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33 Irresistible Issues To Do In Lyon, France’s Meals Capital [2023]




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Interested in issues to do in Lyon France? This is every part you want to know!

Unlock the secrets and techniques of Lyon, certainly one of France’s extraordinary cities. As a neighborhood, I am going to information you thru Lyon’s wealthy historical past, mouthwatering delicacies, and charming museums.

Lyon is usually bypassed as holiday-makers push on rapidly in the direction of Provence. That’s such a mistake, as a result of there are such a lot of issues to do in Lyon, whether or not you are right here for meals, wine, historical past or tradition.

If you happen to make the leap and spend a weekend in Lyon, this information will assist you stroll alongside its historical streets and soak up its Roman, medieval and classical treasures.

Embrace Lyon, and it’ll surpass your expectations.

33 Irresistible Issues To Do In Lyon, France’s Meals Capital [2023]Among the finest locations to go to in Lyon (particularly for those who’re right here for the meals) is the Halles Paul Bocuse, the place culinary artisans from all through town exhibit their delicacies – like this cheese choice

If you happen to’ve by no means been right here, this information will present you the great issues to see in Lyon, France.

And for those who’re already hooked on town, I simply would possibly have the ability to level you in the direction of one or two issues you have not found but.



As a result of this metropolis has a lot to supply, I’ve divided it up into themes. In any other case, you’d have a endless and disorganized record of issues to do.

So right here we go, Lyon to your each temper!

Issues to do in Lyon for those who’re a foodie

What’s Lyon well-known for? Meals, in fact!

That is why so many individuals name Lyon the capital of gastronomy.

Curnonsky mentioned so, and the famed “prince of gastronomes” (and France’s most well-known Twentieth-century gastronomy author) ought to know.

Even Parisians say so, and who’s to argue with them?

So sure, when in Lyon, suppose meals.

Along with extremely genuine delicacies honed over a number of centuries, Lyon has its personal distinctive eateries.

From the primary “moms”, girls whose welcoming institutions (often known as “bouchons”) fed town’s silk employees, to the late chef Paul Bocuse, revolutionary proponent of Nouvelle Delicacies, voted chef of the century, and dubbed the Pope of French Delicacies, cooks have introduced their artwork to Lyon and proceed to take action.

Typical interior of a bouchon-type eatery in Lyon Old cityWhereas some bouchons are older and quirky, like this one, others are smooth and fashionable. It is not a lot the decor however what’s on the plate

1. Pattern genuine Lyonnaise delicacies in a bouchon

A bouchon, actually, means a cork. 

Not in Lyon although… right here, a bouchon is a standard eatery, serving typical Lyonnaise meals, a remnant of the small institutions opened by (largely) girls throughout the Nineteenth century to feed town’s silk employees.

No go to to Lyon could be full with out no less than one bouchon meal.

Eating an andouillette in a Lyon bouchonAn Andouillette, tripe sausage with a mustard sauce (far tastier than it sounds!)

The hearty, conventional delicacies of Lyon is especially wealthy, will in all probability contain meat (normally pork), and is sure to incorporate some kind of offal, normally tripe. And no, you do not have to attempt it for those who do not prefer it.

An genuine bouchon will carry the label “Les Bouchons Lyonnais” (see the emblem beneath), which ensures the standard recipes, the specificity of the merchandise and delicacies, and the final atmosphere of the place. 

This is the official record of the bouchons Lyonnais.

Bouchons Lyonnais logo

As a vegetarian, effectively, it will be more durable. (Though there’s one vegan meals tour within the silk-weaving district – and we will count on extra.) Lyon’s eating places are more and more providing vegetarian choices, however the record of dishes shall be quick.

2. Take pleasure in a fragile quenelle

To pattern delicacies Lyonnaise, begin with a “quenelle de brochet”. You’ll discover it on most menus, and it’s a likable dish, not as offputting as the numerous sorts of offal Lyon is known for.

A quenelle is mainly a form quite than a dish, quite rectangular with rounded ends. It’s normally made from pike (brochet) and comes with a crayfish sauce, though there are hen variations. It’s comparatively mild and flavorful, and an ideal introduction to native delicacies.

Quenelles in a shop at Les Halles Paul BocuseAnd these are what quenelles appear to be

3. Savor an beautiful conventional Salade Lyonnaise

It is a likeable dish and simply present in bouchons and in common eating places – and usually native.

