Top 15 Things To Do In Lyon: The Ultimate Travel Guide

Top 15 Things to Do in Lyon: Exploring the Heart of France

Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage city, is known for its historical significance, vibrant culture, and incredible gastronomy. Situated at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, this French gem offers visitors a perfect mix of history, architecture, and world-class cuisine. In this guide, we’ll take you through the top places to visit in Lyon, the history of Lyon, highlights of Lyon, and explore the food scene, including the famous bouchons. Let’s dive into the best things to do in Lyon.

1. Discover the History of Lyon at Fourvière Hill

One of the top things to do in Lyon is to visit Fourvière Hill, the birthplace of the city’s history. It offers a breathtaking panorama of the city below and is home to several historical landmarks. The most prominent of these is the stunning Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, an architectural masterpiece that dominates the skyline. The basilica was constructed in the 19th century and stands as a symbol of Lyon’s deep religious heritage.

Behind the basilica, visitors can explore the ancient Roman Theatre, dating back to 15 BC, which highlights the deep historical roots of Lyon. The Roman amphitheater once hosted gladiator battles and public events. Today, it’s used for summer performances, providing a perfect blend of ancient history and modern entertainment. The area is also rich in Roman ruins, making it an essential stop for history enthusiasts looking to delve into the past of Lyon.

2. Stroll Through the Old Town of Lyon (Vieux Lyon)

Another must-see on any list of things to do in Lyon is Vieux Lyon, the city’s beautifully preserved Renaissance district. The Old Town is one of the largest of its kind in Europe and is brimming with colorful, narrow streets, cobbled alleys, and hidden courtyards. A walk through Vieux Lyon feels like stepping back in time as you explore its traboules (hidden passageways), which were once used by silk traders to transport goods while avoiding bad weather.

Vieux Lyon is also home to stunning Gothic and Renaissance buildings, including the impressive Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste, which dates back to the 12th century. The cathedral is famous for its astronomical clock, a fascinating medieval artifact. Be sure to visit Place Saint-Jean for an unbeatable view of the cathedral’s facade and explore the quaint shops and cafes that line the surrounding streets.

3. Explore the Presqu’île District – The Heart of Lyon

The Presqu’île district is one of the top places to visit in Lyon, known for its blend of classical architecture, bustling streets, and vibrant atmosphere. This area lies between the Rhône and Saône rivers and is the commercial and cultural heart of Lyon. The most famous square in this district is Place Bellecour, one of the largest open squares in Europe, which is surrounded by shops, restaurants, and iconic monuments, including a statue of Louis XIV.

The district is also home to the Théâtre des Célestins, one of France’s most prominent theaters, and the Lyon Opera House. The area’s mix of 19th-century buildings, modern boutiques, and cultural landmarks makes it one of the essential highlights of Lyon. Visitors can spend hours wandering the pedestrian streets, exploring local cafes, and enjoying Lyon’s chic, urban vibe.

4. Visit the Croix-Rousse and Its Silk-Weaving Legacy

Another one of the top places to visit in Lyon is the Croix-Rousse district, renowned for its rich silk-weaving history. This hilly neighborhood offers a unique charm, with its colorful houses, street art, and bohemian vibe. Croix-Rousse was once the heart of Lyon’s silk industry, and its sloping streets are lined with buildings that were once home to silk weavers known as “canuts.”

Visitors can explore the silk workshops and learn about the history of the silk industry in Lyon at the Maison des Canuts museum. The district is also famous for its traboules, which are even more extensive here than in Vieux Lyon. These passageways were used by the canuts to transport silk between buildings. The steep streets of Croix-Rousse provide spectacular views over the city, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in Lyon’s industrial and cultural history.

5. Indulge in the Food of Lyon: A Gastronomic Journey

No trip to Lyon would be complete without exploring its world-renowned food scene, often referred to as the “culinary capital of France.” One of the top things to do in Lyon is to dine at a traditional bouchon, a type of restaurant unique to the city. Bouchons serve hearty, meat-heavy Lyonnaise cuisine, including dishes like coq au vin, quenelles, and sausages, all paired with local wines.

Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse is a must-visit for food lovers. This indoor market is named after the legendary Lyonnaise chef Paul Bocuse and is packed with gourmet stalls offering local cheeses, meats, pastries, and fresh produce. Whether you’re indulging in a full meal at a bouchon or picking up ingredients at the market, Lyon’s gastronomy is sure to leave a lasting impression.

6. Learn About the Highlights of Lyon at the Musée des Beaux-Arts

Another highlight of Lyon is the Musée des Beaux-Arts, one of the largest fine art museums in France. Located in a former 17th-century abbey, the museum boasts an impressive collection of artwork spanning from ancient Egypt to modern times. Visitors can admire masterpieces by renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Rubens, Monet, and Picasso.

The museum’s extensive collection of sculptures, paintings, and decorative art makes it one of the top places to visit in Lyon for art lovers. The beautifully manicured courtyard is the perfect spot to take a break and soak in the artistic ambiance of this remarkable museum.

7. Relax Along the Banks of the Rhône and Saône Rivers

One of the most relaxing things to do in Lyon is to take a stroll along the banks of the Rhône and Saône rivers. These rivers converge at the southern tip of Lyon, offering picturesque views and a tranquil atmosphere. The city has developed extensive riverbanks with walking and cycling paths, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Whether you’re cycling, jogging, or simply taking a leisurely walk, the riverside offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city center. Along the way, you’ll encounter vibrant cafes, modern architecture, and bridges with stunning views of Lyon’s skyline. It’s an ideal spot for picnicking, people-watching, or just unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

8. Enjoy a Day Trip to Parc de la Tête d’Or

For those looking for things to do in Lyon with a bit of nature, a visit to Parc de la Tête d’Or is highly recommended. This large urban park is one of the most beautiful green spaces in the city and is perfect for a leisurely day out. Spanning over 117 hectares, the park features a lake, botanical gardens, a zoo, and countless walking paths.

