Lyon Travel Guide: Top Attractions, Food, and Things to Do in France's Culinary Capital

Lyon, nestled in the Rhône Valley, is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and status as the gastronomic capital of France. This UNESCO World Heritage city boasts ancient Roman ruins, Renaissance architecture in Vieux Lyon, and the stunning Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière with panoramic views over the city. Known for its traditional bouchons serving Lyonnais cuisine, Lyon is a paradise for food lovers. With lively festivals like the Festival of Lights and scenic river cruises along the Rhône and Saône, Lyon offers an unforgettable travel experience.

Best Time to Visit Lyon

• Spring (April - June): Temperatures in Lyon range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), with blooming flowers and mild weather perfect for outdoor activities. It’s an ideal time to explore Vieux Lyon and take scenic river walks.

• Summer (July - August): Expect warmer days, with temperatures reaching 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). This lively season brings events like Nuits de Fourvière, featuring music, dance, and theater under the stars.

• Fall (September - October): With temperatures from 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F), the weather is pleasant for exploring the city’s parks and attending culinary events like the Lyon Street Food Festival.

• Winter (December - February): Temperatures drop to 1°C to 8°C (34°F to 46°F), and the city glows with the Festival of Lights in December, transforming Lyon with illuminated art displays and holiday festivities.

Getting to Lyon and Getting Around Lyon

Getting to Lyon

• By Air: Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport serves both international and domestic flights and is located about 25 km from the city center. The Rhonexpress tram connects the airport to Lyon’s main transport hub, Part-Dieu Station, in about 30 minutes.

• By Train: Lyon has two main train stations, Lyon Part-Dieu and Lyon Perrache, with TGV connections from Paris, Marseille, Geneva, and other European cities. Part-Dieu is the largest and most commonly used for high-speed train arrivals.

• By Car: Lyon is easily accessible by car, located along major motorways like the A6 (from Paris), A7 (from Marseille), and A42 (from Geneva), making it a great base for exploring the Rhône-Alpes region.

  
  

Getting Around Lyon

• Public Transport: Lyon’s TCL network includes a comprehensive system of metro lines, trams, and buses, making it easy to navigate the city. A Lyon City Card provides unlimited access to public transportation along with free or discounted entry to museums and attractions.

• Walking and Biking: Lyon is a walkable city, especially in central areas like Vieux Lyon and the Presqu’île. The Vélo’v bike-sharing system offers convenient and eco-friendly access to bikes across the city, ideal for exploring at your own pace.

• Taxis and Rideshares: Taxis and rideshare services like Uber operate throughout Lyon, providing an option for short, direct trips.

Most Popular Attractions and Activities to See and Do in Lyon

Top Attractions in Lyon

Vieux Lyon (Old Town)

• A UNESCO World Heritage site, Vieux Lyon is one of the largest Renaissance neighborhoods in Europe. With narrow cobblestone streets, pastel-colored facades, and historical charm, it takes visitors back in time.

• Highlights: Wander through the traboules, or hidden passageways, originally used by silk workers and now open for exploration. Key areas include Rue Saint-Jean and Place du Change, filled with boutiques, cafes, and historic sites.

Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

• Sitting atop Fourvière Hill, this basilica is Lyon’s most iconic landmark. Built in the late 19th century, it boasts a blend of Romanesque and Byzantine architecture, with ornate interiors and mosaics.

• Highlights: Visitors can climb to the terrace for panoramic views of Lyon. The nearby Fourvière Park provides peaceful green spaces, and the Fourvière Funicular offers a scenic way to reach the hill.

Presqu’île District

• The Presqu’île is Lyon’s central peninsula between the Rhône and Saône rivers, filled with elegant 19th-century buildings, luxury shopping, and cultural sites.

• Highlights: The Place Bellecour is a massive square at the heart of the area, featuring a statue of King Louis XIV. Also notable are the shopping streets of Rue de la République, the lively Place des Terreaux, and Lyon’s Opera House.

Parc de la Tête d'Or

• This expansive park is one of France’s largest urban green spaces, covering 117 hectares. It includes a botanical garden, a small zoo, and a lake where visitors can rent pedal boats.

• Highlights: Ideal for picnics, jogging, or relaxing, the park also has a rose garden with hundreds of varieties, making it a favorite among families and nature lovers.

