History, cuisine, and art collide in Lyon
Enchanting cobblestone lanes, two sweeping riverfronts and hundreds of excellent eateries await you in Lyon. Nestled between the Rhône and Saône rivers, France’s third-largest city certainly packs a punch with its rich history and thrilling attractions – from Roman ruins and quirky museums to irresistible food markets. Uncover Lyon’s countless allures.
The best things to do in Lyon
A breathtaking blend of old and new
Wandering around Lyon’s streets, you’ll swiftly realise it’s a city of extraordinary creativity. It’s teeming with breathtaking trompe l’oeil murals, quirky contemporary art galleries and plenty of Renaissance gems. Fantastic cultural festivals litter Lyon’s calendar too. The most famous is the Fête des Lumières which illuminates the city every December. And let’s not forget Lyon’s culinary accolades. Michelin-star establishments, delectable food markets and quaint bouchons (local restaurants) are all yours for the taking. Ready to dive into everything Lyon has to offer?
Lyon’s top attractions
You could visit a dozen times and still uncover new things to do in Lyon. Here are a few must-see sites.
Vieux Lyon
Step back in time
You can’t miss Old Lyon – a UNESCO World Heritage site at the foot of Fourvière Hill. It’s bursting with Renaissance-era buildings and cobbled passageways known locally as ‘traboules’.
Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière
A city icon
Lyon’s 19th century basilica stands tall in the city’s heart, right on the site of a former Roman forum. It features outstanding views across the city, plus there’s equally as evocative décor inside.
Institut Lumière
A film-makers dream
Cinephiles will love this incredible institute in Monplaisir. It’s where the famous Lumière brothers first honed their filmmaking craft. Discover their original inventions and see where they shot one of the world’s first motion pictures.
Musée des Confluences
Cool and modern
Natural history meets modernity at this amazing museum. Named after its location at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, it doubles up as a science centre and an anthropology museum.
Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse
Tempt your tastebuds
This covered food market in Part-Dieu is named after Lyon’s most famous chef. It’s a sublime spot to sample top Lyonnaise cuisine, whether you pick up treats from the numerous stalls or dine in.
The best things to do in Lyon
As well as ticking off Lyon’s big hitters, you’ll have plenty of unique activities to add to your itinerary.
Confluence District
Innovation at its best
Lyon Peninsula
Swap the grand Renaissance buildings of Old Lyon for the daring modern architecture of the Confluence District. The sustainably-minded neighbourhood lies at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, and it’s awash with futuristic structures – including one of the best Lyon shopping malls.
Musée Miniature et Cinéma
Mini marvels
Rue Saint-Jean
Don’t skip this mesmerizing museum if you can’t get enough of Lyon’s film history. Its displays feature over 100 intricately designed film sets and hundreds of unique props – all of which have been created in miniature.
Lyon is considered the birthplace of cinema.
The city is home to over 200 restaurants.
Lyon has more than 500 green open spaces.
Musée Gadagne
A duo of museums
Saint-Jean Quarter
Tucked away in a gorgeous 16th century mansion in Vieux Lyon is where you’ll find this unique attraction. It’s made up of two venues with very different themes: the Museum of Lyon History and the Museum of World Puppets.
Saône River cruises
Take to the water
Saône River
It’s hard to miss the two rivers that weave their way through the city. If you’d like to glimpse Lyon’s sights from the water, take a leisurely cruise along the Saône. As well as hour-long guided cruises, many multi-day options take you beyond the city and through lush local vineyards.
Guignol Theatre
Traditional entertainment
Old Lyon
Going to puppet shows has been a popular form of entertainment in Lyon for over 100 years – and it’s still possible to experience it today at the fun Guignol Theatre. It’s housed inside the Palais de Bondy in Old Lyon and still uses many of the original puppets from the 1880s.
Fourvière Hill at night
Romantic moonlit strolls
West Lyon
While Fourvière Hill is a must-see in the daytime due to its amazing museums and historic architecture, we’d also recommend a romantic nighttime stroll. Its lofty position reveals beautiful panoramic views of the city’s lights.
Exploring Lyon’s best neighbourhoods
There’s no doubting Lyon’s eclecticism. The city really does have universal appeal, with its list of attractions catering to everyone from film fanatics to Roman history buffs. The best place to start any trip must be Fourvière Hill. Once the location of a Roman city, it’s now where you’ll find the city’s best museums and iconic sites like the emblematic Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. From there, you can easily check out nearby Vieux Lyon – including the narrow traboules (passages) used by the city’s silk workers as early as the 4th century.
It’s impossible to talk about Lyon’s neighbourhoods without mentioning La Confluence. This super-modern corner of the city is easily one of its coolest – with art museums, contemporary restaurants, and edgy boutiques galore. Speaking of shopping, if you love a good bargain seek out the vibrant Les Puces de Canal flea market in Villeurbanne. Prefer strolling down leafy pathways to rummaging through racks? Lush Parc de la Tête d’Or sprawls along the Rhône River and is a prime spot for peace and quiet.
Hotels in Lyon
You’ll have no trouble finding somewhere to rest your head for the night, whether you’re after pure luxury or visiting Lyon with the kids.
Hotel Silky
Fun and family-friendly
This charming hotel sits in a former merchant’s home in Lyon’s centre and is perfect if you want to be close to the action. It’s a great one for families thanks to its spacious rooms, games room and proximity to many affordable restaurants.
Villa Maia
A luxury haven
Despite being perched on Fourvière Hill, this 5-star hotel offers unrivalled tranquillity to its guests. Its sumptuous suites have been carefully designed to complement the grand building and there’s a lovely pool for relaxing evening swims.
MOB Hotel Lyon Confluence
Eye-catching architecture
If you’re set on staying in the trendy Confluence district of Lyon, this eco-conscious hotel is a great pick. Its steps away from Musée des Confluences and features modern rooms, plus a huge sun-soaked rooftop space.
Le Gourguillon
A romantic escape
For a memorable hotel stay in Lyon with your other half, check out boutique Le Gourguillon. Nestled in two traditional townhouses in Vieux Lyon, it has just nine intimate rooms – each one with its own bubbling hot tub.
Top things to spend money on in Lyon
Here are a few things you’ll want to budget for on your next trip.
Food: Sample Lyonnaise cuisine in bouchons for €20-€30 per meal.
Wine: You’ll pay around €15 for a good bottle of regional wine.
Public transport: A one-day travel card costs €6.50 and can be bought at all Lyon train stations.
Lyon museums: Most museums charge around €8 for entry.
Hotels in Lyon: A mid-range hotel will cost around €100 per night.
Roman-era relics, Renaissance marvels and post-modern treasures make Lyon one of France’s most eclectic cities. Make sure you add it to your France bucket list – especially if you appreciate great cuisine.
Thinking of travelling to Europe? Skyscanner can help you find the best flights, hotels and car hire deals for your next trip.
