🇫🇷 31 Best Things to Do in Lyon for an Amazing Trip

Planning a trip to Lyon? You’re going to have a fantastic time! I’ve got your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Lyon. With so many great attractions, everyone is sure to find something they’ll love!

I’ve visited this incredible French city several times — most recently on a solo trip last May. And I loved it so much that I’ve got two extended trips to Lyon planned for this year!

I’ve put together a fabulous list of top Lyon attractions as well as hidden gems that you won’t want to miss.

From the stunning Notre Dame Basilica to the gorgeous Bartholdi Fountain and the gourmet market Les Halles de Lyon, I’ve got all the information you need to have a fabulous trip to Lyon.

Ready for some fun? Lace up your shoes and let’s go!

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Best Lyon Things to Do and See

Even though Lyon is the third-largest city in France, it feels like a hidden gem. Surprisingly, 2/3 of Lyon’s visitors are business travelers!

Lyon is a lot less ‘touristy’ than its big sister, Paris — but there are plenty of must-see attractions in Lyon that make it definitely worth a visit!

1. Visit Place Bellecour

One of the first places you should visit during your stay in Lyon is Place Bellecour.

This grand pedestrian square is in the heart of Lyon in the Presqu’île neighborhood, bordered by the Rhône and Saône rivers.

It’s also literally the city’s center, as it marks ‘kilometer zero’ for the roads in the region.

Dominating the square is an imposing statue of Louis XIV, the Sun King, proudly mounted on a horse. This is truly a sight to behold! Place Bellecour is also where you’ll find the city’s tourist office (and that’s the reason to go here first!).

I highly recommend buying a Lyon City Card, especially for first-time visitors to Lyon who want to ‘see it all’.

I purchase one on every visit. They are a great way to save money, as they give you free access to over 20 museums, free city tours, a sightseeing river cruise, free public transportation, and lots of discounts to other Lyon attractions.

(For full details, read my Lyon City Card review.)

Save time and money on your Lyon trip — purchase your Lyon City Card today!

2. Uncover the Historic Charm of Vieux Lyon

A visit to Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon) should be at the top of your itinerary — even if you only have one day to spend in Lyon.

This vibrant neighborhood is recognized as part of Lyon’s UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s rich in history, dazzling architecture, unique museums, and restaurants serving up delicious Lyonnais cuisine.

As you wander through its quaint cobblestone streets and passageways, known as traboules, you can’t help but feel connected to the city’s deep-rooted past.

Start your exploration at Saint Jean Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. If you’re taking a tour of Old Lyon, you’ll likely meet at the Place Saint Jean in front of the cathedral.

From there make your way to Rue Saint-Jean and Rue du Boeuf, the neighborhood’s main streets, lined with traditional bouchons, charming boutiques, and pastel-colored buildings.

3. Explore Lyon’s Mysterious Traboules

You’ll absolutely love seeking out the charming “traboules” of Lyon. These are hidden passageways that sneak from one street to another, passing through historic buildings.

If you look closely, you’ll find these secret passages tucked away in Old Lyon and the Croix-Rousse neighborhoods. As you wander through the traboules, you’ll find inner courtyards, each with their own unique and sometimes beautiful architectural details.

Look for the special markers on the buildings – there are quite a few of them open for public exploration.

Exploring the traboules is a must-do Lyon experience! If you want to make sure you’ve seen the best ones, take this guided traboules tour.

Did you know? Traboules played an interesting role in Lyon’s history.

Back in Roman times, they provided a quicker route to the Saône for water access, skipping the winding lanes. As Lyon’s famed silk industry grew, these traboules turned into undercover routes for transporting textiles, shielding them from the rain.

Even in the grim times of WWII, the traboules played a pivotal role as hidden meeting spots for the French resistance against the Nazis. All these historical tidbits add rich layers as you explore these historic passages.

Take this guided traboules tour in Vieux Lyon — it’s a great way to learn about Lyon history!

4. Visit the Notre-Dame de Fourvière Basilica

Perched atop Fourvière Hill, you’ll find the magnificent La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière. This stunning 19th-century monument dedicated to the Virgin Mary is a must-see when you’re in Lyon.

To get there, hop on the funicular for an easy ride up the hill. You get a fabulous view of the basilica as you exit the funicular station.

While the exterior might give off fortress vibes, the interior tells a different story with its breathtaking mosaics and stained glass.

