Things To Do
in Lyon

Lyon, France is a vibrant city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and culinary prowess. Situated at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, it boasts UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a lively cultural scene. The city's blend of Renaissance and modernist architecture creates a unique atmosphere that attracts tourists from around the world.

With its famous bouchons and street art, Lyon is a feast for the senses.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Heart of Lyon
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to Vieux Lyon, the city's old town, where you can explore its narrow cobblestone streets and Renaissance architecture.

afternoon
:

Head to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière for breathtaking views of the city before enjoying lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Finish your day with a traditional dinner at a bouchon, savoring local specialties and enjoying the lively ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the Musée des Confluences, a stunning modern museum that explores the intersection of natural and social sciences.

afternoon
:

Stroll through Parc de la Tête d'Or, where you can relax by the lake, visit the botanical gardens, or even rent a paddleboat.

evening
:

Experience Lyon's nightlife by visiting the trendy bars in the Croix-Rousse district, enjoying music and cocktails.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20-$40
Coffee$3-$5
🚇Public transport ticket$2
🛒Grocery shopping for a week$50-$100
🏨Hotel night stay$100-$200

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich culinary scene with diverse dining options.
  • Beautiful architecture and historical sites.
  • Vibrant cultural scene with numerous festivals.
  • Summer can be quite hot and humid.
  • Public transport can be crowded during peak hours.
  • Some areas may be less safe at night.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "Où est…?" - Where is...?
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please

Places to Visit in Lyon

Visit one of these nice places.

Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

A stunning basilica that offers panoramic views of the city and intricate architectural details.

Place des Terreaux

A lively square featuring the impressive Bartholdi Fountain and the City Hall, perfect for capturing city life.

Parc de la Tête d'Or

A beautiful park with a lake, botanical gardens, and picturesque pathways, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Lyon

Lyon is often regarded as the gastronomic capital of France, offering a remarkable array of local dishes and culinary experiences.

Lyon Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Quenelles

Light dumplings made from fish or meat, typically served in a creamy sauce.

Must-Try!

Andouillette

A distinctive sausage made from pork, known for its strong flavor, often served grilled.

Salade Lyonnaise

A hearty salad featuring frisée lettuce, bacon lardons, and poached eggs.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Les Halles de Lyon-Paul Bocuse

A famous indoor market where visitors can sample a variety of local cheeses, meats, and pastries.

Rue Mercière

A lively street lined with eateries serving delicious street food and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Lyon has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers can be hot and humid, averaging around 30°C (86°F), while winters are cold, with temperatures dropping to around 0°C (32°F). Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite greeting is essential; make sure to say 'Bonjour' when entering shops or restaurants.

Dining Etiquette

When dining, it's customary to keep both hands on the table (but not elbows) and wait for everyone to be served before starting.

Dress Code

Lyonnais people tend to dress well, so aim for smart casual attire, especially in restaurants.

Safety Guide

Safety

Lyon is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, like any urban area, it's advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded places. Use common sense, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and keep your belongings secure.

Tipping in Lyon

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

A service charge is included in bills, but rounding up or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring in Lyon is mild with blooming flowers, making it perfect for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Summer can be hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), but it's a lively time with numerous events and festivals.

Autumn

Autumn brings colorful foliage and cooler temperatures, ideal for enjoying wine harvests and local markets.

Winter

Winter is cold, with temperatures around 0°C (32°F), but the Festival of Lights in December is a must-see.

Nightlife Guide

Lyon at Night

Lyon's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. The Croix-Rousse district is known for its hip bars and artistic vibe, while the Presqu'île area features upscale lounges and dance clubs. The city's cultural scene also offers late-night performances, including theater and live music, catering to a variety of tastes.

Hiking in Lyon

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Monts d'Or Trail

A scenic trail located just outside Lyon, offering beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.

Parc Naturel Régional du Pilat

This regional park features a variety of trails through forests and mountains, perfect for day hikes and nature walks.

Airports

How to reach Lyon by plane.

Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport

Located about 25 km from the city center, this international airport offers flights to various destinations across Europe and beyond.

Getting Around

Walkability

Lyon is a highly walkable city, especially in the central districts. The city is designed with pedestrians in mind, featuring wide sidewalks and pedestrian zones. Most attractions are within walking distance, making it easy to explore the city on foot and discover hidden gems.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Lyon is home to several universities, attracting a large student population, which contributes to the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Professionals

The city has a diverse workforce, with many professionals working in sectors such as technology, healthcare, and education.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Lyon is home to Olympique Lyonnais, a prominent football club with a passionate fan base.

Rugby

Rugby is also popular, with many local clubs and events, reflecting the city's love for sports.

Transportation

Traffic

Lyon experiences moderate traffic, especially during rush hour. Public transportation is efficient, with a network of trams, buses, and the metro system making it easy to navigate the city. Biking and walking are also popular modes of transport, with dedicated lanes and paths available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Lyon.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Lyonnaise cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants now offer vegetarian alternatives.

Gluten-Free Options

Some eateries provide gluten-free dishes, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Lyon offers excellent healthcare facilities, including public hospitals and private clinics. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112. Travelers should ensure they have appropriate health insurance to cover any medical needs during their stay.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide