Top Things to Do in Lyon
A complete travel guide to Lyon

Complete Lyon Travel Guide

Discover insider tips, hidden gems, and must-visit attractions in our comprehensive Lyon travel guide. Get detailed information about top attractions, authentic local experiences, and dining recommendations.

Read Full Guide
1
Must-See

Old Lyon (Vieux Lyon)

Explore Vieux Lyon, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander its narrow cobblestone streets, admiring preserved Renaissance buildings. Discover hidden "traboules"—secret passageways revealing Lyon's silk history. This immersive journey back in time reveals authentic charm, perfect for leisurely strolls through a vibrant past. This Lyon landmark offers unique experiences that showcase the city's rich cultural heritage and architectural beauty. Perfect for photography enthusiasts and history lovers alike.

Old Lyon (Vieux Lyon) - Detailed Guide

Learn more about Old Lyon (Vieux Lyon), including visiting hours, ticket prices, insider tips, and the best times to visit. Discover what makes this Lyon attraction truly special.

View Full Details
2
Must-See

Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

Perched atop Fourvière hill, this Basilica offers breathtaking panoramic Lyon views. Its intricate Byzantine and Romanesque architecture, adorned with mosaics, is mesmerizing. Step inside to witness its grandeur, then capture stunning cityscapes. An essential visit for unparalleled beauty and historical significance. This Lyon landmark offers unique experiences that showcase the city's rich cultural heritage and architectural beauty. Perfect for photography enthusiasts and history lovers alike.

Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière - Detailed Guide

Learn more about Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, including visiting hours, ticket prices, insider tips, and the best times to visit. Discover what makes this Lyon attraction truly special.

View Full Details
3
Must-See

Roman Theatres of Fourvière

Delve into Lyon's ancient past at the Roman Theatres of Fourvière. These remarkably preserved amphitheatres, dating to 15 BC, once hosted grand performances. Today, they provide a fascinating historical backdrop and host summer concerts. Connect deeply with the city's foundational Roman heritage here. This Lyon landmark offers unique experiences that showcase the city's rich cultural heritage and architectural beauty. Perfect for photography enthusiasts and history lovers alike.

Roman Theatres of Fourvière - Detailed Guide

Learn more about Roman Theatres of Fourvière, including visiting hours, ticket prices, insider tips, and the best times to visit. Discover what makes this Lyon attraction truly special.

View Full Details
4
Must-See

Musée des Confluences

Explore the striking Musée des Confluences, an architectural marvel at the Rhône and Saône confluence. This futuristic museum houses diverse exhibits spanning natural history, anthropology, and science. Its innovative design and thought-provoking collections offer a unique, engaging cultural experience for all ages. This Lyon landmark offers unique experiences that showcase the city's rich cultural heritage and architectural beauty. Perfect for photography enthusiasts and history lovers alike.

Musée des Confluences - Detailed Guide

Learn more about Musée des Confluences, including visiting hours, ticket prices, insider tips, and the best times to visit. Discover what makes this Lyon attraction truly special.

View Full Details
5
Must-See

Parc de la Tête d'Or

Escape the urban bustle at Parc de la Tête d'Or, Lyon's sprawling urban park. Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the lake, visit the free zoo, or wander impressive botanical gardens. Perfect for a leisurely afternoon, this green oasis provides a tranquil setting for unwinding amidst nature's beauty. This Lyon landmark offers unique experiences that showcase the city's rich cultural heritage and architectural beauty. Perfect for photography enthusiasts and history lovers alike.

Parc de la Tête d'Or - Detailed Guide

Learn more about Parc de la Tête d'Or, including visiting hours, ticket prices, insider tips, and the best times to visit. Discover what makes this Lyon attraction truly special.

View Full Details
1
Experience

Explore Les Traboules

Embark on an exciting discovery of Lyon's secret "traboules," hidden passageways in Vieux Lyon and Croix-Rousse. Historically used by silk workers, these intriguing shortcuts connect streets through buildings. Uncover their unique charm and significance, transforming your walk into an adventurous treasure hunt through the city's past. This immersive Lyon experience provides authentic local insights and memorable moments. Ideal for travelers seeking genuine cultural connections and adventure beyond typical tourist attractions.

