

The biggest takeaway was that for the second year in a row, WWE Backlash went to a unique location and drew one of the hottest crowds ever. Last year's crowd in Puerto Rico set a high bar that the electric atmosphere in Lyon matched, if not exceeded.

WWE Backlash France results

The Bloodline def. Kevin Owens and Randy Orton in 21 minutes.

Best spot: Owens' Avalanche Brainbuster on Sikoa/Tanga Loa's interference

THE BLOODLINE continues to EXPAND at #WWEBacklash ! pic.twitter.com/A3tvnzUWCk — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

Analysis: Excellent move making this match a street fight, allowing the full viciousness of The Bloodline to come through and the surprise arrival of Tanga Loa to not result in a disqualification. The Bloodline story now continues, going in a more violent direction that left even Paul Heyman concerned — a moment that was hammered home later on in the night before Jey Uso's match.

Bayley def. Naomi and Tiffany Stratton in 13:40 to retain the WWE Women's Championship.

Best spot: Stratton's double Alabama Slam into a 3D from Bayley and Naomi

THIS IS AWE-SOME! #WWEBacklash pic.twitter.com/uvAt9iYGDp — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

Analysis: Bayley retained in close fashion, scoring a pin over Naomi despite not hitting her with a finisher. Stratton was impressive at times and remains a threat in the women's division since she didn't take the pin. This was a solid match that showcased the talents of all three women involved. Bayley's reign should continue and a singles program with Stratton is likely on the table, with the latter also being a potential Money in the Bank winner in the future.

Damian Priest def. Jey Uso in 15:48 to retain the World Heavyweight Championship.

Best spot: Uso kicking out after South of Heaven

He's waited FOURTEEN YEARS for this!!! #WWEBacklash pic.twitter.com/42ZhmUHQtC — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

Analysis: Uso's match at WrestleMania against his brother was disappointing, but we can forget all about that after his stellar performance against Damian Priest at Backlash. Uso and Priest put on a main event-worthy match and — because of the interference from the Judgment Day — it seems as if the story between these two isn't over. The big takeaway here is the continued friction between Priest and the other members of the Judgment Day. There's no shortage of challengers for Priest moving forward, but Uso should certainly remain in the mix.

Bianca Belair and Jade Cargill def. The Kabuki Warriors in 17:25 to win the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships.

Best spot: Jade Cargill landing Jaded on Kairi Sane

We have NEW WWE Women's Tag Team Champions at #WWEBacklash ! pic.twitter.com/5HXtDxs8yT — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

Analysis: Jade Cargill is a monster star in the making. Look no further than the entrances in Lyon — with former champions like Asuka, Belair and Sane in the match, Cargill drew the biggest ovation from the crowd. The lone championship change at Backlash, Cargill and Belair can continue to elevate the tag team titles while The Kabuki Warriors and Damage CTRL figure out what's next having completely fallen apart over the past two premium live events.

Cody Rhodes def. A.J. Styles in 27:21 to retain the WWE Undisputed Championship.

Best spot: Cody Rhodes' entrance

LYON, FRANCE learned the lyrics to KINGDOM! 🗣️ #WWEBacklash pic.twitter.com/diqT4m53YR — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

Analysis: It's kind of cheating by not actually picking a spot from the match, but the crowd really shined through during this match. Fans were fully behind both men at different times in the match and Rhodes' first televised championship defense delivered at every turn. Styles and Rhodes told an excellent story, with the challenger showing a newfound aggression and the champion doing everything possible to stay on top. While the finish may have never truly been in doubt, the first meeting between the former Bullet Club members was worthy of its slot at the top of the card.

For full match breakdown and analysis, check out the recaps from our live coverage below.

Wwe undisputed championship match: cody rhodes (c.) vs. a.j. styles.

A.J. Styles was first to enter for the main event match, drawing yet another mixed reaction from the Lyon crowd. Styles is such a talented performer across the board that it'll be hard for him to ever draw significant heat from fans, even if working heel like he was during this match.

Cody Rhodes, like he has been for more than two years now, was welcomed by the entire arena singing his entrance music, "Kingdom." If it wasn't clear already, between WrestleMania 40 and now this entrance, Rhodes is by far the biggest star WWE has on its roster. Even after the music stopped, the sold out Lyon crowd continued to sing.

The crowd was so amped up before the match that as Samantha Irvin made her introductions, the hard cam shook. Jessika Carr, the referee, became the first woman to officiate a main event match for the WWE championship.

THE CAMERA IS BOUNCING!!! LYON, FRANCE brought the noise, the excitement and the passion at #WWEBacklash ! pic.twitter.com/sQEWcP6V9r — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

The match started with a few lockups between Rhodes and Styles, with neither gaining an early upper hand, instead opting for trading headlocks and takedowns. Styles escalated the tensions with a shove of Rhodes near the turnbuckle, which the champion answered with a hard slap of his own.

This atmosphere is INSANE right now!!! #WWEBacklash pic.twitter.com/EbVUP6tyqV — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

After an impressive dropkick, Rhodes did a cartwheel and taunted Styles, a callback to his days as Stardust. Styles turned the tides again with a big dropkick of his own, but was hit with a huge back-body drop. Rhodes went for a pin, but Styles kicked out at one.

Rhodes shook off his failed pinning attempt into a standing suplex. While Rhodes had momentum, Styles pulled off a quick counter and focused on Rhodes' shoulder, which Cole and Graves hinted that the champion injured in a match with Carmelo Hayes last month.

Styles was sent outside the ring and Rhodes attempted to capitalize with a dive through the ropes but was met with a forearm. Styles' assault continued as he slammed Rhodes' head into the U.S. announce table and then cleared out the French announce table, looking for a high-impact maneuver. Rhodes countered, sending Styles into the steel steps.

As Rhodes went for a standing Superplex, Styles escaped and pulled Rhodes down the mat. Rhodes sold a back injury and Styles immediately swept in to hit an Electric Chair on Rhodes. As Styles went for a springboard moonsault, Rhodes got his knees up for a desperation counter.

As the two men exchanged blows, Rhodes eventually gained an edge with a scoop powerslam and Disaster Kick on Styles. Rhodes went for another pin but Styles kicked out at two.

In a frenzied moment, Rhodes went for a second Disaster Kick, Styles countered into an Electric Chair and then Rhodes reversed it into a roll-up pin for a near fall. This was followed by more back-and-forth offense between the two men, culminating in Styles landing a Brainbuster on Rhodes onto the ring apron and Rhodes putting Styles through the French announce table with a Powerbomb.

