mini tour eiffel lyon

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The Metallic Tower of Fourvière

Lyon’s mini eiffel tower rising higher than the basilica of fourvière.

The Metallic tower of Fourvière sits at the top of the Montée Nicolas de Lange in the 5th arrondissement of Lyon.

The tower is visible from almost everywhere in the center of the city, especially Place Bellecour. © Jenna Careri

Rising above the spires of the Basilica of Fourvière , the tower is nearly as iconic as the church , lit up in lights every evening. Visible from most points in the city , the structure brings to mind one particularly iconic monument rising above the city of Paris.

Lyon’s “ little Eiffel Tower ” is a curiosity with seemingly no explanation, privately owned and closed to the public . It currently serves as a radio and television antenna yet was once one of the most popular attractions in Lyon. Where did it come from, why was it built there, and why is it now closed?

Eiffel Tower Fever from Paris to Lyon

Paris’s Eiffel Tower was inaugurated in 1889, during the “ Exposition Universelle ,” or world fair. Swept up in the glamour of these late 19th century international expositions , some people in Lyon saw an opening to build their own world-class attraction, giving a panoramic view of the city .

The perfect spot was found on a section of the affluent Gay family’s property , which was sold to a private company called the Société Anonyme de la Tour de Fourvière to build Lyon’s very own tower.

View from Tour métallique de Lyon at the beginning of the 20th century. © Archives Municipales de Lyon

Not to be outdone by the religious fervor surrounding the historic basilica , the tower was designed to be the church’s republican, nonreligious counterpart . More importantly, it’s spire would reach higher than those of the basilica, making it the highest point in the city .

Work began in 1893 and the tower was inaugurated during the “ Exposition internationale et coloniale ” at the Parc de la Tête d’Or . The tower itself is 85 meters high, setting its tip at 372 meters above sea level .

The first name suggested for the new icon was Tour Avellan , after the Russian Admiral Avellan because of the favorable Russian-French relations at the time. However, it was officially named the Tour Paufique , in honor of the project’s head architect.

A Tourist Attraction to Rival All Others

The tower was well and truly based off of its big brother in Paris, with its very own restaurant and observation deck .

Like the basilica, the tower is even visible from outlying districts, like the 9th behind Fourvière hill. © Jenna Careri

Visitors were welcomed into a pavilion on the ground floor , before being ushered into elevators that whisked them into the air. The first stop deposited them at shops and a restaurant run by the Gay family , with panoramic views for their dining pleasure.

But the biggest panorama came on the top floor, 357 meters above sea level, on the observation platform . From their perch in the sky, visitors could see the city from all directions , including the world fair pavilions in the park.

From World Attraction to Radio Tower

The restaurant attracted customers until 1940 , when it closed at the start of WWII . Then in 1943, Madame Gay bought the property and the tower back from the Société Anonyme.

During the war, the tower was threatened with destruction and nearly torn down by the Germans, who wanted to use its 2100 tons of metal as a resource . They drew up a plan to dismantle it, but it never went into effect.

The tower officially closed to the public in 1953 and was bought by RTF , the national society of French radio and television, for 15 million francs . Converted into a radio and television antenna , it has remained closed to the public ever since and is impossible to visit .

Today it lights up the sky next to Fourvière every evening, serves as a backdrop for the July 14 fireworks , and provides a funny anecdote for tourists and residents alike as Lyon’s “ mini Eiffel Tower .”

Other Historical Monuments in Lyon

Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, treasure of Lyon

Fourvière basilica is a speactacular landmark to visit in Lyon, and the view from the esplanade is mind-blowing.

Lyon Saint Jean Cathedral

In Lyon’s 5th district, is St Jean Cathedral in the beating heart of Vieux Lyon, home to the largest Renaissance area in Europe after Venice.

Place Bellecour

Place Bellecour is the largest pedestrian square in Europe. A landmark to visit in Lyon.

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Tout savoir sur la tour Eiffel (ou tour métallique) de Lyon

Tous les Lyonnais la connaissent et la voient au quotidien : la tour métallique de Lyon Fourvière ! Également connue comme la tour Eiffel ou le Picon, c'est un monument incontournable de la ville, malgré son esthétique qui ne fait pas l'unanimité. Si elle était auparavant un lieu de visite, elle est devenue dans les années 50 un relais de radio et télévision fermé au public. Je vous fais découvrir ici quelques faits intéressants sur la tour métallique lyonnaise.

La tour Eiffel ou tour métallique de Lyon Fourvière

Inspirée de la dame de fer.

Située dans le 5e arrondissement, sur la fameuse colline de Fourvière , la tour métallique se trouve aussi non loin de la basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière . Culminant sur 372 m en dessus du Vieux Lyon et du cours de la Saône, c'est le point le plus élevé de la ville.

Un accueil enthousiaste du public

La construction de la tour métallique de Lyon remonte entre 1892 et 1894 et elle est ouverte au public le 3 mai 1894 . Elle est érigée à l'initiative de la Société Anonyme de la Tour de Fourvière, qui décide de l'implanter en face de la Basilique. Elle portait alors le nom de « Tour Paufique », du nom du président du Conseil d'Administration.

