main tourist attractions in lyon

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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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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Lyon   Travel Guide

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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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Home » Travel Guides » France » 15 Best Things to Do in Lyon (France)

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

Visit Lyon: Top 21 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

Things to do in lyon: the 21 best places to visit and highlights.

You’re planning to visit Lyon , and you’re looking for the best things to do?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay, I have written this guide of the 21 best things to do in Lyon , with all must-see attractions and points of interest.

In addition to the best places to visit, you will also find itineraries to visit Lyon in 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 days (or more!) as well as my selection of the best hotels depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Lyon? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1. Vieux Lyon

2. the traboules of lyon, 3. fourvière hill and notre dame de fourvière basilica, 4. place bellecour, 5. the presqu’île de lyon, 6. the croix rousse, 7. the parc de la tête d’or (park of the golden head), 8. the confluence district and its museum, 9. the best activities to do in lyon with friends, 10. lunch at a “bouchon” in lyon, 11. lyon’s festival of lights, 12. a stroll along the banks of the rhône and saone, 13. cruise in lyon, 14. the fine arts museum, 15. les halles de lyon paul bocuse, 16. part-dieu district, 17. shopping in lyon, 18. the medieval village of perouges, 19. the grand parc de miribel-jonage, 20. walibi rhône alpes amusement park, 22. beaujolais vineyard, what are the things to do in lyon when it rains, visit lyon on foot, how many days to visit lyon, visit lyon in 1 day, visit lyon in 2 days, visit lyon in 3 days, where to stay in lyon, where to eat in lyon, rent a boat in lyon, tourist map of lyon, what to do in lyon with your family, where to park in lyon, where to buy the lyon city card, you’re traveling in france these articles will help you, visit lyon: 21 must-see attractions.

We’ll start this list of the Top 20 places to visit in Lyon with the district of Vieux Lyon. 

Dating back to the Medieval and the Renaissance period, the Vieux Lyon (also called Saint-Jean district) is one of the city ‘s historical districts.

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , this district is a refreshing experience with its small cobbled streets, large Cathedral and unique museums.

There, you will also find the the famous “bouchons” of Lyon (more about this below).

Places to visit in Vieux Lyon:

1) The musée Gadagne: this museum complex is located in a beautiful Renaissance building, listed as a historical monument.

There you will find a museum dedicated to the history of Lyon from Antiquity to the present day, as well as the puppet arts museum, which is also worth a visit. The famous Guignol is actually native to the city!

After your visit to the museums, you must go to the hanging gardens of Gadagne for a break. The information about the timings and prices can be found on the official website.

2) The Miniatures and Cinema Museum: if you are passionate about cinema, you will love this museum.

You will discover more than a hundred ultra realistic miniature scenes as well as all the rigging techniques used before computer image processing.

Information about the timings and access is available on the official website.

3) The Cathedral or Primatiale Saint-Jean: it has one of the largest collections of religious objects and relics dating back to the Byzantine era.

It is a must-see building in Lyon, particularly for its 14th century astronomical clock, one of the oldest in Europe.

For more information, click here.

4) The former palais de Justice and the 24 columns adorning its façade.

To visit Lyon and the Musée Gadagne in particular, you should buy the Lyon City Card here.

It entitles you to free public transport + free admission to 22 museums in Lyon ! A boat cruise and a guided tour are also included.

Book by clicking the button below:

The traboules of Lyon alone deserve a small paragraph as they are a special feature of the city . In Vieux Lyon you will find the maximum number of traboules, but there are also some in the district of the Croix Rousse.

The traboules of Lyon are passageways reserved for pedestrians, passing under houses and buildings to cross from one street to another. There are hundreds of them and their architecture is really unique and surprising, it is a very good idea to see them when in Lyon.

You can explore the traboules by yourself, taking the risk that some of the passages will be closed or opt for a guided visit of Lyon to make sure you don’t miss the most famous ones.

You must book this tour with a local guide. The itinerary and duration are customisable, you can also visit many other places in the city:

As they are real tourist attractions in Lyon , the best known and most photographed traboules are the Cour des Voraces (located at Place Colbert) and the Rose Tower (16 rue du Boeuf), in Vieux Lyon.

And if you want to go through the longest traboule in Lyon , it’s at 54 rue Saint-Jean !

When you go through the traboules, don’t forget that there are people living above, so be calm and respectful.

From Saint-Jean, there are large staircases leading up to Fourvière Hill, one of the most touristy places to see in Lyon.

As the climb can be quite long and tiring , you can also choose to go there by cable car . La Ficelle (nickname of the cable car) departs from the Vieux-Lyon metro station .

At the top of the esplanade, you will enjoy a panorama of the whole city with the Alps and Mont Blanc in the background. This is the best place to go to Lyon to admire the view!

Overlooking the hill, you will find the Fourvière Basilica, the most visited monument in Lyon and the emblem of the religious history of the city . With a rather austere appearance on the outside, its interior is richly decorated.

Next to the Basilica is a communication tower called the “little Eiffel Tower” because of its surprising resemblance to its cousin in Paris.

In the same area, you can also visit the ruins of the ancient Lugdunum Ancient Theatre and visit the Gallo-Roman Museum. 

All information is available on the official website of the museum.

If you want to discover the city from even higher , there’s a great activity to do in Lyon: a helicopter flight.

You can fly over all the sights of Lyon, the Rhone and the Saone for 30 minutes:

In the list of places to see in Lyon, head to Place Bellecour.

Place Bellecour is a privileged meeting place for Lyon residents.

Whether you want to visit Lyon, go shopping, go to the cinema or just go round the bars, all the way from Bellecour. It constitutes Lyon’s point 0, which means that distances are calculated from there.

Recognised as the largest pedestrian square in Europe , this vast red earth esplanade offers a breathtaking view of Fourvière and provides access to many streets ideal for shopping.

In the centre of the square you can also see the statue of Louis XIV on his horse (built in 1713 in honour of the Sun King) and further on, the statue of the Little Prince and Antoine de Saint-Exupéry.

If you have decided to visit Lyon in winter, you can take a ride on the Bellecour Ferris wheel to discover the whole city. At Christmas, there is also a skating rink .

You’re going to Lyon?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Lyon on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Lyon.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Lyon, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Lyon!

Another unmissable area during your stay in Lyon : the Presqu’île.

This area is the city’s central point, so you’ll have to go there on your way around Lyon.

You will find many historical monuments as well as the most famous squares (including place Bellecour, which I mentioned just above).

The places to see on the Presqu’île de Lyon:

• Rue de la République: the city’s main shopping street. Here you will find cheap brands as well as designer and luxury boutiques.
• Place des Terreaux , with its 360 ton Bartholdi fountain
• Place des Jacobins , one of the most beautiful in Lyon
• Victor Hugo pedestrian street and its numerous shops
• Place des Célestins where the theatre of the same name is located
• The palais de la Bourse , listed as a historical monument
• The Lyon Town Hall. 

From the presqu’île district, you can also choose an unique activity: a Segway ride.

For this private tour lasting around 90 mins , you will be accompanied by a local guide, and you can explore the city centre and Vieux Lyon.

Click here to book:

Let’s continue to explore Lyon’s districts on foot , and go to Croix Rousse.

Easily accessible by metro or via multiple staircases for the more athletic among you, the district occupies a plateau on a hill in the city . It is often referred to as a “village” in the city because it is rather unusual and has a strong working-class identity due to its past.

The Croix Rousse is in fact the former district of the canuts , the workers specialised in silk work and whose revolt had irrevocably marked the history of Lyon .

The buildings were built specifically to house the huge weaving machines with very high ceilings and huge windows. Today there are only a few of them left in the national museums.

If you are interested in this period in the history of Lyon, you must visit the Maison des Canuts , a former silk-weaver’s workshop and also the Fresque des Canuts , on the Boulevard des Canuts. This 1200 square metre optical illusion reflects the life and atmosphere of the neighbourhood.

In the same vein, you can also go and admire the Mur peint des Lyonnais Célèbres, at the bottom of Croix Rousse.

Finish your tour of Croix Rousse at the Gros Caillou to enjoy the view of the whole city. The Montée de la Grand Côte also offers superb panoramas.

The neighbourhood’s history is so interesting that you must opt for an audio guided tour . Just download it on your phone and you can walk around with the explanations of a guide for all the main places.

The concept is really great and the quality of the tour is really good.

Click here to book!

To visit Lyon and more specifically the Croix Rousse, you can also take a 1 hour ride in the City Tram. 

Guests can enjoy audio commentary, including the Gros Caillou, the mur peint and the fresque.

You should continue your trip to Lyon with another tourist site, highly appreciated by visitors as well as by the locals to enjoy the greenery: the Park of the Golden Head.

Located in the sixth arrondissement of Lyon, the Park of the Golden Head is the largest park in the city .

It is the ideal place to go for a walk in Lyon and to do outdoor activities. 

You can choose to visit the free zoological park, the rose garden, the botanical garden or take a train ride or go paddle boating on the lake .

Sports lovers can also go jogging in peace or go for a bike ride.

You will easily find food throughout the park.

If you have chosen to go to Lyon with your family, your children will certainly appreciate this place. The place is quiet and relaxing.

Find out about other activities on the official website.

To explore the Park of the Golden Head and other places of interest in Lyon, you can also choose an electric bike tour. If you can’t walk much, it’s a great choice!

The itinerary is very relaxed and really well done to not tire you out. On the agenda: exploring the old town , Park of the Golden Head , and also the Place Bellecour for example.

You can book it by clicking the green button below:

Completely renovated, the Confluence district is the contemporary neighborhood of Lyon, located at the confluence of the Rhône and the Saone.

A former industrial district with many factories, it has been rehabilitated to become an eco-district with numerous shops, offices and houses.

In Confluence, you must absolutely visit the museum. Though recent, it has quickly become a must-see in Lyon.

The musée des Confluences , with its futuristic architecture and located on the banks of the Rhone, offers permanent exhibitions on the origins of life , including an archaeological part, another on the representations of death and a last part on the societies and civilisations made by man.

The staging is original and very interesting thanks to clear explanations.

To organise your visit to the musée des Confluences, you can visit the official website.

And to avoid queuing at the entrance, you must book your priority access ticket by clicking on the button below:

If you have decided to visit Lyon with friends or family , here is my selection of excellent activities to try. 

You can click directly on the orange links to view prices and make your reservation:

• An escape game : a great classic for a trip with friends. In Lyon, the Harry Potter escapge game is particularly awesome. It’s a fun way to discover the city while solving puzzles!
• A virtual reality experience: fight in a gladiator arena, decimate zombies or protect your castle from a dragon attack.
• Quiz Room: this is a new activity in Lyon! In a TV set and in teams of 2 or 3, answer questions based on sports, music, society. But nothing will go as planned, because between traps and rule changes, no holds are barred…
• A quad bike trip for a unique tour of Lyon
• A rather special food tour since you will only have the opportunity to taste dishes that are not very healthy (burgers, cold cuts, cheese, chocolate dessert…) for 3 hours!
• A Ninja Warrior course directly inspired by the famous TV show
• Archery tag: an activity combining archery and paintball – Minimum group of 4 people
• Bubble football: a classic game of football but you will be wearing a giant bubble.

You can discover the best activities to do in and around Lyon by clicking on the button below:

You can’t even think of visiting Lyon without having at least one meal in a Lyon bouchon!

A true institution , there is even a label “Bouchons Lyonnais” to certify the authenticity of the typical bistro.

Eating in a bouchon in Lyon is the best way to discover and experience the gastronomy and regional specialities.

On the menu, kidneys, a brioche sausage, quenelles or even the cervelle de canut and the sapper’s apron! 

Among the impressive list of Lyon bouchons, here are my recommendations:

• Bouchon La Voute (Chez Léa)
• Comptoir Brunet bouchon
• Bouchon des Cordeliers
• Tête de Lard.

All of them are very well known, so you must book in advance!

What to do in Lyon in winter?

If you are visiting Lyon around December 8th, you should definitely not miss the Festival of Lights.

This festival has been held every year since 1852, an unmissable event attracting millions of visitors every year.  Originally, the festival was created to celebrate the Virgin Mary who is said to have saved Lyon from the plague epidemic.

Today, whether you are a believer or not, the Festival of Lights is definitely worth a visit to admire all the illuminations and works of light projected on the façades of the monuments. 

Free access!

To prepare your next Festival of Lights during your stay in Lyon, visit the official website.

As you know, Lyon is at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers . This means beautiful walks along the docks!

The riverbanks have been well designed for pedestrians, making it a special place to walk in the city. The views are beautiful and you can watch the numerous barges of the Rhône pass by.

From the banks of the Saone you will find the most beautiful views of Fourvière hill.

You can stroll around on foot or by bicycle.

The presence of these 2 rivers means you can do another super activity: a boat cruise to explore Lyon from another angle.

Several types are offered depending on the length and choice of the boat: barge, tourist boat or even boat rental without a licence.

To spend a pleasant time on the Saône, I particularly recommend this 1h cruise with a guide .

For only €14 per person, the boat will take you past Vieux Lyon and the Confluence district.

To book your trip, just click on the button below:

And if you are looking for romantic activities in Lyon , you must opt for a cruise with meals included. I recommend it because unlike others, the meal offered is excellent.

You will have the choice of 2 options (click on the orange links for information):

• 2h30 lunch cruise 
• 2h30 dinner cruise. 

If you have taken the Lyon City Pass , a cruise is already included.

During your weekend in Lyon, you must include the Musée des Beaux-Arts in your itinerary.

Located on the Place des Terreaux , in the Presqu’île, the museum is located in the former abbey of the Dames de Saint-Pierre . Classified as a historical monument, in its 70 rooms, the museum displays an important collection of European paintings and sculptures from the 14th century to the mid-20th century.

There is also a large part dedicated to Antiquity and more specifically to the theme of Egypt.

It is the most important museum behind the Louvre in Paris and is considered one of the most beautiful museums in France. 

All practical information is available on the official website.

Entrance to the museum is free with the Lyon City Card.

Les Halles is the gastronomic landmark in Lyon , with shops selling local products , chocolatiers, cheese makers and caterers . In all there are about sixty merchants.

It is located in the third district of Lyon , next to the Part-Dieu train station and is open from 7:00am to 10:30pm during the week (closed on Mondays) and from 7:00am to 1:00pm on Sundays and public holidays.

