Tucked between the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon is often overshadowed by Paris or Provence—but make no mistake, this UNESCO World Heritage city is a cultural, historical, and culinary gem. As France’s third-largest city, Lyon offers a unique blend of ancient history, Renaissance charm, and modern creativity.
Whether you’re an art lover, a foodie, or simply curious about French culture, Lyon has something to offer. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Lyon, covering must-see sights, hidden gems, and unforgettable food experiences.
A Quick Introduction to Lyon
Before we jump into what to do, it’s worth understanding why Lyon is so special.
- Founded by the Romans in 43 BC as Lugdunum, Lyon has over 2,000 years of history.
- It was once the capital of Gaul and later became a major center for silk production and printing during the Renaissance.
- Today, Lyon is globally recognized as the gastronomic capital of France.
1. Explore Vieux Lyon (Old Town)
Step back in time in Vieux Lyon, one of Europe’s largest and best-preserved Renaissance districts. This atmospheric neighborhood is a maze of cobbled lanes, colorful buildings, and ornate courtyards.
Must-See Spots in Vieux Lyon:
- Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste: Known for its beautiful astronomical clock.
- Traboules: Secret passageways that weave through buildings—once used by silk workers and Resistance fighters.
- Rue Saint-Jean: The heart of Old Lyon, lined with shops, crêperies, and historic charm.
📸 Tip: Visit early in the morning for a peaceful walk before the crowds arrive.
2. Climb to Fourvière Hill and the Basilica
Towering above the city, Fourvière Hill offers the best panoramic views of Lyon. At the top sits the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, a 19th-century marvel with Byzantine architecture and stunning mosaics.
Things to Do on Fourvière Hill:
- Visit the Basilica: Free to enter, and it’s breathtaking inside and out.
- Roman Theatres of Fourvière: Explore ancient amphitheaters dating back to 15 BC.
- Take the Funicular: A quick and scenic ride from Vieux Lyon up the hill.
🎭 Bonus: In summer, the Roman theatre hosts the Nuits de Fourvière arts festival.
3. Wander Through the Presqu’île
Nestled between the Rhône and Saône rivers, the Presqu’île is the vibrant heart of Lyon’s shopping, culture, and nightlife scenes.
Highlights of the Presqu’île:
- Place Bellecour: One of Europe’s largest open squares, featuring a statue of Louis XIV.
- Rue de la République: A lively shopping street with cafés, boutiques, and bookstores.
- Musée des Beaux-Arts: Often dubbed the “little Louvre,” this fine arts museum houses works by Monet, Van Gogh, Picasso, and more.
🍷 Don’t miss: A glass of wine in Place des Terreaux, where street performers entertain crowds day and night.
4. Eat Like a Local: Discover Lyonnaise Cuisine
When in Lyon, you must eat. This city is the birthplace of French gastronomy, and home to legendary chefs like Paul Bocuse.
Must-Try Local Dishes:
- Quenelles de Brochet: Pike dumplings in a creamy sauce.
- Saucisson Brioché: Sausage baked in brioche bread.
- Salade Lyonnaise: Greens with bacon, croutons, and poached egg.
- Tarte à la Praline: A sweet pink tart unique to Lyon.
Where to Eat:
- Bouchons Lyonnais: Traditional restaurants offering hearty, home-style cooking. Look for the “Les Bouchons Lyonnais” label for authenticity.
- Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse: A gourmet food market perfect for sampling cheeses, charcuterie, and wines.
5. Relax by the Rhône or Saône Rivers
After sightseeing, head to the riverbanks for a dose of Lyon’s laid-back lifestyle.
What to Do:
- Walk or bike along the Berges du Rhône, a scenic riverside path lined with floating bars and shaded benches.
- Take a boat tour along the Saône to see Lyon from the water.
- Enjoy a picnic at Parc de la Tête d’Or, one of Europe’s largest urban parks, complete with a lake, botanical gardens, and a free zoo.
🌅 Evening Tip: Grab a drink at one of the riverside peniches (barge bars) and enjoy sunset views.
6. Discover Lyon’s Silk Heritage in Croix-Rousse
Nicknamed the “Hill That Works,” Croix-Rousse was the center of Lyon’s silk-weaving industry in the 19th century.
Highlights:
- Maison des Canuts: A museum dedicated to Lyon’s silk workers (canuts), where you can see live weaving demonstrations.
- Mur des Canuts: One of the largest murals in Europe, depicting the lives of silk workers in stunning detail.
- Local Markets: The Croix-Rousse daily market is a fantastic place to pick up fresh produce and local products.
🎨 Art Tip: Lyon is famous for its trompe-l’oeil murals—more than 100 across the city!
7. Dive into Modern Architecture at Confluence
Located where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet, the Confluence district is Lyon’s boldest step into modern urban planning.
What to See:
- Musée des Confluences: A futuristic science and anthropology museum inside a dramatic glass-and-steel structure.
- Confluence Shopping Center: With riverside restaurants, eco-friendly design, and unique boutiques.
- Urban Exploration: Walk along new eco-neighborhoods, rooftop gardens, and experimental buildings.
🚴♀️ Eco-Tip: Rent a Vélo’v bike and explore the area’s bike-friendly paths.
Bonus: Take a Day Trip
Lyon’s central location makes it perfect for exploring more of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.
- Beaujolais Wine Region: Just north of Lyon—ideal for vineyard tours and tastings.
- Pérouges: A beautifully preserved medieval village less than an hour away.
- Annecy: A fairytale Alpine town known as the “Venice of the Alps.”
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason why more travelers are turning their attention to Lyon. It’s a city where ancient Roman ruins stand next to cutting-edge museums, where you can enjoy a Michelin-star meal or a casual bouchon lunch, and where history and modernity walk hand-in-hand.
From sunrise over Fourvière to wine by the river at sunset, Lyon invites you to slow down, savor every moment, and fall in love with the art of living à la française.
Quick Recap
| Experience | Why It’s Worth It |
| Vieux Lyon | Historic charm and architecture |
| Fourvière Basilica | Best city views and Roman ruins |
| Bouchons Lyonnais | Authentic Lyonnaise cuisine |
| Musée des Beaux-Arts | World-class art collection |
| Parc de la Tête d’Or | Nature escape in the city |
| Croix-Rousse | Silk heritage and murals |
| Confluence | Modern design meets riverside beauty |