Musée des Confluences

• This strikingly modern museum explores anthropology, science, and history, with exhibits ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary cultural topics.

• Highlights: Its interactive displays and hands-on exhibits make it engaging for all ages. The museum’s futuristic architecture is a landmark in itself, offering unique views of the surrounding rivers.

Lyon Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste)

• A stunning Gothic cathedral dating back to the 12th century, this church is known for its architectural beauty and historic significance.

• Highlights: Don’t miss the astronomical clock inside, a fascinating 14th-century creation that shows the position of the sun, moon, and stars. The area surrounding the cathedral is full of quaint streets and picturesque squares.

Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse

• Named after the famed chef Paul Bocuse, this indoor market is a haven for gourmet food lovers, offering high-quality local products and specialties.

• Highlights: Browse a variety of stalls selling artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, seafood, and Lyonnaise pastries. Many vendors offer tastings, making it a great place to sample local cuisine, and the market is an ideal spot to discover Lyon’s culinary heritage.

Institut Lumière

• The Institut Lumière is dedicated to the Lumière brothers, pioneers of cinema. Set in their family villa, the museum features original cameras, early films, and exhibits on the history of filmmaking.

• Highlights: Visitors can watch screenings of early cinematic works, explore the Lumière brothers’ contributions to photography and film, and attend special events and film festivals hosted throughout the year.

La Croix-Rousse

• This historic neighborhood, also known as “the hill that works,” was once Lyon’s silk-weaving district. Its vibrant streets are filled with cafes, artisan shops, and colorful markets that capture the city’s creative spirit.

• Highlights: Wander through the Mur des Canuts, a massive mural that depicts daily life in Lyon and the silk industry, or explore the traboules, narrow passageways used by silk workers to transport materials.

Miniature Museum and Cinema (Musée Cinéma et Miniature)

• This museum, set in the heart of Vieux Lyon, displays over 100 hyper-realistic miniatures alongside film memorabilia, including costumes, props, and original movie sets.

• Highlights: With exhibits from classic and modern films, the museum provides an insider look into special effects, movie makeup, and intricate set design, offering a fascinating experience for movie buffs.

Gadagne Museums

• This Renaissance-era building in Vieux Lyon houses both the Museum of Lyon History and the Museum of Puppetry Arts. The complex offers a deep dive into Lyon’s heritage, with artifacts, historic documents, and puppetry exhibits.

• Highlights: Discover Lyon’s history through interactive exhibits, or marvel at the extensive puppet collection, including local marionette hero Guignol, who originated in Lyon and is still celebrated here.

Grand Hôtel-Dieu

• Formerly one of Europe’s oldest hospitals, this beautifully restored building along the Rhône is now a chic complex of shops, restaurants, a luxury hotel, and cultural spaces.

• Highlights: The architecture combines historical grandeur with modern design. Explore upscale boutiques, dine at fine restaurants, or take a guided tour to learn about the building’s rich history and transformation.

Théâtre Gallo Romain

• This ancient Roman theater, located on Fourvière Hill, dates back to 15 BC and once held thousands of spectators. It remains a vibrant cultural venue, hosting performances, concerts, and the annual Nuits de Fourvière festival.

• Highlights: The theater’s well-preserved seating and stage provide insight into ancient Roman architecture, and its panoramic views over Lyon make it a must-visit.

Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon

• Housed in a former 17th-century abbey, this museum boasts one of France’s most significant collections outside the Louvre, spanning from antiquity to modern art.

• Highlights: Visitors can explore works by artists such as Monet, Rubens, and Rembrandt, as well as impressive collections of sculptures, artifacts, and decorative arts.

Opéra National de Lyon

• Originally built in 1831 and redesigned by architect Jean Nouvel in the 1990s, the Opéra National de Lyon combines classical architecture with contemporary design.

• Highlights: Known for its innovative productions and diverse repertoire, the opera is a cultural hub in Lyon, featuring ballet, opera, and concert performances.

Lyon Botanical Garden

• Located within Parc de la Tête d’Or, the Lyon Botanical Garden covers over 20 acres and contains thousands of plant species, including tropical greenhouses, a rose garden, and collections of alpine plants.

• Highlights: With its serene atmosphere and educational displays, it’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and those looking to relax amid beautiful landscapes.

Musée de l'illusion LYON

• This interactive museum features a collection of optical illusions, holograms, and mind-bending exhibits that challenge perception and understanding.