The INTENSITY matches the ATMOSPHERE at #WWEBacklash ! pic.twitter.com/XoBYHE2Sik — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

Both men beat the 10-count back into the ring and went toe-to-toe again, exchanging blows and knocking each other out with a pair of simultaneous kicks. The two ran it back before Rhodes scored a near-fall after a Bionic Elbow.

Styles regained control with a counter of the Disaster Kick and a snap suplex into the turnbuckle and set Rhodes up for a springboard 450 splash. Styles went for the pin but Rhodes kicked out, frustrating the challenger. Styles would follow up with a Burning Hammer and pin, but Rhodes kicked out at one and rallied for a Cody Cutter and another near-fall, drawing "fight forever" chants from the enthralled crowd.

ADRENALINE IN HIS SOUL! #WWEBacklash pic.twitter.com/zJHNQXyofD — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

Rhodes went for a CrossRhodes but Styles countered into a Pele Kick and set the champion up for a Phenomenal Forearm. Styles' finisher attempt was met with a Rhodes Superkick and a Kimora Lock. Styles eventually powered out and went for several Styles Clash finishers before Rhodes would hit a massive Cody Cutter off the top rope.

That ending sequence set up the finish, a CrossRhodes and pin for a victory in Rhodes' first televised title defense.

WWE Women's Tag Team Championship match: The Kabuki Warriors (c.) vs. Jade Cargill and Bianca Belair

Asuka and Kairi Sane, The Kabuki Warriors, entered first. Although initially accompanied by Dakota Kai, much like during Iyo Sky's championship match at WrestleMania 40, the additional Damage CTRL member did not stay ringside.

Bianca Belair was next to enter, and Michael Cole and Corey Graves explained the big week she had as the No. 1 overall pick in the recent WWE Draft. Somewhat surprisingly considering the other star power in this match, Jade Cargill drew the biggest reaction from the Lyon crowd as she entered.

The action began with Asuka and Belair in the ring, a showdown of former women's champions. Asuka utilized her speed to gain an upper hand before Belair turned things around and both teams made tags to bring in Cargill and Sane. Sane went for two spears but Cargill shook her off and showcased her power with a pair of Backbreakers.

Belair tagged in and pulled off some tandem offense with Cargill. Belair kept up momentum with a standing moonsault, series of turnbuckle punches and went for a crossbody on Sane outside the ring. Belair missed and took a kick to the head from Asuka. With the challenger stunned, Sane hit a crossbody of her own from the top rope to the floor, giving the Kabuki Warriors the upper hand.

Asuka and Sane controlled the next portion of the match, isolating Belair from Cargill and continuing their punishment. Sane thwarted another tag attempt with a flying forearm off the top rope. Asuka's attempt to pull off a high-flying move of her own was met with a counter and Belair built momentum for the hot tag to Cargill. Before she could actually tag in her partner, Sane launched herself off Belair to take out Cargill.

Belair continued to fight, kicking out of a near-fall after even more tandem offense from the champions. As Asuka locked in a submission, Belair attempted to power out but was overwhelmed by the double-team. Finally, as Sane tried to leverage Belair's hair, the challenger managed to make the hot tag to Cargill.

Cargill entered with a double springboard cross body and a series of Stinger Splashes before nearly pinning Sane for the win. Cargill continued her offensive with a military press on Sane. Asuka and Sane took Cargill down with a series of elbows and kicks. There was a bit of confusion shortly after about who was legal in the match, but eventually that was sorted and the match got back on track.

What a showing by JADE CARGILL at #WWEBacklash ! pic.twitter.com/wFCKw6GUA4 — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

Sane and Asuka locked Belair and Cargill in Armbars, but the challengers were able to power out and slam down the champions. As all four women eventually recomposed themselves, Belair tagged in she and Cargill hit an impressive move on Sane for a near-fall. The Kabuki Warriors would hit a tandem finisher themselves, as Sane landed her InSane Elbow but Cargill saved the match.

The closing sequence came as Sane went for another high-risk move on Cargill, but was caught in mid-air for a Jaded finisher. Belair followed up with a Kiss of Death on Asuka and pinned Sane to secure their first tag team championships.

We have NEW WWE Women's Tag Team Champions at #WWEBacklash ! pic.twitter.com/5HXtDxs8yT — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

Bianca Belair and Jade Cargill def. The Kabuki Warriors in 17:25 to win the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships.

AND NEWWWWWWWWW!!! #WWEBacklash pic.twitter.com/BXbpzCNiMJ — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

WWE announces an arena show record

WWE's trip to France yielded major success, as the company announced during the show that WWE Backlash France represents the largest gate for an arena show in WWE history.

LARGEST GATE OF ANY ARENA SHOW IN WWE HISTORY! Thank you LYON, FRANCE! 🇫🇷 #WWEBacklash pic.twitter.com/nsPde6DAYX — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

World Heavyweight Championship match: Damian Priest (c.) vs. Jey Uso

Before the match began, we saw Jey Uso getting ready backstage. There were no words exchanged in the segment, but Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga and Tanga Loa stared down the former Bloodline member. Shortly after, a concerned Paul Heyman walked by and shot a worried glance at Uso.

😔😔😔 #WWEBacklash pic.twitter.com/g4j46bT1zu — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

Uso, the challenger, was the first to enter and made his way through the crowd, which turned the celebration up to 11. The French fans began using their cellphone flashlights this week to add a new element to the popular star's entrance.

WHAT AN ENTRANCE FOR JEY USO! 😎🙌 #WWEBacklash pic.twitter.com/VMrcQ8brdv — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

Damian Priest entered to a mixed reaction from the crowd. It was his first televised championship defense since cashing in his Money in the Bank briefcase at WrestleMania 40.

Once the bell rang, Uso showed how over he was with his "Yeet" celebration and started fast with counters and punches. The early stages of the match showcased a clash of styles with Uso being faster and high-flying while Priest was deliberate and powerful.

Priest scored the first near-fall after laying out Uso with a punch and slowed down the pace with a submission hold and some martial arts kicks. Priest went for a spinning clothesline but Uso ducked and hit a side slam to regain momentum.

After a flurry of offense, Uso again played to the crowd before picking up a near-fall of his own with a crossbody off the top rope. Priest rolled out of the ring and Uso hit a dive through the ropes to take out the champion. As Uso sent Priest back into the ring, Judgment Day member JD McDonagh got involved, using the ropes to deliver a low blow to Uso.