A huge covered market, it is the ideal place to indulge yourself with good cold cuts, taste the quenelles lyonnaise or delicious praline pie, the typical dessert of the city.

However, it is not a small market with local producers, the prices are quite high but you will surely get quality products from them.

To access and find out about the shops at Les Halles, visit the official website.

For those who are interested in the culinary specialities of Lyon , you must take a a gastronomic tour.

With a local guide, this outing includes 6 tasting stops at the traditional establishments and allows you to taste more than fifteen different specialities. The gourmets among you will be delighted!

The Part Dieu district is mainly a business district, known to tourists for its large shopping centre.

Before becoming a business hub, the grand Hôtel-Dieu de Lyon was a hospital with innovative medical practices recognised throughout France.

Famous for its architecture, dome and gardens, the grand Hôtel-Dieu de Lyon is today both a shopping centre, one of the hotspots of French gastronomy and a 5-star hotel.

It is also where you will find the biggest buildings in Lyon such as the InCity tower, the Oxygène tower, and the Crayon .

In the Crayon, the restaurant on the 32nd floor of the building offers 360° views across the city .

Want to know where to go to Lyon for some shopping?

Here are the best places to shop:

• Part-Dieu: this shopping centre is one of the largest in Europe . Part-Dieu has nearly 250 shops and 40 restaurants. There is also a large cinema hall and many services. The shopping centre is open Monday to Saturday from 10:00am to 8:00pm.
• Confluence: newer than Part-Dieu, the Confluence shopping centre is very spacious and pleasant for visitors. Around 100 shops, 27 restaurants and a cinema hall await you from Monday to Saturday from 10am to 8pm.
• The Rue de la République de la Presqu’île and its countless shops selling well-known brands like H&M, Zara etc…
• The Carré d’Or Lyonnais still in the Presqu’île but a luxury version with Hermès, Vuitton etc…
• Croix Rousse for its vintage boutiques and second-hand stores.

What are the things to do around Lyon?

Now that you know what to see in Lyon, you must visit the surroundings. Here are some of the places to see close to Lyon.

Perouges is a 40-minute drive from Lyon.

Often ranked among the most beautiful villages in France, the village of Perouges is a typical example of a medieval town . The cobbled streets and small alleys ensure a complete change of scenery for visitors. It feels like a movie set.

If you visit Perouges in summer, you can enjoy the medieval festival organised in June . On the agenda: medieval costumes, parades, shows and a market to spend an unforgettable day.

This is the nicest village to see around Lyon! 

The grand Parc de Miribel-Jonage , with its 1,200 acres, stretches over fifteen municipalities in the metropolis of Lyon and offers a wide choice of activities to do alone or with the family.

In summer, the lake shores welcome many swimmers and tourists. Several water activities are available for half a day, such as biking, paddle boating, and canoe rides.

The park is also ideal for teaching children to ride a bike, roller skating or a scooter.

You will find the complete list of activities to do in the park , on the official website.

This is the ideal place for a family outing near Lyon!

If you spend a week in Lyon and you need to take a break from your travelling, the ideal solution is to spend a day in Walibi.

Walibi is both, an amusement and a water park, offering an unforgettable and thrilling experience . About thirty attractions available for families, couples and friends every day from 10 am to 6 pm.

The park is located about an hour’s drive from the centre of Lyon. However, if you do not have a car , there are shuttles that take you to Walibi from place Bellecour every Saturday of the summer season.

For other periods, OUIBUS shuttles leave from Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport and Bourgoin-Jallieu and arrive directly at the amusement park.

One of the most popular tourist attractions around Lyon!

Anse is a small, typical Gallo-Roman town located 30 km North of Lyon.

An entire part of the city is made up of houses dating back to the 15th century with mosaic floors and buildings with old architecture.

The best option is to plan a morning in Anse and have lunch in one of the typical restaurants of the city.

Whether you are a wine lover or just curious, it is a great experience to go on the wine trail around Lyon for a day.

Lyon is located between the Beaujolais vineyards in the North and the Rhone Valley in the South.

You will find the list of estates to visit around Lyon by clicking on the green button below:

And the great part is that some tours are free!

You will discover all the secrets of making the fine Beaujolais vintages and will have the opportunity to participate in a wine tasting on site .

Here is my selection of the best estates (click on the orange links to book):

• The Frédéric Berne estate produces organic wines in Beaujolais. Free tasting or visit + tasting from just €8!
• The Emmanuel Fellot estate offers 8 wine tastings accompanied by regional cheeses and cold meats. You can also book a tour of the vineyards on an electric bicycle.
• Château de Montmelas to discover the Montmelas Marquis wines.
• The Vins de Viennes , an estate producing white and red wines.

Day trips are also organised from Lyon .

Onboard a minibus with a guide, you will discover the villages and vineyards of Beaujolais . A visit to the cellars and tasting are also on the agenda.

You can book your day-trip to the Beaujolais vineyards by clicking here!

I’ve already told you about flying over Lyon by helicopter, and you can also for a a helicopter ride over the Beaujolais region: 

It’s not easy to know what to do in Lyon when it starts raining and your plans for walking around are turned upside down.

To remedy this, I have prepared a list of activities to do when it rains in Lyon. 

And don’t forget that most of the activities to do with friends or family that I have already recommended in point 9 of this article are also doable in bad weather!

• Visit the city ‘s museums. There are more than 20 in Lyon, so needless to say, this can keep you busy! And the great part is that if you’ve bought the Lyon City Card , they are all free!
• Shopping in the Part-Dieu and Confluence shopping centres
• An introduction to wine tasting where you can taste 5 very well-known wines of the region
• An airliner , fighter plane or helicopter flight simulator with a commercial pilot instructor
• An art workshop (click here) : In Lyon you can choose between workshops for mosaics, painting, modelling, candle making, perfume or make-up.
• Go to the cinema: there is one in the city’s 2 main shopping centres, so you can mix shopping with a movie
• Visit the 6 greenhouses of the Park of the Golden Head
• A sensory deprivation experience , for an exceptional moment of relaxation
• Go bowling: the Bowling Lyon 8   is located on Marius Berliet street.
• Go-karting: Kart’In , K1 Speed  and Only Kart all offer indoor circuits so you don’t get wet
• Indoor skiing: the Only Kart complex recently opened an indoor ski slope , the only one in France!
• Climbing in the largest room in France at the Climb Up Lyon , rue Lortet.

If you want to explore the city on foot, here is a one-day itinerary that will allow you to see the maximum number of unmissable tourist spots in Lyon .

This itinerary will take you through the 4 main districts of Lyon.

You can start the day by exploring the Presqu’île district starting with the famous Place Bellecour, where you can get a map of the city from the Lyon Tourist Office.

Visit the Place des Célestins, the Place des Jacobins, the rue de la République and then reach the Place des Terreaux where you will find the town hall and not far away, the Opera.

Continue your walking tour of Lyon by visiting the Croix Rousse district, a 25-minute walk from the town hall.

First see the fresque des Canuts , take a tour through the Maison des Canuts and go up to the Gros Caillou to enjoy the panorama.

Now its time to have breakfast in one of the famous Lyonnais bouchons.

Finish your tour of the Croix Rousse by going to see the Fresque des Lyonnais, at the bottom of the district, about 15 minutes walk from the Gros Caillou.

Reach the opposite bank of the Saone by crossing the Saint Vincent bridge.

You will then arrive at the North of Vieux Lyon , follow the banks of Bondy and turn on the Place de Change to arrive on the main street of Vieux Lyon, the rue Saint-Jean .

You must take a walk in the famous traboules and then go to the Cathédrale Saint-Jean.

In the late afternoon, go up to admire the sunset on Fourvière Hill.

If you’re tired, you can cheat a bit and take a cable car ride from the Vieux Lyon metro station. But Fourvière is also accessible on foot via the Montée Saint Barthélémy.

And to end the day in style, you must go on a dinner cruise.

The ideal duration to visit Lyon is three days.

This allows you to spend two days to visit the various spots and to take a break between the two days to enjoy, for example the park of the Golden Head or to go for a tour near Lyon for a day.

If you want to visit Lyon and save money, the best way is to get the Lyon City Card . Valid for 1, 2, 3 or 4 days, it allows you to enjoy free access to all the museums of the city and public transport. 

A boat cruise, a visit to the roofs of the Fourvière Basilica or a guided visit to the Maison des Canuts are also on the agenda.

You can also take advantage of discounted rates for Segway tours or tourist bus rides. A show at the Guignol theatre is also included.

The Lyon City card can be purchased on this website (click the button):

If you only have one day to visit Lyon, you must follow the walking route that I have explained in the section “ Visit Lyon on foot”.

It allows you to discover the 4 main districts (Presqu’île, Croix-Rousse, Vieux Lyon and Fourvière) in one day.

If you don’ t necessarily want to walk all day , you can also skip certain neighbourhoods and visit one or 2 museums .

Or why not take the opportunity to do some shopping?

Last option to visit Lyon without walking : opt for a hop-on hop-off bus tour to discover the city’s main sights and monuments in 14 stops.

You can book your tickets for the bus directly by clicking here. 

In 2 days in Lyon, you have time to explore the city in greater depth.

Continue the walking tour itinerary from the first day and add:

• A nature and greenery visit in the park of the Golden Head 
• A shopping break in one of the largest shopping centres in France: the Part Dieu
• Lunch at the Halles Paul Bocuse
• A boat tour  on the banks of the Rhone or the Saone
• Visit of one or more museums according to your interests: Musées Gadagne for history, the Musée Cinéma et Miniature for cinema, Musée des Beaux-Arts for paintings or Musée des Confluences for natural history.

For a perfect 2-day stay in Lyon , you should read my detailed itinerary: How to visit Lyon in 2 days?

Things to do in addition to the previous 2 days.

If you want to stay in the city , you can visit the museums in Lyon that you did not have time to do the previous days and do a little more shopping.

If you prefer to visit the surroundings of Lyon for a day , there are several options:

• For a family outing and if the weather is nice, I highly recommend the Grand Parc de Miribel Jonage or a day at Walibi Park. A great time with children around Lyon!
• For wine lovers, the undisputed winner is the trip to the Beaujolais ! If you have a vehicle, you can also book a visit to a wine estate here! 
• And if you are more interested in the beautiful villages of France, you must visit Perouges or Anse , or even both in a single day if you have a car. They are only 40 minutes away. To reach Perouges or to return to Lyon, you must visit the Grand Parc de Miribel.

And one last option: Why not spend the day in Annecy , the pearl of the Alps, located about a 90 minute drive away?

In this case you can read my complete guide: The 17 best things to do in Annecy .

If you want to spend 3 days in Lyon, you should read my dedicated article: The best itinerary for 3 days in Lyon.

• HO36 Opéra: Located just 100 metres from the Place des Terreaux, in the Presqu’île disctrict. Hostel with dormitory bed from €30 per night, breakfast at €8. Strong points: location, the pleasant interior patio. The best inexpensive place to stay in Lyon!
• Greet Hotel Lyon Confluence: Located in the Presqu’île district, 20 minutes from Bellecour square. Double room from €90 per night, breakfast at €10. Strong points: spacious and comfortable rooms, friendly staff. Excellent price/service ratio in Lyon!
• Bayard Bellecour :  Located just opposite place Bellecour. Warm and comfortable double room from €120, breakfast at €19. Strong points: excellent homemade breakfast, charming rooms, the perfect location to visit Lyon on foot.
• Hotel Le Roosevelt: Located between the park of the Golden Head and Part-Dieu. Modern double room, spacious and comfortable bedding from €150, breakfast included. Strong points: calm atmosphere, geographical location, friendly staff.
• InterContinental Lyon – Hotel Dieu, an IHG Hotel: Located in the Presqu’île district, this splendid luxury hotel offers elegant rooms starting at €350, including breakfast. Strong points: river view, the setting, excellent location.
• Villa Maia: Located on Fourvières Hill. This 5-star hotel in Lyon offers luxurious and super comfortable rooms with panoramic views of the city from €450 per night, including breakfast. Strong points: sumptuous setting, exceptional view, heated indoor swimming pool. This is our recommendation for a luxury stay in Lyon!

In addition to the aforementioned Lyon bouchons and the Halles Paul Bocuse, here are some good restaurants to eat in Lyon.

• The restaurant Paul Bocuse: Located in Collonges-au-Mont-d’Or, the restaurant serves the most famous dishes of the famous chef who died in 2018. This restaurant is rated 3 stars in the Michelin Guide and serves dishes which are famous among the general public, such as the VGE Truffle Soup, which was prepared for former President Valéry Giscard d’Estaing. You must book at least one week in advance to have a table in this restaurant.
• La Mère Brazier: In the first arrondissement of Lyon, la mère Brazier restaurant is is rated two stars in the Michelin guide. The chef, elected the Best Chef of France , offers modern and creative cuisine with dishes you won’t find anywhere else.
• Le Musée:  Located on rue des Forces. This Lyon bouchon naturally offers the culinary specialities of Lyon such as quenelles and cervelle des Canuts. The quantity and quality are excellent, with a great price/service ratio. Very warm welcome and great service.

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day on the Saône during your stay in Lyon, you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental!

So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip in Lyon? 😊

To help you visualise the city a bit better, I have created this tourist map of Lyon , with all the best places to visit and things to do in Lyon and its surroundings.

You can display the map legend by clicking on the top left button, the one with a small arrow on it.

FAQ – I’ll answer your questions about Lyon

If you have chosen to visit Lyon with children , here are my recommendations:

• A walk to the park of the Golden Head with a visit to the zoo (free)
• Attend a puppet show with the famous Guignol
• Visit the musée Miniature et Cinéma
• Take the little train at Croix Rousse
• Take them to Mini World Lyon , the largest animated miniatures park in France. To avoid queues, tickets are available online by clicking here!
• Discover the aquarium of Lyon (tickets available for purchase here! )
• The park adjoins the Fort de Vancia , 10 minutes from Lyon
• A BMW Z4 driver’s training course – Yes, you read that right, your child can drive a car for a few laps. 9 years and up.

The cheapest and most convenient way to park in Lyon is to opt for a parking garage (P+R).

Located outside the city, they are just next to a subway station, so you can easily reach the city centre using public transport.

