Lyon Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food and drink scene, accommodations, and local customs in Lyon, France. Plan your trip with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Lyon

Lyon is a city like no other in France. It is known as the gastronomic capital of France and boasts a wealth of cultural heritage and stunning architecture. From its ancient Roman past to its modern-day vibrancy, Lyon has something for everyone.

Located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, Lyon sits at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers. It is France’s third-largest city, with a population of over 500,000 people, making it a bustling and lively metropolis. Lyon is also well connected to the rest of the country, with good transport links by road, rail, and air.

List of Places to Visit in Lyon

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums, and Historical Places

Musée des Confluences

The Musée des Confluences is not just a museum, but also an architectonic work of art. Its futuristic design will leave you breathless as you explore this unique space. The museum offers a fascinating insight into the natural and social sciences, with interactive exhibits and displays on everything from astronomy and biology to anthropology and history.

Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière

Perched atop a hill overlooking the city, the Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière is a must-visit attraction in Lyon. Its stunning neoclassical design and richly decorated interiors will take your breath away. The basilica also offers panoramic views of the city from its terraces.

Vieux Lyon

Vieux Lyon, or “Old Lyon,” is a beautiful medieval quarter situated on the banks of the Saône river. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to many of Lyon’s most significant historical landmarks, including the Cathédrale Saint-Jean Baptiste.

Natural Attractions of Lyon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Parc de la Tête d’Or

Parc de la Tête d’Or is a vast urban park located in the heart of Lyon. It features a large lake, a zoo, botanical gardens, and plenty of space for picnics, relaxing, and outdoor activities. It’s the perfect place to escape the city and enjoy some fresh air and greenery.

Monts d’Or

Just a short distance from Lyon, Monts d’Or is a beautiful range of hills that offers scenic hiking trails and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The area is also home to several picturesque villages, including Saint Cyr au Mont d’Or and Collonges au Mont d’Or.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lyon

ViaRhôna

The ViaRhôna is a bike route that runs along the Rhône river, from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean Sea. It passes through Lyon and offers stunning views of the city and its surroundings. It is perfect for cycling enthusiasts, offering several bike rental and repair shops along the way.

The Pilat Regional Nature Park

Located just outside of Lyon, the Pilat Regional Nature Park is a scenic hiking destination with over 700 km of walking and hiking trails. The park is known for its picturesque mountain views and unique rock formations.

Best Things to Do in Lyon: Activities and Tours

Lyon City Boat Tours

A boat tour is a unique way to experience Lyon’s waterways and take in the city’s stunning architecture. Several tour operators offer boat tours along the Saône and Rhône rivers, with options ranging from a short trip to a full-day excursion.

Lyon Food Tasting Tours

As the gastronomic capital of France, Lyon is bursting with incredible food and drink. A food tasting tour is the perfect way to sample local delicacies and learn about Lyon’s culinary traditions. Several tour operators offer food tours, with options ranging from a walking tour to a more luxurious experience with private chauffeur service.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lyon

Day 1 Explore Vieux Lyon and take a guided tour of the city
Day 2 Visit the Musée des Confluences and take a river cruise along the Rhône
Day 3 Hike in Monts d’Or and enjoy a picnic lunch with local delicacies
Day 4 Take a cooking class and learn how to prepare traditional Lyonnaise dishes
Day 5 Visit the Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière and enjoy the panoramic views of the city
Day 6 Bike the ViaRhôna trail and stop in several small towns along the way
Day 7 Relax and unwind in Parc de la Tête d’Or or visit a local spa for some pampering

Food and Drink Scene of Lyon

Must-Try Dishes

Quenelles

A signature dish of Lyon, quenelles are light, airy dumplings made from fish or meat. They are usually served in a creamy sauce and are a must-try dish for any visitor to the city.

Coq au Vin

Another classic French dish that originated in Lyon, coq au vin is a hearty stew made with chicken and red wine. It is usually served with potatoes, carrots, and mushrooms, making it a perfect comfort food in colder weather.

Local Beverages

Beaujolais Wines

Lyon is located in the heart of Beaujolais wine country, which produces some of France’s most famous wines. Beaujolais is known for its fruity flavors and light body, making it the perfect accompaniment to Lyon’s rich cuisine.

Côtes du Rhône Wines

For those who prefer a more full-bodied wine, Côtes du Rhône wines are also popular in Lyon. These wines are made from grapes grown in the Rhône valley and offer a more complex flavor profile.

Where to Stay in Lyon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sofitel Lyon Bellecour

Located in the heart of Lyon’s city center, Sofitel Lyon Bellecour is a luxury hotel that offers stunning views of the Rhône river. The hotel’s elegant interiors and world-class amenities make it the perfect choice for those looking for a luxurious stay in the city.