Explore Les Traboules - Experience Guide

Get detailed information about Explore Les Traboules, including booking tips, what to expect, pricing, and how to make the most of this authentic Lyon experience.

Learn More
2
Experience

Take a Cooking Class

Immerse yourself in Lyon's gastronomic heart by taking a cooking class focused on traditional "bouchon" cuisine. Learn to prepare classic Lyonnaise dishes like salade lyonnaise from expert chefs. This hands-on experience offers delicious insight into the city's culinary heritage, allowing you to savor authentic flavors. This immersive Lyon experience provides authentic local insights and memorable moments. Ideal for travelers seeking genuine cultural connections and adventure beyond typical tourist attractions.

Take a Cooking Class - Experience Guide

Get detailed information about Take a Cooking Class, including booking tips, what to expect, pricing, and how to make the most of this authentic Lyon experience.

Learn More
3
Experience

Wander through Croix-Rousse

Ascend to Croix-Rousse, the historic silk workers' district, for bohemian charm and stunning views. Explore its unique "traboules," discover vibrant street art murals, and soak in the artistic atmosphere. The "slopes" offer a different perspective of Lyon, combining history with contemporary culture for an insightful walk. This immersive Lyon experience provides authentic local insights and memorable moments. Ideal for travelers seeking genuine cultural connections and adventure beyond typical tourist attractions.

Wander through Croix-Rousse - Experience Guide

Get detailed information about Wander through Croix-Rousse, including booking tips, what to expect, pricing, and how to make the most of this authentic Lyon experience.

Learn More
4
Experience

Enjoy a River Cruise

Experience Lyon from a new vantage point with a relaxing river cruise along the Rhône or Saône. Glide past iconic landmarks like the Bellecour Peninsula, enjoying picturesque cityscapes. This tranquil journey offers a unique perspective on Lyon's beautiful bridges and waterfront architecture, a refreshing way to see the city. This immersive Lyon experience provides authentic local insights and memorable moments. Ideal for travelers seeking genuine cultural connections and adventure beyond typical tourist attractions.

Enjoy a River Cruise - Experience Guide

Get detailed information about Enjoy a River Cruise, including booking tips, what to expect, pricing, and how to make the most of this authentic Lyon experience.

Learn More
5
Experience

Visit Les Halles Paul Bocuse

Indulge your senses at Les Halles Paul Bocuse, Lyon's premier indoor gourmet market. This food lover's paradise boasts high-quality local produce, cheeses, and pastries from renowned vendors. Sample exquisite delicacies and savor the vibrant atmosphere of this culinary institution, a true feast for foodies. This immersive Lyon experience provides authentic local insights and memorable moments. Ideal for travelers seeking genuine cultural connections and adventure beyond typical tourist attractions.

Visit Les Halles Paul Bocuse - Experience Guide

Get detailed information about Visit Les Halles Paul Bocuse, including booking tips, what to expect, pricing, and how to make the most of this authentic Lyon experience.

Learn More
💡
Local Secret

Insider Tip 1

Use the Lyon City Card for public transport and attraction access. This local insight comes from years of travel experience and will help you navigate Lyon like a seasoned local. These practical recommendations can save you time, money, and enhance your overall travel experience significantly.

💡
Local Secret

Insider Tip 2

Wear comfortable shoes to explore Lyon's hilly streets and traboules. This local insight comes from years of travel experience and will help you navigate Lyon like a seasoned local. These practical recommendations can save you time, money, and enhance your overall travel experience significantly.

💡
Local Secret

Insider Tip 3

Book popular traditional bouchons in advance, especially for dinner. This local insight comes from years of travel experience and will help you navigate Lyon like a seasoned local. These practical recommendations can save you time, money, and enhance your overall travel experience significantly.

