Lyon

Day Trips

Start your day wandering through the cobblestone streets of Vieux Lyon, admiring the beautifully preserved Renaissance buildings. Visit the Saint-Jean Cathedral, where you can marvel at its intricate Gothic architecture and the famous astronomical clock. Enjoy a leisurely coffee at a quaint café while soaking in the atmosphere of this historic district.

Delve deeper into the traboules, secret passageways that weave through buildings, once used by silk workers and resistance fighters. Visit the Musée Gadagne to learn about Lyon’s history and puppetry traditions. Stop for lunch at a traditional bouchon to savor local Lyonnaise cuisine like quenelles and andouillette.

Stroll along the Saône riverbanks as the sunset casts a golden glow on the old town’s facades. Dine at a riverside restaurant, enjoying fresh regional specialties paired with a glass of Côtes du Rhône wine. End your night with a relaxed walk through the illuminated streets, feeling the charm of Lyon by night.

Begin at Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse market, where vibrant stalls boast fresh produce, cheeses, and charcuterie. Sample local delicacies and chat with passionate vendors about the ingredients and Lyon’s gastronomic heritage. Take a food tour to discover hidden gems and learn about traditional Lyonnaise recipes.

Attend a cooking class led by a local chef to master classic dishes such as Lyonnaise salad or tarte à la praline. Explore the elegant Place Bellecour and admire the equestrian statue of Louis XIV. Take time to visit boutique shops offering fine chocolates and artisan products.

Reserve a table at a Michelin-starred restaurant to indulge in a gourmet tasting menu highlighting seasonal ingredients. Enjoy the refined ambiance as you sip on a carefully selected wine from the Rhône Valley. After dinner, consider a cocktail at a stylish bar along rue Mercière, a lively street known for its nightlife.

Head to the Croix-Rousse neighborhood, historically home to Lyon’s silk weavers, and admire the unique architecture including the famous ‘canuts’ murals. Visit the Maison des Canuts to learn about the silk industry’s impact on Lyon’s development. Wander through local artisan shops showcasing handmade crafts and textiles.

Explore the contemporary art exhibitions at the Musée d’Art Contemporain de Lyon. Enjoy lunch at a café with a terrace, watching the vibrant street life unfold. Take a scenic walk through the nearby Parc de la Cerisaie, offering panoramic views of the city.

Attend a live performance at the Théâtre de la Croix-Rousse, known for its innovative and intimate productions. Dine at a cozy bistro with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. End the night with a stroll along the Rhône river, enjoying the peaceful reflections on the water.

Visit the ancient Roman Theatre of Fourvière, an impressive ruin nestled on a hill overlooking Lyon. Explore the nearby Odeon and the Gallo-Roman Museum to uncover artifacts and learn about Lyon’s ancient past. Take a moment to absorb the breathtaking views across the city from the hilltop gardens.

Descend to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, an architectural marvel with stunning mosaics and panoramic terraces. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café offering traditional Lyonnais dishes with a modern twist. Wander through the nearby rose garden, a tranquil spot for relaxation and photos.

Experience the Fourvière light show if visiting during the summer months, where the façade of the basilica is transformed into a vibrant display of colors. Have dinner at a restaurant offering regional specialties with a view of the illuminated city below. Finish your evening with a nightcap at a bar in the historic center.

Start your day in the Confluence district, a showcase of modern architecture blending sleek design with sustainability. Visit the Musée des Confluences, a science and anthropology museum housed in a futuristic building shaped like a crystal cloud. Enjoy a coffee at one of the trendy cafés overlooking the meeting point of the Rhône and Saône rivers.

Explore the pedestrian-friendly shopping and dining areas featuring innovative boutiques and eateries. Take a boat tour departing from the Confluence marina to see Lyon from a unique perspective on the water. Stop for lunch at a waterfront restaurant offering fresh seafood and seasonal menus.

Dine at a contemporary restaurant with a focus on fusion cuisine and locally sourced ingredients. Take a leisurely walk along the riverbanks, appreciating the modern city lights reflecting on the water. Conclude your day with a visit to a rooftop bar, enjoying panoramic views of the city skyline.