Au départ, elle comptait un restaurant avec vue sur Lyon et tenu par la famille Gay. Elle disposait également d'un ascenseur hydraulique à piston pouvant emmener 22 personnes sur un belvédère avec observatoire, se trouvant 80 m plus haut. Malgré son apparence qui fait débat dès sa construction, elle suscite l'enthousiasme du public, qui vient nombreux pour la visiter.

Un arrêté de destruction pris à l'encontre de la tour de Lyon Fourvière

Elle passe de propriétaire en propriétaire et risque une destruction après un arrêté de réquisition pris par l'Office des fontes, fers et aciers , début juin 1943. L'armée allemande souhaitait en effet l'utiliser pour permettre à l'office de récupérer une grande quantité de métal. Elle est finalement sauvée in extremis après un combat juridique abrogeant l'arrêté le 6 juillet suivant.

Un site désormais fermé au public

Elle est finalement rachetée par la Radiodiffusion-télévision française (RTF) le 1er novembre 1953 pour la diffusion de la seule chaîne de télévision, comprenant la station lyonnaise.

En 1963, elle ne sera plus accessible au public car elle devient une antenne relais de la RTF supportant de nombreux émetteurs de télévision, de téléphonie ainsi que par d'autres services publics. À partir de ce moment, le pavillon se trouvant à la base de la tour qui recevait du public est remplacé par du béton, la terrasse supérieure est supprimée et l'ancien ascenseur laisse la place à un modèle électrique de 4 places.

Cartes postales anciennes de la tour métallique de Fourvière

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Smaller Version of the Eiffel - Tour Metallique de Fourviere

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• Tour Metallique de Fourviere

Upon arriving (by funicular railway from Vieux Lyon) at Fourviere Hill we soon spotted the mini... read more

It is a much smaller version of the Eiffel but still interesting to see. Unfortunately you can not... read more

Smaller Version of the Eiffel

We viewed La Tour Métallique de Fourvière from the back wall of the Basilica of Notre-Dame courtyard on Fourvière Hill after touring the church. Our guide apparently didn’t think enough of it to take us over for an up-close view. From a distance, it looks similar to the real deal. The structure itself is only about 1/3 the height of the Eiffel Tower (292 feet. vs 984 feet), however, taking into account the height of the hill it is on, the total height is much taller (1220.5 feet), making it the highest point of Lyon. The tower was built between 1892 and 1894 and at one time had a restaurant at the base and an elevator to take people to the top. Both have been closed and the tower is now used as a communications tower and is not accessible to the public.

La Tour Metallique de Fourviere is a steel tower located on Fourviere hill, the highest point in Lyon. Built for the World Fair, international Exposition held at the turn of the twentieth century, it bears a close resemblance to the Eiffel tower. It was accessible to the public until the 1950s, but then it became a communications point and is no longer accessible. However it is worth a stop for a photo opportunity.

Upon arriving (by funicular railway from Vieux Lyon) at Fourviere Hill we soon spotted the mini Eiffel Tower (somewhere that we were just a few days previously) – however, this tower was built three years later. In 1914 it had a restaurant and an elevator capable of taking 22 people up to the summit and was used as an observation tower until1953, but now is just a telecoms tower closed to the public. Not worth going out of ones way to see,

It is a much smaller version of the Eiffel but still interesting to see. Unfortunately you can not go inside or go to the top. It would not be worth a visit just to see it. However if you leave the Basilica and walk outback to enjoy the view you will get close to it.

Lyon's Eiffel was also built for the world exhibition. Just for the next one. Builders managed to collect by 1894 from 2100 metal farms 210 ton design, reminiscent of the third tier of its famous prototype. The second edition of the main symbol of France turned out much less. Just 89 meters. However, taking into account the height of the hill, Lyon Metallic turned out higher. However climb to the top will not work - the entrance to the tower is closed since 1953. That`s a pity, because there was even a restaurant.before...

Not quite so impressive as you cannot get access or climb to the top to see the amazing view but still worth a visit to get close enough to be in awe of this engineering feat

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Metallic tower of fourviére.

Lyon, France

The Tour métallique de Fourvière (Metallic tower of Fourvière), a landmark of Lyon, is a steel framework tower which bears a striking resemblance to the Eiffel Tower, which predates it by three years. With a height of 85.9 metres and weight of 210 tons, the 'metallic tower' was built between 1892 and 1894.

During the Exposition universelle of 1914 in Lyon it had a restaurant and an elevator capable of taking 22 people up to the summit. Although used as an observation tower until November 1, 1953, nowadays it serves as a television tower and is not accessible to the public. At 372m, it is the highest point in Lyon.

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La Tour Métallique de Fourvière

La Tour Métallique de Fourvière et attractions proches : les meilleures façons d'en profiter

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lyon mini tour eiffel

La folle histoire de la Tour métallique de Fourvière et de son resto panoramique au 1er étage

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Romane Viry

La « mini tour Eiffel » de Lyon connue pour être une antenne de relais radio et de télévision ne l’a pas toujours été. En 1894, la famille Gray fait construire un restaurant au premier étage de la tour. En tout cas nous, on aurait bien aimé le tester !