Have it as a starter or for lunch.

It’s made from lettuce (frisée, if potential), bacon chunks, fried croutons and a poached egg, all slathered with French dressing. 

If you happen to take your dressing on the facet, bear in mind that this isn’t customary and could also be tough to convey. 

Strive displaying them this: “French dressing sur le côté, s’il vous plaît.”

4. Head for the pralines!

A becoming finish to your bouchon meal could be one thing with pralines, a lot beloved in Lyon.

Strive a praline tart, made from crushed pralines, scrumptious however slightly onerous on the tooth relying in your age.

It is a comparatively new dessert, invented a number of many years in the past to spherical off a bouchon meal. The pralines already existed – the one factor lacking was a pie shell.

Pralines tart, a Lyon favoriteColourful praline tarts – candy and addictive

5. Take pleasure in Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse

That is the summit of foodiness in Lyon, an indoor market with stalls and outlets by all the highest suppliers and artisans within the metropolis.

The second you enter this unique, pleasant, wonderful Lyon meals market, you will not wish to depart.

The decor is banal at greatest, dark-ish at worst, however every part you pattern shall be of beautiful perfection (with a worth to match), from beautiful escargots to seafood to all of the makings to your French picnic.

I completely loved taking a personal tour of Les Halles, which pointed me in the appropriate route for my first go to. After that, I returned alone… many times.

Lyon oysters as served in Les Halles Paul BocuseOysters recent from the coast that morning at Les Halles Paul Bocuse

These are all of the outlets and eateries at Les Halles de Lyon, and right here is their ground plan.

6. Awaken your inside chef with a French cooking class

Surrounded by a lot meals, why not discover ways to make your personal?

You possibly can spend the afternoon with a pastry chef or be taught to pair wines with Lyonnaise specialties.

Or be taught to make croissants or tarte tatin!

If you are going to dip your toes into French cooking, Lyon is the place you must begin.

7. Take a strolling meals tour of town

You’ll be able to style all of Lyon’s meals by yourself, however if you wish to pattern as a lot as potential and do not have a lot time, take a meals tour in Previous Lyon and check out among the metropolis’s specialties.

8. Pattern the wine

It could actually’t have escaped you that Lyon is surrounded by prime  wine nation – Beaujolais, Chablis, Côtes du Rhône after which some.

Why not spend a number of hours tasting a few of these world-renowned wines?

Listed here are some options for metropolis wine escapes, from a number of hours to a full day:

If you happen to’re eager on wines, this oenological workshop compares the most effective of the wines you’ll be tasting in Lyon’s eating places, so you will know what you are tasting earlier than you arrive.

If you wish to do what the Lyonnais do

9. Admire the horizon from the highest of Fourviere

Summer season evenings are crowded behind the Fourvière Basilica… that is when teams of native associates alternate the warmth of town beneath for a cool breeze and an expansive view.

They could carry a picnic, or seize one thing from the espresso store (it closes a bit early for summer time, at 8pm).

View of Lyon from the Fourviere BasilicaA must-see in Lyon is the view from Fourviere. You may make half a day of it… Begin with the Roman ruins of Lugdunum and the Gallo-Roman museum, then go to the basilica, and stick round for this gorgeous view (higher in individual than in my photos!)

10. Eat at your self foolish on the Lyon Road Meals Pageant

Individuals who reside in Lyon do love a great pageant… and this one is changing into a favourite.

Every June, lengthy traces await the opening of the gates of what has grow to be an consuming extravaganza of be aware, with the participation of among the world’s most starred cooks making ready… road meals. 

This is their Fb web page (it is in French, however Fb permits you to translate): in case your visiting dates can probably coincide, you will be in for a deal with. And I’ll in all probability be there too! You may see… it is road meals, however much more.

11. Swing to the sounds of the Nuits de Fourvière

Across the similar time because the Road Meals Pageant, town turns right into a musical occasion with the Nuits de Fourvière, named after the hill on which it takes place.

That is fairly a magical occasion: live shows are staged towards a backdrop of historical past, proper contained in the Roman amphitheater that was used for performances so long as 2000 years in the past.

Huge names in French music could be anticipated to carry out, and tickets promote out rapidly.

12. Illuminate your winter evenings on the Fête des Lumières

Visiting Lyon in winter and questioning what to see in Lyon? If you happen to’re right here early within the month, you are in for a deal with: the annual winter mild pageant.