💡
Local Secret

Insider Tip 4

Try the local specialty "pink praline" desserts and pastries. This local insight comes from years of travel experience and will help you navigate Lyon like a seasoned local. These practical recommendations can save you time, money, and enhance your overall travel experience significantly.

💡
Local Secret

Insider Tip 5

Learn a few basic French phrases; it’s always appreciated by locals. This local insight comes from years of travel experience and will help you navigate Lyon like a seasoned local. These practical recommendations can save you time, money, and enhance your overall travel experience significantly.

1
Dining

Café Brochier

Step into the timeless elegance of Café Brochier, a classic Lyonnaise institution. This charming café, with its traditional decor and cozy ambiance, is perfect for morning coffee or afternoon pastry. Savor freshly baked viennoiseries and experience authentic Lyonnaise café culture, offering a delightful pause in your day. This Lyon dining destination represents the finest in local culinary tradition and offers an authentic taste of regional specialties. The atmosphere and service create unforgettable dining experiences for visitors and locals alike.

Café Brochier - Restaurant Guide

Discover more about Café Brochier, including menu highlights, reservation information, price range, and what makes this Lyon dining spot a local favorite.

View Restaurant Details
2
Dining

Slake Coffee House

For specialty coffee lovers, Slake Coffee House is a must-visit. Known for its expertly brewed artisanal coffees and minimalist-chic interior, it offers a contemporary urban escape. Enjoy a perfectly crafted latte or a freshly baked treat in a vibrant atmosphere, ideal for a casual meet-up or quiet relaxation. This Lyon dining destination represents the finest in local culinary tradition and offers an authentic taste of regional specialties. The atmosphere and service create unforgettable dining experiences for visitors and locals alike.

Slake Coffee House - Restaurant Guide

Discover more about Slake Coffee House, including menu highlights, reservation information, price range, and what makes this Lyon dining spot a local favorite.

View Restaurant Details
3
Dining

Mokxa

Discover Mokxa, a leading craft coffee roaster and cafe in Lyon. Renowned for its dedication to exceptional beans and meticulous brewing, the passionate baristas guide you through their diverse selection. It’s a true haven for coffee connoisseurs seeking a rich, aromatic experience in a friendly setting, perfectly crafted for you. This Lyon dining destination represents the finest in local culinary tradition and offers an authentic taste of regional specialties. The atmosphere and service create unforgettable dining experiences for visitors and locals alike.

Mokxa - Restaurant Guide

Discover more about Mokxa, including menu highlights, reservation information, price range, and what makes this Lyon dining spot a local favorite.

View Restaurant Details
4
Dining

Pralus (Brioche Praline Rose)

No visit to Lyon is complete without tasting the famous Brioche Praline Rose from Pralus. This iconic bakery crafts a delectable, sweet brioche studded with vibrant pink pralines, offering a delightful crunch and unique flavor. It's a true Lyonnaise specialty, perfect for a sweet memory. This Lyon dining destination represents the finest in local culinary tradition and offers an authentic taste of regional specialties. The atmosphere and service create unforgettable dining experiences for visitors and locals alike.

Pralus (Brioche Praline Rose) - Restaurant Guide

Discover more about Pralus (Brioche Praline Rose), including menu highlights, reservation information, price range, and what makes this Lyon dining spot a local favorite.

View Restaurant Details
5
Dining

Les Halles de l'Est - Various Stalls

While not a single cafe, Les Halles de l'Est Paul Bocuse hosts numerous excellent spots within its gourmet market. Find everything from exquisite pastries and artisanal chocolates to oysters and wine. It's the perfect place to sample various Lyonnaise delicacies in a bustling, convivial atmosphere—a true food lover's paradise. This Lyon dining destination represents the finest in local culinary tradition and offers an authentic taste of regional specialties. The atmosphere and service create unforgettable dining experiences for visitors and locals alike.

Les Halles de l'Est - Various Stalls - Restaurant Guide

Discover more about Les Halles de l'Est - Various Stalls, including menu highlights, reservation information, price range, and what makes this Lyon dining spot a local favorite.

View Restaurant Details