En 1889 à Paris, la Dame de Fer est construite, comme nous le savons tous à l’occasion de l’Exposition Universelle. Jaloux de son succès, les Lyonnais aussi veulent une attraction qui donnera une vision à 360° sur leur ville. En 1893 commencent donc les travaux de la Tour métallique à l’occasion de l’exposition universelle et coloniale du parc de la tête d’Or . D’abord mal accueillie, la tour doit dépasser la basilique pour devenir un symbole de laïcité . Elle est inaugurée le 2 mai 1894 et initiallement nommée tour Paufique.

Un restaurant panoramique sur la ville

La tour de 86 mètres de haut (mais qui culmine à 376 au-dessus de la mer, ce qui en fait le plus haut sommet lyonnais) n’a que deux étages. La Famille Gay, propriétaire, fait construire un restaurant et des commerces sur une surface de 200 mètres carrés au premier étage. Le restaurant Gay dispose alors de la plus belle vue de Lyon. Au sommet, une plateforme en bois servant d’observatoire est construite et accessible via un ascenseur avec la promesse d’une vue jusqu’à 300 kilomètres à la ronde. Un phare est même installé en haut et sera utilisé les 8 décembre pour participer aux festivités dans la ville. La tour à vocation touristique fut un réel succès jusqu’à sa fermeture en 1940 au début de la Seconde Guerre Mondiale. Un arrêté de réquisition est alors pris pour récupérer la ferraille de la tour. Mais heureusement, l’arrêté est abrogé est la tour est sauvée !

© Archives municipales (4FI_02520)

La tour est fermée au public en 1953 puis rachetée par la RTF (société nationale de radio et de télévision française) pour 15 millions de francs qui cherche alors un point élevé pour la diffusion de la seule chaîne de télévision dont la station lyonnaise est inaugurée le 8 novembre 1954. En 1963, elle devient une antenne relais de la RTF supportant de nombreux émetteurs de télévision, de téléphonie ainsi que par d'autres services publics et n'est alors plus accessible au public. Le décor de la base de la tour est remplacé par du béton, la terrasse supérieure supprimée et l'ascenseur est remplacé par un modèle électrique de 4 places.

3 Days in Lyon: A Detailed Itinerary for First-Timers

Heading to Lyon and looking for ideas of things to see and do in the city in 3 days? 

Located in the southeastern part of France at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon, also known as Lugdunum, capital city of the Three Gauls, is the food capital of the world. But not only! From culture-fueled trips to family-fun activities and immersive experiences, Lyon is a great city to visit with many things to see and explore.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998, Lyon is an incredible city buzzing with life. I consider this guide as a ‘local’s guide’; after all, Lyon is where I used to live for two years during my Master at the ‘University Jean Moulin Lyon 3’, and I spent quite some time exploring. I am coming back regularly to visit family & friends, and try to discover new spots. 

The things I enjoy most in Lyon are, of course, the food, the beautiful architecture, the culture, but also the nightlife, the unique atmosphere and great outdoors located near the city. Whether you’re a foodie, a culture buff, a cocktail enthusiast or looking for family-friendly activities, Lyon has something for everyone. 

This three-day itinerary will take you to many landmarks and attractions that makes Lyon the amazing place that it is; but I also want you to discover unique sights and hidden gems that will set you apart from the crowd. Within three days, I want you to taste the local culture and experience the best of Lyon like a local.

Here is my detailed 3-day itinerary in Lyon.

Table of Contents

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: fourvière, vieux-lyon and the presqu’ile.

Itinerary Map 

Fourvière Hill

Located in the western part of Lyon, the Fourvière Hill (‘ La Colline de Fourvière ’ in French) is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful districts in the city. Known as ‘the hill that prays’ ~ in contrast to its neighbor, the Croix-Rousse, the ‘hill that works’ ~, Fourvière is famous for its Basilica and its (many) stunning panoramic viewpoints over the city. With the Croix Rousse, the Vieux-Lyon and the Presqu’Ile, the Fourvière Hill is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998.

Start by taking the Metro (Metro Line D) and exit at the “Vieux Lyon station”. Take the Funicular (nicknamed ‘ La Ficelle ’ by the locals) direction ‘Fourvière’ to the top of the Fourvière Hill. The exit is located just in front of the ‘ Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière ’.

Consecrated in 1896, the ‘Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière’ is considered as the emblematic symbol of Lyon. Located at the very top of the Fourvière Hill, the Basilica was built as a tribute to the Virgin Mary, and does not belong to the Church nor the State but to the people of Lyon! 

The Basilica possesses a unique Byzantine, Gothic and Romanesque architecture. 

Entry to the basilica and the crypt is free, and volunteer guides offer free guided tours every day from April to November. There are also guided rooftop tours available to discover the hidden scenes of the Basilica, included St Michael’s terrace and the observatory tower. I highly recommend approaching the volunteers during your visit; they are really friendly (and patient!) and are happy to answer all your questions. 

Don’t miss the sumptuous panoramic view overlooking the city from the esplanade located on the left side of the Basilica. 

Head north toward the ‘ Parc des Hauteurs ’. On your way, do not miss Lyon’s little Eiffel Tower, which is a replica of the third tier of the real Eiffel Tower.

The Parc des Hauteurs connects the Basilica to the ‘Loyasse cemetery’ via the ‘ Passerelle des Quatre Vents’ . The Passerelle follows the former ‘route des Macchabées’, an old railway line that was used to transport coffins to the Loyasse cemetery. The Passerelle offers spectacular views of the Basilica, the Croix-Rousse, the Presqu’Ile and the Monts d’Or. 

Continue toward the ‘ Montée de la Sarra ’, a former skiing slope. Walk through the ‘ Jardin des Pivoines’ , then head south to the Ancient Gallo-Roman theater via the  Loyasse cemetery and the  Parc de la Visitation .

Built by Augustus in 15 BC, the ‘ Ancient Gallo Roman Theater of Fourvière ’ could welcome more than 10,000 spectators. It is the oldest Gallo-Roman theater in France and one of the largest with Vienna and Autun. Every summer, the music festival ‘Les Nuits de Fourvière’ is held inside the Theater. Besides the Grand Theater, you’ll find the Odeon, a smaller theater which was used for music concerts.

After your visit, head back toward the Basilica esplanade and hike down to the Vieux Lyon through the ‘ Jardin du Rosaire ’. The Jardin du Rosaire is a 1,400-meter path that connects the Basilica to the Vieux Lyon.

Vieux-Lyon and its traboules

The Vieux Lyon (‘Old Lyon’) is the historical district of Lyon and dates back to the Medieval and Renaissance times. The pedestrian district is the perfect place for ‘flâner’ like we say in French (there is no equivalent word in English but understand that the Vieux Lyon is a very agreeable place to wander around and have a relaxing time). 

The Vieux Lyon is characterized by its narrow cobblestone streets with many picturesque shops, bakeries and ‘ bouchons ’. Wait! What is that? A ‘bouchon’? A ‘bouchon’ is a typical restaurant where you can eat traditional specialties from the region.

The Vieux Lyon is also famous for its ‘ traboules ’. But what does the word ‘traboule’ mean? ‘Traboule’ comes from the verb ‘Trabouler’ (‘ Transambulare ’ in latin), which means ‘to pass through’. A ‘traboule’ is a narrow passageway consisting of 3 main elements: an alley, a main courtyard and another alley allowing inhabitants to pass secretly from one street to another quickly.

From the Jardin du Rosaire, continue your way down until you reach the famous  Cathedral Saint-Jean .

Built between 1175 and 1480, the Cathedral Saint-Jean, also known as the ‘Lyon Cathedral’, stands out with its blend of roman and gothic architecture. One of its particularities is to possess a remarkable astronomical clock, which was supposedly built in 1379.

After your visit, head northeast and turn right on rue Saint-Etienne. You’ll find the ‘ Jardin archéologique’ at rue des Estrées,on your right. This archeological garden consists of relics of monuments, some of them dating back to the 4 th century; among the relics are the Saint-Etienne baptismal and the Sainte-Croix church.

Near the garden, you’ll find the famous ‘ Maison du Chamarier ’ (Chamarier’s house) at 37, rue Saint-Jean. The Chamarier was the equivalent of a Prefect of Police. In the interior courtyard, you can admire the frescoes, the unique spiral staircase and the splendid well.

Then, head to the ‘ Maison des Avocats ’ at 60, rue Saint-Jean. The ‘Maison des Avocats’ now houses the museum ‘Miniature and Cinema’. In the courtyard, you’ll find a beautiful golden statue of a lion.

No visit to the Vieux Lyon would be complete without seeing at least one traboule. As mentioned above, ‘ traboules ’ are narrow pedestrian passageways through buildings, allowing people to go from one street to another. During your visit, try to stay discreet; most of the places you will be passing through are private homes. One of the most famous traboules is the ‘Long Traboule’ at 54, rue Saint-Jean / 27, rue du Boeuf (it is the longest traboule in Vieux Lyon). This ‘Longue Traboule’ goes through four buildings and crosses four interior courtyards. Another famous traboule is the gorgeous traboule ‘la Tour rose’, also known as ‘la Maison du Crible’, located at 16, rue du Boeuf, probably the most beautiful traboule in Lyon.

If you want to spend more time chasing the traboules of Lyon, I recommend this app:  http://www.traboules-lyon.fr

From rue du Boeuf, head toward the banks of the Saône on Quai Romain Rolland via the Place Neuve Saint Jean, a very charming ‘street-square’. 

On Quai Romain Rolland, you’ll find the ‘ Palais des 24 colonnes ’, an impressive courthouse with 24 Corinthian columns; the building really looks like a Greek temple.

In front of the courthouse, near the bridge ‘Passerelle du Palais de Justice’, you’ll see the statue ‘ The Weight of Oneself ’ by Elmgreen & Dragset; it is a sculpture of a man saving another man but if you look closer, you can see that the two men are identical, and the man is, in fact, saving himself.

Time for lunch. You can’t come to Lyon without eating at an authentic bouchon Lyonnais. After all, Lyon is the food capital of the world. We recommend the  bouchon Lyonnais “ La mère Léa ” , one of the oldest restaurants in Lyon. The atmosphere is quite unique and the food is (more than) amazing. To get there, cross the bridge ‘Passerelle du Palais de Justice’ and turn right on Quai des Celestins. The restaurant is located at the number 11. 

After lunch, time to discover the Presqu’Ile of Lyon.

Located between the Saône and the Rhône rivers, the Presqu’Île (the ‘Peninsula’ in English) is a lovely (and lively!) area of Lyon to discover. The wonderful architecture and the vibrant atmosphere makes the Presqu’Île an absolute must-see in Lyon!  

