Welcome to Lyon, the capital of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. The city of lights has everything to charm you, and rest assured, we’re not just saying that 😉 Whether you’re here for a day, a weekend, or a longer stay, Lyon and its unique architecture will hold no secrets for you.
This article is your guide to discovering the city. We will provide you with all the practical information and must-do activities to make your time in Lyon unique and memorable:
- Strolling through the Parc de la Tête d’Or
- Guided tours of the Old Lyon districts, its historical heritage, and its “traboules”
- Taking the funicular to enjoy the panoramic view from the hill of the Notre-Dame de Fourvière basilica
- Walking along the docks of Confluence, between the Saône and Rhône rivers
- Taking a break in Place Bellecour, the most emblematic spot in the city
- Discovering the rich gastronomy, specialties, and Lyon’s traditional “bouchons”
So don’t wait any longer and embark now on a wonderful journey in true Lyonnaise tradition, discovering its treasures! You might just find some great and unexpected surprises.
Must-Sees in Lyon
To make your visit to Lyon memorable, lace up your best walking shoes because the city is brimming with activities. Let’s start with some ideas that you absolutely shouldn’t miss, and we assure you: there’s something for everyone!
Old Lyon
Located in the west of the city, between the Fourvière hill and the Saône river, this is the most historic part of Lyon (hence its name). Spanning 24 hectares and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Old Lyon is one of the largest Renaissance districts in Europe (you’ll recognize its architecture and building facades that have a bit of an Italian flair) but also the area with the most emblematic visits. Among the three districts it encompasses, two stand out for their richness:
Saint-Jean
This is one of Lyon’s most touristy spots. Here, you’ll find a significant number of inner courtyards and traboules. What, you’ve never heard of them? Traboules are passages that allow you to walk from one building’s courtyard to another. Today a symbol of the city, they were formerly used in the textile industry to move from the production site to the sales venue. There are over 200 of these in this neighborhood alone and 500 in Lyon.
The Saint-Jean district also houses the Maison des Thomassin, one of the oldest houses in the city. Here, you will also find the Gadagne Museums. Housed in a former 16th-century private mansion with an ocher façade, this is your chance to discover two facets of Lyon‘s culture with the Museum of the History of Lyon and the Museum of Puppet Arts. Yes, Lyon has a strong cinematic past thanks to the Lumière brothers. This past is also showcased in the Miniature and Cinema Museum. Nestled in the Maison des Avocats, the miniature section features a unique permanent collection with more than 100 hyperrealistic scenes created. The cinematic part is not to be overlooked, as its 2,000 square meters of space host over 10,000 unique and iconic objects from major productions like Harry Potter, Back to the Future, or Mary Poppins.
Finally, in a completely different vein, this is where Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral is located. The largest church in Lyon, this neo-Gothic and neo-Renaissance gem stands no less than 32.5 meters tall.
Saint-Georges
Let’s continue our journey in this former working-class district of Lyon. Once populated by craftsmen, it is undeservedly overlooked by tourists. It’s puzzling why, considering the treasures it holds. Located at the foot of the Fourvière hill (where our next must-see is located), the district is home to Saint-George’s church facing the left bank of the Saône and the spirit of Guignol. You know, that typical little Lyon puppet with a big face! This is where the Place de la Trinité is located, which has long served as the backdrop for Guignol shows.
Notre-Dame de Fourvière Basilica
You don’t have to go far to discover our second must-see. Stay in Old Lyon to take the funicular that will quickly take you to the basilica, thanks to an unusual mode of transport. Once at the top of the hill, you’ll be faced with this beautiful building. Overlooking Lyon, the basilica was built in 1870 and has been a UNESCO World Heritage site for many years. Also recognized as a historical monument, measuring 86 meters long with towers over 48 meters high, it is impressive! The Notre-Dame de Fourvière Basilica is as majestic inside as it is outside. If you decide to visit it, don’t be overwhelmed by the richness of the materials used. White and blue marbles, pink granite: nothing was done by halves here. This magical place houses 3 large naves and domes, 6 impressive stained glass windows, and mosaics featuring Mary.
