Lyon

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Lyon's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore the Heart of Lyon
morning
:

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café in Vieux Lyon. Wander through the cobblestone streets and admire the Renaissance architecture.

afternoon
:

Visit the famous Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière for breathtaking views of the city. Enjoy lunch at a traditional bouchon restaurant to experience authentic Lyonnaise cuisine.

evening
:

Stroll along the RhĂ´ne River, where you can relax by the water. Consider dining at a rooftop restaurant to enjoy the city lights.

day 2
Art and Culture Day
morning
:

Visit the Musée des Confluences to explore its fascinating exhibitions on science and anthropology. Afterward, grab a coffee in the museum's modern café.

afternoon
:

Head to the Institut Lumière, where the birth of cinema happened, and learn about the Lumière brothers. Take a leisurely walk in the nearby Parc de la Tête d'Or.

evening
:

Experience a classic Lyonnaise dinner in a vibrant district like Croix-Rousse. Don't miss out on trying local specialties such as quenelles or pralines.

day 3
Nature Retreat
morning
:

Spend the morning at Parc de la TĂŞte d'Or, enjoying its beautiful gardens and the serene lake. Rent a bike or a paddleboat for some outdoor fun.

afternoon
:

Visit the Zoo located within the park, home to a variety of animals. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature to recharge.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a cozy spot along the lake for a peaceful evening. Consider sampling ice cream from a nearby vendor as you relax.

day 4
Culinary Journey
morning
:

Join a cooking class in Lyon to learn how to make some of the region's best dishes. This hands-on experience will teach you about local ingredients and recipes.

afternoon
:

After cooking, enjoy the meal you prepared with fellow classmates. Spend some time exploring local food markets like the Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse.

evening
:

Dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant for a memorable gastronomic experience. Savor innovative dishes that highlight Lyon's culinary heritage.

day 5
Historical Walk
morning
:

Take a guided walking tour of Vieux Lyon, uncovering hidden gems and the city's history. Marvel at landmarks such as the Cathedral of Saint-Jean.

afternoon
:

Visit the traboules, the secret passageways that link streets and courtyards, and discover the story behind them. Stop for lunch at a café with a view of the Saône River.

evening
:

Attend a historical show or performance at a local theatre. Wrap up the night with a drink at a bar that features live music.

day 6
Day Trip to Beaujolais
morning
:

Take a train to the Beaujolais region for a day of wine-tasting. Begin with a tour of a local winery and learn about the wine-making process.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a vineyard lunch with wine pairings while admiring the picturesque scenery. Don’t forget to take some photos of the rolling hills.

evening
:

Return to Lyon and unwind at a wine bar, sampling some regional wines. Reflect on your day while enjoying light appetizers.

day 7
Photography Tour
morning
:

Join a photography tour to capture the beauty of Lyon's streets, architecture, and landscapes. Learn tips and techniques from a professional photographer.

afternoon
:

Continue snapping photos at Lyon's scenic viewpoints, such as the Fourvière Hill. Take a break at a café to review your shots and refresh.

evening
:

Edit your photos in the company of fellow participants and share your best shots. Celebrate the end of the day with a group dinner at a trendy restaurant.

day 8
Festival Fun
morning
:

Check local events to see if there are any festivals happening during your visit. Enjoy the ambiance and cultural activities in the heart of the city.

afternoon
:

Participate in festival events and sample food stalls featuring local delicacies. Engage with artists and performers to soak in the festive spirit.

evening
:

End the night with live music or performances at the festival site. Embrace the atmosphere and dance the night away.

day 9
Shopping and Leisure
morning
:

Spend your morning leisurely browsing boutique shops in the Presqu'île district. Stop for a coffee at a stylish café in between stores.

afternoon
:

Explore the lively markets, such as the Marché de la Croix-Rousse, where you can find local crafts and delicacies. Enjoy lunch at a nearby bistro.

evening
:

Conclude your day with dinner at a trendy restaurant with a unique vibe. Take a post-dinner stroll through the beautifully lit streets.

day 10
Museum and Gallery Tour
morning
:

Start with a visit to the Musée des Beaux-Arts, showcasing works from classical to contemporary art. Appreciate the architecture of the museum building itself.

afternoon
:

Explore local galleries in the Croix-Rousse district to discover emerging artists. Grab a light lunch at a nearby café featuring artistic decor.

evening
:

Attend an art opening or cultural event to meet local artists. Have dinner in a gallery restaurant to continue the creative experience.

Discover Lyon

Read more in our Lyon 2024 Travel Guide.

Lyon Travel Guide