From “La mère Léa”, head southwest on Quai des Célestins and turn left on Place Antonin Gourju. Turn left on rue Colonel Chambonnet and you’ll arrive on ‘ Place Bellecour’ . It is the largest pedestrian square in Europe. Place Bellecour is famous for its equestrian statue of Louis XIV situated at the center of the square. There, you can also find a statue of the Little Prince and Antoine de Saint-Exupery, a huge Ferris wheel, the Tourist information office of Lyon and many delicious restaurants.

Walk north of Place Bellecour and continue on rue Emile Zola. Turn left on rue des Archers to reach the Place des Célestins and the ‘ Théâtre des Célestins ’, a magnificent theater dating back to the 19 th century. 

From Place des Célestins, head north and continue on rue Montcharmont, then rue Jean Fabre. You’ll arrive on the beautiful ‘ Place des Jacobins ’, a beautiful square with a majestic fountain at its center.

Walk toward rue Jean de Tournes and turn left on rue de la République to reach the imposing ‘ Palais de la Bourse de Lyon ’, another splendid building. It currently houses the Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Head toward rue de la Bourse and turn left. Continue straight on rue du Garet and turn right rue Joseph Serlin. You’ll arrive at the ‘ Opera House of Lyon ’.

Continue west on rue Joseph Serlin and you’ll reach the ‘ Hotel de Ville ’ (City Hall) and the historic square ‘ Place des Terreaux ’. The Place des Terreaux is renowned for its sumptuous fountain Bartholdi.

There, you’ll also find the ‘ Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon ’, located in a former Benedictine abbey. The museum houses outstanding collections of antique art, decorative arts from the Medieval times to the 20 th century, sculptures and paintings (including masterpieces from Rembrandt, Ingres, Renoir, Gauguin, Matisse, Monet, Picasso and Chagall). Do not miss the gorgeous sculpture garden.

If you have some time left before dinner, ‘flâne(z)’ along the Rhône and the Saône rivers.

If you’re up for another bouchon, you should eat at the fabulous ‘ Café des Fédérations ’ at 8-9-10 rue Major Martin. This iconic restaurant offers excellent food at excellent prices. If you want amazing Tapas and great wine, ‘ Bel Ami ’ at 34, rue du Sergent-Blandan is the restaurant you must try. Last but not least, if you want to have the best vegetarian dining experience in the world, head to ‘ Culina Hortus ’ (Not a joke! This restaurant was voted best vegetarian restaurant in the world by We’re Smart® Green Guide 2020). 

Day 2:  Croix Rousse and Parc de la Tête d’or

Croix Rousse

The Croix Rousse neighborhood is like a village. With its unique architecture and authentic vibe, the Croix Rousse, ‘the hill that works’, feels quite different (more friendly and personal) than the rest of Lyon. A real gem to discover!

The Quartier des ‘Canuts’, famous silk workers of Lyon, has been the cradle of Lyon’ silk industry since the 16 th century. Silk has marked the architecture of the Croix-Rousse. Specifically designed for the Canuts, the buildings on the slopes are very high. This is linked to the silk work of the Canuts; the looms developed by Jacquard were very tall; that’s why the rooms have a ceiling height of around 4-5 meters, and are equipped with huge windows to let the light in. The famous traboules of the Croix Rousse are also linked to the Canuts. First, these traboules allowed the Canuts to go from one building to another, so they could avoid the streets and protect the silks and fabrics transported. Later on, the traboules served as secret passageways to escape the French police and the Gestapo during the World War II.

Start by taking the Metro (Metro Line C) and exit at the “Hénon station”. Head south on the Boulevard des Canuts. You’ll find the gigantic ‘ Mur des Canuts ’ on your right. This incredible 1200 m2 trompe l’oeil fresco illustrates the livelihood of the Croix Rousse district and its evolution, (including, of course, its endless stairs). It is the largest painted wall in Europe. 

Head toward rue Denfert-Rochereau and turn right. Continue straight and turn right on Place de la Croix de Bois. Turn right on rue Jacques-Louis Hénon. Then, turn left on Grande Rue de la Croix Rousse. The Garden ‘ Rosa Mir ’ will be on your left side. This hidden (and very unusual!) garden is made of stones and shells.

Head south on Grande Rue de la Croix-Rousse and turn left on rue d’Ivry. On you’re right, you’ll find the ‘ Maison des Canuts ’. The museum tells the history of the origin of silk, explains the silk production cycle but also the Canuts’ work, their revolts, as well as the invention of Jacquard. The museum also offers guided tours with weaving demonstrations on a Jacquard loom. A fascinating history lesson.

Head east on rue d’Ivry, turn right on rue de Belfort, turn left on Boulevard de la Croix-Rousse and you’ll reach the ‘ Gros Caillou ’. This giant rock was found in 1862 during the construction of the funicular. It was excavated and relocated to the eastern end of the Croix-Rousse boulevard. According to its mineralogical composition, the rock was transported from the Alps to Lyon during the Riss Ice Age, around 140,000 years ago. The Esplanade around the Gros Caillou was completed in 2008 and offers a beautiful view of Lyon.