• Highlights: Engaging for all ages, the museum offers a fun, immersive experience where visitors can interact with illusions and learn about the science behind visual perception.

Top Activities to do in Lyon

Take a Traboule Walking Tour

• Explore Lyon’s hidden passageways, or traboules, which date back to the Renaissance and were used by silk merchants. A guided tour unveils stories of how these secret routes were also used by the French Resistance. It’s a unique experience that lets you explore Lyon’s architectural quirks while diving into the city’s historical layers.

Dine at Traditional Bouchons

• Lyon is famous for its bouchons, small, traditional eateries serving dishes like quenelles, andouillette, and coq au vin. Dining at these establishments is the best way to experience authentic Lyonnaise cuisine. A must for foodies, this experience immerses you in Lyon’s culinary heritage and gives you a taste of its rich flavors.

Cycle Along the Rhône and Saône Rivers

• Lyon’s riverside paths provide scenic cycling routes along the Rhône and Saône, connecting to charming neighborhoods and natural views. It’s a relaxing way to see the city and enjoy the views, especially along the Rhône riverbanks and the new Confluence district.

Attend the Festival of Lights (Fête des Lumières)

• Each December, Lyon hosts a stunning light festival with vibrant displays throughout the city, illuminating landmarks with artistic installations. This annual event is Lyon’s hallmark, providing a magical, immersive experience that attracts visitors from all over the world.

Explore the Croix-Rousse Markets

• Known as the former silk-weaving district, Croix-Rousse hosts lively street markets featuring fresh produce, artisan crafts, and local foods. The market lets you experience Lyon’s local life, sample regional products, and pick up unique finds.

Take a Rhône River Cruise

• See Lyon’s historic architecture and waterfront views from a new perspective by taking a boat tour along the Rhône and Saône rivers. Perfect for a leisurely afternoon, a river cruise offers a different view of Lyon’s districts and highlights such as the confluence of the two rivers.

Discover Silk Workshops and Boutiques

• Lyon was historically Europe’s silk capital. Workshops and boutiques in Croix-Rousse and Vieux Lyon still showcase this heritage, with artisans crafting luxurious silk goods. Silk tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at Lyon’s weaving history and allow you to purchase beautifully crafted items directly from artisans.

Take a Cooking Class

• Lyon is renowned for its cuisine, and cooking classes in the city allow you to learn regional recipes from skilled chefs, including traditional French techniques. Great for hands-on learners, this experience lets you bring a bit of Lyon’s culinary excellence home with you.

Visit Local Vineyards and Wine Cellars

• Lyon is close to the Beaujolais and Rhône Valley wine regions. Day trips to local vineyards offer tastings, cellar tours, and insight into winemaking processes. It’s a wonderful way to taste regional wines and learn from local vintners, with options for guided tours or self-directed visits.

Climb Fourvière Hill for Panoramic Views

• Walk or take the funicular up to Fourvière Hill, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Lyon and the Alps in the distance. Don’t miss the basilica and nearby Roman theater. It combines history with scenic beauty, making it one of the most iconic spots for photos and an overview of the city’s layout.

Enjoy a Picnic in Parc de la Tête d'Or

• Lyon’s largest park is perfect for picnics, with a rose garden, boating lake, and free zoo. Bring local treats from Halles Paul Bocuse and relax in the greenery. It’s a refreshing break from the city, offering a peaceful environment and lots of activities for families and nature lovers.

Day Trips from Lyon

Vienne

• A short trip from Lyon, Vienne is known for its well-preserved Roman ruins, including the Temple of Augustus and Livia and the Roman Theater. The town’s riverside charm and vibrant history make it an ideal day trip.

• Distance: 30 minutes by train.

Saint-Romain-en-Gal

• Across the river from Vienne. This site offers a deep dive into Gallo-Roman history, with an expansive archaeological site and the Musée Gallo-Romain. It features Roman mosaics, baths, and artifacts that bring the region’s ancient history to life.

• Distance: 30 minutes by train.

Côte-Rôtie and Condrieu Wine Regions

• These celebrated wine regions produce exceptional Syrah and Viognier wines. Explore scenic vineyards, sample wine at renowned estates, and enjoy panoramic views of the Rhône Valley.

• Distance: 45 minutes by car.