What a series of events at #WWEBacklash ! pic.twitter.com/Az5oVN9Sgs — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

Priest, who did not want help from his faction, argued with McDonagh and Uso hit the two with a pair of Superkicks and picked up yet another near-fall with an Uso Splash. The two men exchanged massive punches and kicks in the center of the ring, drawing applause from the crowd.

The next near-fall came when Priest hit Uso with the Razor's Edge. After the two-count, Priest set Uso up for his South of Heaven finisher, but Uso countered quickly into a spear and nearly ended the match right there.

As Uso went to capitalize with another Uso Splash, Finn Balor ran interference and Priest was able to land a clothesline, South of Heaven chokeslam and go for the win. Surprisingly, Uso kicked out at two and sparked "this is awesome" chants from the French crowd.

He's waited FOURTEEN YEARS for this!!! #WWEBacklash pic.twitter.com/42ZhmUHQtC — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

Clearly in control, Priest landed two spinning kicks and was going for a third before Uso countered into a trio of Superkicks, a spear and an Uso Splash. As the referee counted, McDonagh again got involved by putting Priest's foot on the ropes and breaking the pin.

Uso, frustrated by the Judgment Day, took out McDonagh and Balor. The distraction allowed Priest to recover, counter an Uso Splash attempt into a South of Heaven chokeslam from the top rope and pick up the win.

After the match, Balor and McDonagh began to beat down Uso, drawing the ire of Priest, who shoved them off and showed continued fractures in the Judgment Day.

WWE Women's Championship match: Bayley (c.) vs. Naomi vs. Tiffany Stratton

The first championship match of the night was the triple-threat contest for the WWE Women's Championship.

Tiffany Stratton, the wrestler with the least experience in the match, entered first. She was the primary heel in this match and came out to boos from the Lyon crowd.

Naomi entered next and the fans' cell phone lit up the arena for her neon green, blacklight entrance.

Feel the GLOW at #WWEBacklash ! pic.twitter.com/8MYtnpQw4R — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

Lastly, the champion, Bayley made her way to the ring. Bayley fired up the crowd as the pre-match introductions were made by Samantha Irvin. Predictably, the crowd started the classic Bayley "are you gonna be my girl chant."

🗣️ Heeeeeey, heeey Bayley 🎶 @itsBayleyWWE #WWEBacklash pic.twitter.com/51OeXSOID2 — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

The action began with a series of arm drags and pinning combinations, with none of the three competitors able to gain an upper hand early. Stratton would be the first to seize momentum with a combination of turnbuckle splashes, drop kicks and knees. She would force Naomi out of the ring and would focus on Bayley one-on-one in the ring.

Bayley attempted to turn things around with a counter of Stratton's splash, but the challenger kept momentum with an Alabama Slam for a near-fall. Naomi, who broke up the pin on Bayley, and Stratton began to fight outside the ring. Stratton sent Naomi into the timekeeper's area and while she was gloating, Bayley hit her with a dive through the ropes.

Naomi took out the champion with a Neckbreaker off the barricade and turned her attention to Stratton, hitting her with a Split-legged Moonsault for a near-fall that was broken up by Bayley. Naomi kept momentum, hitting Stratton with a modified Powerbomb and locking her into a submission hold. Bayley forced a breakup with a Big Elbow from the top rope and pick up another near-fall on Naomi.

Bayley would take out Naomi with a Sunset Flip into the turnbuckle and Stratton with a Bayley-to-Belly but was unable to get the three-count.

Stratton regained momentum and brought the action outside, hitting Naomi and Bayley with Alabama Slams on the announce table and set up the women for her Prettiest Moonsault Ever. Naomi and Bayley rolled out of the way and hit Stratton with a 3D. Bayley and Naomi would fight for a short period in the ring and reverse a pin on Naomi for the win.

Bayley def. Naomi and Tiffany Stratton in 13:40 to retain the WWE Women's Championship.

Kevin Owens and Randy Orton vs. The Bloodline

Kevin Owens and Randy Orton vs. The Bloodline, the lone non-title match on today's five-match card, kicks off the show.

WHAT. AN. ATMOSPHERE. #WWEBacklash pic.twitter.com/Gej8eBcCVr — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

Owens was the first to enter, igniting a raucous Lyon crowd. Owens paused about halfway to the ring, absorbing the absolutely electric atmosphere, stopping to mingle with fans along the barriers. As Orton's music hit, the French crowd erupted again and sang along with theme music "Voices" — language barrier be damned.

FRANCE is singing @RandyOrton 's entrance music at #WWEBacklash ! You GOTTA hear this!! pic.twitter.com/YbGuuDG0Y7 — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

As The Bloodline entered, Lyon rained down boos. It was a much faster entrance for the heel team, but the energy was still there, even as the crowd appeared to chant "we want Roman."

Both teams immediately began brawling in the ring before the bell. All four men spilled out to the floor in a frantic start. Additional referees, WWE officials and (storyline) security tried to break up the chaos. As Owens stunned security, SmackDown GM Nick Aldis came out and made the match a street fight and the bell rang.

NO MORE RULES at #WWEBacklash because this match is now a STREET FIGHT! pic.twitter.com/odD06tcZQw — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

Sikoa and Orton made their way through the crowd while Owens and Tonga brawled in the announcers' area. Shortly after, Owens and Tonga also went into the audience and the babyfaces built momentum. With Tonga taken out, Owens turned his focus to Sikoa and Orton moved back to the ringside area.

With both Bloodline members taken out, Owens hit a splash on Tonga from the barricade and Orton dropped the debuting star on top of both announce tables. While this went down, Owens tossed Sikoa into the steel steps and hit him with a DDT on the steps as well.

Owens and Orton fed into the crowd, bringing out garbage cans and kendo sticks to continue to deliver punishment on the Bloodline, garnering "ECW" chants from fans. Finally, the pair brought out tables — the most popular weapon for WWE fans.

YOU WANTED THE TABLES? YOU GOT THE TABLES! #WWEBacklash pic.twitter.com/WmZ8LeBiho — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

Owens set up a table ringside and hit a Frogsplash on Tonga, shattering the table. Back in the ring, as Orton set up Sikoa with his own table, the Bloodline member turned the tides and put the Viper through the table with a Samoan Drop. Sikoa kept up his momentum with a massive clothesline to take out Owens.

The heel team took control as Tonga delivered a series of headbutts to Owens and they beat Owens down with a kendo stick and garbage can lids. Owens tried to rally, but the numbers game was too much.

The Bloodline briefly drew some cheers from the crowd as Tonga brought a table into the ring. Sikoa went to run Owens through a table set up in the corner, but Owens reversed it. The momentum was short-lived however as Tonga rallied and introduced a steel chair into the equation.