Begin with a refreshing walk or bike ride through Parc de la Tête d’Or, Lyon’s largest urban park featuring a beautiful lake, botanical gardens, and a small zoo. Visit the rose garden and the greenhouses showcasing exotic plants from around the world. Enjoy a picnic breakfast by the water’s edge, surrounded by nature.

Rent a pedal boat or rowboat to explore the park’s serene lake. Visit the nearby Natural History Museum to learn about regional flora and fauna. Take a leisurely stroll through the park’s shaded paths, spotting sculptures and peaceful spots to rest.

Head to the nearby Cité Internationale complex for dinner, where you’ll find a variety of restaurants with diverse culinary offerings. Attend a concert or cultural event at the Auditorium of Lyon if there is one scheduled. Enjoy a calm evening walk along the Rhône river, feeling the cool breeze and city lights.

Take a short trip outside Lyon to the Beaujolais wine region, famous for its fruity red wines. Visit family-run vineyards and wineries to see the grapevines and learn about traditional wine-making techniques. Taste freshly harvested wines while enjoying breathtaking views over rolling hills and quaint villages.

Have lunch at a rustic countryside bistro serving regional specialties paired with local wines. Explore the charming village of Oingt, known for its golden stone buildings and artisan shops. Wander through scenic walking trails among the vineyards, soaking in the peaceful rural landscape.

Return to Lyon and relax at a wine bar specializing in Beaujolais and other Rhône Valley wines. Pair your tasting with a selection of local cheeses and charcuterie. End the evening chatting with sommeliers about the nuances of the region’s varietals.

Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon, one of France’s premier fine arts museums, housed in a former abbey. Explore its extensive collection ranging from ancient Egyptian artifacts to modern paintings. Take time to appreciate masterpieces by artists such as Rembrandt, Monet, and Rodin.

Head to the Institut Lumière to learn about the origins of cinema, as Lyon is the birthplace of the Lumière brothers. Watch early film screenings and explore interactive exhibits showcasing the history of motion pictures. Enjoy lunch at a nearby brasserie offering classic French fare.

Explore smaller contemporary galleries scattered throughout the Presqu’île district, showcasing emerging local artists. Attend an evening art opening or cultural event if available. Dine at an elegant restaurant that combines artful presentation with exquisite flavors.

Start with a visit to the Marché Saint-Antoine, a lively riverside market brimming with fresh produce, cheeses, and baked goods. Sample seasonal fruits and freshly baked pastries while mingling with locals. Visit specialty shops selling Lyon’s famous pralines and other sweet treats.

Book a gourmet lunch at a renowned Lyonnais bouchon, savoring dishes like coq au vin or Lyon-style sausage. After lunch, take a guided tour through the city’s culinary landmarks and historic food shops. Stop by a chocolate factory to witness artisans crafting exquisite chocolates and truffles.

Join a wine and cheese tasting session at a local cellar, learning about regional pairings and traditions. Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a wine bar featuring small plates designed to complement the wines on offer. End the night with a gentle walk along the illuminated quays of the Saône river.

Begin your day visiting the impressive Lyon Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste), admiring its Gothic architecture and medieval stained glass windows. Continue to the Church of Saint-Nizier, known for its ornate façade and vibrant interior artworks. Take a moment to attend morning mass or simply enjoy the tranquil atmosphere inside these sacred spaces.

Walk along the banks of the Saône river, passing charming bridges and old warehouses transformed into shops and galleries. Stop for lunch at a café overlooking the water, enjoying Lyon’s relaxed riverside vibe. Visit the Quai Saint-Antoine to explore antique shops and artisan boutiques.

Cross over to the Rhône riverbank for a sunset stroll along the Parc des Berges du Rhône, a beautifully landscaped promenade. Dine at a restaurant offering terrace seating with views of the flowing river and city lights. Conclude the evening with a scenic boat cruise, capturing Lyon’s illuminated skyline from the water.