These car parks in Lyon are free, provided you present your valid transport ticket for every day (if you have lost or thrown it, you will have to pay €10 to leave the car park).

Here are the most practical car parks to park in Lyon:

• Arriving from the North or the West: Gorge de Loup car park- 10 minutes by subway to Place Bellecour
• Arriving to the South or East: Laurent Bonnevay car park – 15 minutes by metro to reach Presqu’île de Lyon.

You need to buy the Lyon card online by clicking here.

If you need help planning your stay in Lyon, don’t hesitate to ask me your questions in the comments section below.

France travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet France guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the Rick Steves France guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all our articles about France: All Voyage Tips articles about France are listed here.

• Honfleur: Top 15 things to do and discover
• La Rochelle: 15 things top do and see
• Strasbourg: Top 25 things to do

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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

• Post author: Lisa Garrett
• Post last modified: June 6, 2024
• Post category: Favorites / 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 !

Like it? Share it!

Must-see attractions in Lyon

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…

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,…

Centre d'Histoire de la Résistance et de la Déportation

The WWII headquarters of Gestapo commander Klaus Barbie evokes Lyon's role as the 'Capital of the Resistance' through moving multimedia exhibits. The…

Mur des Canuts

Said to be Europe's largest fresco, this magnificent trompe l'oeil shows a slice of daily life among Lyon's residents. The work is packed with intricate…

Fresque des Lyonnais

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

Musée Lumière

Cinema's glorious beginnings are showcased at the art nouveau home of Antoine Lumière, who moved to Lyon with sons Auguste and Louis in 1870. The brothers…

Atelier de Passementerie

Preserved for posterity by the Soierie Vivante association, this silk-trimmings workshop functioned until 1979, weaving braids and intricate pictures…

Musée des Arts Décoratifs

This well-organised museum displays 18th-century furniture, tapestries, wallpaper, ceramics and silver. Ticket includes admission to the adjoining Musée…

Musée des Tissus

Extraordinary Lyonnais and international silks are showcased here. Ticket includes admission to the adjoining Musée des Arts Décoratifs, which displays…

Musée Gallo-Romain de Fourvière

For an enlightening historical perspective on the city's past, start your visit at this archaeological museum on the hillside of Fourvière. It hosts a…

Musée d'Art Contemporain

Lyon's contemporary-art museum mounts edgy temporary exhibitions and a rotating permanent collection of post-1960 art. It sometimes closes for several…

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.

Palais de Justice

Facing the river in old Lyon, the grandiose neo-classical Palais de Justice is well worth a gander.

Maison des Canuts

On a 50-minute guided tour, learn about weavers' labour-intensive life and the industry's evolution, see manual looms in use, and browse the silk boutique…

Aquarium du Grand Lyon

Just west of the Confluence, Lyon's well-thought-out aquarium is home to some 300 marine species, including more than 5000 fish. Bus 15 links it with…

Atelier de Tissage

Accessible strictly by guided tour, this wonderful old workshop houses looms that produce large fabrics. It's best visited in conjunction with the nearby…

Le Petit Musée Fantastique de Guignol

The star of this tiny, two-floor museum is Guignol, the Lyonnais puppet famous for its slapstick antics and political commentary. Various animated scenes…

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…

Musée de l'Imprimerie

From early equipment through to computerised technology, this absorbing museum traces the history of the city's printing industry.

Place Sathonay

At the foot of Croix Rousse, this tree-shaded square has a small village atmosphere, with its bars, restaurants and cafes.

Musée Miniature et Cinéma

This maze-like museum on tourist-busy rue St-Jean provides an unusual insight into the making of movie sets and special effects achieved with the use of…

Musée Henri Malartre

Jean-Paul II's Renault Espace, Hitler's Mercedes, 50-odd motorbikes, bicycles and historical modes of Lyonnais public transport are displayed inside this…

Jardin Rosa Mir

The Jardin Rosa Mir is a walled garden decorated with thousands of seashells accessed off a narrow laneway.

Mur du Cinéma

Lyon's cinematic story is told in still-image form here in one of the city's many murals.

Parc de La Cerisaie

This panoramic 4.5-hectare park is one of the hidden gems of Croix Rousse.

Best Museums

Shopping in Lyon

Food to Try

Best Restaurants

Nightlife Guide

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Lyon Airport Guide

Public Transportation

Neighborhoods to Explore

Best Hotels

48-Hour Itinerary

Day Trips From Lyon

Top Things to Do

The Top 20 Things to Do in Lyon, France

Stefano Scato/Getty Images Plus 

Nestled in France's lush Rhône Valley, Lyon is one of the country's most populous and interesting cities. The former Gallo-Roman capital is around two thousand years old, boasts world-acclaimed local cuisine and wines, and offers curious visitors a wealth of interesting attractions like museums and hidden passageways. Keep reading for the best things to see and do in the city once known as "Lugdunum."

Discover Vieux Lyon (Old Town)

Atlantide Phototravel /Corbis Documentary/Getty Images 

Any first visit should ideally begin in Vieux Lyon, or Old Town. Dating to the early medieval period, it is today mostly remarkable for its well-preserved buildings from the Renaissance.

Old Town runs north to south along cobbled streets parallel to the Saône River. It is nestled against Fourvière hill, which boasts some of the city's most beautiful 15th- and 16th-century buildings, famous for their rose- and orange-hued façades built in Italian Renaissance style.

To explore the area, get off at the Vieux Lyon-St Jean metro stop and slowly wind through the narrow streets, quaint shops, traditional restaurants, and secretive courtyards. Rue Saint-Jean is the main street for shopping and dining in the area.

Admire the Architecture at Saint-Jean Cathedral

vwalakte /Istock/Getty Images Plus 

Completed around 1480, the Saint-Jean Cathedral is a genuine masterpiece. A UNESCO World Heritage Site  , it dominates the Place Saint-Jean, at the southern edge of Vieux Lyon.

The Cathedral's mixed architectural style reflects the different phases of its construction over hundreds of years. Saint-Jean features an apse and choir designed in the Romanesque style, while the Gothic-style nave and façade came later.

Other outstanding features include a prominent rose stained-glass window dating to the 12th century, an astronomical clock added during the 14th, and sculptures decorating the façade that illustrate Biblical stories. Also make sure to visit the Bourbon chapel, built by the Duke of Bourbon during the 15th century and widely considered a masterpiece for its elaborate sculptures.

Get Lost in Lyon's Traboules (Old Passageways)

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For a fascinating look at Lyonnais history, make sure to explore the city's distinctive traboules. These are networks of ramped, covered, or partly covered passageways that connect many of the Renaissance-era buildings that stand on Fourvière hill. It is thought that some date to as early as the 4th century, while others were added in subsequent centuries.

While many traboules were likely built to allow residents to quickly descend from their homes to the old town below, some gained a new purpose during the 19th century. They connected the silk workshops of the Croix Rousse district to the commercial center of Vieux Lyon, allowing silk weavers to transport textiles down the steep hill to reach merchants. Later, during World War II, French Resistance fighters famously hid from Gestapo officers and planned meetings in the passageways, which many outsiders were unaware of.

We recommend taking a guided tour of the traboules to access some of the most impressive among them, and appreciate architectural details from ornate galleries to dizzying spiral staircases.

Explore the Gallo-Roman Museum & Arenas (Musée Lugdunum)

City of Lyon

As if Lyon's layers of medieval and Renaissance heritage weren't impressive enough, this museum and archaeological site peels back further layers to reveal the city's importance during the Roman Empire.

Perched on the steep slopes of Fourvière, the UNESCO World Heritage site comprises a museum filled with Gallo-Roman artifacts and objects from daily life, built into the hillside next to two well-preserved Roman amphitheaters. The main amphitheater is France's largest, and at its height it was able to seat 10,000 people for plays and other spectacles. The smaller "Odeon" arena was probably used for concerts and political meetings, and could seat around 3,000. The arenas host open-air summer concerts and other events to this day.

Visitors can also explore onsite Roman baths and churches, roam through fragrant rose gardens, and enjoy panoramic views over the city.

Get a Panoramic View of the City from Fourvière Basilica

  Gregory_DUBUS /Getty Images Royalty Free collection 

Often compared to Sacré Coeur in Paris, the Fourvière Basilica ( Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière in French) dramatically crowns the hill of the same name, offering fantastic vantages over the rooftops and monuments of Lyon.

Inaugurated in 1884, the gleaming white Basilica blends Byzantine and Roman architectural elements. It's dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and was built as a symbol of protection following a bubonic plague that swept through Europe in the 17th century.

Many see Fourvière as a symbol of Lyon itself, while others dislike its design and compare it to an "upside-down elephant." Whatever your opinion of its architectural merits, visit the exterior and gilded interiors before taking in sweeping views over the city.

Eat Out at a Typical Lyonnais "Bouchon"

Courtesy of Le Bouchon des Cordeliers/

Lyon is prized for its food and gastronomy. To get an authentic taste of some of the best for reasonable prices, head to one of its bouchons: intimate, traditional eateries where you can taste regional specialties such as pike quenelles and Charolais beef, in addition to inventive dishes from local chefs.

If you're looking for a table that blends tradition with inventive culinary offerings, try Le Bouchon des Cordeliers or Café du Peintre.

Learn About Lyon's Puppeteering and Marionette-Making Traditions

The dual collection at Musées Gadagne offers further insight into the long history of Lyon, as well as an exploration of the city's puppeteering and marionette-making traditions.

Visit the history museum to learn more about Lyon during the Renaissance. You can explore daily life during the period, artistic and cultural achievements, architecture, and more.

The Puppet Museum, meanwhile, is an old-fashioned but fun collection that all ages will enjoy. Learn more about the traditional crafting of wooden marionettes (also called guignols in French) and the quirky, endearing local custom of staging elaborate puppet shows that even adults flock to.

Taste & Stroll at Lyon's Famous Food Market

 Wikimedia Commons 

If you can only make time for one market in Lyon, it should be this one, opened in 1859. Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse bears the name of one of France's most legendary chefs, and offers food lovers a maze of delights across some five dozen stalls.

Here you'll find a huge variety of authentic French cheeses, baked goods, herbs, sauces, chocolate, colorful produce from nearby farms, and more. If you want to browse or buy regional specialties, shops like  Maison Malartre sell everything from Lyonnais quenelles (pike dumplings) to escargot and rich sauces.

Come to stock up on goodies for a picnic on the banks of the Saône or Rhône, weather permitting.

Travel tip: The market makes a good first stop in Lyon if you're arriving at the nearby Part-Dieu train station.

Wander Down the Saône Riverbank Promenade

Julian Elliott / robertharding  /Getty Images 

Offering picturesque views over Vieux Lyon and a 9-mile path (or "promenade" that takes you from the city center to the edge of the Rhône Valley countryside, the banks of the Saône River are sublime.

Before or after visiting Vieux Lyon, explore the riverbank paths, promenade and elegant footbridges ( passerelles in French). Take in the warm, elegant façades of Old Town and enjoy light playing on the water, especially near dusk or early in the morning. This is one of the most photo-worthy spots in the city, so make sure your camera or phone has sufficient batteries.

Stop by City Hall (Hôtel de Ville) and Place des Terreaux

Richard Nebesky/Lonely Planet Images/Getty Images 

Dominated by Lyon's Hôtel de Ville (City Hall), the Place des Terreaux forms the central artery of the Presqu'île area.

Built in a grandiose neoclassical style and replacing an earlier layout destroyed during the French Revolution of 1789, the sweeping, open central square is often used for city events and official processions. To one side, admire the dramatic Bartholdi Fountain, whose enormous sculpture depicts a woman commanding a chariot over four French rivers. It was completed in 1889.

Lyon's City Hall looms at the east side of the square, while the Lyon Fine Arts Museum stands at the south end, next to the lavish Saint-Pierre Palace.

Explore the Presqu'île District

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This central area between the Rhône and the Saône is the bustling heart of contemporary Lyon, home to busy shopping streets, museums, grand squares, restaurants, and theatres.

Its layout and architecture meld styles from the Renaissance period through to the 19th century, and many of the elegant faćades in the area resemble the Haussmannian architecture of Paris .

The Presqu'île stretches from the Place Bellecour —one of the largest pedestrian squares in Europe—to the Place des Terreaux. The Rue Mercière boasts some fine Renaissance-era buildings; closer to the banks of the Rhône you'll find the Lyon Opera House , which features a contemorary domed rooftop from French architect Jean Nouvel.

See World-Famous Masterpieces at the Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des Beaux Arts)

For anyone interested in fine art, this municipal museum on the Place des Terreaux is an essential destination. Its permanent collection—one of Europe's largest and most important—features paintings, sculpture, ceramics, and antiquities stretching from ancient Egypt to the modern period.

You can see masterpieces from the likes of Véronèse, Rubens, Géricault, Delacroix, Manet, Monet, Gauguin, Picasso, and Matisse, while also admiring urns, sarcophaguses, and objects of daily life from ancient Egypt.

The museum is housed in a distinctive 17th-century building that once served as a Benedictine convent. It was restored in the late 1990s.

Unwind in Parc de la Tête d'Or

Manuel Milan/Getty Images  

For a bit of fresh air or to stage a French-style picnic on the grass, head to one of Lyon's loveliest and largest municipal parks. Opened in 1857, the romantic-style Parc de la Tête d'Or welcomes visitors through its gilded gates, beckoning them to explore verdant paths, man-made lakes, footbridges, cycling routes, and even a small zoo.

Visit the park after taking a stroll along the banks of the Rhône river. If you're traveling with children, they'll appreciate attractions like mini-golfing, horse and pony rides, puppet theaters, and riding the park's dedicated miniature train.

Take a Wine Tour & Sample Local Wines

  Tambako the Jaguar / licensed under  CC BY-ND 2.0

Lyon lies within the fertile and beautiful Rhône Valley , endowed with some of France's finest vineyards and winemaking estates. If you have more than a couple of days to explore the city, we recommend embarking on a day trip that involves wine tasting and guided tours of one or more local vineyards.

On one of these guided wine tours , you'll learn about the Rhône Valley's different terroirs—specific geographical areas thought to produce very different sorts of wines due to soil quality, sunlight, etc. You'll also learn how to appreciate and recognize specific notes and flavors in reds and whites, and tour local wine production facilities to gain more insight into the magic of winemaking.