Head back on Boulevard de la Croix Rousse and turn left on the Montée Saint-Sébastien. Continue down until you reach rue Général de Seve. Turn right and continue onto Place Colbert. The ‘ Cour des Voraces ’ is located across the street, sandwiched between Place Colbert and rue Diderot, in front of La Fabrique. The Cour des Voraces is the most famous traboule of the Croix Rousse. You can reach it either from 14 Montée Saint-Sébastien, from 9 Place Colbert or from 29 rue Imbert Colomes. Built in 1840, the 6-storey building has housed many Canuts for a long time.

Continue on rue Diderot and turn left on rue Pouteau. Turn left on rue Burdeau. You’ll find the Mermet stairs ( Escalier Mermet ) on your right, a pure example of stair art. The blue stairs were painted by street artist Wenc in May 2019.

Walk down the stairs and turn right on rue René Leynaud. The ‘ Village des Créateurs ’ is located on the number 19. Created at the end of the 90s, the Village des Créateurs is a fashion business incubator that houses many emerging fashion brands and their ‘ateliers-boutiques’ (workshop studios and boutiques). 

Continue on rue René Leynaud, turn left on Montée de la Grande Cote, then right on rue Sergent Blandan and continue straight up to Place Saint Vincent. The ‘ Fresque des Lyonnais ’ will be in front of you. This incredible mural painting is depicting 30 famous personalities from Lyon (including Antoine de Saint-Exupery, l’Abbé Pierre, les Freres Lumière and Paul Bocuse). This fresco is so realistic that you could almost walk into it.

Take some time to walk along the Saône river. Turn at rue Grenette and continue straight up to Cours Lafayette via the  Place des Cordeliers and the bridge Lafayette. At the 102 Cours Lafayette, you’ll reach the internationally famous ‘Halles Bocuse’.

Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse

If I had to name one Chef that illustrates the French gastronomy, I will automatically choose the legendary Paul Bocuse. Paul Bocuse has been awarded with 3 Michelin Stars from 1965 until his death in 2018. Admired in many countries, Mr. Paul was also named the Chef of the century. He is nicknamed the Pope of the French Gastronomy.

The Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse is an institution in Lyon. Inside the 2000m2 covered market, you’ll find the best food markets of the country. It is where many restaurants do their shopping. But it is also a place where you can drink and eat! A magic place to discover with fabulous restaurants. The perfect place for lunch!

Parc de la Tête d’or

Head toward rue Gribaldi and continue straight until you reach rue Duquesne. Turn right and you’ll reach the Parc de la Tête d’Or.

Covering 117 hectares, the Parc de la Tête d’Or is the largest urban park in France. The Park provides a charming and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. 

The name ‘Tête d’Or’ means ‘Golden Head’; the legend says that a treasure (a golden head of the Christ) is buried somewhere inside the Park.

There is something for everyone there; you’ll find botanical gardens, a greenhouse, a rose garden, a zoo, a huge lake where you can rent a boat, but also many activities for children, including a little train, a carrousel, playgrounds, pony rides, karting and electric mini boats.

To end your day in style, I suggest a diner cruise on the Hermès restaurant boat to admire Lyon by night. The company  Bateaux Lyonnais offers wonderful lunch and dinner cruise experiences. 

The departure is at 16 Quai Claude Bernard, near the Lumière University. 

Day 3: Confluence

Former scarcely industrial district of Lyon, the newly built Confluence has become, in recent years, the trendiest district of the city, with a huge array of things to see and do. Located south of the Presqu’Ile where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet, Confluence is definitely an absolute must see in Lyon for first-time visitors and return.

With its stunning modern architecture and ambitious urban revitalization scheme, Confluence is a place on perpetual evolution (in fact, the renovation of the district is not achieved yet). 

Start by taking the Metro (Metro Line A) and exit at the “Perrache station”. Take the Tramway T1 direction Debourg and stop at “Musée des Confluences station”.The Musée des Confluences islocated just in front of the tram station.

Only open since December 2014, the ‘ Musée des Confluences ’ is a museum of natural history, anthropology, societies and civilizations. Made of concrete, stainless steel and glass, the futurist monumental structure is easily recognizable with its unique architectural design. The permanent exhibition is divided into 4 sections: ‘Origins, the stories of the World’, ‘Species, the web of life’, ‘Societies, the Human theater’, and ‘Eternities, visions of the beyond’. There are different temporary exhibitions throughout the year located on the Level 1 of the museum.

On the other side of the museum, at the southern tip of the Presqu’Ile, where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet, there is a charming garden that you should not miss: ‘ le Jardin du Musée des Confluences ’. It is where you can see up close the confluence of the Rhône and the Saône rivers. It is also where you will currently see the giant sculpture ‘Only Lyon’.

Head back to the front of the museum. Turn left and cross the Quai Perrache. Turn left on Passage Magellan. Continue on Passage Magellan through the tunnel bridge and you’ll find the ‘ Mob Hotel ’ on your right. The trendy design of the building is quite unusual; their approach wants to be avant-gardist inside out. For lunch, we recommend their restaurant. They serve organic food from local producers but the main specialty is the pizza. The atmosphere here is warm and homey. The restaurant is also very kids-friendly with a special menu dedicated to them and also a playground!

Head toward the Saône river on Quai Rimbaud. On your left, you’ll see the headquarters of  GL Events , an international leader in the events industry. The large building made of glass and steel is quite astonishing with its transparent facades. Walk along the docks toward the giant green cube pierced by two big conical atria (the ‘eyes’)! Designed by architects Jakob + MacFarlane, the fluorescent green cube (le  Cube Vert ) is the headquarters of Euronews.