Parc de la Tête d’Or
When talking about Lyon, it is simply impossible to overlook the Parc de la Tête d’Or. France’s Central Park is considered one of the most beautiful and vast parks (117 hectares nonetheless) in the region. It stretches across the municipalities of Lyon (with several entrances, the most famous located in the 6th arrondissement) and Villeurbanne. The Parc de la Tête d’Or is not an ordinary park, far from it. It houses a zoological garden where nearly 66 animal species mingle, as well as a botanical garden. Nature lovers can enjoy walking, cycling, or boating on the lake facing an exceptional panorama.
Lyonnaise Gastronomy: A Culinary Journey
If Lyon was dubbed the “World Capital of Gastronomy” in 1935 by the food critic Maurice Edouard Saillard, it was certainly no fluke. For centuries, Lyon’s gastronomy has proven itself time and again. From Cervelle de canut and pink praline tart to quenelles with Nantua sauce, pâté en croûte, and Lyonnaise sausage—these specialties are internationally recognized and deserve to be savored by all palates.
If you’re not inclined to cook these dishes yourself, know that they are featured on the menus of many traditional restaurants in the city. Called “bouchons,” these are the places where you can taste the essence of this cuisine in the most rustic settings! If you want to delve deeper into tradition, why not try a mâchon? This morning snack was once very popular among weavers and other workers. Some bouchons still offer it today, by reservation. A tip: to ensure that the restaurant you are about to enter is truly authentic, look for the “Bouchons Lyonnais” certification.
But Lyon isn’t just about traditional bistros. Starred cuisine has made its headquarters here for decades. The city that birthed the greatest of French and international chefs, Mr. Paul Bocuse, has gastronomy in its blood. It is home to no less than 20 Michelin-starred restaurants! If you’re a food enthusiast, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed place to eat, Lyon is full of markets and especially covered markets. No fewer than five covered markets await you, spread across the city. It’s in one of the city’s most emblematic buildings that the most famous Lyon markets have settled. Dating back to 1859, the building was completely renovated in 2006, after two years of work. It was then that France’s and Lyon’s most famous chef decided to lend his name to the place, now known as “Halles de Lyon – Paul Bocuse”. Today the site hosts 56 traders. Restaurants, fishmongers, greengrocers, cheesemongers, caterers, bakers, and chocolatiers work together to offer the best of Lyonnaise terroir.
To help you navigate this sea of food, here are our favorite spots for a great time:
Traditional Lyonnais bouchons, to taste the most traditional of Lyon
- L’Acteur – 5 Rue Charles Dullin, 69002 Lyon
- Daniel & Denise – 8 Rue Cuire, 69004 Lyon
- La Meunière – 141 Rue Neuve, 69001 Lyon
- Casse-Museau – 2 Rue de Chavanne, 69001 Lyon
- Le Bistrot d’Abel – 49 Rue de la Bourse, 69002 Lyon
Starred restaurants, for an exceptional meal
- Auberge du Pont de Collonges – Paul Bocuse – 40 Rue de la Plage, 69660 Collonges-au-Mont-d’Or
- Rustique – 14 rue d’Enghien, 69002 Lyon
- La Villa Florentine – 25 Montée Saint-Barthélémy, 69005 Lyon
Italian spots, to find the inspiration of the city
- Fantastico – 1 Rue Joliot Curie, 69005 Lyon
- Chez Carlo – 22 Rue Palais Grillet, 69002 Lyon
- Napl – 21 Rue du Garet, 69001 Lyon
- La Scala Siciliana – 3 Rue Commandant Dubois, 69003 Lyon
The best Lyonnais brunch spots
- Mill Factory – 6 Rue Octavio Mey, 69005 Lyon
- Équilibres Café – 4 Rue Terme, 69001 Lyon
- Le Potager des Halles – 3 Rue de la Martinière, 69001 Lyon
- Milk&Pug – 8 Rue Saint-Jean, 69005 Lyon
Off the Beaten Path in Lyon
If you’re the type to leave the typical, mundane activities to others and soak up everything the city has to offer, we’ve got just the thing for you. Make room for history and the unusual!
Following the Footsteps of the Canuts in La Croix-Rousse
Once a working-class district, the Croix-Rousse district is now favored by families and bohemians. Straddling the current 1st and 4th arrondissements of Lyon, this artistic neighborhood hasn’t forgotten its silk-making past. Traces are still visible at almost every corner. For our first stop on the trail of the Canuts, head to the corner of Boulevard des Canuts and Rue Denfert Rochereau. Here lies the largest mural in Europe! The Canuts Mural acts as a storyteller of the district. This evolving trompe-l’œil fresco, painted on a 1200 m² wall, chronicles the neighborhood’s changes over time. Created in 1987, it has been renovated several times until 2013 when it was last updated. It now shows the neighborhood as it is today, with its shops, famous stairs, and people.
Our second stop digs a bit deeper into the Canuts’ past specifically. The Maison des Canuts welcomes you to travel back in time. Now a museum, the Maison des Canuts once housed the headquarters of the Weavers’ Union. Here, you’ll learn all about the history of Lyon‘s silk industry. It’s an emotionally charged place featuring three exhibition halls and a workshop. If you’re feeling creative, you can buy locally produced fabric on-site. If you’d rather leave the creation to others but still take a piece of history home, you can buy silk textiles like scarves or hair scrunchies.
If you wish to visit another workshop and learn the art of weaving, our third and final stop will please you. The Association Soierie Vivante is dedicated to preserving Lyon‘s textile heritage. The city of Lyon has even provided the association with two weaver’s workshops. Managed by enthusiasts, you can visit and learn the weaver’s art in these workshops! Who knows, maybe it’s the path to a new career.
Lyon, a City of Street Art
The Canuts Mural mentioned earlier is not an isolated piece in Lyon. Indeed, Lyon is one of the French cities with the most street art. Over 100 murals have been recorded in the city. Reflecting its past, history, and current culture, these murals are an open-air guide to better understand and appreciate the city. Most of them were created by the association CitéCréation, which has been making culture accessible to everyone since 1978. Among our favorite murals, here are some you must not miss:
- The Fresque des Lyonnais. Located in the 1st arrondissement, near Place des Terreaux, it showcases the city’s human heritage. No fewer than 30 faces of local influential figures who have shaped Lyon‘s reputation are depicted in front of a building. Chef Paul Bocuse and Abbé Pierre are on the ground floor, while the Lumière brothers, pioneers of modern cinema, and Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, author of The Little Prince, are depicted watching passersby from the balconies.
- La Sarra. Located in the 5th arrondissement, in Old Lyon, this charming mural was co-designed with the residents of the building on which it is painted. Its goal was to reconnect the building with its territorial identity.
- The Rose Path. Historically, Lyon was internationally renowned among rose breeders. More than 3,000 varieties were created in the 19th century. In 2015, the city even hosted the 17th Congress of the Rose Society, honoring its past as the rose capital. This project consists of 4 artworks, located in Lyon and three surrounding cities.
- The Lumière Mural. Situated in the Gerland district, on a boulevard housing some of the biggest scientific companies, it features no fewer than 450 light points. These points represent the innovation brought by these groups and the city.
Day or night, Lyon‘s street art shines. If you want to fully enjoy these urban artworks hidden throughout the city, guided tours are organized by several agencies. You’re sure to find one that suits you best.
Lights, Camera, Action!
It’s impossible to discuss Lyon without mentioning cinema. This is the city where Louis and Auguste Lumière, inventors of modern cinema, were born. In 1895, they held the screening of their film “Workers Leaving the Lumière Factory” which forever changed the world. Today, the city embraces this past in its present. This is evidenced by the large mural located on Grande Rue de la Guillotière, in the 7th arrondissement; the Lumière Museum housed in the Lumière family home; and the annual film festival held every October.
Tours are also organized at different times of the year, in the city, and in the Monplaisir district. This district is not just any district; it’s where the Lumière brothers grew up and lived. Some associations offer tours of the Lumière villa or the company where it all began.
