Discover Lyon | A Visitor's Introduction to Lyon, France

Why is Lyon Worth a Visit?

Lyon is worth visiting for its unique combination of historical heritage, culinary excellence, and contemporary vibrancy. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lyon boasts beautifully preserved Renaissance and Roman architecture, particularly in the districts of Vieux Lyon, Fourvière, and Croix-Rousse. The city is also famous as the gastronomic capital of France, home to a plethora of bouchons (traditional Lyonnais restaurants), Michelin-starred eateries, and bustling food markets.

In addition to its historical and culinary appeal, Lyon is a hub for cultural and artistic activities, hosting numerous festivals, exhibitions, and performances throughout the year. Its compact size and efficient public transport make it easy to explore, while its riverside location and surrounding hills provide stunning natural scenery. Whether you're interested in history, art, food, or simply enjoying a beautiful city, Lyon offers an enriching and enjoyable experience.

Lyon Highlights: Things to See and Do in Lyon

1. Vieux Lyon (Old Town)

Vieux Lyon, the city’s Renaissance district, is one of the largest and best-preserved old towns in Europe. Its narrow cobbled streets are lined with colourful buildings, charming courtyards, and secret passageways known as traboules. Explore the district’s beautiful churches, including the stunning Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral, and take time to enjoy the lively atmosphere at Place du Change. This area is perfect for wandering, with plenty of cafés, shops, and traditional bouchons to discover.

2. Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

Perched on Fourvière Hill, this iconic basilica offers breathtaking views of the city. Built in the late 19th century, the basilica is an architectural marvel with its ornate interior, featuring intricate mosaics, stained glass, and a stunning golden Virgin Mary statue. Visitors can climb the basilica’s towers for panoramic views over Lyon. Nearby, the Roman Theatre of Fourvière is an ancient amphitheatre that hosts performances and events, particularly during the annual Nuits de Fourvière festival.

3. Presqu'île

The Presqu'île is the heart of Lyon, a lively peninsula between the Rhône and Saône rivers. It’s known for its grand 19th-century buildings, wide boulevards, and bustling squares like Place Bellecour and Place des Terreaux. The area is also a shopping haven, with luxury boutiques, department stores, and charming pedestrian streets. Don’t miss the stunning Hôtel de Ville (City Hall) and the nearby Musée des Beaux-Arts, which houses an impressive collection of art ranging from ancient to modern.

4. Traboules

The traboules are a unique feature of Lyon, a network of secret passageways used by silk workers in the 19th century to transport goods while avoiding bad weather. Today, many of these passageways are open to the public, particularly in Vieux Lyon and the Croix-Rousse district. Exploring the traboules is like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse into the city’s historical fabric. Look out for signs indicating open traboules, or join a guided tour for an in-depth experience.

5. Croix-Rousse

Known as the former hub of Lyon’s silk industry, the Croix-Rousse district is a bohemian neighbourhood with a distinctive character. Its steep streets are filled with artisan shops, cafés, and markets. The area offers great views of the city and is home to the Maison des Canuts, a museum dedicated to the history of Lyon’s silk weaving. On Sundays, the Croix-Rousse market is a must-visit, offering everything from fresh produce to handcrafted goods.

6. Parc de la Tête d'Or

One of the largest urban parks in France, Parc de la Tête d'Or is a beautiful green space ideal for a leisurely day out. The park features a large lake, botanical gardens, a rose garden, and even a small zoo. Rent a boat to explore the lake, take a stroll along the tree-lined paths, or enjoy a picnic on the grass. The park is a favourite spot for both locals and visitors, offering a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

7. Musée des Confluences

Located at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, the Musée des Confluences is a striking modern building that houses a science and anthropology museum. The museum’s exhibits explore the origins of life, human cultures, and the natural world through innovative and interactive displays. The building itself, with its futuristic architecture, is worth a visit. After exploring the museum, take a walk along the nearby riverbanks for stunning views of the city.

8. Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse

Named after the legendary chef Paul Bocuse, Les Halles de Lyon is a food lover’s paradise. This indoor market is home to some of Lyon’s best food vendors, offering everything from fresh produce and seafood to pastries, cheeses, and charcuterie. Sample local specialities like saucisson, quenelles, and praline tarts, or sit down for a meal at one of the market’s many restaurants. Les Halles is a perfect spot to experience Lyon’s rich culinary tradition.

9. Lyon's Bouchons

Bouchons are traditional Lyonnais restaurants known for their hearty, comforting cuisine. These cosy establishments serve classic dishes such as coq au vin, andouillette (a type of sausage), and tarte aux pralines. Dining at a bouchon is a quintessential Lyon experience. Some of the most famous bouchons include Café des Fédérations, Daniel et Denise, and Le Bouchon des Filles. Be sure to pair your meal with a glass of local wine from the nearby Beaujolais or Côtes du Rhône regions.