Next, there is the ‘ Pavillon 52 ’, an innovative architectural achievement. 16km of Ultra High-Performance Fiber-Reinforced Concrete (UHPC) slats cover the façade and serve as a solar filter. The exterior gives the appearance of a closed lens, while in the interior, light is everywhere.

In front of Pavillon 52, you’ll find the iconic ‘ Sucrière ’. It is the only historical building in the Confluence district that was left intact during the huge urbanization plan. Built in the 1930s, it is a former warehouse attached to two huge silos ‘left’ (gauche) and ‘right’ (droite). The building has housed a sugar factory for a long time (hence the name). Today, the place hosts various events and exhibitions. The Rooftop ‘Le Sucre’ is the place to be in Lyon, and a reference in the nightlife scene. If you are looking where to party, this is the place.

Head toward the Orange Cube (‘ Cube orange ’). Also designed by architects Jakob + MacFarlane, the Orange cube has a giant hole carved in one of the building’ s angles.

Have a break (and an apéro!) at one of the ‘ péniches de Confluence ’ (canal boat restaurants tied to the docks of the Saône river on Quai Rimbaud).

It’s time for diner. If there is one legendary restaurant you should try in Lyon, it’s  Brasserie Georges , located 30 Cours de Verdin near the Lyon Perrache railway station. Open since 1836, Brasserie Georges is one of the oldest restaurants in Lyon. Their specialties are the choucroute, the pike quenelles (quenelles de brochet), and the pistachio sausage. The Brasserie also brews its own beer. I keep fond memories of this restaurant. If you want to experience traditional French cuisine and atmosphere, this is the right place.

Getting around Lyon

If you’d like to use the metro, funiculars and tram system several times, and if you are 2 travelers, it is more cost-effective to take a carnet with 10 tickets (5 tickets each) as it only costs 17.60€. If you are using the metro more than 5 times, taking an unlimited 24-hour ticket (6.20€), 48-hour ticket (12€) or 72-hour ticket (16€) the day(s) you plan to travel the most is the most convenient (and cheapest) way to travel without hassle.

The  Lyon City Card offers unlimited transportation all around Lyon, plus access to 23 museums, including the Musée des Confluences, Musée des Beaux-Arts, Musée Cinéma et Miniature, Musée Lugdunum, Maison des Canuts but also to a river cruise, guided tours and much more. The 1-Day Lyon City Card costs 27€, the 2-Day Lyon City Card costs 37€, the 3-Day Lyon City Card costs 47€ and the 4-Day Lyon City Card costs 57€ (as of winter 2020-2021).

Another (cheap and ecological) way to get around Lyon is by bicycle with  Velo’v .

But in my opinion, the best way to explore Lyon is on foot (Lyon is a very ‘walkable’ city).

The other way to get around is by boat with the  Vaporetto . It only serves 4 stations: Vaise station, St Paul station (Vieux Lyon), Bellecour station (Presqu’Ile) and Confluence station. The ticket only costs 2€.

Note there are left-luggage facilities where you can leave your bags in a locker while you visit Lyon. Check out this  website for more info.

Where to stay in Lyon?

I strongly advise to stay in the city center and avoid the suburbs. You really don’t want to spend the majority of your time in the public transportation.

The Presqu’Ile and the Vieux Lyon are both great areas to stay with plenty of accommodation choices from 3-star hotels to luxury hotels. 

The Croix-Rousse is also a great choice with plenty of Airbnb choices.

If you’re on a budget, stay in La Guillotière area. The Confluence district is also quite affordable. 

Best Time to visit Lyon

I might sound cheesy but I love Lyon all year round. Yes! Every season has its own charm and uniqueness.

Winter is a great season as you can attend the Festival des Lumières during your visit. The festival takes place every December. It is a magical moment that all visitors to Lyon should experience! 

During the spring season, the weather is particularly pleasant. There is also the electronic music festival ‘Nuits Sonores’ all over Lyon for 5 days.

In the summer, the festival Nuits de Fourvière takes place at the Roman theater of Fourvière in the Vieux Lyon and offers theater, music, dance and film shows.

Autumn sees generally less tourists and the weather is still great. It is a perfect moment to visit Lyon and to blend with locals. During the ‘Journées du patrimoine’ in September, for one weekend, you can visit monuments and historical buildings usually closed to the public.

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For more travel inspiration in France, visit my Instagram account:  https://www.instagram.com/paris_kathmandu/

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The birth of the Eiffel tower

A realized utopia, eiffel tower.

You are at the top of the Eiffel Tower, overlooking Paris at a height of almost 300 m / 1000 feet.

At the opening of the Tower in 1889, this very place was different from what you are seeing.

Le Campanile et le Phare de la tour Eiffel - Les merveilles de l'Exposition 1889 by © Collection tour Eiffel Eiffel Tower

It was used, in particular, as a laboratory to carry out scientific experiments and measurements. Many instruments were installed here such as barometers, anemometers, lightning conductors.

In fact, Gustave Eiffel arranged an office for himself at the very top of the Tower for astronomical and physiological observations. He even installed a weather station.