Vineyard Escapades
First vineyard worth a detour: the vines of Cru Chiroubles. Specializing in Beaujolais, its 320 hectares grow on granite soil, guaranteeing this terroir of excellence. About a hundred winegrowers offer as many cuvées. This is the place to discover new vintages. You guessed it, the site is oenotouristic. It’s the perfect place to taste wines and local products from La Maison du Cru Chirouble, a site with a terrace and a breathtaking view of Beaujolais.
Second vineyard: M. Chapoutier. Established in 1808, the house is one of the largest wine houses in France. Internationally renowned, it installed 34 hectares of vines on the hill of Hermitage nearly 100 years ago. On the agenda: wine tasting, vineyard tours, workshops, bike rides, and barbecues with a breathtaking view of the estate are offered. If you wish to extend your stay beyond a few hours, a hotel-spa is available for a weekend getaway or several days.
Third and last vineyard: Château du Moulin à Vent. An old vineyard over 300 years old, it has always been recognized. In 1862, it won its first gold medal at the London Universal Exhibition. Since 2017, it has regularly ranked among the top 100 wine estates in the world. If that’s not a mark of quality, we don’t know what is. You can visit the estate and taste the unique grape variety of the estate: gamay. Not to be missed!
Unique Architectural Works
Finally, our last unusual spots take you a few kilometers from Lyon. Beyond the city and off the beaten path, we wanted to introduce you to some magnificent creations.
Start with the Palais du Facteur Cheval. No, the “facteur” (postman) wasn’t a horse (we see you coming). Inspired by one of the dreams of its founder, Ferdinand Cheval, a postman in a Drôme village, built this wonder. It took 33 years of hard labor to create a palace inspired by nature and the world. The facade is unlike any other, adorned with stones of all shapes and sizes collected on his postal routes. It also features representations of animals—octopuses, caimans, deer, etc.—but that’s not all. Ferdinand Cheval included sculptures of a mosque, a Swiss chalet, and even a Hindu temple. This speaks to his imagination and global perspective. Without any formal architectural training, he managed to erect such a building, now listed as a Historic Monument. The Palais du Facteur Cheval is a must-visit if you’re spending several days in Lyon. If you want to extend the journey, the family tomb he built until he was 86 is only a kilometer away. Your inner child will be delighted.
Another man-made masterpiece not to be missed if you love art: the Abode of Chaos. About ten kilometers from Lyon, Saint-Romain-au-Mont-d’Or welcomes this building of another kind. Thierry Ehrmann, its creator, erected it in 1999. A private open-air contemporary art museum, it offers a 100% free experience to its audience. Yes, that’s the goal: to make art accessible and break it out of traditional museums. Built over 9,000 m², the Abode of Chaos is the prototype of the museum of the future. As if entering another dimension, 6,300 works come to life. There to make you think and disturb, 4,500 sculptures, and other paintings of politicians and engravings reflect the chaos of our current era. This former post relay drew its origin from one of the most tragic events of the 21st century: the September 11 attacks. Disturbing and captivating, the Abode of Chaos is not here for nothing.
Like the Palais du Facteur Cheval, it provokes thought. Created by sometimes misunderstood geniuses, these places break the mold. A common tour is even organized between these two creations.
Free Activities in Lyon
Who said that all activities in Lyon cost money? Certainly not us (just look at our last two unique suggestions above). In any case, we’re back with more gems that won’t cost you a dime, extending your stay with equally delightful moments.
Parks and Gardens
A must-see, Lyon isn’t just home to the Parc de la Tête d’Or. While it’s the most famous, several other green spaces are scattered throughout the city. Among our favorites is the Parc Sergent Blandan. Located in the heart of the 7th arrondissement of Lyon, just steps away (and we’re not lying) from our apartments, it’s THE park to go to if you’re looking to meet people. A high place of socialization in Lyon, it’s right next to Jean Moulin University, making it perfect for a walk or even a lunch break in the spring or summer if you study there. It’s a favorite among athletes as it includes all the appropriate equipment for (organized or impromptu) volleyball, football, and even a skate park. For those who enjoy walks and flea markets, this 17-hectare park hosts flea markets every weekend.