According to my tour guide, the mosaics contain 8,000 different shades of color. Quite impressive, isn’t it?

The Notre-Dame basilica welcomes visitors every day but remember to check mass times as you can’t tour the basilica during services.

Good news – there’s no entrance fee to explore the gardens, the basilica itself, or the crypt (also known as the Chapel of the Virgin).

5. Take in the Panoramic Views of Lyon

Although the Notre-Dame Basilica is a Lyon must-see in my opinion, many people come to the top of Fourvière Hill just for the views!

The terraces surrounding the basilica are definitely one of the best Instagram spots in Lyon.

From this hilltop vantage point, you can see the city of Lyon spread out in front of you. In the foreground are the buildings of Vieux Lyon, with a particularly good view of the Saint-Jean Cathedral.

Extending beyond the Old town you’ll spy the Rhône and Saône rivers, with Presqu’île sandwiched in between. The more modern sections of Lyon extend out into the distance.

The basilica’s esplanade is one of the best places to visit in Lyon to get stunning photos!

I’ve even seen people sitting on the ledge to get better pictures, but I’ve got a pretty healthy fear of heights, so I keep my distance from the edge.

6. Admire the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral

Nestled next to the Saône, the awe-inspiring Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste is one of the most magnificent buildings in Lyon.

This cathedral, a splendid blend of Roman and Gothic styles, features a large stained-glass window and a 16th-century astronomical clock you simply can’t miss. (It’s tucked away into the back corner of the church.)

(If you’ve never come across an astronomical clock, you’re in for a treat!

Besides showing the time of day, they also display information like the positions of the sun, moon, and stars. Some even house automated displays that are activated at specific times of day – quite the marvel of engineering!)

The Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral is a main attraction in Lyon’s most celebrated festival, the Fête des Lumières.

Take this customized private tour of Lyon and see everything on your Lyon bucket list!

7. Celebrate Lyon’s Fête des Lumières

The Fête des Lumières (Festival of Lights) is one of Lyon’s most famous and beloved events. It takes place every December, usually over four nights. The key date to watch out for is December 8.

Like many French holidays, this festival originated as a religious event to honor the Virgin Mary.

Why?

In 1643, the city promised to pay tribute to Mary if it was spared from the plague that was sweeping the land. It was, so on December 8th, the people of Lyon celebrated by lighting candles in Mary’s honor.

Things kicked up a notch in 1852 when the gilded statue of Mary was installed atop the Notre Dame Basilica. Over time, this celebration evolved into the stunning light show that we enjoy today.

During the Fête des Lumières, the city is lit up with beautiful light installations, projections, and performances. It’s a truly magical experience that attracts visitors from around the globe.

One of the best things about the Fête des Lumières is that it’s completely free! You can wander around the city and experience all of the different installations at your own pace.

So, if you’re visiting Lyon in December, make plans to attend the Fête des Lumières. You won’t want to miss out!

8. Treat Your Taste Buds on a Lyon Food Tour

Are you passionate about food? You’re going to love eating in Lyon!

Lyon was declared the world’s gastronomy hotspot by a renowned food critic back in 1935. Trust me, this is a big reason to visit Lyon!

With twenty Michelin-starred restaurants calling Lyon home, you’re guaranteed some unforgettable meals. But don’t forget about the city’s charming bouchons – these small, family-run bistros serve up traditional Lyonnaise cuisine, using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

To fully experience the city’s culinary delights, I definitely recommend taking this Vieux Lyon food tour. It’s the best way to ensure you don’t miss a single one of the region’s delectable specialties.

(Want more options? Check out this post about more amazing Lyon food tours.)

Sample Lyon’s savory favorites, such as quenelles de brochet – tender fish dumplings bathed in a rich, seafood-infused cream sauce.

If you’ve got a sweet tooth (like me), the praline rose is a must – imagine almonds enveloped in caramelized pink sugar. You can eat them on their own, but you’ll find them in bakeries across the city baked into pastries (my personal favorite!), and the famous Lyon tarte aux pralines.

Lyon is also the perfect base for wine lovers, and a great place to enjoy wine tasting! Lyon is also an ideal starting point for taking a day trip to local wineries.

Your best bet is taking this walking food tour in Vieux Lyon, where you can combine sightseeing with delicious Lyon dishes!