I do love a good mild present, and this one is spectacular, with completely different artists displaying off their gorgeous mild creations every year.

Lights dancing on building facades during the December Fetes des Lumieres in LyonLights dance throughout the buildings of Lyon throughout the Fête des Lumières every December

13. Bathe within the energetic environment of the Lyon Bière Pageant

Lyon could also be surrounded by wine however you might not understand it’s a beer brewer of be aware, with a brewing custom developed throughout the 18th century by immigrants from Germany.

Consumption rose and fell within the following years however curiosity in brewing is on the rise and every April, you may pattern native craft brews (and imported ones) on the Lyon beer pageant.

14. Unwind on les Péniches alongside the riverside

Lyon has not one, however two rivers flowing by it, the Saône and the Rhône, so it’s not stunning that there’s loads of riverside motion.

A favourite of locals is a summer time night outing to the houseboats, or “péniches”, moored alongside the water – for instance alongside the Quais Victor Augagneur (in all probability the most well-liked), des Etroits, Perrache, Rimbaud…

Houseboats, or peniches, along the riverside in LyonHouseboats alongside Lyon’s rivers – many of those are bars and eating places within the night

15. Take pleasure in retail remedy at Westfield − La Half-Dieu Mall

Whereas French purchasing habits nonetheless have a tendency in the direction of small neighborhood outlets, malls are rising in significance, however none as a lot as this central Lyon behemoth, whose current enlargement has made it the most important downtown mall in Europe.

On weekends, it’s elbow room solely however its multitude of outlets, eating places and leisure actions imply there’s all the time one thing to do.

You’ll be able to’t miss it – it’s proper throughout the road from the Half-Dieu practice station.

If you happen to prefer to roam and discover

16. Relive the Roman Empire in previous Lugdunum

I’ve a weak point for Roman ruins and those in Lyon are notably spectacular

Lugdunum, as Lyon was as soon as known as, was vital to the Roman Empire throughout the first century BCE and the capital of what was then the province of Gaul (which finally grew into France).

The large amphitheater is spectacular, together with the smaller odeon beside it. It is fairly a sense to clamber onto stones which, millennia in the past, seated august Romans ready for his or her leisure to start.

To get there, take the Funicular in the direction of St Simply and get off at Minimes. 

Lugdunum Roman amphitheater, one of the most striking things to see (Lyon, France)The Roman amphitheater at Lugdunum, fantastically preserved and nonetheless used for summer time live shows

17. Lose your self within the medieval attraction of Vieux Lyon

Through the Nineteenth century, the neighbourhood was a grimy den of thieves, so insalubrious it was virtually destroyed till native associations lobbied efficiently for its preservation – and eventual inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage Record.

Previous Lyon stretches inward from the west financial institution of the Saône to the decrease reaches of Fourvière Hill. 

With cobblestones galore, the realm is filled with eateries and outlets (and glorious ice cream sellers), notably welcome on a scorching summer time day. One of many space’s most important points of interest are the native “traboules”(hyperlink traboules), or not-so-secret tunnels that lead from one road to the subsequent. 

Within the night, discover a breezy terrace and revel in a few of Lyon’s culinary specialties. Even higher if you will get a seat in an genuine bouchon! (none proven on this picture although…)

View of Old Lyon street and cafesA typical scene in Lyon’s Previous City

18. Really feel the guts of Lyon within the dynamic Presqu’île 

One of many (many) good issues about Lyon is that it’s divided up into simply distinguishable neighborhoods, with the Presqu’île (which implies peninsula) main the way in which for purchasing (that is the place the main outlets are positioned) and classical structure, particularly at night time when lots of the 18th-Nineteenth century buildings, such because the Metropolis Corridor and the Courthouse, are illuminated. 

That is additionally the place you will discover the world-famous Opéra de Lyon, an uncommon constructing: to enlarge and renovate the previous classical construction, a semi-circular dome was constructed on prime of it, offering a fusion between classical and fashionable structure. It took me time to understand it however now I adore it.

The Lyon Opera houseLyon’s Opera Home: the Nineteenth century constructing ended simply earlier than the row of muses, added latet, however the dome was added only some many years in the past

That is additionally the positioning of the Place Bellecour, certainly one of Europe’s largest (and the positioning of the Lyon vacationer workplace).