Orton, recovered, re-entered the ring and stared down Tonga. Orton ducked a chair shot and then it was vintage Orton with a series of clotheslines, a Powerslam, DDT through the ropes and an RKO. The first pinfall of the match was broken up at two by Sikoa.

We've got ourselves a VINTAGE VIPER at #WWEBacklash ! pic.twitter.com/4aLWvB76Tq — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

Solo cleared off Michael Cole and Corey Graves' announce table, setting Orton up for a Samoan Spike, but Orton reversed quickly for an RKO on the table, which didn't actually break.

😲😲😲😲😲😲 #WWEBacklash pic.twitter.com/rDlJH6K6BB — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

Back in the ring, Owens battered Tonga with steel chairs and set up four of them for a Frogsplash on Tonga. Tonga avoided, rallied and tried to Superplex Owens through the chairs. Instead, Owens his an Avalanche Brainbuster on Tonga through the tables, seemingly ending the match. As the referee counted to three, Tonga's brother, Tanga Loa made a surprise appearance, pulled the referee out of the ring and turned the tides.

With Owens and Orton incapacitated, Sikoa hit Owens with an Ura Nage onto steel chairs and a Samoan Spike to score the pinfall.

France embraces WWE

Saturday marks the first time WWE has held a premium live event in France, and the fans there have shown out in droves. Here are a few of the louder moments from last night's SmackDown and more:

WHAT A WELCOME! 👏 Your Undisputed WWE Champion, @CodyRhodes ! #SmackDown pic.twitter.com/YR1uEyHKIs — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

France ❤️ Orton @randyorton is a HUGE fan of the crowd in Lyon, France! #SmackDown pic.twitter.com/VvHBUgEgS8 — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

BRING THE NOISE! 🔊 #WWEBacklash pic.twitter.com/ygDgbH6shK — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

If this is any indication…Lyon-Décines is ready for #WWEBacklash . Let’s do this. pic.twitter.com/e4uscyDdou — Triple H (@TripleH) May 4, 2024

Catch up on the rivalries

In case you missed a few episodes of Raw or SmackDown — or just simply want to relive the build to Backlash France, here are a few of the WWE video montages promoting the champonship matches on today's card.

Who ya got when @AJStylesOrg challenges Undisputed WWE Champion @CodyRhodes TODAY at #WWEBacklash ? 1PM ET/10AM PT Streaming exclusively on @peacock in U.S. and @WWENetwork everywhere else. 🦚 https://t.co/xRBTNzqw23 🌍 https://t.co/aEwGYUp0uE pic.twitter.com/0yrJqyU5Ra — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

World Heavyweight Champion @ArcherofInfamy defends against Jey Uso TODAY at #WWEBacklash ! 1PM ET/10AM PT Streaming exclusively on @peacock in U.S. and @WWENetwork everywhere else. 🦚 https://t.co/xRBTNzqw23 🌍 https://t.co/aEwGYUp0uE pic.twitter.com/fACganI8mN — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

WWE Women's Champion @itsBayleyWWE gets put to the test against @tiffstrattonwwe AND @TheTrinity_Fatu TODAY at #WWEBacklash ! 1PM ET/10AM PT Streaming exclusively on @peacock in U.S. and @WWENetwork everywhere else. 🦚 https://t.co/xRBTNzqw23 🌍 https://t.co/aEwGYUp0uE pic.twitter.com/Gr4o19gvrk — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

The dream team of @BiancaBelairWWE & @Jade_Cargill challenge WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions The Kabuki Warriors TODAY at #WWEBacklash ! 1PM ET/10AM PT Streaming exclusively on @peacock in U.S. and @WWENetwork everywhere else. 🦚 https://t.co/xRBTNzqw23 🌍 https://t.co/aEwGYUp0uE pic.twitter.com/R2sffFkvon — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

Backlash France predictions

It's a relatively light card in terms of the number of matches Saturday in Lyon, France, but the stakes are high with four out of the five contests being for championships. Here's how I see everything shaking out:

#WWEBacklash predictions ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/NZy6zYlRYK — WWE (@WWE) May 4, 2024

WWE Undisputed Championship — Cody Rhodes (c.) vs. A.J. Styles — Will this match be an absolute banger? Yes. Will Cody Rhodes' reign end after four week? No. It's really that simple — there's no way Rhodes doesn't leave France with the WWE Undisputed Championship. Grab your popcorn, enjoy the show and watch two of the best in WWE go toe-to-toe in the main event. Prediction: Cody Rhodes def. A.J. Styles to retain the WWE Undisputed Championship

World Heavyweight Championship — Damian Priest (c.) vs. Jey Uso — Jey Uso winning here would ignite the Lyon crowd, but I don't see it happening, particularly with Rhea Ripley's injury delivering a significant blow to the status of Judgment Day. Priest should get a long run as World Heavyweight Champion and there may be a time for Jey Uso to ultimately dethrone him, it's not going to come weeks after the Archer of Infamy stunned the wrestling world at WrestleMania 40. Prediction: Damian Priest def. Jey Uso to retain the World Heavyweight Championship

WWE Women's Championship — Bayley (c.) vs. Naomi vs. Tiffany Stratton — While there's always the possibility of protecting Bayley in a championship change here, I don't think she loses this quickly after having one of the more memorable WrestleMania moments from last month's event. The most likely outcome here is Bayley scores the win over Naomi while Stratton looks strong and sets up a longer program between the two. Prediction: Bayley def. Naomi and Tiffany Stratton to retain the WWE Women's Championship

WWE Women's Tag Team Championship — The Kabuki Warriors (c.) vs. Jade Cargill and Bianca Belair — In what could be the end of Damage CTRL, the right move here is for Cargill and Belair to walk out of France as the Women's Tag Team Champions. They already scored a victory over Damage CTRL at WrestleMania 40 (alongside Naomi), and can continue to elevate the championships on SmackDown moving forward. Prediction: Jade Cargill and Bianca Belair def. The Kabuki Warriors to win the Women's Tag Team Championship

Randy Orton and Kevin Owens vs. The Bloodline (Solo Sikoa and Tama Tonga) — You could make a case for either side winning here, but I think Sikoa and Tonga coming out on top is what makes the most sense. Building Solo into the new Bloodline leader and Tonga effectively taking his role sets up a potential showdown with Roman Reigns down the line and keeps the faction as a significant threat moving forward. It's possible that the finish here isn't clean, but either way Solo and Tonga should walk out as winners. Prediction: The Bloodline def. Kevin Owens and Randy Orton

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Weather & Climate

Lyon Airport Guide

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Neighborhoods to Explore

Best Hotels

48-Hour Itinerary

Day Trips From Lyon

Top Things to Do

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Best Restaurants

Nightlife Guide

Best Time to Visit

The Best Time to Visit Lyon

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Lyon, one of France's most important cities, is famous for its architecture, history, food and wine , and superb museums . It's also a convenient gateway to the Alps and the south of France. But when is the best time of year to visit the old Gallo-Roman city? Most would agree that the best time to visit Lyon is from late spring to mid-autumn, when activities such as outdoor dining, vineyard tours, and numerous festivals are at their peak.

