Lyon Travel Guide

Lyon, France’s third-largest city, is a harmonious blend of history, gastronomy, and modern innovation. Known as the culinary capital of France and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, city is a city where the past meets the present. Here’s your complete travel guide to Lyon.

Essential Information About Lyon

  • Location: Southeastern France, at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers.
  • Population: Approximately 1.7 million in the metropolitan area.
  • Languages: French (English widely understood in tourist areas).
  • Currency: Euro (€).
  • Best Time to Visit: May to October for pleasant weather; December for the famous Festival of Lights.

Interesting Facts About Lyon

  1. Culinary Capital: City boasts more restaurants per capita than anywhere in France, including Michelin-starred establishments.
  2. Birthplace of Cinema: The Lumière brothers, inventors of cinematography, were from Lyon.
  3. Historic Silk Trade: City was a major silk-production hub during the Renaissance.
  4. Roman Roots: Founded in 43 BC, the city was originally called Lugdunum and served as the capital of Roman Gaul.
  5. UNESCO Recognition: Its well-preserved Renaissance and Roman districts earned Lyon UNESCO World Heritage status in 1998.

How to Get There

By Air

  • Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS): Serves domestic and international flights. Located 25 km east of the city center, with Rhônexpress tram connections.

By Train

  • Gare de Lyon-Part-Dieu: A major hub with high-speed TGV connections to Paris (2 hours), Marseille, and Geneva.
  • Gare de Perrache: Handles regional and some national train services.

With Car

  • Easily accessible via the A6 motorway from Paris or the A7 from Marseille.

By Bus

  • Companies like FlixBus and BlaBlaCar connect Lyon with major European cities.

Best Things to Do 

  1. Explore Vieux Lyon (Old Town)
    • Wander through narrow cobblestone streets, traboules (secret passageways), and Renaissance-era buildings.
  2. Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière
    • Perched on a hill, this stunning basilica offers breathtaking views of the city.
  3. Traboules of Croix-Rousse
    • Discover these hidden passageways used by silk workers in the 19th century.
  4. Lyon Cathedral
    • Admire its impressive Gothic architecture and 14th-century astronomical clock.
  5. Presqu’île District
    • The heart of Lyon, full of shops, restaurants, and historic landmarks like Place Bellecour and Place des Terreaux.
  6. Parc de la Tête d’Or
    • A sprawling urban park with a lake, botanical gardens, and a zoo.

Best Accommodation Options

Luxury

  • Villa Florentine
    • A luxurious hilltop hotel in Vieux Lyon with stunning views and fine dining.
  • InterContinental Lyon – Hôtel Dieu
    • Located in a historic building with elegant rooms and a riverside setting.

Mid-Range

  • OKKO Hotels Lyon Pont Lafayette
    • Modern design, excellent location, and complimentary snacks.
  • Hotel Silky by HappyCulture
    • Chic boutique hotel in Presqu’île.

Budget

  • Slo Living Hostel
    • Affordable and stylish accommodations with social spaces.
  • Hôtel Victoria Lyon Perrache
    • Cozy budget option near Gare de Perrache.

Cultural and Modern Attractions

  1. Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon
    • France’s second-largest fine arts museum, featuring works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Rodin.
  2. Institut Lumière
    • A tribute to the Lumière brothers and the birth of cinema.
  3. Musée des Confluences
    • A futuristic science and anthropology museum with a striking design.
  4. Street Art in Croix-Rousse
    • Discover vibrant murals and graffiti in this trendy neighborhood.
  5. Opera Nouvel
    • Attend a world-class opera or concert in this architectural gem.

Dining and Nightlife in Lyon

  • Dine at a Bouchon: Traditional Lyonnaise eateries serving dishes like quenelles and tablier de sapeur.
  • Michelin Dining: Try gastronomic delights at restaurants like Paul Bocuse or La Mère Brazier.
  • Wine Bars: Enjoy Rhône Valley wines at establishments like Antic Wine.
  • Nightlife Hotspots: Explore vibrant bars and clubs in Presqu’île and along the Saône River.

Day Trips from Lyon

  1. Beaujolais Wine Region
    • Tour vineyards and sample local wines.
  2. Perouges
    • A charming medieval village just 30 minutes from Lyon.
  3. Annecy
    • Known as the “Venice of the Alps,” this picturesque town is perfect for a lakeside escape.
  4. Cluny Abbey
    • A historic monastery with architectural and spiritual significance.

Getting Around 

  • Public Transport: The TCL network includes metro, trams, buses, and funiculars. Day passes are available.
  • Walking: Many neighborhoods, including Vieux Lyon and Presqu’île, are best explored on foot.
  • Biking: Use the Vélo’v bike-sharing system for a green way to get around.
  • Taxis and Rideshares: Services like Uber are widely available.
  • Rental Cars: Recommended for day trips but not necessary within the city.

Practical Tips 

  1. Book Ahead: Reserve accommodations and popular attractions in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
  2. Learn Basic French Phrases: Locals appreciate efforts to speak their language.
  3. Use the Lyon City Card: Access public transport and discounts on attractions.
  4. Taste Local Specialties: Try charcuterie, pralines, and tarte aux pommes.
  5. Dress Comfortably: Walking and climbing hills like Fourvière require sturdy shoes.

Conclusion

Lyon is a city that tantalizes the senses and enriches the soul. From its world-class cuisine and historical landmarks to its modern attractions and vibrant nightlife, there’s something for every traveler. Whether you’re exploring traboules, savoring fine wines, or enjoying a scenic day trip, city offers an unforgettable experience. Plan your trip to this gem of southeastern France and immerse yourself in its charm!

Lyon, France
Lyon, France
Scroll to Top