Statue of Louis XIV on the Place Bellecour in LyonThe statue of Louis XIV on Place Bellecour, and on the hill past, Fourvière Basilica

19. Delight within the stylish Croix-Rousse neighborhood

You have in all probability heard it typically sufficient: Lyon is the Capital of Silk. However what does that imply, precisely?

Whereas at present Lyon’s prosperity is pushed by newer industries, it was as soon as extremely depending on silk. François I (Francis I) gave Lyon the silk monopoly, and Louis XIV made French silk indispensable by decreeing the fabric at his court docket should be made in France. 

Lyon silk scarves in a shop on Croix-Rousse hillSilk outlets dot the streets of Croix-Rousse Hill

Silk briefly fell on onerous occasions throughout the French Revolution, solely to be rescued by Napoleon. It went from energy to energy till the arrival of artificial fabric within the Eighteen Eighties drove the business away. 

However all will not be mentioned and completed. 

Younger designers are forging forward with new makes use of for silk and placing their hand to the restoration of historic textiles, whereas homes of high fashion nonetheless order their silk from Lyon. Up on Croix-Rousse Hill, which the silk commerce known as house, silk nonetheless thrives.

To comply with within the footsteps of Lyon’s silk employees, take this silk tour  by former workshops and historic silk passageways and be taught in regards to the commerce that when put Lyon on the coronary heart of European commerce.

Lyon Maison des Canuts 2One of many many silk displays nonetheless on show in Croix-Rousse

20.  Escape to certainly one of France’s vastest parks 

A up to date of New York’s Central Park, the Tête d’Or (Golden Head) is certainly one of France’s largest city parks (the Lyon vacationer workplace says it’s really the most important).

There’s one thing for everybody right here: corners the place you may calm down and play video games, a zoo with 64 animal species, a botanical backyard, and a rose backyard. You’ll see loads of households having a picnic, college students taking a nap on the grass, or {couples} getting married!

Lyon - what to do on a summer day? Head for these giant gold-tipped wrought-iron entrance gates to Parc de la Tete d'OrBeautiful entrance gates of the Parc de la Tête d’Or in Lyon

If you happen to like what’s off-the-beaten-path

Lyon is filled with the weird, locations that make you look twice with tales and legends that immediate you to shake your head in shock and surprise.

21. Gaze in surprise on the astronomical clock

If you happen to’re melting in the summertime and occur to be visiting the Previous City, step into the Twelfth-century Cathédrale Saint-Jean, whose largely sober inside is about off by a whimsical astronomical clock which used to strike the hour a number of occasions a day (it was vandalized in 2013 and as of this writing has not but been repaired).

Whenever you enter the church, head in the direction of the altar on the left facet. The clock is in your left only a bit earlier than the altar.

Astronomical clock at the Cathedrale Saint-Jean Baptiste in LyonThe pleasant astronomical clock in St Jean cathedral – one of many oldest and most advanced clocks in Europe

22. Uncover the Musée Cinéma et Miniatures

The fascinating Films and Miniatures Museum is miniaturist Dan Ohlman’s ardour undertaking – and is actually two museums in a single. 

The cinema part has greater than 500 costumes and props from the world’s main movie studios. Mary Poppins’ umbrella, anybody? How in regards to the masks from “Masks”?

What actually caught my eye, although, is the second museum and its exhibition of greater than 120 hand-made miniatures. If you happen to’ve ever eaten at Maxim’s in Paris, you’ll discover it reproduced right here, on a tiny scale, together with loads of interiors from the well-known to the merely acquainted.

It’s completely probably the most enjoyable Lyon issues to do, particularly with children however equally intriguing for adults.

Museum of cinema and miniatures in Lyon: a miniature of an antique shopOne of many 120 pleasant miniatures on show – that is an historical vintage store

23. Criss-cross Lyon’s enigmatic traboules

Some of the widespread issues to do in Lyon Previous City (and in addition in Croix-Rousse) is to discover the traboules, or secret passageways. 

A number of are precise passageways, others are inside patios, however all lead from one place to a different, typically from one road to the subsequent.

They had been in all probability constructed to make it simpler to hold water uphill from the riverside. Later, they might be utilized by silk merchants to hold bolts of fabric from the workshops right down to ready ships beneath, avoiding rain within the course of. 

Extra just lately, Resistance fighters used them to cover from the Gestapo.