However, the year-end is also an excellent time to go, as the city comes alive with festive decorations and holiday events. Keep reading to decide what time of year might be best for you.

The Weather in Lyon

Lyon has a humid subtropical climate that borders on oceanic, due to relatively warm average temperatures. Summers are often hot, with frequent storms and heat waves, while winters are typically cold and dry. Summers see high temps of around 81 F (27 C) and lows of approximately 61 F (16 C). The winters, while milder than in some French regions, can nevertheless bring temperatures hovering near or even slightly below freezing. Annual high temperatures in winter are around 44 F (6.5 C), and lows a brisk 34 F (1 C). Springtime is generally warm, with increasingly balmy and sunny conditions starting in May.

Peak Season in Lyon

Late spring through early fall are peak season in Lyon, drawing the greatest number of visitors. The late spring brings longer, often sunny days ideal for outdoor meals, sightseeing, and day trips, while summer is popular for outdoor concerts and festivals. Autumn, however, is the ideal season for wine tasting in nearby vineyards. During high season, especially summer, fares for flights and hotel room rates are generally at their highest. If you plan to visit France during these popular months, make sure to book your trip well in advance.

Traveling in Off-Season

Visiting Lyon during off-season (roughly November through early April) offers a few benefits, including quieter conditions and fewer crowds; less expensive airfare, train tickets, and hotel room rates; and an opportunity to get to know the city from a more local point of view. But going outside of peak months can also have significant downsides: shorter days and often cold conditions, fewer available tours, and a city that's generally a bit less accommodating to tourists. If you do decide to visit during the off-season, make sure that the attractions, restaurants, and guided tours you're interested in will be open or operating.

Spring in Lyon isn't as oversubscribed by tourists as Paris is, but it has many of the same charms as the capital does: lush blooms and greenery; warmer conditions ideal for strolls, picnics, or day trips; farmers' markets overflowing with fresh produce; and longer days. Take long walks along the Rhône and Saône rivers, and admire the spring blossoms at Lyon's Botanical Gardens . Wander through Lyon's best brocantes (antique markets) , and enjoy coffee on a terrace overlooking Place des Terreaux.

Event to Check Out:

• Le Printemps des Docks trade show is a trendy design event featuring houseware, jewelry, clothing, artisanal foods, and more.

Summer can be idyllic in Lyon—especially after sunset, when the river quays, illuminated bridges, and winding streets really come alive. Stage a picnic at a park or on the banks of the Saône river, and head to the viewing platform outside Fourvière Basilica for stunning sunset panoramas over the city. Enjoy alfresco dinners on city terraces, take in live music, and join summer street parties such as Lyon Pride. The long days and nights seem (blissfully) endless in summer.

Events to Check Out:

• On June 21, the Fête de la Musique brings free musical performances to the streets of Lyon for a long night of celebration.
• Lyon Pride (Fierté) is a week-long festivity that takes place every June; complete with street parties and a parade (Marche des Fiertés), it is the second largest gay pride festival in France.
• The Nuits de Fourvière festival , held in the city's Roman amphitheaters, feature live music, theatre, and dance in late June and July.

Fall in Lyon is crisp and inspiring. The summer crowds start to really thin out by late October, and a cozy yet stimulating vibe takes hold. Temperatures drop and the air is chillier, but sunny days are common. Book a table on a stunning rooftop terrace, explore the city's most interesting neighborhoods, see fall foliage at the beautiful Parc de la Tete d'Or, and take a guided tour of nearby vineyards and wineries.

• The third week of November marks the celebration of Beaujolais Nouveau wines, and many wine bars and wineries in the region hold special tasting events to mark the occasion.

A winter trip to Lyon can be memorable and relaxing. Enjoy a hearty lunch at one of the city's intimate, traditional restaurants , known as bouchons, and wander around the stalls at the world-famous covered market, Les Halles Paul Bocuse. Bundle up and amble through Old Lyon, and take advantage of cozy seasonal events such as holiday decorations and markets. The city's many interesting museums offer a good way to escape the cold. Finally, consider a day trip to nearby Alpine towns such as Annecy for a fairytale winter getaway, often complete with snow.

• From around late November, the city's main Christmas market (Marché de Noël) takes over the enormous Place Carnot square in the city center, with some 140 booths peddling holiday gifts, mulled wine, crêpes, toys, decorations, and more.
• On December 8, check out the Fête des Lumières (Festival of Lights), a Lyonnais event that sees numerous buildings around the city taken over by illuminations and light shows. It's also traditional for residents to place votive candles in their windows, to mesmerizing and memorable effect.

Mid-spring to late autumn is the best time to visit Lyon for good weather. The days are warm and, even in the summer, the city rarely gets unbearably hot.

Summer is the busiest time of year in Lyon, especially from June to August. For a balance of good weather with fewer crowds, visit in the shoulder season of April, May, September, or October.

Winter can get extremely cold, with December and January seeing the lowest temperatures. If you don't mind the cold, visit in December to see Christmas markets or in January to off-season prices.

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9 Places to See the Summer Olympics Without Setting Foot in Paris

You may have trouble finding accommodations or tickets to events in Paris, but other destinations around France are hosting sports like soccer, sailing, basketball and surfing.

By Sophie Stuber

For sports fans, Paris will be the center of the universe this summer — and with 15 million Olympic and Paralympic visitors expected, it will feel like it, with crowds and high prices. But Paris isn’t the only Olympic site in France: Nine destinations outside the metro region are also hosting events, giving travelers a way to catch some action without getting caught up in the crush.

In places like Bordeaux, Marseille and even Tahiti, you can watch top athletes compete in soccer, basketball, sailing and surfing. (Tickets have been added in batches, so if the ones you want aren’t available, keep checking the ticketing site, tickets.Paris2024.org . If all else fails, the official resale platform opens on May 15 .)