Okko Hotel Lyon Pont Lafayette

For those on a budget, Okko Hotel Lyon Pont Lafayette offers affordable accommodation in the heart of Lyon. The hotel features stylish and modern rooms, free breakfast, and a lounge area for guests to relax and socialize in.

What to Buy in Lyon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Lyon Silk

Lyon has been famous for its high-quality silk production since the 16th century. Visitors can purchase silk scarves, ties, and other accessories from local shops and markets.

Pralines

A sweet and crunchy delicacy found throughout Lyon, pralines are a must-try treat for any visitor to the city. They are popular as a snack, a dessert topping, or as a filling for pastries and other baked goods.

Local Culture and Customs of Lyon

Lyon is a vibrant and lively city with a rich cultural heritage. The city’s inhabitants are known for their joie de vivre, or love of life, and are always willing to welcome visitors with a smile.

Best Time to Visit Lyon

The best time to visit Lyon is from March to June or from September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller than in the peak summer season. The city also hosts several festivals during these months, including the Fête des Lumières in December.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lyon

Do:

  • Try the local food and drink.
  • Explore the city’s rich cultural heritage.
  • Take in the stunning architecture and beautiful natural scenery.

Don’t:

  • Miss out on Lyon’s vibrant nightlife.
  • Be afraid to ask locals for recommendations.
  • Rely solely on public transportation; Lyon is a walkable city.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lyon

Lyon is a relatively safe city, with low levels of violent crime. However, like any urban area, visitors should take basic precautions and be aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night.

Health in Lyon

France has a high-quality healthcare system that is accessible to visitors with travel insurance. Visitors should also take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses during the summer months.

Getting to Lyon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lyon

Lyon Airport is located just outside the city and is accessible via private transportation or public transportation options.

Bus Stations Near Lyon

Lyon has several bus stations, including Gare routière de Lyon Perrache and Gare de Lyon-Part-Dieu, which offer bus connections to other cities and towns in France.

Other Options

Lyon is well connected to other major cities in France and Europe via rail and road networks.

How to Get Around in Lyon

Lyon is a walkable city, and many of its attractions are easily accessible on foot. Visitors can also use public transportation, including the metro, tram, and bus systems.

Where to Go Next from Lyon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Annecy

Located just over an hour’s drive from Lyon, Annecy is a beautiful alpine town known for its stunning lake and picturesque old town. It’s the perfect destination for a day trip from Lyon.

Grenoble

Grenoble is a historic city located in the Isère region of France, just an hour and a half’s drive from Lyon. It is known for its beautiful mountain scenery and is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Lyon truly is a one-of-a-kind destination in France, with its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural scenery, and world-class cuisine. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or outdoor enthusiast, Lyon has something for everyone. Plan your trip and explore this vibrant and beautiful city for yourself.

Fourvière basilica from the river Saône, illuminated at night. Fourvière basilica from the river Saône, illuminated at night. The Roman theatre in Fourvière, the most important remain of the Roman city of Lugdunum. The Roman theatre in Fourvière, the most important remain of the Roman city of Lugdunum. Banks of the Saône river in Lyon in the 18th century Banks of the Saône river in Lyon in the 18th century The Saint-Jean fort and Saône river. The Saint-Jean fort and Saône river. Skyline of the Part-Dieu business district. Skyline of the Part-Dieu business district. Festival of Lights. Festival of Lights. The Lyon II university building illuminated at night. The Lyon II university building illuminated at night. LYS airport seen from above LYS airport seen from above A Rhônexpress tram A Rhônexpress tram Part-Dieu station Part-Dieu station Highways around Lyon Highways around Lyon Tram line T1 Tram line T1 A ''Cristalis'' trolley bus A ''Cristalis'' trolley bus Public bicycle service Vélo'v Public bicycle service Vélo'v A ''traboule'' is a passageway typical of Lyon A ''traboule'' is a passageway typical of Lyon Old Lyon Old Lyon The astronomical clock in St Jean cathedral. The astronomical clock in St Jean cathedral. Rue St Jean. Rue St Jean. Old courthouse Old courthouse City Hall on place des Terreaux. City Hall on place des Terreaux. Place Bellecour seen from the hill of Fourvière Place Bellecour seen from the hill of Fourvière Cité Internationale, from the park side. Cité Internationale, from the park side. Museum of Contemporary Art. Museum of Contemporary Art. Musée des Confluences Musée des Confluences The large greenhouses in Parc de la Tête d'Or. The large greenhouses in Parc de la Tête d'Or. Guignol and the gendarme Guignol and the gendarme St Antoine market on a Sunday morning. St Antoine market on a Sunday morning. A plate of ''Grattons'' and ''saucisson''. A plate of ''Grattons'' and ''saucisson''. Andouillette and Gratin dauphinois Andouillette and Gratin dauphinois A beach in Miribel-Jonage A beach in Miribel-Jonage Beaujolais wineyards Beaujolais wineyards Val Thorens in winter Val Thorens in winter