Nowadays, few – fewer than 50 – of the unique 500 stay open to the general public. 

The Lyonnais themselves use these on a regular basis to get from one road to a different. Most are surrounded by dwellings, so keep away from making noise. This manner, residents will not complain and the traboules will keep open!

Locked traboule, or secret passageway, in Old LyonSome traboules are open to the general public however others, like this one, are for residents solely

24. Step again into WWII on the Deportation and Historical past Heart

For World Warfare II historical past buffs, the Deportation and Resistance Historical past Heart retraces the position of Lyon throughout the Second World Warfare. It’s positioned proper inside the previous Gestapo headquarters. The juxtaposition of the tales of Holocaust survivors and the steps walked by Gestapo officers could depart you considerably uneasy.

If this period fascinates you, make the most of a day strolling tour that highlights Lyon because the capital of the Résistance.

Reconstituted meeting room of the Resistance at Museum of the Resistance in Lyon, FranceA number of rooms from World Warfare II have been replicated within the Resistance Heart and museum

25. Discover the Musée des Confluences

The Musée des Confluences is an architectural oddity amid Lyon’s largely classical and medieval structure. A bit like a futuristic ship, this large-scale anthropological museum sits on the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers (take this pretty one-hour cruise to see issues from the water).

It virtually defies description. Within the museum’s personal phrases, it “tells the story of mankind and the historical past of life.” Simply go. 

One of the best things to do (Lyon, France) is to explore the new neighborhood of Confluence, and its sail-shaped museum, the Musée des ConfluencesThe extraordinary sail-shaped exterior of the Musée des Confluences

26. Unearth the secrets and techniques of Lyon’s Gallo-Roman Museum

For even larger perception into Lugdunum’s inhabitants, immerse your self within the Gallo-Roman Museum, inside the grounds of the ruins.

The museum is constructed proper into the hill above the amphitheater so it appears completely pure.

Of specific be aware are some near-perfect mosaics that when adorned the flooring and partitions of the rich citizenry.

Mosaics from Lugdunum, or Lyon during the Roman eraOne of many a number of breathtaking mosaics on show on the Gallo-Roman Museum of Lyon-Fourvière

27. Uncover Lyon’s charming murals

For a lot of guests, probably the most effective issues to see in Lyon are its 150 outside murals, extraordinary artworks that largely unfurl above eye stage. 

You may in all probability bump into a number of with out in search of them, just like the Fresque des Lyonnais, and search for others with out discovering them. If you wish to see as many as potential, get an knowledgeable information to take you round.

Lyon - Fresque des Lyonnais, one of the major Lyon tourist attractionsLa Fresque des Lyonnais, probably the most well-known frescoes

Some depict well-known Lyonnais, others present scenes from each day life, and but others appear to be they’ve come straight from a science fiction film.

Take a look at among the greatest murals right here.

28. Gaze in awe on the majestic Fourvière Basilica 

After having roamed round it a number of occasions, it would simply be time to enter the crown jewel itself.

Its blinding white façade is a comparatively new addition (1872) to the Lyon skyline. Its 4 towers stand for the cardinal virtues of Justice, Temperance, Fortitude and Prudence.

The constructing is an architectural oddity, as if its designer could not resolve amongst Byzantine, Gothic and Romanesque types. The result’s eclectic however charming, with loads to take a look at. Maybe charming is not the appropriate phrase, however neither is serene. Go see it: it simply works!

The basilica is made up of two superimposed church buildings. The primary, or Higher Church, is spacious and intensively embellished, with loads of mosaics, columns, stained glass home windows and marble, a real feast for the eyes.

A monumental staircase leads beneath to the decrease church, erroneously known as the crypt (if it has home windows, it is not a crypt).

For a view much more putting than the one behind the basilica, take its Rooftop Tour however watch out for the 300+ steps you will must climb to get there. If you happen to’re as much as it, it is price it. The tour is in French, however the view is common. (They will set up excursions in English when you’ve got a bigger group).

29. Metallic tower of Fourvière

Are your eyes deceiving you, or is that this a miniature Eiffel Tower?

No, you’re not dreaming.

Mini Lyon Eiffel Tower, just a little smaller than the originalIt does look a bit just like the Eiffel Tower, does not it?