And when you’re not watching sports, you can take advantage of museums, parks, design centers, and fresh food and wine options. In Nantes, you can even ride a mechanical elephant.

Here are some ideas for planning your own alternative Olympic trip.

Basketball: July 27 to Aug. 4; tickets from 50 euros ($54).

Handball: Aug. 6 to 11, tickets from €45.

Start with a stroll around Vieux-Lille and a coffee in the Grande Place, taking in the colorful facades of this city near the Belgian border. Head over to the St.-Sauveur area to see the Art Deco belfry and exhibitions at Gare St.-Sauveur , a former train station. On Sundays, at the rambling Wazemmes market , about 400 vendors offer produce, fish, plants, fabrics, textiles and leather goods. Head out to Parc du Héron , east of the city, to see the LaM museum (€7), with works by the likes of Pablo Picasso, Amedeo Modigliani and Joan Miró. Lille is better known for beer than for wine, and the Brasserie Gobrecht offers brewery tours every Saturday (reservations recommended).

Where to stay: Hotel de la Paix (€354 per night); Hotel Carlton (€406).

Soccer: July 24 to Aug. 2; tickets from €24.

Capital of a region best known for its wine, this small southwestern city sells local wine-walk maps at its tourist office. Stop by the Marché des Capucins , a local indoor market that also houses Bistro Poulette , a slightly chaotic and very delicious spot serving moules-frites, or mussels with fries. In the afternoon, check out the Bassins des Lumières (€15), the largest digital art center in the world, and the Cité du Vin (€21), which offers wine-tasting experiences. To wind down in a quiet wine bar, try Yarra , or for a cocktail, Symbiose . If you have time for side trips, spend a day in St.-Emilion, about 27 miles away, where you can sample great wines. Or check out the nearly 340-foot-high Dune du Pilat , the tallest sand dune in Europe — about 37 miles southwest of Bordeaux, near the beach town of Arcachon.

To stay: Les Chambres de Marie (€170); La Maison Galiène (€259); Yndo Hotel (€355); Le Palais Gallien Hôtel & Spa (€419).

Soccer: July 24 to Aug. 8; tickets from €24.

The street signs in Nantes are in both Breton and French, reflecting the city’s historical ties to Brittany. Start at Talensac Market for picnic supplies, especially radishes, local cheeses and strawberries. Pick up local delicacies like Gâteau Nantais (almond poundcake) and Far Breton (flan with Armanac-soaked prunes). Take your picnic lunch to the courtyard of the Château des Ducs de Bretagne , a medieval castle and museum (courtyard is free; museum is €9). On the Île de Nantes, a former shipyard has been transformed into a wild mechanical theme park. The Machines de l’Île mixes Jules Verne’s stories with Leonardo da Vinci’s designs in the form of a ridable mechanical elephant and sea creatures (€9.50 for the elephant ride or gallery visit). The Mémorial de l’Abolition de l’Esclavage (free) covers Nantes’s history as the most active slave-trading port in 18th-century France. The artists behind the glass-and-concrete memorial, Krzysztof Wodiczko and Julian Bonder , aimed to create “a metaphorical and emotional reminder of the primarily historical, but also very current, struggle for the abolition of slavery.”

To stay: Hotel Voltaire Opéra (€103); Hotel de la Cité (€120).

Châteauroux

Shooting: July 27 to Aug. 5; tickets from €24.

The small city not far from the Loire Valley is named for Château Raoul , the 10th-century castle that’s now part of a local official’s private residence. The best view of the château is from the Gütersloh Bridge. Follow the “coulée verte” — or green corridor — along the banks of the Indre River, stopping by Parc de Belle-Isle , which has a lake for swimming, with kayaks and stand-up paddle boards to rent, as well as a beach, playgrounds and camping. The Franciscan Cordeliers Convent (free), which dates to the 13th century, today offers contemporary art exhibits and miles of gardens, and the Bertrand Museum (free), a former 18th-century townhouse, showcases diverse collections in each of its 26 rooms, including the plaster original of the Camille Claudel sculpture “Sakuntala.”

To stay: Au Lys Blanc (€138); Les Rives du Château (€210 for a two-bedroom apartment).

Lyon and St.-Étienne

Soccer: Lyon, July 24 to Aug. 9; tickets from €24. St.-Étienne, July 24 to 31; tickets from €24.

It will be easy to catch soccer matches in either Lyon or St.-Étienne, only an hour apart by train or car in east-central France. In Lyon, often called the gastronomic capital of France, visit the majestic Notre-Dame de Fourvière Basilica , then savor an ice cream at La Fabrique Givrée . Explore the city’s network of covered passageways, called traboules — originally for workers to transport textiles and later used during World War II by the French Resistance for clandestine meetings. Then climb up to the Pentes de la Croix-Rousse neighborhood, with its tiny streets, shops and views of Lyon below. On a clear day, you can even see Mont Blanc. The Lugdunum museum (€7) and the nearby Roman theater (€4) take visitors back to 43 B.C., when Lyon was known as Lugdunum, and La Maison des Canuts (€9.50), covers the city’s history as a capital of silk.

Between Lyon and St.-Étienne, Pilat Regional Natural Park offers more than 900 miles of rocky terrain for hiking and biking, culminating at the summit of 4,700-foot Crêt de la Perdrix , with views of the Alps and Massif Central range.

St.-Étienne, about 40 miles southwest of Lyon, is transforming its historical industrial identity into one of design and innovation. At the heart is the Cité du Design (€4.50), the former site of a weapons factory, which has served as a center for art and research since 2010. The complex, now a key economic force in the city, is open to the public year-round and hosts art and design exhibitions.

To stay in Lyon: Fourvière Hotel (€189); Hôtel du Théâtre (€323).

To stay in St.-Étienne: Le Parc 42 (€113); Le Golf Sauna (€269).

Sailing (including windsurfing, kitesurfing and more): July 28 to Aug. 8; tickets from €24.

Soccer: July 24 to Aug. 6; tickets from €24.

This Mediterranean port city mixes urban grit and natural beauty. Start by visiting Le Panier, the village-like oldest part of the city. Try navettes , a traditional orange flower biscuit, and sample some sardines or panisses , traditional chickpea fries, on a sunny terrace. Detour through the touristy but pleasant Old Port on the way to Mucem (€11), the first major museum dedicated to Mediterranean civilization and cultures. Have a pick-me-up at Deep Coffee Roasters , a specialty roaster tucked away between touristy shops. At sunset, climb up to Cours Julien , a hip neighborhood with beautiful views for your apéro. Don’t miss the Cité Radieuse , a UNESCO-listed apartment complex that shows off the architect Le Corbusier’s Modernist mastery (you can stay at the hotel in it). And just southeast of the city, the Calanques , a series of small, narrow coves , offer miles of oceanside trails and rocky scrambles along turquoise water.