Another park we wanted to tell you about, and not the least, is the Grand Parc Miribel Jonage. As you might guess from its name, it has something the others don’t. Located not far from Lyon, in Vaulx-en-Velin, you can easily reach it by metro, bus, tram, bicycle, or car. If you’re not familiar with this park, you’ll soon be captivated. There are a thousand and one activities to do there, whether it’s sunny or a bit less so. You can picnic by the lake, go boating, swim, or take long walks. The site is accessible to bicycles, and indeed, the 2,200 hectares of the park are dotted with cycle paths. There’s nothing better to perfect your sports activity.
Finally, our third favorite green space could also have been included in our unique spots. The Jardin Rosa Mir is a quaint garden tucked away in a courtyard in the Croix-Rousse district (it comes up a lot, doesn’t it?). With more than 500 m², it’s the tribute of a Spanish mason who fled the Spanish Civil War and Franco’s regime to his mother. A beautiful way to prove his love, not unlike the Palais du Facteur Cheval, adorned with stones and shells. Over 10,000 plants and greenery have been planted, making this beautiful little spot one of the most majestic in Lyon.
Lugdunum – Roman Theatres of Lyon
Lyon has a strong historical connection with Italy and its ancestor, the Roman Empire. It’s only natural that remnants of that era, such as the Roman theatres, are still present. Dating back to 43 BC, it faces the city. Nestled on the Fourvière hill, it was once a place of entertainment. That’s why there’s a theatre with more than 4,500 seats and an odeon that could accommodate 3,000 spectators. One can imagine the performances and laughter that must have echoed there. Don’t think that today you can only visit and admire this place. It also serves as a stage for the “Nuits de Fourvière” festival, concerts, operas, workshops, and, most importantly, guided tours.
The Festival of Lights
We couldn’t finish without mentioning the lights again, but this time, it has nothing to do with the Lumière brothers. This festival, organized every year for four days around December 8, pays tribute to the Virgin Mary. This date is not chosen randomly: it’s also the festival of illuminations. From candles placed on window sills by Lyon residents to illuminations on the city’s most beautiful buildings, Lyon shines brightly.
For the 2023 edition, about thirty installations were placed in the most symbolic locations of the city:
- Place Bellecour
- Parc de la Tête-d’Or
- Fourvière hill
- Théâtre des Célestins
- Place des Terreaux
- The Fresque des Lyonnais
- and more
Free activities abound in Lyon. Roaming the city in search of hidden treasures, relaxing on the banks of the Presqu’Île by day or evening to enjoy the vibes, climbing to the top of the Fourvière hill, taking a tour at Part Dieu and the city center, are already several options. Free guided tours are also organized through different routes and themes. Don’t hesitate to ask for more information.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
To make the most of your visit to Lyon, being well-prepared is key. Let’s start with public transportation. The city is easily navigable using public transit, including metro, tram, bus, and funicular, all connecting the various neighborhoods. Download the TCL and Citymapper apps to optimize your travel time and get alerts about any disruptions. Lyon is also quite pleasant to explore on foot or by bike, especially along the quays of the Rhône and Saône rivers.
Not sure when to visit? Lyon is worth visiting any time of year. However, the city is especially beautiful in spring and autumn when the climate is mild, and you can enjoy leisurely strolls without the crowds. We also recommend visiting in December to experience the festivities, festivals, and the Festival of Lights, but be mindful of the crowds and hotel prices.
For affordable lodging, consider staying outside the city center in areas still accessible by public transport. Villeurbanne, adjacent to Lyon, is a great option if you’re on a budget. This choice works well if you’re staying for just a few days, but if you’re planning to stay for several weeks or even months, have you considered shared housing? We’re not talking about Airbnb or traditional shared apartments, but coliving. Coliving is an enhanced form of cohabitation with services included. Everything administrative is planned out, and services are included, so there’s no need to worry about your internet connection, shopping, or even buying bed sheets.
To save a bit more and fully enjoy the activities and museums, don’t hesitate to get the Lyon City Card. Available for 24, 48 hours, or more, this card is your pass to explore every nook and cranny of the city at a reduced cost. Trust us, it’s great because with this magic card, you can enter museums, go on guided tours, and even enjoy cruises!
We hope these tips have made you eager to visit Lyon and perhaps even consider making it your home for a while. See you soon for another city guide!