It was constructed to deal with a restaurant throughout the 1894 Lyon World Truthful however has been transformed right into a telecommunications tower. It sits proper subsequent to the Fourvière Basilica, so you may’t miss it.

Who is aware of, possibly Eiffel had a hand in its constructing…

Or for some Lyon sightseeing…

30. Experience the Funicular to Fourvière Hill

Among the finest spots for sightseeing in Lyon is to see town from above, and as we’re already mentioned, the most effective viewpoint is the Fourvière Basilica. 

Simply hop on the funicular, the steep little railway that climbs up from Previous Lyon, till you attain the highest cease, Fourvière. 

Among the best Lyon (France) things to do is to take the funicular to Fourviere, seen here from the exterior as it descendsThe funicular that takes you up and right down to Fourvière Basilica and the roman ruins of Lugdunum

From the sting of grounds, you will get a sweeping view not solely of Previous Lyon however of the complete metropolis.

The funicular is a part of the general public transportation system and its worth is roofed by the assorted Lyon transportation tickets.

31. Embark on a captivating Lyon strolling tour 

I’ll have mentioned it earlier than, however Lyon is a metropolis for strolling. Wandering round by yourself is a delight, but when your time is proscribed otherwise you’re afraid you would possibly miss one thing, take one of many metropolis’s glorious strolling excursions.

32. See Lyon on two wheels

Whereas strolling is one method to see town, you might choose one thing that strikes slight extra rapidly!

How about biking?

This grand tour lasts three hours and can take you all by town.

However for those who’re feeling barely much less energetic, a guided electrical bike tour is ideal to your go to. You’ll nonetheless must work at it, however quite a bit much less!

33. Hop on and hop off

You’re undoubtedly accustomed to the hop-on hop-off buses in lots of cities, and so they’re widespread for a motive.

By taking you round to the main sights, they can help you get your bearings and to decide on what to see and through which order.

Like different world-class cities, Lyon too has its hop-on hop-off buses.

  Do not forget to get your Lyon Metropolis Card for all public transportation and entrance to museums in Lyon!

All these sights and their backstories are highlighted within the sections beneath, by neighbourhood. 

Lyon issues to do by neighbourhood

Lyon is formally divided into 9 arrondissements, or neighborhoods, although individuals typically use their names quite than their numbers.

It is in all probability extra useful to know one thing is in Previous Lyon quite than being advised it is within the fifth… particularly since one neighborhood could stretch over a number of arrondissements!

The 5 districts you are more than likely to go to are Previous Lyon, the Presqu’île (or peninsula), Croix-Rousse, Fourvière Hill and the Left Financial institution, every with its specific model and character.

Many of the first 4 are protected as a part of the Lyon Unesco world heritage web site, confirming town’s stellar city planning (quite than destroy to rebuild, Lyon merely expanded) and its authenticity.

Lyon what to do: visit the Unesco perimeter with this mapThe crimson line accommodates the UNESCO protected space of Lyon, whereas inexperienced traces the buffer zone designed to guard the positioning (Metropolis of Lyon)

Previous Lyon, or the Vieux Lyon

This historical labyrinth of cobblestoned streets in the Previous Metropolis of Lyon is lined with eating places and a mixture of outlets, a few of them your typical vacationer fare however with a stunning variety of genuine little institutions promoting every part from vintage books to specialty groceries.

Tons of of slim, winding tunnels known as traboules hyperlink these streets, “secret” passageways alongside which the Lyonnais hid or traveled as required all through the centuries. Many traboules at the moment are closed to the general public, though the longest one, at 54 rue Saint-Jean, is price a go to, as are a number of others scattered all through the previous city. (It has been closed for repairs so examine to see if it is reopened.)

You’ll be able to discover them by yourself, or take a take a guided tour (many current traboules are off-limits to vacationers, however guides typically know find out how to get into them).

You can even obtain an app for IOS to discover the traboules, which I have not tried but however which sounds promising.

The center of this a part of city is the Twelfth-century Cathédrale Saint-Jean, house of the astronomical clock. From right here, stroll down the Rue Saint-Jean, the Previous City’s most important road. 