Visit the Museum of Miniatures & Cinema

Museum of Miniatures and Cinema, Lyon 

Fan of cinema history? How about miniatures? This intriguing double collection focuses on both.

The quirky museum boasts more than 100 painstakingly created miniature scenes depicting movie theaters, restaurants, an apothecary, an old-world medical office, and more.

Meanwhile, the cinema collection includes costumes, replicas of film sets, photos, memorabilia, and a special effects gallery. It also hosts special temporary exhibits on particular directors, film genres, and other themes.

The site in Old Lyon is also worth visiting for the building in which it's housed: a 16th-century Renaissance masterpiece known as the Maison des Avocats  , now a UNESCO site.

Marvel at one of Europe's Largest Pieces of Public Art

Jean-Pierre Lescourret/Lonely Planet Images/Getty Images

Many tourists overlook the Croix-Rousse neighborhood, but they shouldn't. Situated in the steep heights of Lyon's second major hill (alongside Fourvière), the Croix-Rousse is full of hip boutiques and restaurants, meandering paths, and mysterious courtyards.

The historic home of the canuts, Lyon's large community of 19th-century silk workers and weavers, Croix-Rousse still bears the traces of that interesting legacy. Like Vieux Lyon, it also counts numerous traboules, or passageways, worth exploring. These were widely used to transport silk by workers in the area.

Make sure to see the Mur des Canuts , an enormous, "trompe l'oeil" mural that minutely depicts daily life in the district during the 19th century. It's one of the largest pieces of public art in Europe.

Dig Into the History of Lyon's Silk Workers

If you want to dig even deeper into the history of Lyon's canuts (silk workers), paying a visit to the Maison des Canuts (Silk Workers' Museum) in the heart of the Croix-Rousse area is in order.

In addition to learning about the daily life, social conditions, and famous revolts of the canuts, you'll also get insight into the process of silk weaving itself. From the lifecycles of silkworms, to the intricate and painstaking process of weaving silk, to the invention of the Jacquard loom, there's a wealth of interesting information to absorb during a visit to the workshop here.

Honor the Memory of French Jews at the Resistance and Deportation History Center

Lyon's darker history comes alive in this important collection of artifacts and documents related to the city during World War II, when France's collaborationist government in Vichy, France participated in Nazi atrocities.

The documentation center is symbolically housed in Lyon's former Gestapo headquarters, where numerous resistance fighters were tortured. This is also where Klaus Barbie, an SS officer and chief of the Gestapo in Lyon, had his offices. He orchestrated the deportation of some 7,500 local French Jews to European concentration and death camps. He was also personally responsible for the death of 4,000 individuals, mostly political dissidents.

A visit to the multimedia exhibit is both educational and insightful, allowing visitors to keep alive the memory of the thousands who perished under the command of both the Nazis and Vichy France.

See How Lyon Became a Powerhouse in the Silk Trade

The Textile & Decorative Arts Museum takes visitors on a journey through 2,000 years of textile history, offering insight into the social and economic developments that surround it.

The collection tells the story of how Lyon became a world powerhouse in the silk trade during the Renaissance, and features objects such as rare Persian rugs, ornate tapestries, and silks from around Europe.

It also includes a significant collection of medieval and Renaissance-era tapestries as well as an impressive set of antique clocks. There's even a modern collection of decorative items that show how tastes and materials evolved following the Industrial Revolution and through to the contemporary period.

Learn About Some of Lyon's Most Famous Residents: The Lumière Brothers

Wikimedia Commons/Public domain 

If you're surprised to learn that Lyon boasts two museums dedicated to cinema history, you shouldn't be. The famous Lumière brothers —Lyon natives—were pioneers in filmmaking techniques and technology, and were credited with producing the very first (short) moving pictures. As such, the city is proud of its contributions to the history of the "seventh art".

Lumière villa is certainly off the beaten path, but it's worth a detour for its striking 19th-century building and surrounding gardens alone. Inside, you'll find an intriguing collection of artifacts related to the Lumière brothers' filmmaking breakthroughs, as well to the history of movies in general.

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. "Cathedral Sint Jean Baptiste in Sint Jean District (Vieux Lyon); Part of the UNESCO World Heritage."

"Traboule 'Maison (House) des Avocats,' Rue de la Bombarde in Sint Jean District (Vieux Lyon)." United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization.

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15 Top Tourist Attractions in Lyon, France

There’s no doubt that Lyon, France is a beautiful city with much to offer tourists. From its stunning architecture to its fascinating museums, there’s something for everyone in this charming French city.

Here are fifteen of the top tourist attractions in Lyon, France.

1. Vieux Lyon

Looking for a fun night out on the town? Marseille’s vibrant nightlife scene has something for everyone! From chic rooftop bars with stunning views of the city to cozy wine bars and lively clubs, you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy yourself in the wee hours.

And with Marseille’s Mediterranean climate, you can enjoy al fresco drinks and dancing all year round! Ready to hit the town? Here are some of our favorite spots for a night out in Marseille. Cheers!

Address: Vieux Lyon69005 Lyon, France

For pictures, booking, and more information, click here .

2. The Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière

The Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière is the most popular tourist attraction in Lyon, France. Over two million people visit the basilica each year.

The basilica was built in 1884 and is located on top of Fourvière Hill. The basilica is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and has two towers that are each over 150 feet tall.

The interior of the basilica is decorated with mosaics, stained glass windows, and sculptures. The Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière is a beautiful example of French architecture and is a must-see for anyone visiting Lyon.

Address: 8 Pl. de Fourvière, 69005 Lyon, France

3. The Place Bellecour

The Place Bellecour is a large public square located in the center of Lyon, France. It is the largest pedestrian-only square in Europe and is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike.

The square is surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and shops, and is also home to a several important monuments, including the statue of King Louis XIV. Every year, the square plays host to some events and festivals, making it one of the most popular tourist attractions in Lyon.

Whether you’re looking to enjoy some local culture or simply relax in a beautiful setting, Place Bellecour is sure to please.

Address: Place Bellecour Entre La Saône et Le Rhône, 69002 Lyon France

4. The Croix-Rousse District

Lyon is a beautiful city in France that is full of history and culture. One of the most popular tourist attractions in Lyon is the Croix-Rousse district. This district is located on a hill and is known for its cobbled streets and unique architecture.

The district is also home to many museums, art galleries, and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy the view of the city from the top of the hill, or take a stroll through the cobbled streets and explore the shops and cafes.

There is something for everyone in the Croix-Rousse district, making it one of the top tourist attractions in Lyon.

Address: Pentes de la Croix Rousse 69001 Lyon, France

5. The Confluence District

The Confluence District is the newest and most exciting tourist destination in Lyon, France. Located at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône Rivers, the district is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Visitors can explore the area on foot or by bike, and there is even a riverboat that takes tourists on a tour of the district. The Confluence District is also home to some museums, including the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Museum of Fine Arts.

In addition, the district is home to several parks and public squares, making it the perfect place to relax after a day of sightseeing. With its convenient location and variety of things to see and do, the Confluence District is sure to be one of the most popular tourist destinations in Lyon.

Address: 112 Cr Charlemagne, 69002 Lyon, France

6. The Parc de la Tête d’Or

The Parc de la Tête d’Or is the number one tourist attraction in Lyon, France. This gorgeous park is home to over 100 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, a zoo, a lake, and a botanical garden.

The Parc de la Tête d’Or is a great place to spend a day outdoors with family and friends. There are plenty of things to see and do, and the park is incredibly well-maintained. Visitors can take a stroll through the gardens, feed the ducks at the lake, or explore the many exhibits at the zoo. The Parc de la Tête d’Or is a must-see for anyone visiting Lyon.

Address: Place Général Leclerc, 69006 Lyon France

7. The Saint-Jean District

The Saint-Jean District is the top tourist attraction in Lyon, France. This bustling district is home to a number of historic landmarks, including the Basilique de Notre-Dame de Fourvière, the Parc de la Tête d’Or, and the Hôtel-Dieu de Lyon.

Visitors will also find a variety of shops and restaurants to explore. The district is easily accessible by public transportation, making it the perfect place to start your Lyon adventure.

Address: Rue Saint-Jean, 69005 Lyon France

8. The Saint-Paul District

The Saint-Paul district in Lyon is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city. The district is home to some historical landmarks and attractions, including the Cathedral of Saint-Jean, the Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière, and the Parc de la Tête d’Or.

In addition to its many architectural wonders, the Saint-Paul district also offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can stroll through the cobbled streets and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this unique area.

Whether you’re looking for history, culture, or simply a place to relax, the Saint-Paul district is sure to have something for you.

9. The Jean Moulin Museum

The Jean Moulin Museum is the top tourist attraction in Lyon, France. The museum tells the story of the city’s resistance movement during World War II, and it is housed in the former Gestapo headquarters.

Visitors can see artifacts from the resistance, including personal items belonging to Jean Moulin, the leader of the movement. The museum also has interactive exhibits that explain the different aspects of the resistance and its importance in liberating France from Nazi occupation.

The Jean Moulin Museum is an essential stop for anyone interested in World War II history, and it provides a fascinating look at one of the most important episodes in French history.

Address: Place Gouailhardou, 69300 Caluire et Cuire France

10. The Resistance and Deportation Museum

The Resistance and Deportation Museum is one of the top tourist attractions in Lyon, France. The museum tells the story of the French Resistance during World War II and the deportations of Jews from France to Nazi concentration camps.

The museum is located in the former Gestapo headquarters in Lyon, and it features exhibits on the Resistance movement, the Holocaust, and the deportation of Jews from France. The museum also has a memorial garden dedicated to the victims of the Holocaust.

The Resistance and Deportation Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in learning about this dark period in history.

Address: 14 Av. Berthelot, 69007 Lyon, France

11. The Silk Industry Museum

The Silk Industry Museum in Lyon is a top tourist attraction for some reasons. For one, it offers a fascinating look at the city’s centuries-old silk industry. Visitors can see how silk was produced and learn about the different techniques that were used.

The museum also houses a collection of historic looms, and there are often demonstrations of weaving and other textile-related crafts. In addition, the Silk Industry Museum is located in one of Lyon’s most beautiful buildings, the former home of a wealthy silk merchant.

The building itself is worth a visit, and the museum’s gardens are also popular with tourists. With its rich history and beautiful setting, it’s no wonder that the Silk Industry Museum is one of Lyon’s top tourist attractions.

Address: 10 Rue d’Ivry, 69004 Lyon, France

12. The Chocolate Museum

The Chocolate Museum in Lyon is one of the top tourist attractions in the city. The museum is dedicated to the history and production of chocolate, and it features a variety of interactive exhibits. Visitors can learn about the origins of chocolate and see how it is made.

They can also watch a short film about the history of chocolate production in Lyon. In addition, the museum offers a variety of classes and workshops. These include classes on how to make chocolate at home, as well as how to temper chocolate and make different types of chocolate confections.

The museum also has a shop where visitors can purchase chocolate-related items, such as books, kitchenware, and even clothing.

Address: 324 All. des Frènes, 69760 Limonest, France

13. The Cité Internationale des Arts

The Cité Internationale des Arts is a top tourist attraction in the city of Lyon, France. The citadel was built in the late 18th century to house the city’s garrison, and it now houses some museums and art galleries.

The citadel is located on a hilltop, and it offers stunning views of the city below. Visitors can explore the museums and galleries, or simply enjoy the view from the citadel walls. The Cité Internationale des Arts is a must-see for any visitor to Lyon.

Address: 18 Rue de l’Hôtel de ville, 75004 Paris, France

14. Lyon City Hall

The City Hall of Lyon is the top tourist attraction in Lyon, France, according to recent studies. The majestic building, which dates back to the 16th century, is a sight to behold, with its ornate facade and grandiose interior.

Visitors can explore the building’s many rooms, including the sumptuous Council Chamber and the opulent Mayor’s Office. The City Hall also houses a museum, which chronicles the history of Lyon from its Roman origins to the present day.

With its rich history and beautiful architecture, it’s no wonder that the City Hall of Lyon is one of the most popular tourist destinations in France.

Address: 1 Pl. de la Comédie, 69001 Lyon, France

15. The Grande Synagogue

The Grande Synagogue in Lyon is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. Built in 1894, the synagogue is an imposing structure with a large central dome and two smaller side wings. The interior of the synagogue is just as impressive as the exterior, with an elaborately decorated main hall and a beautiful ark that contains the Torah scrolls.

The synagogue also has a museum that chronicles the history of the Jewish community in Lyon. Visitors can learn about the community’s origins in the Middle Ages, as well as its experience during the Holocaust.

The Grande Synagogue is a powerful reminder of Lyon’s rich history and culture, and it is worth a visit for anyone interested in learning more about this vibrant city.

Address: 44 rue de la Victoire – 75009 Paris

The best way to explore the city is by staying in one of the many cheap hotels in Lyon . This will allow you to have more money to spend on enjoying all that Lyon has to offer. From the beautiful architecture to the amazing restaurants, there is something for everyone in this city. If you’re looking to spoil yourself rotten, then consider staying in one of the luxury hotels in Lyon , these accommodations offer world-class facilities and impeccable service. So why not treat yourself and your loved ones to a few nights in paradise?

In conclusion

There is no doubt that Lyon is a city with a rich history and culture. From the Silk Industry Museum to the Grande Synagogue, there are a variety of tourist attractions that offer visitors a glimpse into the past.

With its beautiful setting and diverse attractions, Lyon is a city worth visiting.

We are here out of a desire to help and of course out of a great love for France. Our goal is to help you find everything you are looking for under one roof, to get the most out of your vacation in France, without having to travel all over the web.

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32 Best & Fun Things to Do in Lyon (France)

Aside being known as the third-largest city in France, Lyon is also known for its richness in architecture, history, and fine dishes.

Lyon, regarded as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has a very long history in producing and weaving silk.

One of the fun things to do in Lyon is visiting and exploring the Traboules, which is a means wherewith the silk are transported.

You will also love to explore other attraction spots in Lyon like the historic sites in Vieux Lyon, the Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon, the museums, and amphitheaters in Fourvière.

Also, check out the art in the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, the street art and markets all located in La Crioxe-Rousse.

Let’s look at some of the best things to do in Lyon during a visit.

Things to Do in Lyon, France.

1. basilica of notre-dame de fourvière.

A visit to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière should not be missing in your checklist of things to do in Lyon.

Constructed in the 1880s, the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, she is said to be the one who saved the city of Lyon from several terrible situations.

Some of these situations include the bubonic plague that killed many in Europe in 1643, the cholera epidemic in 1832, and the Prussian invasion which happened in 1870.

Thus, the church was built as a place where people can come to reverence her.

If you visit Lyon in December, during the Fête see Lumières – the Festival of Lights, you will love how the church lights up the city.

Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is built at the top of Fourvière Hill and is regarded as both a historical landmark and a symbol of Lyon.

The church offers guided tours, while you are there, you will learn more about this beautiful place of worship.

Address: 8 Place de Fourvière, 69005 Lyon, France.

2. Explore Fourvière

A visit to Fourvière in Lyon is like traveling back to the time of the Roman era.

It’s worth noting that Fourvière was the city center of what is called Lyon today when it was founded by the Romans.

Fourvière is filled with so much wonder, another interesting place worth exploring because It shows a unique aspect of Lyon’s history.

You will find several churches in this area with the most popular being the Basilique de Fourvière which can be seen from any part of the city.

You will also find other interesting places like the Ancient Theatre of Fourvière, the Metallic Tower, Eglise Sainte-Irenee, the Gallo-Roman Museum, Eglise Sainte-Just, Parc des Hauteurs and the aqueducr remains.

A visit to Fourvière should be amongst your list of things to do in Lyon.

3. Grand Parc de Miribel-Jonage

A visit to this urban park should be on your list of things to do in Lyon, for it has a lot to offer.

You can enjoy your day there by just relaxing, or you can engage in so many fun activities in the park-like horse riding, bicycle riding, hiking, jogging, picnicking and lots more.

You will find in Grand Parc de Miribel-Jonage, guarded beaches, cafes, numerous picnicking spots, bicycle rentals, and trails.

The recreation park is opened to all, you will love the surrounding which is filled with fauna and flora and has a contrasting landscape that ranges from waterways to dry meadows.

Address: Chemin de la Bletta, Vaulx en Velin, Lyon.

4. Ancient Theatre of Fourvière

Also called the Grand Theatre of Lyon, the Ancient Theatre of Fourviere is located on the hill of Fourvière. It was constructed in 15 BC and its seating capacity is over 10,000 people.

This structure which is one of the oldest structures here was restored in the 20th century after years of deterioration so that it can be usable by her visitors in years to come.

Aside being one of the most visited sites in Lyon, the theatre is also the venue which hosts the Nuits de Fourvière.

Nuits de Fourvière is an annual festival that involves a collection of music, circus, dance, and theatre.

During this festival, visitors come down to Lyon from all over the world, you will be glad you added this to your list of things to do in Lyon.

Address: Musèe Gallo-Romain de Lyon, 17 Rue Cleberg, 69005 Lyon, France.

5. Aquarium de Lyon

Aquarium de Lyon is a public aquarium that can be found right in the heart of Lyon. This aquarium which is home to over 5,000 fishes was opened in 2002.

In the 47 tanks placed in the aquarium, you will find 300 different species whose living environment varies from saltwater to freshwater environment.

You are free to explore the interesting aquarium layouts, even the false shipwrecks and other decorative features that are all fascinating.

Check out the wonderful aquatic animals, study their behavior, you will be amazed on how they play with each other.

Amongst all the exhibits you will find in the aquarium, one you might find most interesting is the “Fosse Aux Requins”.

It is the largest and also the most popular exhibit in the aquarium, and in it you will find stingrays and sharks.

Your little ones will love “The Five Senses” exhibit, for, in this exhibit, they are allowed to hold hermit crabs, sea stars, and certain other fishes.

A visit to the aquarium will give you and your family a fun time in Lyon.

Address: 7 rue Stéphane Déchant, La Mulatière, Lyon, 69350, France.

6. Institut & Musee Lumière

Both an institution and a museum, the Institut & Musee Lumière is focused on the preservation and promotion of French filmmaking.

They are also dedicated to honoring Auguste and Louis Lumière who are known for their many contributions to filmmaking, especially, the invention of cinematography.

The museum is located within the former home of the Lumière family, while the institute is situated in a factory owned by the family not far from the museum.

Some of the things you will find in the museum’s collection includes the Lumière brother’s famous cinematograph, Thomas Edison’s kinetoscope, and the Demeny chronophotograph.

You will find guides at the museum who are ready to give you a wonderful tour guide in French, German, Spanish, Italian, and English.

It is going to be a great tour and this should not be missing on your list of things to do in Lyon.

Address: 25 Rue du Premier Film, 69008 Lyon, France.

7. Lyon City Trek

Lyon City Trek is a great way to walk the city, it doesn’t matter whether you are coming from Vieux Lyon to Croix Rousse or Lyon Confluence to the Fourvière.

You will get to know the city, the land and the people more this way. The tour lasts for so many hours, and all wonderful spot in Lyon will be visited.

There will be occasional stops in restaurants to refresh, eat nice food, and continue.

During the tour, you will explore all that Lyon has to offer, its cuisine, history, sports, fauna, and flora.

All tours are conducted by Patrick Mathon who is also the owner of the company. Patrick Mathon was born and raised in the heart of Lyon, and this makes him the most suited guide for the tour.

17. Parc de la Tete d’Or

Meaning the Park of the Golden Head in English, Parc de la Tete d’Or is a popular place where visitors and locals go to spend the day relaxing with their family and friends.

The park is quite large, It sits on over 117 hectares space which includes a small zoo, a lake, and a jogging park.

Check out this park during your visit to Lyon, you may decide to spend the day riding a boat on the lake or even riding a bike to have a good view of the area.

Other fun activities you may be interested in at this wonderful park include horse riding, playing mini-golf, having a picnic, or going for an evening jog.

Your kids will love the small zoo which is home to animals like the giraffes, deer, reptiles, elephants, and several other animals.

There is also a part in the park dedicated to the Africa plains. In this part, you will find the wetland which serves as home to pelicans, flamingos, and several other species of birds.

9. Le Mur Des Canuts

If you are a lover of artworks, you definitely need to add Le Mur Des Canuts to the list of things to do in Lyon.

Le Mur Des Canuts is a large fresco painting that can be found in Lyon, designed by CitéCréation.

CitéCréation is quite an international painting company, and they have over 670 mural artworks all over the world.

Each of their mural work adds beauty to their surrounding and makes everything around it seem so magical.

The mural works also tell stories of something quite significant in the area where it is drawn.

For instance, in Lyon, you will find Le Mur Des Canuts which tells the story of the silk workers that rebelled against their working conditions in Le Mur Des Canuts.

The mural feels so real, that you can see what life was for the workers when they rebelled.

Address: Boulevard des Canuts, 69004, Lyon, France.

10. Lyon Cathedral

Commonly known as Lyon Cathedral , the Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptists de Lyon, is a Roman Catholic cathedral which is dedicated to Saint John the Baptist.

This cathedral which is also the seat of the Archbishop of Lyon was built between the 12th and the 15th centuries.

It is worth noting that the very spot that Lyon Cathedral is located was once the place where the churches of St. Etienne (St. Stephen) and Ste Croix (Holy Cross) and a baptistery were located.

You can still see the remains of the churches and their structures right next to the cathedral in the archaeological garden.

As you explore the environs, you will come across a stunning 14th-century astronomical clock which at certain times of the day makes sounds, it is a unique combination of angles heralding, chimes, and roosters crowing.

You will be impressed by this clock which is a technological marvel to behold.

Lookout to admire its stained glass windows which were made in the 13th century. You will find it close to the choir section of this Cathedral.

Address: Place Saint-Jean, 69005 Lyon, France.

11. AiroTour

Would you like to know what to do in lyon France for fun, a tour company, AiroTour allows visitors to sign up for a free walking tour in some cities in the world like Lyon.

If you take a tour with this group, most likely to have a fun time during your visit, because they know the best of places and where the fun is at its pick regardless of whether it is local cuisine, religion, or art.

You will learn a lot about the culinary history of Lyon as you take a walk through amazing patisseries or traditional bouchons.

The tour guides are very interesting to be with, for they are skilled in social relations  they know how to keep the group fascinated with the surrounding.

At the end of the tour, you can tip them whatever comes to your heart.

12. Lyon City Boat

The Lyon City Boat is a boat company in Lyon which inaugurated their first boat ride in 1984 on the Saône and Rhône rivers

Today, this company has six luxurious boats and river barges all of which are free to be rented by tourists who desire to explore Lyon uniquely and fascinatingly.

Try the Hermés which is a restaurant boat or the Ville de Lyon, it is a river barge, you will have a memorable vacation experience while you are aboard.

Lyon City Boat is also a great place to hold special events like anniversaries, birthdays, e.t.c.

They also offer private cruises, dinner cruises, and sight-seeing cruises.

Don’t forget to come with a camera, for while you are on this trip, you will surely stumble of wonderful angles that gives extraordinary views of the city.

Address: 13 Bis Quai Rambaud, 69002 Lyon.

13. Lyon Winetours

If what you desire is to tour around Lyon tasting varieties of wine, I will suggest you let Lyon Wintour group lead the way.

Regardless of whether you know less about wines and the fact that it is made from grapes, or whether you are an experienced wine taster, you are going to enjoy this trip.

Firstly, the tour company will drive you through to see some of the famous local vineyards in Lyon.

You will be amazed by the stunning scenery, try to go along with a camera to save the memory.

You will also be taught how to distinguish wines from its taste. There will be time to sample delicious foods with these wines to know which pair is the best.

While you enjoy the various dishes and wines, you will get to appreciate the beauty of Lyon’s environment.

You can request a private tour if you will be staying in Lyon for a long period or if you desire to make the tour intimate.

Your taste bud will thank you for adding this to your list of things to do in Lyon.

14. Musee Miniature et Cinema

Also known as the Miniature and Cinema Musuem, Musee Miniature et Cinema is a private museum established by model Dan Ohlmann.

You will find in this museum special effects exhibits, neat movie props, and miniature everyday scenes.

Aside the founder’s works, you will find in the museum collection works by artists such as Yves Chouard, Michel Perez, and Julien Martinez.

All the museum’s collections are kept in twelve rooms. The collection comprises of life-sized decor, costumes, animatronics, miniature decorations and vehicles, and mask and prostheses.

You will also get to learn so much about digital cinema, stop-motion and 3D animation.

These will get you to appreciate this museum, for it has everything it takes to amaze its visitors.

Address: 60 Rue Saint-Jean, 69005 Lyon, France.

15. The Gallo-Roman Musuem of Lyon Fourviere

Would you love to know what to do in lyon France for art lovers, visit Gallo-Roman Museum of Lyon Fourviere.

Known as Musée Gallo-Romain de Lyon-Fourvière in French, the Gallo-Roman Museum of Lyon Fourviere is a Museum which is dedicated to narrating what happened when Lyon was ruled by Romans centuries ago.

A visit to this Museum is like being taken back to 44 BC during the period when the city was founded by Julius Caesar as Lugdunum.

You will be shown how Lyon flourished and thrived as a capital by showing you a collection of artifacts used in ancient Lyon.

Some of the things you will find in the museum’s extensive collection include sculptures, statues, stunning jewelry, inscription, mosaics, and unique everyday objects.

Try to visit the Museum during one of their many events and activities, for example, the Night of Museums event which allows visitors to spend a night in the museum exploring its exhibits.

Address: 17 Rue Cléberg, 69005, Lyon, France.

16. New Generation Guide

New Generation Guide is a non-conventional tour company that offers guided tours in places like Cluny, Vienne, and Lyon.

These professional guides takes visitors on an English tour, they also make sure that all their visitors have a good time.

This tour will guide you through Old Lyon, and help you discover the architectural wonders of the old city.

In addition to history and architecture, the tour also focuses on food, art, and French heritage.

Its fun to be with the group, if it’s not a private or personalized tour, you will get to meet and make new friends.

There is also an option for a personalised tour if that will suit your vacation style.

Address: 118 Avenue Berthelot, 69007 Lyon, France.

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17. Le Petit Musée de Guignol

The best place to start your exploration when you get to Lyon is the Le Petit Musée de Guignol, a museum where you find puppet exhibits.

They are known to be the masters of puppets in the area, this place makes one of Lyons top attractions and is one of the fun things to see in Lyon France.

Do not miss its basement exhibits, this will give you a fun time, their staffs are the best as they would guide you through the fun this museum has to offer.

Address: 6 Rue Saint-Jean, 69005 Lyon, France.

18. Musée des Beaux Arts de Lyon

Popularly known as the Museum of Fine Arts , Musée des Beaux Arts de Lyon is one of the largest art museums in all of France.

This museum is situated in a building which was built in the 17th century as a convent.

In the museum’s collection, you will find a wide range of arts and antiquities, items gotten from ancient Egypt to Modern Europe.

Some of the exhibits which are most sought after by tourists include that of the 16th to 18th century by artists like Philippe de Champaigne, Jean-Baptist, Greuze and François Voucher as well as sculptures by James and Rodin Pradier.

In the museum do look out for the antiquities department, a department focuses on ancient Egypt and some of the objects found there like the Figurines and the Cases donated by the Musée du Louvre.

Address: 20 Place des Terraux, 69001 Lyon, France.

19. Musée des Confluences

The Musée des Confluences was introduced to Lyon in December 2014, and has become one of the most sought after attractions in Lyon.

Musée des Confluences is a science center and an anthropology museum, which focus on natural science, earth science, and anthropology.

You will find all the exhibits in the museum very interesting regardless of age or origin.

Some of the puzzling questions which the museum tries to answer includes “who we are” and “where do we come from”.

In a bid to answer these question, the museum will take you on a journey which starts from the beginning of the universe, evolution and how we function in the society previously and today.

This museum promises both fun and learning, a visit to the Museum is one of the best things to do in Lyon.

Address: 86 Quai Perrache, 69002 Lyon, France.

20. Place Bellecour

Place Bellecour is a large town square situated in the heart of Lyon.

As it is one of the largest open squares in Europe, it’s not surprising that it is popular amongst locals and tourists.

The square is mostly open to pedestrians, you will find a lot of tourists here.

Aside the fact that it lacks greenery, the square can be easily recognized with the equestrian statue of King Louis XIV made by a sculptor François-Frédéric Lemot.

You will also find a statue of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry sitting in front of the Little Prince, a popular French character.

From the square, you can easily find Lyon Cathedral and popular shopping streets in Lyon.

21. Savor France Food Tour

Would you like to know what to do in Lyon France for food lovers, go on a food tour with Lyon’s Savor France Tour.

In the tour, you will get to visit a lot of reputable restaurants and eateries.

The tour lasts for about four hour, after this period, you will discover that you have not only toured around Lyon tasting the best dishes, but you have also seen most of the beautiful sights in Lyon.

French dishes are one of the best in the world, to crown it all, some of the greatest chefs in France are in Lyon.

The tourist are shared into a small group of visitors, these groups will visit six sweet and savory tastings, five gourmet stops, and two local wine tasting.

You will also be given a book that will help you keep track of the exploration. Some of the foods that Lyon is known for include, chocolates, quenelles, macaroons, and pralines.

22. Traboules du Vieux Lyon

These pathways or Traboules were built in the 4th century and they were the reason why the Germans didn’t take complete control of Lyon in World War II.

Today, this military defense mechanism is now among the many attractions that draw tourists to Lyon.

You are allowed to explore about 40 out of 400 of this pathways that are in existence.

While you are on the pathways, you will encounter buildings, courtyards, staircases, and alleyways. It is one of the best ways to explore historic Lyon and the best thing to do in Lyon if you love history.

One of the most popular Traboules which you will find very interesting can be found in Saint Sensation, this pathway feautures a six-story historic staircase.

23. Planetarium de Vaulx en Velin

Planetarium de Vaulx en Velin is a planetarium located in the metropolis of Lyon, filled with interactive attractions, astronomy exhibitions, and work programs for all ages.

You will find the planetarium amazing for there is so much to do and to see there.

Some of the activities you may love to partake in includes visiting one of the astrophysics exhibitions, sitting for an astronomy session, or participating in a course where you learn about the outer space.

The planetarium tries to answer drugging questions such as how the sun came into existence.

All visitors will find the planetarium fun and adventurous because it gives new ways to explore the universe.

Address: Place de la Nation, 69120 Vaulx-en-Velin, France.

24. Plum Lyon Teaching Kitchen

Plum Lyon Teaching Kitchen is a school that teaches her students how to make delicious delicacies.

They offer a variety of classes such as children’s cooking workshops, seasonal market classes, classic French cooking courses, and so many others.

In this school, you will learn different techniques and themes on how to make French dishes.

Classes are divided into small groups, each group is led by an experienced chef as they aim to give each individual the necessary attention needed.

You will also be thought how to select the best groceries as you tour the markets.

The techniques for cooking French meals which they teach were passed down from generation to generation. You will also learn how to pair these classic meals with a delicious glass of wine.

Address: 49 Rue des Tables Claudiennes, 69001, Lyon, France.

25. Explore Vieux Lyon

Interpreted as “Old Lyon” in English, Vieux Lyon is the oldest and the largest Renaissance district.

This is one of France’s most important cultural sites, Vieux Lyon is divided into Saint-Jean, Saint Paul and Saint Georges.

Each of these sections represents a different aspect of Lyon’s past, for instance, in the 16th century, there was the political and religious power, between the silk weavers, and the Italian banker merchants that made the city wealthy.

Some of the places you will be interested to explore in this district include buildings in the Rue de Boeuf, Lyon Cathedral, and Gare Saint Paul.

26. Presqu’île

Presqu’île is a finger of land which is located between Saône and Rhône. It is made by a group of people in a humungous 18th-century urban engineering project.

The purpose of the project was to drain marshes and connect what was once an island to the nearby dry land.

Presqu’île is one of the most lively spot in the city, a district where you will find 19th-century architectures, cafes, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, cultural institutions, wide places, and shops.

You will also find the city hall and Lyon’s opera house as well as superb restaurants such as Rue Mercière.

If you are in Lyon for some shopping, I suggest you start from the Rue de la Républoque which is accessible to pedestrians, the market there has all you need.

27. Musée Gadagne

The building consists of four floors which contains 30 rooms where you will find 80,000 items that dates between the medieval times and the middle of the 19th-century.

You will find the map and the sketches of Lyon and how it has changed over time in this museum. You will also find maps which shows the city’s landmarks and how they were built.

The museum will also educate you on the role the silk industry played in the 1500s and 1600s which in turn made the city what it is today.

28. Lyon’s Murals

One of the reasons you should explore Lyon is its murals, this exploration brings a lot of things to see in Lyon and gives an answer to what to do in Lyon France for some art appreciation time.

There are over 100 large paintings on the walls of this city, you can’t miss them as you tour around the city in both social housing and working-class area.

You can let them be your guide around the city.

États-Unis see to some of these drawings, You will find 25 murals in this outdoor museum in that area.

Most of these metals were painted during the 80s in memory of the architect Tony Garnier who planned the district in the 20s.

There are in Fresque des Lyonnais murals, 24 historical figures, and six Contemporary people relevant to the city.

Check out also for Lyon’s original fresco “The Canuts Mural” which tells the history of the Croix-Rousse neighborhood, this mural is updated every ten years.

29. Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse

Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse is a food market which is named after one of France’s culinary giants in France’s capital of cuisine.

You will get nothing but quality for anything you pay for in this market.

Some of the things brought to the market by the food merchants include charcuterie, meat, fruit, vegetables, and cheese, It is a foodies dreamland.

You will also find in the same complex several restaurant which serve some of the best lunch meals.

If you want an already prepared meal or would you like to prepare it yourself, this market is a place to visit.

The market is best visited in the morning before stalls close down for lunch.

30. Rainbow Stairs of Rue Prunelle

You will find the Rainbow Stairs in La Crouix Roused district, Its sight can’t be missed for they are peculiar and easy to spot, this is one of the top Lyon tourist attractions and makes one of the best things to see in Lyon France.

The stairs have been in existence for decades now, but the rainbow colors were added in 2015 by the artist Genaro Lopez.

Genaro got the inspiration to draw on the stairs from what he saw in South America and the art of Mondrian, you will be amazed by this work of art.

Address: Rue Prunelle, 69001 Lyon, France

31. Jardin Rosa Mir

Also called Rosa Mir garden, Jardin Rosa Mir is located in La Crioxe-Rousse district, this makes one of the things to see in Lyon during your visit here.

This mosaic garden was created by Jules Senis who was a tiler and a bricklayer who created this impressive artwork between 1957 and 1977.

Jardin Rosa Mir has many-layered structures that make the flower border and beds. The place is quite beautiful, don’t forget to come with a camera as there are quite some pretty spots to capture

You will be asked to pay an entrance fee before you enter, but be rest assured that the little you will be asked to pay is worth it.

32. L’Horloge de Guignol (Horloge Charvet)

The great timepiece maker, Charvet created this clock and installed it in the city during the end of the 19th-century.

Though the clock has stopped functioning due to lack of repairs and renovations, visiting this clock and examining its design is one of the best things to do in Lyon.

Plan a Trip to Lyon

Lyon has all it takes to both amaze and impress it’s visitors, you won’t regret visiting this wonderful city.

This is a place to visit for fun explorations, Lyon have lots of fun attractions and activities for everyone, make your itinerary on activities you would like to engage in as well as places to visit.

This guide will help you make a perfect plan on things to do in Lyon during  your visit. start planning your trip today, before your trip, check-in with your travel agent to check for reservation as well as booking tours.

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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21 Best Things To Do In Lyon, France

If you are looking for the best things to do in Lyon , you have come to the right place! From historical to fun activities, Lyon has them all.

Lyon is a vibrant and dynamic city in the southeast of France known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delectable cuisine.

The city’s lively cultural scene draws people from all over the world, with its many museums, galleries, and theaters offering a wide range of artistic and cultural experiences.

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In addition to these cultural attractions, Lyon is notable for its gastronomy. After all, it’s referred to as the gastronomical capital of France.

Lyon is truly a foodie’s paradise, from exquisite fine dining and various Bouchon Lyonnais to bustling open-air markets showcasing fresh local produce.

If you need more convincing, here are the 21 best things to do in Lyon that prove that Lyon is indeed one of the most beautiful cities in France .

Before You Go, Here Are Some Quick Practical Tips For Planning Your Trip To Lyon

– Book your accommodation in advance. For the best stay, I suggest staying at  Hôtel Vaubecour  (8.8/10) if you’re on a budget,  Hôtel de l’Abbaye – Lyon  (9.0/10) if you’re on a mid-range budget, or  InterContinental Lyon – Hotel Dieu, an IHG Hotel  (9.1/10) for a luxurious stay. If you’d rather book an apartment,  this is the apartment rental (8.3/10) I recommend. – Don’t miss out on popular tours and activities in Lyon. Some of my favorites are; this Lyon sightseeing river cruise (4.5/5), this hop-on hop-off bus of Lyon with stops at most of the famous attractions (4.3/5), this food tasting tour of Lyon (4.8/5) , and this  private guided walking tour of the old town of Lyon (4.4/5). – Don’t forget to take Travel Insurance.  Request a free quote from World Nomads . – To get the most out of your visit, I recommend  buying this Lyon city card . It will give you free access to popular attractions in the city, free public transportation, and a cruise on the river. With this card, you’ll not only save money but also time.

Fun Things to Do in Lyon, France

From charming neighborhoods to museums and parks, here are the best places to visit in Lyon plus fun things to do.

1. Spend an afternoon in Parc de la Tete d’Or

Parc de la Tete d’Or is the perfect place to spend an afternoon. With over 100 hectares (250 acres) of space, this sprawling park is the largest in Lyon.

The park boasts beautiful gardens filled with fragrant flowers, unique plants, greenhouses, and plenty of open green spaces where you can kick back and unwind.

There are also several children’s playgrounds and facilities like sporting fields and tennis courts which are perfect for keeping active. You can even rent a bike and bike around the park.

Along with popular attractions like the zoo which is free to enter and houses various animals, there’s also a lake where you can rent a rowing boat or take a scenic boat ride to fully take in the park’s beauty.

Undoubtedly, this is one of the best places to visit in Lyon especially if you want to relax and unwind.

You can also choose to book this Parc Tête d’Or Bike Tour to go with a friendly tour guide to show you around the park while telling you some facts about the city.

2. Meander through the historic Vieux Lyon

Vieux Lyon (Old Town of Lyon) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest Renaissance districts of Lyon.

This historic neighborhood is filled with narrow cobblestone streets, quaint alleyways, and beautiful 16th-century architecture.

There are plenty of things to see and do in Vieux Lyon! From admiring the great stained-glass windows of Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste (Lyon Cathedral) to exploring its Traboules .

For a real taste of Lyon’s history, visit the Musee Gadagne , a museum about puppets housed in two Renaissance mansions.

You’ll also find many shops that sell souvenirs and locally-made products if you’re looking for something to take back home, plus a number of cute cafes and Bouchon Lyonnais for traditional dishes.

If you want to learn more history about the old town and even see the hidden Traboules, I recommend booking this Vieux Lyon private guided tour .

Looking for more fun things to do in Lyon? You can check out my recommended tours and activities in the widget below all offered by my favorite tour provider, GetYourGuide.

3. Discover Théâtre Gallo Romain de Lyon-Fourvière

Amongst the many things you must see in Lyon, the Gallo-Roman ruins should be on your list. Located on the Fourviere Hill, the ruins are some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in Europe.

The Gallo-Roman Amphitheatre dates back to 15 BC and it was constructed to host theatre plays with a seating capacity of over 10,000 people.

Today, it is enlisted as a UNESCO heritage site, and it’s not uncommon to find locals and tourists picnicking on its steps.

The best part about this activity is that it won’t cost you a dime because the entrance is free!

And if you visit Lyon in summer, you’ll be able to see this landmark in action with its intended use as it hosts the annual Nuits de Fourvière , a festival focusing on music, dance, film, and theatre.

There are also the ruins of the Roman bath complex that are worth exploring before leaving the Fourvière hill.

4. Stroll Through Place Bellecour

If you’re looking for things to do in Lyon city center, look no further than Place Bellecour .

This historic public square is the largest in Lyon and the largest pedestrian square in Europe. As you stroll through this vibrant area, take a moment to admire the iconic statue of King Louis XIV on horseback erected in 1815.

After exploring all that Place Bellecour has to offer, why not walk over to one of the nearby shops or cafes and soak up the energy of the lively crowds?

Or simply sit back and watch people pass by from one of the many outdoor seating areas — a perfect way to experience the unique atmosphere of this enchanting city.

And if you need more clarification about the city, the Lyon tourist office is right in this square.

Place Bellecour is particularly beautiful at night when all the nearby buildings and street lights are lit up.

5. Admire the Architecture of Hotel de Ville and Bartholdi Fountain At Place Des Terreaux

Place des Terreaux is a beautiful square in the center of Lyon, France, that stands as a stunning testament to the city’s rich architectural heritage.

The square is dominated by an ornate building of Hotel de Ville , built in the Baroque style almost 500 years ago.

Flanked by towering columns and exquisite carvings, this historic landmark has become synonymous with Place des Terreaux. It serves as a focal point for visitors.

In addition to its impressive architecture, Place des Terreaux is also home to several other iconic elements and one that can’t be missed is the Bartholdi Fountain .

This majestic fountain is huge with perfectly carved details and water spouts that never seem to run dry.

Head to Place des Terreaux to admire the architectural beauty of both these landmarks, take pictures, or simply people-watch in one of the popular squares of Lyon.

6. Hunt for the Murals of Lyon

If you’re wondering what to see in Lyon, the city’s incredible murals (fresques) are an excellent place to start.

With more than 150 large-scale murals scattered across the city, there is no shortage of eye-catching pieces to discover.

One particularly striking mural in the Croix-Rousse district is the Mur des Canuts (The Wall of the Canuts).

This enormous work depicts scenes from the neighborhood’s people in strikingly realistic detail. It is believed to be the largest fresco in Europe.

Other well-known murals can be found along the side of buildings, on walls, and under bridges throughout Lyon.

Others that can’t be missed include the popular La Fresque des Lyonnais , a large mural that highlights popular French people who have made an impact on Lyon.