9. Marvel at the Famous Mur des Canuts Mural

Lyon is not just about history and food – it’s also a city of incredible art. And Lyon’s trompe-l’oeil murals are beyond amazing!

They cover entire buildings, creating an illusion so real, you’ll do a double-take. These murals are scattered around the city, and I can’t recommend them enough. They are one of the most Instagrammable places in Lyon!

My personal favorite is the stunning Mur des Canuts mural. It’s a beautiful tribute to Lyon’s silk workers and a favorite among tourists. It’s also one of the largest murals in the world!

The Mur des Canuts (Wall of the Silk Workers) is located in the Croix-Rousse area, the center of Lyon’s silk industry.

What makes this fresco so fascinating is that it has been painted to blend right in with the neighborhood. The talented artists have painted the mural to look like apartment buildings, shops, and people going about their daily activities.

10. Shop at Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse

You can’t visit Lyon without stopping by Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, also known as the “Mecca of French gastronomy.” This indoor food market is a must-see for any food lover, offering a wide range of high-quality gourmet products.

From fresh fish and meat to cheeses, pastries, and chocolates, you’ll find everything here to create a perfect picnic or take home as souvenirs for friends and family. Or splurge and enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants inside the market!

You can also join a private gourmet tour of Les Halles Paul Bocuse for an even more immersive experience.

Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll learn about the history of the market and its famous chef namesake, Paul Bocuse. Taste some of the best products available from locally produced sausages to Lyon’s signature praline rose.

So whether you’re looking for a unique shopping experience or just want to indulge in some delicious food, Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse is not to be missed. Bon appétit!

Indulge your inner foodie with this private tour of Les Halles de Lyon!

11. Discover Ancient History at Lyon’s Roman Ruins

Lyon, once known as ‘Lugdunum’ during Roman times, wears its historical heart on its sleeve. Its well-preserved ancient Roman architecture has earned it a UNESCO World Heritage site tag.

(A surprising fact about France is that Lyon was more important than Paris during Roman times!)

At the top of your Lyon itinerary should be the ancient Roman amphitheater and odeon, both top tourist spots in the city. Their historical charm is further enhanced by modern-day concerts and festivals held here, like the Les Nuits de Fourvière in June and July.

If you’re keen to uncover more, head to Lyon’s Croix-Rousse area to explore the Amphitheater of the Three Gauls. Although the amphitheater in Vieux Lyon steals the show!

12. Enjoy the Music at Les Nuits de Fourvière

Founded in 1946, Les Nuits de Fourvière (Fourvière Nights) is one of the most popular festivals in Lyon. This cultural festival occurs for about two months, typically from June through July, and it’s a top reason to visit Lyon in the summer.

What’s special about Les Nuits de Fourvière is its eclectic mix of performances. There is truly something for everyone!

In one season, you might see a cutting-edge hip-hop act, a traditional folk concert, a classic piece of theater, and a cutting-edge modern dance show. It’s no wonder that this festival continues to grow in popularity (attendance is well over 100,000 a year!).

The Roman Amphitheater, where the festival takes place, adds a unique historical touch to the event. Imagine watching a Shakespeare play or listening to a world-renowned orchestra in the same space where Roman citizens once gathered – it’s like traveling back in time.

When I visited last May, they were installing the high-tech stage equipment in the theater. I must say, that is a strange combination of modern and ancient!

The festival is also expanding into other performance locations, such as the Opera House and the Théâtre des Célestins.

If you’re in Lyon during June and July, you won’t want to miss this amazing festival!

13. Explore the Wonders of the Lugdunum Museum

Are you a history buff? Intrigued by the Roman era?

Then you won’t want to miss the Lugdunum Museum during your trip to Lyon! This museum brings the fascinating Gallo-Roman civilization of Lyon to life with its collection of mosaics, statues, and other Roman artifacts.

The Lugdunum Museum definitely tops the list of must-visit museums in Lyon. One of the highlights (and surprises) is the stunning views of the Roman amphitheater through the museum’s large windows!

And don’t worry if you’re traveling with little ones – the museum has plenty of exhibits that are both educational and entertaining for kids.

(Location: Vieux Lyon/ Fourvière Hill. The museum is closed Mondays).

14. Unwind with a Saône River Cruise

After a delightful day of exploring Lyon on foot, why not treat yourself to this Saône river sightseeing cruise?