A number of museums are on this a part of city, together with the whimsical Musée des Arts de la Marionette, or puppet museum, good for those who go to Lyon with children, the small however quirky Musée des Automates, the museum of automation, and the Cinema and Miniatures museum.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION: THINGS TO DO IN LYON OLD TOWN

WHERE TO EAT IN LYON OLD TOWN ➽
Daniel et Denise, an genuine however fashionable bouchon, 36 rue Tramassac

WHERE TO STAY IN LYON OLD TOWN ➽
This pretty condo proper subsequent to the Previous City

SHOPPING IN OLD TOWN LYON ➽
Brochier Soieries silk store, 16 rue du Boeuf

La Presqu’île

The Presqu’île is that “virtually island” which sits between Lyon’s two rivers, the Rhône and the Saône. That is correct downtown Lyon, the place you will discover loads of outlets and museums and sweeping squares.

Wander across the Place Bellecour, Europe’s largest pedestrian sq. (and residential of the Lyon Vacationer Workplace); the Place des Terreaux and its sculptured fountain by Bartholdi (higher recognized for his Statues of Liberty) throughout from Metropolis Corridor (the Hôtel de Ville); the Place des Jacobins and its pleasant fountain… and plenty of extra.

That is additionally the place a few of Lyon’s most majestic museums name house, particularly the Musée des Beaux-Arts (certainly one of France’s greatest wonderful arts museums) and the very fashionable and classy Musée des Confluences, the place the 2 Lyon rivers meet on the southern tip of the Presqu’île.

And eventually, one of many excellent sights of this a part of city is the Fresque des Lyonnais, a large mural (certainly one of many in Lyon) which represents 31 native VIPs – artists, creators, cooks, inventors…

PRACTICAL INFORMATION: LA PRESQU’ÎLE

WHERE TO EAT IN THE PRESQU’ÎLE 
The Brasserie Georges, serving the who’s who passing by since 1836 (unpretentiously)

WHERE TO STAY IN IN THE PRESQU’ÎLE ➽
The elegant Bayard Bellecour is a step proper into historical past

SHOPPING IN IN THE PRESQU’ÎLE ➽
Your complete space is full of boutiques and outlets… simply discover!

  Do not forget your Lyon Metropolis Card for transportation and entrance to museums!

Croix-Rousse

That is the hilly a part of city, the place the silk employees as soon as plied their commerce, and strolling round is among the enjoyable issues to do in Lyon alone.

The neighbourhood can be pierced by traboules, which – not like those within the Previous City – are largely open to the general public. The truth is, you may stroll a lot of the manner down Croix-Rousse hill utilizing the traboules, a enjoyable little bit of exploration as their entranceways aren’t all the time apparent.

There are many silk-related sights right here, from museums to outlets to former workshops.

Learn all about Croix-Rousse right here.

View downhill from Croix-Rousse into downtown Lyon FranceTrying down into Lyon from Croix-Rousse Hill

PRACTICAL INFORMATION: CROIX-ROUSSE

WHERE TO EAT IN CROIX-ROUSSE ➽
I had a beautiful lunch on the Café du Gros Caillou, proper on the prime of the hill, 180 Bd de la Croix Rousse

WHERE TO STAY IN CROIX-ROUSSE ➽
Vivid and cheerful, the Resort de la Croix-Rousse may be very near the Metro station

SHOPPING IN CROIX-ROUSSE ➽
L’Atelier de Soierie sells silks and exhibits the way it’s made

Fourvière Hill

After visiting the basilica – the higher church, its crypt, and the view of Lyon from above – head in the direction of the “mini Eiffel tower“, now a telecommunications middle however intriguing nonetheless.

Spherical off your exploration with a go to to the Roman ruins of Lugdunum and the Gallo-Roman museum slightly below. 

What to see in Lyon: the famous Basilica Notre Dame up on Fourvière HillFourvière Basilica seen from the rear

Use a Lyon metropolis map (use Google maps or purchase a bodily map right here) to go downhill to the 

When you’re completed, for those who’re uninterested in strolling, you may all the time hop on the funicular to your downhill trip.

You CAN use one of many a number of units of stairs to stroll as much as the highest from Previous Lyon for those who’re feeling athletic.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION: LYON FOURVIÈRE

WHERE TO EAT IN FOURVIÈRE ➽
There are only a few locations to eat so head again down on the funicular to Previous Lyon.

WHERE TO STAY IN FOURVIÈRE ➽
The Fourvière Resort is close to the ruins – and you will be staying in a former convent!