To stay: Hotel Le Corbusier (€229); Maison Juste (€300).

Soccer: July 24 to 31; tickets from €24.

Summer is peak season in Nice, the queen city of the French Riviera, where the mountains meet the Mediterranean. Run, bike or in-line skate along the Promenade des Anglais , a four-mile seaside path. Then climb up to the Colline du Château , a rocky hill east of the promenade with views of Nice and even as far as the Alps. For a longer walk, follow the trails from Coco Beach to the Cap de Nice along the coves. Then head to Cours Saleya , a pedestrian section of the Old Town, with flower stands, antiques and local food like the socca , a chickpea pancake. The Musée de Préhistoire Terra Amata (€5), constructed on top of an excavation site, reveals what Nice was like up to 400,000 years ago. Or just enjoy one of Nice’s pebbled beaches in a lounge chair.

To stay: Hôtel Rossetti (€186); Yelo Mozart (€238).

Teahupo’o, Tahiti

Surfing: July 27 to 31 ( events could shift through Aug. 4, depending on surf conditions); fan zones free.

For surfing’s second Olympics since its debut in Tokyo, the competition takes place far from mainland France in Tahiti, part of French Polynesia. Since the wave is offshore, there will be two ticket-free fan zones — Taharu’u Beach and Paofai Gardens — to watch the events on large screens. A third fan zone at PK0 beach in Teahupo’o will have free tickets but limited access. Tahiti offers white sands and turquoise lagoons in addition to near-perfect waves. For snorkeling, try the lagoon near Maui Beach , five miles from Teahupo’o. For black volcanic sands, head to Taharu’u Beach, about 20 miles northwest of Teahupo’o. About 45 miles from Teahupo’o, Papeete, the capital of French Polynesia, with a population of about 26,000, offers a variety of local delicacies like poisson cru: raw fish with lime juice and coconut milk, served with rice. Sample local fare, including steak frites and skewered veal heart, from food trucks, called roulettes, at Place Vai’ete, on the waterfront, near the Papeete Market.

To stay: Kia Ora Lodge (€265, seven miles from Teahupo’o); Punatea Village (€73, six miles from Teahupo’o).

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of a picture with this article was published in error. The image showed the French town of Cassis, not Marseille, where several Olympic events will take place this summer. It has been replaced.

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Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

StarTribune

9 places to see the french olympics without setting foot in paris.

For sports fans, Paris will be the center of the universe this summer — and with 15 million Olympic and Paralympic visitors expected, it will feel like it. But Paris isn't the only Olympic site in France: Nine destinations outside the metro region are also hosting events. In places like Bordeaux, Marseille and even Tahiti, you can watch top athletes compete in soccer, basketball, sailing and surfing. (The official ticket resale platform opens on May 15.) And when you're not watching sports, you can take advantage of museums, parks, and fresh food and wine options.

Here are some ideas for planning your own alternative Olympic trip.

Basketball: July 27-Aug. 4; tickets from 50 euros ($54). Handball: Aug. 6-11, from 45 euros.

Start with a stroll around Vieux-Lille and a coffee in the Grande Place, taking in the colorful facades of this city. Head over to the art deco belfry and exhibitions at Gare St.-Sauveur, a former train station. On Sundays, at the rambling Wazemmes market, about 400 vendors offer produce, fish, plants, fabrics, textiles and leather goods. Head out to Parc du Héron to see the LaM museum (7 euros), with works by the likes of Pablo Picasso, Amedeo Modigliani and Joan Miró.

Where to stay: Hotel de la Paix (354 euros per night); Hotel Carlton (406 euros).

Capital of a wine region, this small city sells local wine-walk maps at its tourist office. Stop by the Marché des Capucins, an indoor market that also houses Bistro Poulette, a slightly chaotic and very delicious spot serving mussels with fries. Check out the Bassins des Lumières (15 euros), the largest digital art center in the world, and the Cité du Vin (21 euros), which offers wine-tasting experiences. Spend a day in nearby St.-Emilion, where you can sample great wines. Or check out the nearly 340-foot-high Dune du Pilat, the tallest sand dune in Europe, near the beach town of Arcachon.

Where to stay: Les Chambres de Marie (170 euros); La Maison Galiène (259 euros).

Soccer: July 24-Aug. 8; from 24 euros.

Start at Talensac Market for picnic supplies, especially radishes, local cheeses and strawberries. Take your picnic lunch to the courtyard of the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, a medieval castle and museum (courtyard is free; museum is 9 euros). On the Île de Nantes, a former shipyard has been transformed into a wild mechanical theme park. The Machines de l'Île mixes Jules Verne's stories with Leonardo da Vinci's designs in the form of a ridable mechanical elephant and sea creatures (9.50 euros for the elephant ride or gallery visit).

Where to stay: Hotel Voltaire Opéra (103 euros); Hotel de la Cité (120 euros).

Châteauroux

Shooting: July 27-Aug. 5; from 24 euros.

The small city is named for Château Raoul, the 10th-century castle that's now part of a private residence. The best view of the château is from the Gütersloh Bridge. Follow the "coulée verte" — or green corridor — along the banks of the Indre River, stopping by Parc de Belle-Isle, which has a lake for swimming, with kayaks and stand-up paddle boards to rent. The 13th-century Franciscan Cordeliers Convent (free) today offers contemporary art exhibits and miles of gardens. The Bertrand Museum (free), a former 18th-century townhouse, showcases diverse collections in each of its 26 rooms.

Where to stay: Au Lys Blanc (138 euros); Les Rives du Château (210 euros for a two-bedroom apartment).

Lyon and St.-Étienne

Soccer: Lyon, July 24-Aug. 9; from 24 euros. St.-Étienne, July 24-31; from 24 euros.

It will be easy to catch soccer matches in either Lyon or St.-Étienne, an hour apart by train or car. In Lyon, visit the majestic Notre-Dame de Fourvière Basilica, then savor an ice cream at La Fabrique Givrée. Explore the city's network of covered passageways, called traboules — originally for workers to transport textiles and later used by the French Resistance. Then climb up to the Pentes de la Croix-Rousse neighborhood, with its tiny streets, shops and views.