10. Lyon Opera House

The Lyon Opera House, or Opéra Nouvel, is a stunning blend of 19th-century architecture and modern design by Jean Nouvel. The opera house hosts a variety of performances, including opera, ballet, and classical concerts. Even if you don’t catch a show, the building itself is worth admiring, particularly the striking glass dome that contrasts beautifully with the historic facade.

11. Rue Saint-Jean

Rue Saint-Jean is the main street of Vieux Lyon, filled with history and charm. This pedestrian-friendly street is lined with Renaissance buildings, traditional shops, and bouchons. It’s a great place to soak up the atmosphere of the old town, browse for souvenirs, and enjoy a meal or a drink at one of the many cafés. The street also leads to the Cathedral of Saint-Jean and other historic sites.

12. Musée des Beaux-Arts

Housed in a former Benedictine convent, the Musée des Beaux-Arts is one of France’s most important art museums. Its extensive collection includes works by masters such as Rembrandt, Monet, and Picasso, as well as ancient artefacts from Egypt, Greece, and Rome. The museum’s beautiful courtyard garden is a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

13. Fête des Lumières (Festival of Lights)

Lyon’s Festival of Lights, held every December, is a spectacular event that transforms the city into a canvas of light and colour. Buildings, streets, and squares are illuminated with intricate light installations, creating a magical atmosphere. The festival attracts millions of visitors and showcases the creativity and innovation of artists from around the world. It’s a must-see event if you’re visiting Lyon during the holiday season.

14. Roman Theatres of Fourvière

The Roman Theatres of Fourvière are ancient amphitheatres dating back to the 1st century AD. These well-preserved theatres are still used for performances today, particularly during the Nuits de Fourvière festival, which features a variety of concerts, plays, and dance performances. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into Lyon’s Roman past and provides panoramic views of the city.

15. Place des Terreaux and the Fountain of Bartholdi

Place des Terreaux is a lively square located in the Presqu'île, surrounded by important landmarks like the Hôtel de Ville and the Musée des Beaux-Arts. The square is home to the magnificent Fountain of Bartholdi, designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the creator of the Statue of Liberty. The fountain, depicting horses symbolising rivers, is a popular photo spot and a beautiful example of 19th-century sculpture.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

Lyon is well-connected by air, train, and road. Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport offers flights to major cities in Europe and beyond. The city’s main train station, Gare de Lyon-Part-Dieu, is a hub for high-speed TGV trains, connecting Lyon with Paris, Marseille, and other French cities. Lyon is also accessible by car, with major motorways linking it to the rest of France.

Getting Around

Lyon has an efficient public transport system, including buses, trams, and a metro network. The city’s compact size makes it easy to explore on foot or by bike, with a bike-sharing scheme (Vélo’v) available for convenient rentals. The Lyon City Card provides unlimited access to public transport and free entry to many museums and attractions.

Dining

Lyon is a culinary capital, known for its diverse dining scene. In addition to its bouchons, the city boasts numerous Michelin-starred restaurants, including the famous Paul Bocuse Restaurant. Don’t miss the opportunity to try local specialities like quenelles, cervelle de canut (a cheese spread), and Lyonnaise potatoes. For a more casual experience, visit one of the city’s many bakeries and markets to sample delicious pastries and fresh produce.

Shopping

Lyon is a great destination for shopping, offering everything from high-end fashion boutiques to artisan workshops and vibrant markets. The Presqu'île is the main shopping area, with major brands and department stores. For unique finds, explore the artisan shops in Vieux Lyon or the designer stores in the Confluence district.

When to Visit

Lyon is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own charm. Spring and autumn are ideal for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer brings lively festivals and outdoor events, while winter offers the magical Fête des Lumières. Regardless of the season, Lyon’s rich history, culture, and gastronomy ensure an enjoyable visit.

Local Events

In addition to the Fête des Lumières, Lyon hosts several notable events throughout the year. The Nuits de Fourvière festival in summer features a diverse programme of music, theatre, and dance performances in the historic Roman theatres. The Biennale de la Danse and the Biennale d’Art Contemporain are also major cultural events that attract international audiences.

Exploring Beyond Lyon

Lyon’s central location makes it a great base for exploring the surrounding Rhône-Alpes region. Consider day trips to the Beaujolais wine region, the medieval town of Pérouges, or the scenic Alpine foothills. The nearby cities of Annecy and Grenoble offer stunning natural beauty and historic charm, while Geneva is just a short train ride away.