So, whether you’re admiring the intricate designs of Lyon’s street art or simply enjoying the colorful displays, keep your eyes peeled for these fantastic murals!

7. Watch a Show at the Lyon Opera House

The Opera House is one of the most famous places in Lyon. Its magnificent architecture and grand hall are lined with ornate details.

The theater has been at the forefront of the city’s cultural scene since it opened its doors in 1831 and continues to host some of the world’s most talented performers.

If you’re lucky enough to be in Lyon when a show takes place, don’t miss out on the opportunity to see a performance at this iconic venue.

Even if there’s not a show during your visit, you can still admire the building’s beautiful exterior and explore the historic theater district surrounding it.

There is also a guided tour of the Opera house that takes you behind the scenes of the new all-black modernized theatre while giving you detailed info on what the designer wanted to portray by converting it into a modern facility inside that retained its old charm outside — except for its unique and easily recognizable roof.

If you purchase this Lyon city card , you can book this tour for free.

8. Admire art at Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon

Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon or The museum of fine Arts of Lyon is a renowned European art museum boasting a collection of pieces from the Middle Ages to modern times. If you appreciate art, this museum is worth a visit.

The museum has 70 galleries, and highlights of the collection include works by well-known artists such as Rembrandt, Poussin, and Picasso. However, the museum also features some lesser-known pieces that are equally as impressive.

With so much to see, you could easily spend an entire day exploring the Musee des Beaux-Arts.

But even if you only have a few hours, the museum is one of the best tourist attractions in Lyon not to miss.

If you purchase this Lyon city card , you’ll be able to visit this museum for free.

9. Take a Cruise on the Saône River

If you’re pondering what to do in Lyon, France, a cruise on the Saône River is an excellent choice.

This scenic route offers stunning views of the city’s beautiful architecture and allows you to soak up some local culture.

During your cruise, you’ll see some of Lyon’s most popular attractions, including grand landmarks like the La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière, Vieux Lyon, and more.

In addition, your guide will share interesting facts about the city and its history, helping you better understand this fascinating destination.

Many companies offer cruises but the one I recommend is this one . It is fairy-priced yet informational and you see the highlight of Lyon.

But if you want to take your experience to the next level, you can book this 2.5 hours dinner river cruise which comes with a 3-course meal.

10. Tour The Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière

The Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière is an iconic landmark and is one of the best places to see in Lyon.

This majestic basilica is perched on the hill of Fourvière overlooking the entire city. A symbol of Lyon, its 4 towers can be seen from miles away.

In fact, as you enter the city of Lyon, regardless of where you’re coming from, this basilica will be the first thing you see soaring through the skies.

While the Basilica’s exterior architecture is impressive, it’s the interior that stands out.

The walls and ceilings are covered in stunning mosaics that truly make it a masterpiece. Every inch is as stunning as the previous.

11. Climb to the Top of the Basilica

While just visiting inside the Basilica is rewarding, the highlight of visiting this hill is climbing the basilica which can only be done on a guided tour.

Through a private entrance, you’ll climb to the top of the Basilica and on your way, you’ll admire the ceiling, the sculptures, and the mosaic up close — an experience that is truly out of this world.

You’ll also go behind the scenes to see the architect’s office, and some of his sketches all while learning more about the architecture of the basilica from a knowledgeable guide.

But the highlight of this climb is the 360-degree view of Lyon you get. The entire city will be like it’s at your feet. You’ll also be able to see the bells in the bell tower, see the roof of the basilica up close, and everything in between.

It’s truly an extraordinary experience and if you have to do just one thing in Lyon, let it be visiting and climbing the Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière.

There’s no better way to comprehend this city’s thriving culture and history than by witnessing the beauty and splendor of Notre Dame de Fourviere for yourself.

Purchase this Lyon city card to be able to go on a guided tour of the Basilica for free.

12. Visit Musée Des Confluences

Musée des Confluences is undoubtedly a place you should put on your itinerary if you’re looking for unique tourist places in Lyon, France.

The museum is in an ultra-modern building resembling a ship made of glass and steel.

This futuristic museum is dedicated to anthropology and explores what it means to be human from a scientific and cultural perspective.

You’ll also be able to see different types of animals, birds, fossils, Dinosaurs skeletons, and many rare species to fully understand the evolution of life.

And if you make your way to the rooftop terrace of the building, you’ll be able to enjoy a stunning view of the river.

With interactive exhibits and thought-provoking displays, the Musée des Confluences is one of the most exciting places to visit in Lyon.

But before you go, make sure you purchase this skip-the-line ticket to Musée des Confluences to avoid long lines. However, if you have this Lyon city card , a visit to this museum will be free.

13. Sample Lyon’s Gastronomic Specialties

Lyon is known as the gastronomic capital of France, so it would be a mistake not to enjoy some of the city’s culinary delights during your visit.

There are countless restaurants to choose from especially the famous Bouchon Lyonnais , but if you want to sample Lyon’s most iconic dish, look for a place that serves Quenelles .

These poached dumplings are usually made with pike fish and served in a creamy sauce.

Other Lyon specialties include Andouillette (a sausage made with pork intestine), Bugnes de Lyon (fried dough balls coated in sugar), Oeufs en Meurette  (poached eggs in red wine sauce), Salade Lyonnaise , and many others.

Of course, no meal in Lyon would be complete without their local wine. Beaujolais and Cotes du Rhone are both excellent choices.

Alternatively, you can go for this guided food tour of Lyon to taste various Lyonnais dishes.

On this tour, you’ll taste over 18 different types of French foods in the beautiful old town of Lyon while learning more history about the city and its food.

14. Relax in Parc De Gerland

Parc De Gerland is a perfect choice if you’re looking for a relaxing escape in the beautiful city of Lyon.

This sprawling 80-hectare park (200 acres) is located on the banks of Rhône River and harbors over 300 plants, including fragrant water lilies and towering trees.

For the adventurous ones, you can try skating at its indoor or outdoor skate park or explore Megaphorbiaie, a world-renowned botanical garden.

You can carry a picnic to enjoy with the entire family or watch kids play in the children’s playground.

15. Bike Along The Rhône River

After a day of chilling in Parc De Gerland, you can wind up your day riding a bicycle along the Rhone River.

This is a lovely way to experience Lyon’s incredible scenery and get some exercise at the same time.

You can either go solo by just renting a city bike or join one of many organized cycling tours available in Lyon. If you opt for the latter, this is the Lyon biking tour I recommend joining .

This tour will not only take you along the banks of Rhône but also through Bellecour Square, and more places. Plus, the tour is on an electric bike so you don’t have to be in good biking shape.

16. Explore the La Croix-Rousse District

Famous for its production of silk (from the 16th-20th century), La Croix-Rousse is one of Lyon’s most artistic and charming districts.

Wander through its narrow, cobbled streets lined with quaint shops and stop to admire the colorful murals that adorn many of the buildings, in particular La Mur des Canuts .

Local artists painted these murals to bring attention to the plight of La Croix-Rousse’s silk workers during the 19th century.

Make sure to also visit the Marché alimentairede la Croix-Rousse . In this large covered market, you can find a tempting array of fresh produce, cheeses, bread, and other delicious food items.

And since Croix-Rousse is located on a hill, you’ll be able to enjoy views of Lyon, particularly from Place Rouville .

While still in the area, explore some of its hidden Traboules to fully understand how locals used to live in the olden years.

17. Take Instagram Photos on the Rainbow Stairs of Lyon

Before leaving Croix-Rousse, look for the colorful steps commonly known as the Rainbow stairs that have become a hit among Instagrammers — at least those who know about them as they’re still unknown to tourists.

Since the rainbow steps are near several schools, it’s not uncommon to find a number of students seated on them.

So, if you want a good colorful photo without people in them, you’ll have to go at the time when either kids are in class or early in the morning or in the evening.

18. Visit Lugdunum Museum

If you are interested in learning more about ancient Roman culture, visiting the Lugdunum Museum formerly known as the Gallo-Roman Museum of Lyon is a must.

Located on the foot of Fourvière Hill, this fascinating museum houses an extensive collection of Roman artifacts from centuries past.

The most notable of these is the Gallic calendar , one of the most comprehensive documents in the Celtic language.

This remarkable artifact provides a unique glimpse into life in ancient Gaul. It brings us closer to understanding this little-known aspect of Roman history.

And if you’re looking for even more ancient treasures, be sure to check out the famous Lyon Tablet , which beautifully preserves and reproduces in bronze Emperor Claudius’ moving speech urging the Gallic people to participate in Roman politics.

19. Take in The Beuty of the Lyon Cathedral

The Lyon Cathedral or Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Lyon is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Construction began in the 12th century but wasn’t completed until the 14th century.

The Cathedral has stunning exterior and interior features, such as intricate stone carvings and beautiful stained glass windows.

Be sure to also see the two crosses on either side of the altar, which have been preserved since 1274.

And don’t forget to take a peek at the Astrolabe Clock, a fascinating astronomical clock built in the 14th century. Consequently, the Cathedral is one of the best tourist places in Lyon, France, to visit.

20. Take in the View of Lyon From Pencil Tower

There are plenty of tourist attractions in Lyon, but non quite like the Pencil Tower , or Tour Part-Dieu as known officially.

This unique structure was built in 1977 and is currently the second tallest building in Lyon, standing at an impressive 165 meters tall (541 feet).

The tower gets its nickname from its resemblance to a pencil and is sure to be one of the most memorable highlights of your trip.

Take the elevator to the restaurant on the 32nd floor for the best views of Lyon. There is also a hotel on the 33rd floor if you want to sleep on top of the city — literally.

This is one of the best things to do in Lyon, France especially if you’re looking for unique photo opportunities.

21. Look for Traboules in Lyon

Lyon is famous for having a number of Traboules and one fun thing to do in the city is hunting for them.

If you’re wondering what Traboules are, these are small passages usually hidden that used to (still do) connect the courtyard to the main streets.

They are mostly found in Vieux Lyon and in Croix-Rousse. A number of them are free to visit, you just have to know where to find them.

You can try looking for them on your own since there is always a note on the walls if there is a Traboule in that particular spot or join this guided tour of the old town of Lyon to see some of them.

Final Thoughts on What to Do in Lyon, France

Whether you’re into art, or food, or prefer taking it slowly, there is truly something for everyone in this beautiful city, as evident from this list of things to do in Lyon.

Spend some time exploring the charming La Croix-Rousse district or take in the awe-inspiring architecture of the Lyon Cathedral and the La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvièr.

Regardless of how you choose to spend your time, you can be assured of having a fantastic time in Lyon.

Check out these posts to help you plan your trip to France

• Big mistakes to avoid in Paris
• The most famous landmarks in France
• Best things to do in Paris
• The most beautiful Castles in France
• Hidden gems to visit in Paris
• Most beautiful beaches in the South of France
• Best places to visit in France in the Fall
• Beautiful places to visit in France in spring
• Best water parks in France

Was this post on the best things to do in Lyon, France helpful? Then please consider sharing it with others.

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The Top 13 THINGS TO DO in LYON in 2024

Erica Forster Last Updated: October 26, 2023

Despite being the third-largest city in France, too many tourists bypass Lyon. Read on to find out why this city is seriously underrated, and why you need to add it to your bucket list!

The Best Things To Do in Lyon

Lyon is a fantastic city to visit and offers a great blend of history and modernity. This is the ideal destination for foodies, as Lyon is most famous for its cuisine and is commonly referred to as the Gastronomic Capital of the World. Chefs from around the planet come to Lyon to train and open their own restaurants.

Beyond the food, Lyon has plenty of things to see and do. Interesting museums, monuments, and history provide something for every kind of traveler. If you’re able to, we’d recommend three days to really discover all the ins and outs of Lyon. Read on to discover why this is one of our favorite French cities!

13. Experience La Fête des Lumières

The Festival of Lights is an incredible annual event and doesn’t rank higher on our list solely because it only happens at a specific time of year. This tradition started all the way back in 1852, when the residents of Lyon placed candles in colored glasses on their window sills to celebrate the installation of a statue of the Virgin Mary on the Fourvière Hill. The city was covered in a magical array of lights, and ever since that night, light has held a special place in the identity and culture of Lyon.

Nowadays, for four nights every year around December 8th, the city celebrates La Fête des Lumières. Buildings, parks, squares, and streets are lit up all around Lyon with various artists’ illuminations. Some light structures are interactive while others might display poetry or be accompanied by music. The majority have a fascinating light display with moving and alternating images. If you’re planning on going to France in early December, you should seriously consider going to Lyon for La Fête des Lumières.

12. Check out Place Bellecour

This immense square is the largest pedestrian square in Europe and a real sight to behold. At first glance, Place Bellecour might seem a bit empty, as there’s no greenery to be found. There’s plenty of restaurants and cafés around, though, as well as a statue of King Louis XIV. A Ferris wheel is set up in the square for a large part of the year, and an ice rink pops up in winter. From the square, you’ll also have a great view of the city’s hilltop basilica. We recommend strolling through here at night when the square is illuminated and takes on a totally different ambiance.

11. Get in touch with your artsy side

The Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des Beaux-Arts) is one of the best museums in Lyon, and a must for art lovers. It’s the largest Fine Arts Museum in France after the Louvre! The museum’s building is a former 17th-century abbey and has a beautiful courtyard.

Sculptures and paintings featured in the museum date from the 14th to the 20th centuries. Visitors can admire the work of well-known artists such as Rubens, Rembrandt, Poussin, Delacroix, Gauguin, and more. The museum also has an interesting collection of ancient Egyptian art and objects. It’s not every day you find a museum covering so many periods with such a vast collection. Those who appreciate art should plan on spending at least a few hours here. One small downside is that most of the explanations next to the artwork are only written in French, so we recommend renting an audio guide if you’re interested in learning more.

Address: 20 Place des Terreaux, 69001 Lyon

Hours: Wed-Mon 10 AM – 6 PM

Price: 8€ for adults 18 and older

10. Admire Confluence

Lyon’s former industrial area has gotten a serious revamp. Located on a small stretch of land between the city’s two rivers, Confluence is now considered an urban renewal project. While it formerly housed factories and even prisons, it’s now home to upscale offices, shops, a mall, and more. Sustainable development and ecology are key factors in the Confluence Project, so visitors will notice lots of greenery mixed in with the modern buildings. One hundred percent recycled concrete has been used for all parts of the neighborhood and all buildings have been built to be as energy-efficient as possible. Whether or not you’re a fan of modern architecture, Confluence is worth walking through. Lyon has essentially taken an industrial wasteland in the city center and turned it into an attractive and unique district – an impressive feat.