St.-Étienne is transforming its historical industrial identity into one of design and innovation. At the heart is the Cité du Design (4.50 euros), the former site of a weapons factory, now serves as a center for art and research, hosting art and design exhibitions.

Where to stay in Lyon: Fourvière Hotel (189 euros); Hôtel du Théâtre (323 euros). In St.-Étienne: Le Parc 42 (113 euros); Le Golf Sauna (269 euros).

Sailing (including windsurfing, kitesurfing and more): July 28-Aug. 8; from 24 euros. Soccer: July 24-Aug. 6; from 24 euros.

This Mediterranean port city mixes urban grit and natural beauty. Start by visiting Le Panier, the oldest part of the city. Try navettes, a traditional orange flower biscuit, and sample some sardines or panisses, traditional chickpea fries, on a sunny terrace. Detour through the touristy but pleasant Old Port on the way to Mucem (11 euros), the first major museum dedicated to Mediterranean civilization and cultures. At sunset, climb up to Cours Julien, a hip neighborhood with beautiful views, for your apéro. Don't miss the Cité Radieuse, a UNESCO-listed apartment complex that shows off architect Le Corbusier's Modernist mastery (you can stay at the hotel in it).

Soccer: July 24-31; from 24 euros.

Summer is peak season in Nice, where the mountains meet the Mediterranean. Run, bike or inline skate along the 4-mile Promenade des Anglais. Then climb up to the Colline du Château, a rocky hill with views of Nice and even the Alps. Follow the trails from Coco Beach to the Cap de Nice along the coves. Then head to Cours Saleya, a pedestrian section of the Old Town, with flower stands, antiques and local food like the socca, a chickpea pancake. Or just enjoy one of Nice's pebbled beaches in a lounge chair.

Where to stay: Hôtel Rossetti (186 euros); Yelo Mozart (238 euros).

Teahupo'o, Tahiti

Surfing: July 27-31 (could shift through Aug. 4, depending on conditions); fan zones free.

The surfing competition takes place in Tahiti, part of French Polynesia. Since the wave is offshore, there will be two ticket-free fan zones — Taharu'u Beach and Paofai Gardens — to watch the events on large screens. Tahiti offers white sands and turquoise lagoons in addition to near-perfect waves. For snorkeling, try the lagoon near Maui Beach. For black volcanic sands, head to Taharu'u Beach. Papeete, the capital, offers a variety of local delicacies like poisson cru: raw fish with lime juice and coconut milk, served with rice.

Where to stay: Kia Ora Lodge (265 euros); Punatea Village (73 euros).

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What it’s like to be a vegetarian in meat-loving France

A vegan boulangerie has caused a stir in Paris – things are changing, says our writer, but not that swiftly

From the first time I visited France as a child, I was enchanted. According to my mother I spoke about it all the way home, enthralling her with facts such as, “they speak French there!”. I was determined to know more about this strange and exotic place. I went on to study the language and the more I learned about France’s refined and romantic culture, the more I loved it. 

There was just one problem. I was a vegetarian . I grew up with a house full of animals (at one point I think we had 15) and so from an early age it seemed clear to me I didn’t want to eat my friends. In the late 90s, aged seven, I vowed to eschew meat forever. 

In France, where a pig-intestine sausage is considered a national delicacy ( Andouillette ), there was barely a concept of vegetarianism 25 years ago. On trips to Paris during my teenage years, I used my broken French to order the only things I could: egg and chips, or French onion soup, which was probably made with beef stock anyway. 

When I studied abroad in Lyon in 2010, the idea of being meat-free was still foreign to most locals. Waiters were shocked: “Vegetarian?” they would exclaim. “Ok, but you eat duck, oui ?”. In the end, I compromised and started eating fish, only sometimes and only in restaurants. It’s a concession I still make today for hotel and restaurant reviews. 

I now live in Paris and in recent years I have noticed a definite shift towards more meat-free cuisine. These days, there is usually a vegetarian option or two in most bistros (beyond egg and chips), for example. 

On the fine dining side of things, established gastronomic restaurants such as Epicure and Le Meurice Alain Ducasse are increasingly shifting away from meat-heavy options and towards more plant- and fish-based seasonal menus. Female-led and plant-based (but not exclusively vegan) restaurant Datil was described by the Michelin Guide as “the Parisian restaurant of the future”. 

Surprisingly, in some ways it feels like veganism has taken off here in Paris in a way that vegetarianism never quite did, perhaps partly owing to social media trends. Recently, bakery Maison Landemaine made headlines for its exquisite vegan pastries, a firm “non” for some locals. Faubourg Daimant, a vegan neo-bistro, is one of the hottest reservations in town (I recommend the radish carpaccio). 

According to the herbivore restaurant bible Happy Cow, the amount of vegan restaurants in Paris increased by more than 25 per cent since 2018, while national surveys would suggest meat-free eating is more prevalent in the younger generation. The amount of vegetarians in the overall population is estimated to be between two and five per cent, but as high as 12 per cent among 18- to 23-year-olds. I recently went back to Lyon to relive my student days and ate at a vegan bistro, Les Mauvaises Herbes, which was packed out on a Friday night. 

However, outside of the big cities it’s a different story. Data shows that the majority of vegetarians and vegans in France don’t have children, are city-dwelling and educated: “metropolitan elites”, in summary. In rural France, meat-eating and animal farming are still cornerstones of French identity and the consumption of animal products is seen as a matter of national pride for many. 

On a cycling holiday in Normandy with an American friend a couple of years ago, we stopped at a village restaurant for lunch. Already conspicuous in our lycras, we confirmed our outsider status when we asked if they served a vegetarian option. With a withering look the hostess said: “We can make you… something”. The ensuing dish seemed to be designed more for punishment than nutrition: half a tepid tomato, one cooked chestnut mushroom and a small chunk of cloying potato dauphinoise. 

Why is meat so embedded in the country’s culture? Farming unions, for one, are very powerful. Protests earlier this year were so effective that they drew tax and regulation concessions from the Government. Their liaison is most powerfully shown every year at the Salon International de l’Agriculture, where the nation’s president is expected to attend and cuddle up to the livestock. 

And farming lobbies are fighting against the spread of meat substitutes in supermarkets. Earlier this year, they claimed victory after successfully campaigning for a ban on the use of words such as “steak” and “mince” on the packaging of faux-meats. Brands such as Beyond and Oatly might be slowly entering widespread use, but lobbies like these certainly don’t help. I still feel much more in my element as a herbivore in London, and routinely bring back a freezer bag of Quorn sausages. So France is not quite there yet. We’ll see how things are in a few years.

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