It was these scientific experiments carried at the Tower which saved it from being destroyed by popular demand. Did you know the Tower should have been pulled down just 20 years after it was erected for the 1889 Exposition Universelle!

Affiche - Chemin de fer Paris-Lyon-Méditerranée - Exposition Universelle 1889 - Paris by © Collection tour Eiffel Eiffel Tower

For the 1889 Universal Exhibition, marking the centenary of the French Revolution, a great competition was announced in the country's Official Gazette.

Universal exhibitions were a technological and industrial showcase for nations, testifying to the achievements made during the industrial revolution.

Le Champ de Mars et l'Ecole Militaire depuis les hauteurs du Trocadéro avant la construction de la tour Eiffel by © Collection tour Eiffel Eiffel Tower

The 1889 competition consisted of "studying the possibility of erecting on the Champ-de-Mars a 300-metre tower with a 125m2 square base". 

The Champ-de-Mars and the Military school as seen from the Trocadéro before the construction of the Eiffel Tower.

Selected from among 107 projects, it was that of Gustave Eiffel, an entrepreneur, Maurice Koechlin and Emile Nouguier, both engineers, and Stephen Sauvestre, an architect, that was accepted.

Gustave Eiffel en pied dans l'escalier de la tour Eiffel by © Collection tour Eiffel Eiffel Tower

A brilliant engineer, Gustave Eiffel founded a company specialising in metal structural work.

In this sense the Eiffel Tower was the very height of his career. He devoted the last thirty years of his life to experimental research.

This enthusiast and true genius was able to transcend his own limits to leave us monuments such as the dome on the Nice Observatory, the metal structure of the Statue of Liberty and the Bordeaux railway bridge.

Bureau des Etudes de Gustave Eiffel - La Tour Soleil de Bourdais, projet concurrent de la tour Eiffel (calque à la plume) by © Collection tour Eiffel Eiffel Tower

The competition held at the time of the 1889 Exposition Universelle received several other entries for 300-metre towers.

A serious component was the project of Jules Bourdais, he was the architect of Palais du Trocadéro. 

He imagined a tower of 300 m based only of stone.

Dessin projet de MM Eiffel, Nouguier et Koechlin by © Collection tour Eiffel Eiffel Tower

In June 1884, Emile Nouguier and Maurice Koechlin, the two chief engineers in Eiffel's company, came up with the idea of building a very tall tower. It was to be designed like a large pylon.

It would have four columns of latticework girders, separated at the base and coming together at the top, and joined to each other by more metal girders at regular intervals.

Pylône de 300m de hauteur pour la ville de Paris - 1889 - Avant Projet de MM Nouguier et Koechlin by © Collection tour Eiffel Eiffel Tower

The company had by this time perfectly mastered the principle of building bridge supports. The tower project was a bold extension of this principle up to a height of 300 metres - equivalent to the symbolic figure of 1,000 feet.

Reproductions des planches originales de Gustave Eiffel by © Collection tour Eiffel Eiffel Tower

On 18 September 1884, Eiffel registered a patent “for a new configuration allowing the construction of metal supports and pylons capable of exceeding a height of 300 metres”.

Sauvestre proposed stonework pedestals to dress the legs, monumental arches to link the four columns and the first level, large glass-walled halls on each level, a bulb-shaped design for the top and various other ornamental features to decorate the whole of the structure.

The first floor - Copy of Gustave Eiffel's original plates

The second floor - Copy of Gustave Eiffel's original plates

The top - Copy of Gustave Eiffel's original plates

Antennas - Copy of Gustave Eiffel's original plates

The first digging work started on 26 January 1887 and marked the beginning of the Tower's construction.

Conception—Société d'Exploitation de la Tour Eiffel

The Eiffel Tower in 1900

The eiffel tower's inauguration and first visitors, the construction of the eiffel tower.

The Eiffel Tower There's no feeling like it...

For your children: the "Tour Eiffel Kids" booklet on the theme of the growing Tower is waiting for you in the pillars & on the 1st floor! See the poster

Dine on the 1st floor at Madame Brasserie: watch the Paris skyline while you have diner. Without reservation, subject to availability. More information

Tip! Connect to our mobile visitor's guide, a real companion to find your way around and learn more about the Tower! Try

Attendance: High

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Coming to the Tower

A journey to the top

Come and discover the Eiffel Tower on the only trip to the top of its kind in Europe, and let pure emotions carry you from the esplanade to the top.

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Dine on the 1st floor of the Eiffel Tower

Enjoy the spectacle of Paris illuminated over a refined dinner at Madame Brasserie!

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The Eiffel Tower at the center of the Paris 2024 Olympic med...

The medals for the Paris 2024 Olympics and Paralympics were revealed on February 8, 2024. In the middle, they feature a fragment of the Eiffel Tower.

The Monumental Tour at the Eiffel Tower

To commemorate the 100th anniversary of Gustave Eiffel’s death, the Eiffel Tower and French DJ & producer Michael Canitrot are presenting an exceptional show, broadcast on social media and television.

History, key figures, lights, paintings, explore all the secrets of the world's most iconic monument

Restaurants & stores

On every floor, the Eiffel Tower has a range of dining and gift-shop options.

The Gustave Eiffel Salon

For your business events, hire a new venue in a magical setting. Fully equipped to meet all of your needs.

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