Tain-l'Hermitage and Tournon-sur-Rhône

• Known for Hermitage wines and scenic vineyards, Tain-l'Hermitage also offers chocolate tastings at the Valrhona Cité du Chocolat. Across the river, Tournon-sur-Rhône has a medieval charm with its castle and botanical garden.

• Distance: 1 hour by train.

Ardèche Gorges

• Known as the "Grand Canyon of Europe," the Ardèche Gorges offers stunning scenery with opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and hiking along the river’s cliffs and natural rock arches.

• Distance: 1.5 hours by car.

What to Eat in Lyon

Lyon, often considered the culinary capital of France, is famous for its traditional dishes rooted in hearty, rustic flavors. Lyonnaise cuisine is best known for its use of local meats, rich sauces, and fresh produce from the surrounding Rhône-Alpes region.

Key Dishes to Try in Lyon

• Quenelles de Brochet: These light, fluffy dumplings are typically made from pike fish, shaped into ovals, and served in a creamy, often seafood-based sauce like Nantua sauce.

• Andouillette: A classic sausage made from pork intestines and seasoned with onions, wine, and spices. Its distinct flavor and texture are unique to Lyon and often served with mustard sauce and potatoes.

• Salade Lyonnaise: This salad combines frisée lettuce with lardons (small pieces of pork), a poached egg, and croutons, all dressed with a tangy mustard vinaigrette. It’s a perfect blend of textures and flavors, balancing richness with freshness.

• Cervelle de Canut: A fresh cheese dip made with herbs, garlic, shallots, vinegar, and sometimes a splash of wine. Despite its name ("silk worker's brain"), it’s a creamy spread typically enjoyed with bread as an appetizer.

• Tablier de Sapeur: This unique Lyon specialty is made from marinated and breaded tripe (beef stomach) and often served with a tartar-like sauce. It’s a dish best appreciated by adventurous eaters!

• Coq au Vin: A regional take on a French classic, Lyon’s version of coq au vin uses local wines, especially red Beaujolais, to braise the rooster, giving the dish a deep, aromatic flavor.

• Boudin Noir aux Pommes: This blood sausage dish is typically served with sautéed apples, creating a sweet and savory contrast.

• Saucisson Brioche: This iconic Lyonnaise dish combines a pork sausage baked in brioche dough, creating a satisfying, savory bread with a juicy sausage center.

• Rosette de Lyon: A type of dry-cured sausage made from high-quality pork, this charcuterie specialty is often sliced thin and served as part of a cold platter, ideal for pairing with local wines.

• Tarte aux Pralines: A dessert unique to Lyon, this tart features bright pink pralines made from almonds coated in caramelized sugar, creating a sweet, crunchy treat within a buttery pastry shell.

Enjoying Lyonnaise Cuisine

Lyon’s cuisine is renowned for its indulgence, and it celebrates high-quality ingredients with recipes passed down over generations. Dining in Lyon also means sampling artisanal cheeses, Rhône Valley wines, and traditional dishes in an intimate setting at a bouchon—small, family-owned eateries that are an integral part of Lyon’s culinary culture.

Where to Eat in Lyon

Best Bouchons in Lyon

• Le Café des Fédérations: This renowned bouchon is a favorite for traditional Lyonnaise dishes, serving classics like quenelles, andouillette, and Salade Lyonnaise in a cozy, authentic setting.

• Chez Hugon: A small, family-run bouchon in the Croix-Rousse area, offering rustic Lyonnaise cuisine with a welcoming, no-frills vibe.

• Daniel & Denise: Chef Joseph Viola, a Meilleur Ouvrier de France, elevates classic bouchon fare with skill and creativity at this popular spot, ideal for hearty yet refined dishes.

Other Notable Dining Experiences

• Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse: A food hall named after the legendary chef, featuring artisan producers where you can try cheeses, charcuterie, oysters, and other regional specialties.

• La Mère Brazier: Established in 1921, this Michelin-starred restaurant serves sophisticated French cuisine that combines Lyon’s culinary heritage with elegance.

• L’Auberge du Pont de Collonges (Paul Bocuse): This iconic restaurant by Paul Bocuse, located just outside Lyon, is a pilgrimage for gourmet dining with its rich flavors and impeccable presentation.

Contemporary & Casual Spots

• Le Kitchen Café: A casual spot blending international flavors with local ingredients, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

• Bistrot du Potager: Known for small plates and creative, seasonal menus, it’s ideal for sampling a range of flavors in a vibrant atmosphere.