Also located in the Confluence neighborhood is the Musée des Confluences, a museum dedicated to science and anthropology. Those interested in learning more about mankind and the history of life as we know it will definitely enjoy a stop here.

Address: La Confluence

9. Eat your way through Les Halles – Paul Bocuse

This is the place to explore local cuisine. Named after Paul Bocuse, an icon in French gastronomy, Les Halles is an indoor food market that’s been open since 1859. There’s over 50 vendors inside selling their specialties, which range from chocolates, fruits and vegetables, oysters, frog legs, cheese and more. This is an awesome place to walk through, but it’s also a great option for lunch. There’s multiple vendors set up as restaurants inside which have tables and chairs for dining.

One tip: while the market is open on Mondays, a lot of shops inside are closed this day. We recommend going another day if you want to get the full experience.

Address: 102 Cours Lafayette, 69003 Lyon

Hours: Mon – Fri 7AM – 7PM | Sat – Sun 7AM – 1PM

8. Visit the Musée Cinema et Miniature

We recognize that when we recommend the Cinema and Miniature Museum, most people might read the name and keep scrolling. But trust us, this museum is fantastic! It’s is the only one of its kind in Europe. The Musée Cinema et Miniature was founded by Dan Ohlmann, a former woodworker and interior designer who now dedicates himself to building miniature scenes. These scenes vary from Japanese temples to movie theaters to Lyon workshops. They take Ohlmann months to create and are truly works of art.

Did you know that Lyon is actually the birthplace of cinema? Besides showcasing Ohlmann’s terrific miniatures, the museum says its goal is to make visitors fall in love with cinema. Hundreds of props, costumes, masks and more that were used in movies are on display to admire. You’ll find items from famous movies like Star Wars, Back to the Future, Alien and Harry Potter, as well as props from lesser known movies. The museum has tons of information on the special effects and filming techniques used to make blockbusters. You don’t need to be a movie geek to enjoy this museum – between the miniatures and movie props, this is a truly unique and fascinating museum the whole family will love.

Address: 60 Rue Saint-Jean, 69005 Lyon

Hours: Every day 10AM – 6:30PM

Price: 9.50€ for adults, 6.50€ ages 5 -15

7. Take In the Cathedral

No great French city is complete without a cathedral. Located right next to the Saône River, Lyon’s cathedral is dedicated to Saint John the Baptist (Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste). It was built from 1180 to 1480 and is a blend of both Gothic and Romanesque architecture. One of the highlights of this cathedral is its astronomical clock, which was built in 1598. It strikes four times a day: at noon, 2 pm, 3 pm, and 4 pm. The clock’s symbols indicate the date, the position of the moon, the sun, and the earth, as well as the stars in the sky over Lyon. It’s one of the oldest functioning clocks in Europe and is installed inside the cathedral, so it’s easy to see it up close.

Another impressive part of the cathedral is its exceptionally beautiful stained glass, which illustrates stories from the Old and New Testaments. Some of the glass dates back as far as the 12th century!

Address: Place Saint-Jean, 69005 Lyon

6. Eat in a bouchon

A trip to Lyon must include at least one meal in a bouchon lyonnais . What exactly is a bouchon? It’s essentially a traditional restaurant found in the Lyon area which serves Lyonnaise cuisine. Most of these restaurants have a rustic feel to them, so don’t expect anything fancy. When dining in a bouchon, you’ll often find food that’s on the heavier side and more meat-based. The quenelle is by far the most famous dish in Lyon. Quenelles are dumplings made of breadcrumbs and usually minced poultry or fish meat (it’s better than it sounds). Sausage and andouillette are also big here, as well as cervelle de canut, a delicious cheese spread. And of course, all traditional bouchons will serve you a carafe of Beaujolais or Côtes du Rhône, the regional wines of Lyon.

Lyon is largely considered the gastronomic capital of France and has even been called the gastronomic capital of the world, so food is taken seriously here. The city has a website set up where you can look up certified bouchons to make sure you don’t stumble onto any kind of tourist trap. There’s lots of bouchons you can find in the old part of the city, Vieux Lyon. Just make sure you try one before you leave!

5. Explore les traboules

Who knew Lyon was hiding secret historical passageways? About forty of them are open for the public to explore, although it’s estimated there might be as many as four hundred in the city. The first traboules are believed to have been built around the 4th century, in order to facilitate inhabitants moving from the city down to the river’s edge. Later, they were used by Lyon’s famous silk workers to carry their heavy loads from their workshops to the textile merchants near the river, where the materials would then be shipped. The traboules also served as meeting places for French resistance members during World War II. It’s safe to say that walking through the traboules is walking in history’s footsteps.

The traboules can be visited on your own or you can find a guided tour to learn more about them. Most of the traboules are located in the Vieux Lyon and Croix-Rousse districts. The longest traboule in Lyon runs between 54 Rue Saint-Jean and 27 Rue du Bœuf, and a famously picturesque traboule begins at 9 Place Colbert/14 bis montée Saint Sebastien and features a historic six-story external staircase.

4. Chill out in the Tête d’Or Park

An absolutely fantastic park that is not to be missed while visiting Lyon. It’s fun for all ages and especially a great option if you are traveling as a family. The park spans over 250 acres, including a 40 acre lake, so while you can definitely walk around the park we also recommend renting bikes if you feel up for it. There’s also a mini train that goes around the park that you can try to hop on.

Inside the park, there’s a zoo with giraffes, zebras, flamingos, lions and more. There’s also the largest botanical garden in France with over 20,000 species of plants, a massive rose garden and tropical greenhouses. This is the perfect spot to have a picnic or grab an ice cream in the afternoon. There’s a merry-go-round for kids and even puppet shows on Wednesday afternoons. All of these activities (besides the ice cream) are free, including the zoo! If the weather is nice, you could easily spend hours here.

We’re linking the address for the main entrance below, but there are multiple entrances to access the park.

Address: Place du Général Leclerc

3. Gaze at an Ancient Roman Theatre

Lyon has not one, but two ancient Roman theatres! Both theatres are remarkably well preserved and located near the city’s basilica on a hill. The largest and oldest of the two, which at one point could hold nearly 5,000 people, dates from about 15 BC. Historians have determined that this theatre was dedicated to tragedies and comedies, while the smaller theatre was mostly used for political or philosophical orators. The city still uses the theatres for the Fourviere Nights Festival which takes place every summer.

Both theatres are free to visit. There’s also a museum close by which covers the aspects of public and private life during the Roman time period if you’re interested in learning more. These theatres are not something to take for granted, so make sure they are at the top of your list while visiting Lyon.

Address: Rue de l’Antiquaille, 69005 Lyon

Hours: Every day 7AM – 7PM

2. Visit the magical Notre-Dame of Fourvière Basilica

From a historical point of view, Lyon’s basilica is not very old – the construction of the monument began in 1872. However, over time this basilica has become the true emblem of Lyon and a major pilgrimage and visitor site. Notre-Dame of Fourvière is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and carries special significance to religious believers. The interior of the basilica is truly breathtaking and quite a bit different from most other churches and cathedrals you will find in France. There are six incredible, ornate mosaic murals inside as well as six main stained glass windows.

Another reason to visit the basilica is for its views. Notre-Dame of Fourvière is located on a hill overlooking Lyon and from the top, you’ll have a panoramic view of the whole city. While the walk to the top of the hill is not very long, it is steep. There’s a funicular available (3 euros roundtrip) that will take you up to the top and which is also a fun ride if you don’t think walking sounds like a good idea. Either way, the Notre-Dame of Fourvière Basilica is one of the top things to do in the city and an important part of Lyon culture that shouldn’t be skipped.

Address: 8 Place de Fourvière, 69005 Lyon

1. Immerse yourself in Vieux Lyon

Vieux Lyon, or ‘Old Lyon’ in English, is largely considered to be most travelers’ favorite neighborhood to explore. This is Lyon’s historical center, and it’s actually one of Europe’s most extensive Renaissance neighborhoods. Lyon became a hotspot during the Renaissance thanks to its booming silk industry, which attracted rich merchants from across France as well as from neighboring countries. There are hundreds of these old merchants’ homes, built in the gothic Italian Renaissance and French Renaissance styles, still standing in Vieux Lyon today.

Besides remarkable buildings, you’ll find beautiful bridges, cobblestone streets and plenty more history welcoming visitors on all sides. There are tons of places to eat and drink, including the famous bouchons. This is also where a large portion of the city’s traboules are located. Even if you only have a few hours to spend in Lyon, exploring Vieux Lyon is by far our top recommendation. The charm and atmosphere are unbeatable!

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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.

RB ITALIA Blog

17 Overrated Tourist Attractions And Their Better Alternatives

Posted: June 29, 2024 | Last updated: June 29, 2024

It's tempting to visit popular tourist destinations to see what the hype is about, but most such destinations are overcrowded and no longer retain their charm. However, you can find other destinations nearby, some much better than the old ones. Here are some overrated destinations and where to go instead:

Lyon instead of Paris

Narrow streets, culinary adventures, and stunning architecture invite tourists to Lyon. Although Parisian streets seem charming, Lyon's are much more relaxed, less crowded, and offer a better insight into French gastronomy.

Isla Mujeres instead of Cancun

Cancun is slowly losing its charm because of overcrowding. Just across Cancun lies Isla Mujeros, offering bright blue seas and white sandy beaches. Tourists visiting Isla Mujeres can swim with whale sharks, explore the Garrafon Natural Reef Park, and visit the MUSA underwater museum.

Bergen instead of Oslo

Oslo is not only overrated but also one of the most expensive cities to visit in Norway. Bergen is a more affordable destination, home to stunning fjords, Bryggen – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and many hiking opportunities. This historic city is filled with rich history and a lot of activities to offer to tourists.

Corfu instead of Santorini

Tourists visiting Santorini are seriously missing out on Corfu, an island boasting bright turquoise shores. Corfu offers a blend of history and nature with many unique sites to visit, such as The Achilleion Palace, the Holy Church of Saint Spyridon, the Monastery of Paleokastritsa, and Barbati Beach.

Lucca instead of Venice

Venice's waterborne charm is fading; Lucca offers a more preserved glimpse into the Italian lifestyle. Lucca also welcomes tourists to explore cobblestone streets, climb Gunigi Tower, and attend the annual Lucca Summer Festival, to name a few.

Valencia instead of Barcelona

Barcelona is the most crowded and overrated city in Spain. On the other hand, Valencia offers a more idyllic setting. Tourists can explore the Valencia Old Town, visit innovative science exhibits, and also enjoy a picnic in Turia Gardens.

Lombok instead of Bali

Lombok offers the same Balinese charm, minus the crowd and the overpriced tourist fares. Lombok's challenging trek to Mount Rinjani makes it ideal for thrill-seekers. Additionally, tourists can also enjoy gorgeous waterfalls and relaxing beaches.

Chiang Mai instead of Bangkok

Surrounded by gorgeous mountains and rich culture, Chiang Mai offers a more nuanced insight into Thailand. Tourists visiting Chaing Mai can visit the iconic Doi Suthep temple, explore the historic old city, and visit the Elephant Nature Park.

Utrecht instead of Amsterdam

Skip the crowd in Amsterdam and head to Utrecht, a quaint city with iconic medieval canals. Utrecht also features Dom Tower, the tallest church tower in the country. Tourists can also explore the city’s canals.

Bologna instead of Rome

Home to the oldest university in the world and boasting the Asinelli, the tallest leaning tower in Italy, Bologna offers so much more than Rome. Bologna's mouth-watering cuisine and historic Piazza make it an attractive destination for everyone.

Osaka instead of Tokyo

Osaka offers a more nuanced approach to Japanese culture and boasts the historic castle of Osaka. It is also home to Universal Studios Japan, Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, and Shitenno-ji temple, the oldest in Japan. 

Iguazu Falls instead of Niagara Falls

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Iguazu Falls straddles the border between Argentina and Brazil and offers a better landscape with fewer crowds than Niagara. Iguazu is a great spot for boating, but tourists can also visit the local Bird Park.

Montreal instead of New York

New York is a popular metropolis but can be overwhelming to visit with its touristy crowds and exorbitant prices. Montreal, on the other hand, offers European vibes in North America, with its French heritage, rich art scene, and diverse cuisine.

Edinburgh instead of London

London’s Big Ben and Tower Bridge are indeed iconic, but the city’s crowds can be exhausting. Edinburgh, a medieval Old Town that is a short trip away, offers a better traveling experience with its breathtaking landscape, rich culture, and UNESCO World Heritage architecture.

Joffre Lakes Park Instead of Banff

Banff is indeed a breathtaking place that one must visit at least once in a lifetime. However, the crowds at Banff, especially during the peak season, can be overwhelming. Instead, head to Joffre Lakes Park in British Columbia, which offers clear blue glacier-fed lakes surrounded by towering mountains. The park is home to three lakes; the lower lake is easily accessible through a few minutes of walk, while the middle and upper lakes require a moderately hard hike of 3.5 to 5 hours, but it is worth the effort.

Myvatn Nature Baths Instead Of The Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is famous but can get incredibly crowded and expensive. For a more relaxing experience, head to Myvatn Nature Baths. You’ll get the same soothing geothermal waters but with fewer people and a more natural setting. You can also explore the nearby volcanic landscapes and enjoy a quieter, more peaceful experience.

Dresden Instead Of Munich

Munich might grab all the headlines with its famous Oktoberfest, but it can often feel overcrowded and commercialized. Dresden offers a more laid-back vibe but doesn’t skimp on culture or beauty. You can stroll through the breathtaking Baroque architecture and check out world-class art at the Zwinger Palace. Plus, a boat ride on the Elbe is the perfect way to unwind. It’s a charming, quieter alternative that’s just as enjoyable.

More For You

Travel mistakes Americans often make abroad . Here’s what to avoid doing when you’re visiting a foreign country. 

This article was first published at Rbitaliablog .

The post 17 Overrated Tourist Attractions And Their Better Alternatives appeared first on RB Italia Blog .

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