The park is especially popular with families and offers activities like boating, picnicking, and even pony rides for children. The Botanical Garden houses a vast collection of rare and exotic plants, while the zoo is home to a variety of animals, making it one of the top places to visit in Lyon for nature and animal lovers alike.

9. Experience the Vibrant Culture at Place des Terreaux

Place des Terreaux is another key highlight of Lyon and a must-visit for anyone exploring the city. This historic square is located in the heart of the Presqu’île district and is surrounded by beautiful landmarks such as the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall) and the Musée des Beaux-Arts. The square is also home to the iconic Bartholdi Fountain, designed by the same artist who created the Statue of Liberty.

At night, the square comes alive with a vibrant atmosphere, with local restaurants, bars, and cafes buzzing with activity. The surrounding area is a cultural hub, offering visitors a chance to experience Lyon’s nightlife and entertainment scene.

10. Climb to the Top of the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

One of the best panoramic views of Lyon can be found at the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, perched on top of Fourvière Hill. The basilica is a stunning example of 19th-century architecture, with intricate mosaics, stained glass, and marble details. Visitors can take a guided tour to the top of the basilica for breathtaking views over the entire city.

The basilica is not only a symbol of Lyon’s religious heritage but also a popular pilgrimage site. The climb to the top is well worth the effort, as you’ll be rewarded with one of the best vistas of the city, making it one of the top places to visit in Lyon.

11. Marvel at the Contemporary Art at Musée d’Art Contemporain

If you’re an art enthusiast looking for things to do in Lyon, the Musée d’Art Contemporain (Museum of Contemporary Art) is a must-see. Located near Parc de la Tête d’Or, the museum showcases a wide range of contemporary art exhibits, including works by both local and international artists. The museum’s rotating exhibitions ensure that there’s always something new to see, making it one of the highlights of Lyon’s art scene.

The building itself is a modern architectural masterpiece, offering visitors a sleek and contemporary space to explore. Whether you’re a fan of modern art or just curious about contemporary culture, this museum is one of the top places to visit in Lyon for a taste of cutting-edge creativity.

12. Take a Food Tour of Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse

Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse is a food lover’s paradise and one of the top things to do in Lyon for anyone interested in gastronomy. This indoor market is named after the famous chef Paul Bocuse and offers a vast array of gourmet food stalls, selling everything from cheeses and meats to pastries and seafood. The market is a perfect place to sample Lyon’s culinary delights or pick up some local products to take home.

Visitors can take a guided food tour of Les Halles to learn more about Lyon’s gastronomic history and sample some of the best local dishes. Whether you’re a foodie or just curious about the local cuisine, a visit to Les Halles is a must when exploring the food of Lyon.

13. Explore the Hidden Gems of the Traboules

The traboules of Lyon are a unique architectural feature that should not be missed. These hidden passageways, found primarily in Vieux Lyon and Croix-Rousse, were originally built in the 4th century and later used by silk weavers to transport goods. Today, the traboules are open to the public, offering a fascinating glimpse into Lyon’s history and architecture.

Walking through these secret corridors is one of the top things to do in Lyon, as you’ll discover hidden courtyards, beautiful Renaissance staircases, and quiet passageways that feel like stepping back in time. Many traboules are still in use by residents, making them a living part of Lyon’s urban landscape.

14. Visit the Institut Lumière: The Birthplace of Cinema

Lyon is known as the birthplace of cinema, thanks to the Lumière brothers who invented the cinematograph in the late 19th century. The Institut Lumière is a museum dedicated to the history of film and is located in the former home and workshop of the Lumière brothers. It’s one of the top places to visit in Lyon for anyone interested in cinema history.

The museum showcases a collection of early film equipment, historical artifacts, and even some of the first films ever made. Visitors can watch screenings of classic films in the museum’s theater, making it a must-visit for movie buffs exploring the cultural highlights of Lyon.

15. How to Get to Lyon: Travel Tips and Transportation

One of the key factors in planning your trip is knowing how to get to Lyon. Lyon is well-connected to major cities in France and Europe by air, rail, and road. Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport offers flights to and from international destinations, and the city’s train station, Lyon Part-Dieu, connects travelers to Paris in under two hours via the TGV (high-speed train).

Once in Lyon, getting around is easy thanks to its efficient public transport system, which includes buses, trams, and a metro network. For those who prefer to explore on foot or by bike, Lyon’s compact size and scenic streets make it an ideal city for walking and cycling. The city also has a bike-sharing program, Vélo’v, which is a great way to see the sights at your own pace.

Weather in Lyon: What to Expect During Your Visit

The weather in Lyon varies throughout the year, offering different experiences depending on when you visit. Summers are warm and sunny, with temperatures often reaching the high 20s (Celsius), making it an ideal time to explore outdoor attractions such as Parc de la Tête d’Or and the riverbanks. Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds, making it a great time for sightseeing and enjoying Lyon’s outdoor cafes.

Winters in Lyon can be chilly, with temperatures dropping to around 5°C, but the city’s festive holiday markets and cozy bouchons make it a charming winter destination. No matter when you visit, Lyon’s varied weather provides something for everyone, from summer sun to winter warmth.

With this guide, you’re now prepared to explore the best things to do in Lyon. From historical landmarks and museums to gastronomic delights and scenic walks, Lyon has something for every traveler. Whether you’re exploring the history of Lyon, tasting the food of Lyon, or discovering the hidden gems of the city, your visit to Lyon is sure to be unforgettable.