RIDING THE FUNICULAR ➽
For Lugdunum, route Saint Simply and get off at Minimes
For the basilica, route Fourvière and get off on the finish

The Left Financial institution of Lyon, or the Rive Gauche

Sure, Lyon has its Left Financial institution too! It is the extra fashionable a part of city (with a number of exceptions) however do not be postpone by that – like the remainder of Lyon, it’s going to in all probability shock you.

The spotlight of this space is the Parc de la Tête d’Or, the one place that is not very fashionable and dates again to 1856. It is an English-style backyard with lawns, rose gardens and a Botanical Backyard.

Proper subsequent to it’s the Cité Internationale, a brand new advanced that mixes leisure and residences and truly appears interesting even for those who’re not a lover of the trendy.

The modern, international city of LyonFashionable traces on the Cité Internationale
Parc de la Tête d'Or in Lyon FranceContained in the Parc de la Tête d’Or

This space is stuffed full of bizarre issues to do in Lyon. Its museums are a delight, together with the Musée d’Artwork Contemporain (Museum of Up to date Artwork) or the Institut Lumière (for visible arts followers).

If you happen to love Lyon’s murals, wander across the outside Musée Urbain Tony Garnier, monumental murals centered round residential structure.

Final however not least, the Halles Paul Bocuse, a gastronomic indoor meals market, is among the prime Lyon points of interest positioned within the Half-Dieu neighborhood (which is the place you will in all probability arrive for those who’re coming by practice). 

PRACTICAL INFORMATION: LYON RIVE GAUCHE

WHERE TO EAT IN LYON RIVE GAUCHE ➽
Les Halles Lyon Paul Bocuse, for meals purchasing and loads of sit-down eating places in Lyon, 102 Cours Lafayette

WHERE TO STAY: HOTELS IN LYON RIVE GAUCHE ➽
If you happen to’re a fan of Philippe Starck, you will love Mama Shelter!

Attending to Lyon

Lyon lies on the coronary heart of the area of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, certainly one of France’s largest areas (there are 18 in all), and in lately of high-speed trains is underneath two hours from Paris, accessible on a day journey. The town does, nonetheless, deserve much more than a day.

Getting round Lyon

Getting round Lyon is a breeze (so long as you are not driving!)

The town has an in depth and well-organized public transport system, the TCL, or Transports Communs Lyonnais. This is their route finder, which I exploit typically. I counsel you obtain the TCL app, out there for each IOS and Android telephones.

You should purchase transport tickets from the ticket machines positioned at main stops and within the metro, good for those who do not plan to go to any museums. Listed here are the completely different ticket choices.

However for those who plan to see the sights, take into account getting a Lyon Metropolis Card, which incorporates transport together with lots of the metropolis’s museums. 

Biking in Lyon can be an choice and you’ll lease a motorbike from Velo’v. Sure, there are drivers on the streets, however you may keep away from a variety of them through the use of the smaller streets which, in Lyon, are fortunately plentiful.

The place to remain in Lyon

Lyon has a wealth of lodging choices in each funds. Utilizing the map beneath will make it simple to search out the appropriate room or vacation condo to your keep.

FAQ: Issues to do in Lyon

Go to one of many metropolis’s fabulous museums, just like the Confluence or one of many specialty museums, for instance the Gallo-Roman Museum.

Go to the Fourvière Basilica, discover the tiny alleys of the Previous City or go to the Parc de la Tête d’Or.

This would possibly shock however summer time is NOT the most effective season to go to − it may be scorching and stormy though then again, resort costs are decrease. Winter could be chilly and snowy BUT − December is when we’ve got the fabulous Fête des Lumières, the good lights pageant the place buildings are clothed in mild exhibits, and Christmas markets.

These are the most effective seasons to go to Lyon:

  • spring, with April and Could pleasant
  • autumn, with a pleasing October and November, not too scorching or chilly, and never an excessive amount of rain

That mentioned, I’ve visited Lyon in each season and it is a fabulous metropolis, so even within the “not greatest” seasons, it’s completely definitely worth the go to.

There are many issues which can be free in Lyon. The traboules and murals, in fact, and the riversides (particularly on market days). The Parc de la Tête d’Or and its gardens and zoo, and the ruins of previous Lugdunum. The Fourvière Basilica is free, however you will must pay a number of euros to take the funicular (or be courageous and stroll up).

If you happen to plan your journey for early December, you’ll take pleasure in probably the most fabulous mild exhibits in France, the Fête des Lumières.


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