Where to Stay in Lyon

Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Lyon

• Presqu'île: Lyon’s central peninsula offers luxury shops, lively squares, and proximity to major sites like Place Bellecour and the Opéra. This area is perfect for first-time visitors wanting easy access to attractions, shopping, and dining.

• Vieux Lyon (Old Town): Ideal for history enthusiasts, Vieux Lyon is full of cobbled streets, Renaissance buildings, and charming boutiques. Staying here places you near landmarks like Saint-Jean Cathedral and the traboules.

• Croix-Rousse: Known for its artsy vibe and former silk-weaving history, this neighborhood is filled with independent shops, cafes, and beautiful city views. Great for those seeking a unique, local atmosphere.

• Confluence: A modern riverside area, Confluence is trendy and contemporary, featuring modern architecture, shopping centers, and scenic riverside paths. It’s great for travelers seeking a mix of culture and relaxation.

Recommended Hotels

• InterContinental Lyon – Hotel Dieu (Presqu'île): Located in a beautifully restored historic building along the Rhône, this luxury hotel combines elegance with modern amenities.

• Cour des Loges (Vieux Lyon): A boutique hotel with Renaissance charm, featuring artistic decor, courtyards, and a Michelin-starred restaurant, perfect for an atmospheric stay.

• Mama Shelter Lyon (7th arrondissement, near Confluence): A trendy, affordable hotel with modern amenities, located near the vibrant Guillotière district.

• Villa Florentine (Fourvière Hill): This hotel offers stunning views over Lyon and luxurious amenities, including a spa and outdoor pool.

• Hôtel Silky by HappyCulture (Presqu'île): Combining historic charm with modern comfort, this mid-range option is in the heart of Lyon's shopping and cultural district.

• Hotel Le Royal Lyon - MGallery (Presqu'île): This boutique hotel blends classic French style with modern luxury, offering beautifully appointed rooms and a renowned culinary experience at the on-site Institut Paul Bocuse restaurant, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a refined and convenient stay in the heart of Lyon.

• OKKO Hotels Lyon Pont Lafayette (6th arrondissement): Offers a modern, stylish stay along the Rhône River, with comfortable rooms and convenient access to Lyon’s vibrant Presqu'île district and Old Town.

Travel Tips for Visiting Lyon

• Learn About Traboules: Lyon’s traboules are hidden passageways dating back to the silk trade. You can find some of the best ones in Vieux Lyon and Croix-Rousse—keep an eye out for small plaques marking their entrances.

• Get the Lyon City Card: It offers unlimited public transport, museum access, and guided tours—perfect for exploring efficiently.

• Catch Sunset from Fourvière Hill: Take the funicular up to Fourvière Basilica and enjoy stunning views of the city and beyond. The sunsets here are especially beautiful, casting a warm light over Lyon's rooftops.

• Time Your Visit with the Fête des Lumières: In December, Lyon’s Festival of Lights transforms the city with illuminated art installations. It’s one of the most beautiful events, drawing visitors from all over the world.

• Explore by Bike: Use Lyon’s Vélo’v bike-sharing system for a quick, eco-friendly way to see the city, with stations conveniently placed around major neighborhoods.

• Explore Croix-Rousse in the Morning: This former silk-weaving district has a daily morning market, plus cafes and bakeries to enjoy breakfast before wandering its art-filled streets.

• Taste Local Wines: The nearby Beaujolais and Côte-Rôtie vineyards mean Lyon has excellent wine bars. Look for tastings of these Rhône and Burgundy varietals at places like Antic Wine or La Cave Valmy.

• Book Ahead for Popular Bouchons: Lyon’s beloved bouchons fill up quickly, so make reservations, especially for renowned spots like Daniel & Denise or Le Garet.

• Check Tram and Metro Timetables: Public transport is efficient, but some tram and metro lines may run less frequently in the evenings or on weekends.

• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Lyon’s cobblestone streets, especially in Vieux Lyon and Croix-Rousse, can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is a must for exploring comfortably.

• Carry Cash for Markets: Many market stalls, especially at Croix-Rousse or Saint-Antoine, prefer cash, so have some euros on hand for easy purchases.

• Opt for a Light Packing Approach: Lyon's boutiques offer unique items, so you might want room in your luggage for some great local finds!