These sightseeing cruises offer a unique perspective of Lyon, with the added bonus of giving your feet a well-deserved rest!

There are three river cruises to choose from. My favorite is the Cap Presqu’île. It’s charming journey that begins by cruising upstream, offering picturesque views of Vieux Lyon, the basilica, and the quaint Tour Métallique de Fourvière (Lyon’s very own ‘Little Eiffel Tower’).

Your adventure continues as the boat turns and sails downstream, heading to the confluence of the Rhône and the Saône Rivers.

Along the way, you’ll be treated to glimpses of Vieux Lyon’s majestic churches, including the striking Saint Jean Cathedral and the Church of Saint George. You’ll be amazed by Lyon’s diverse architecture, spanning centuries—from historical French landmarks and cathedrals to the ultra-modern Musée des Confluences.

To top off your memorable day in Lyon, book this sightseeing dinner cruise. Treat yourself, you deserve it!

15. Dine at a Traditional Lyonnais Bouchon

Lyon is the capital of French gastronomy, so you know you’ll be eating well during your stay! Enjoy authentic Lyonnais dishes at a bouchon, a traditional type of restaurant in Lyon.

These cozy restaurants typically have red and white checked tablecloths and serve up hearty dishes like quenelles (a kind of dumpling made from pike fish), andouillette (tripe sausages –not for me), and coq au vin.

Make sure to try some of the local wines as well, such as Côtes du Rhône or Beaujolais. And don’t forget to finish off your meal with a delicious dessert, like praline tart (tarte aux pralines).

In addition to enjoying the delicious food and wine, dining at a traditional bouchon is also an opportunity to immerse yourself in Lyon’s rich history and culture.

These restaurants are part of the city’s heritage and have been serving up traditional dishes for centuries. Many bouchons have a rustic and cozy ambiance, making them the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring the city.

If you’re not sure which bouchon to try, look out for the “Les Bouchons Lyonnais” label on restaurant windows. This is a prestigious award given to restaurants that adhere to strict traditional standards in terms of their menu, decor and atmosphere.

Vieux Lyon has several authentic bouchons to tempt your taste buds!

16. Take in the Sights in the Place des Terreaux

Place des Terreaux is a must-visit spot when you’re in Lyon.

It’s a stunning plaza that’s nestled between Lyon’s intricate 17th-century City Hall, the Hôtel de Ville de Lyon, on the east and the treasure-trove Fine Arts Museum on the south.

The plaza is home to the gorgeous Bartholdi Fountain, masterfully crafted by the renowned French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi. He’s known worldwide for his iconic creation – the Statue of Liberty!

With plenty of cafes lining the square, the Place des Terreaux is a great place to relax and do some people-watching!

17. Experience the charm of the Musée des Beaux-Arts

One of my favorite museums in Lyon is the Musée des Beaux-Arts. I’m a big fan of classical art, and Lyon’s Fine Arts Museum does not disappoint!

It’s the second-largest Fine Arts museum in France (after the Louvre Museum in Paris, of course). And it’s conveniently located on the Place des Terreaux.

The Fine Arts Museum is a treasure trove filled with an impressive collection of European paintings, antiquities, and sculptures. There is also an extensive collection of coins and medals.

Part of the museum’s charm is that it is located in a former 17th-century abbey.

If you’re looking for a moment of tranquility amidst your sightseeing adventures, the museum’s serene, statue-studded garden located in the courtyard makes a perfect oasis. (Plus, it’s free to visit the gardens!)

Location: Presqu’île. Closed on Tuesdays.

18. Find the Fresque des Lyonnais Mural

I talked about the Mur des Canuts mural earlier. But that’s certainly not the only famous mural in Lyon! Keep your eyes open as you roam the city and you’re sure to run across more fine examples of public art from murals to painted staircases.

You should make it a point to find the Fresque des Lyonnais. It’s been painted to look like an apartment building, with famous people from Lyon’s past and present depicted on the building’s balconies and windows.

This fabulous fresco features thirty famous people from Lyon, from the Lumière brothers to Antoine de Saint Exupéry, the celebrated aviator and author of The Little Prince. (Fun fact, the Lyon airport is named after him!)

The ground floor is painted to look like shops peopled by more famed Lyonnais personalities.

Take a peek at this short video, highlighting the intricate details of the first level of the Fresque des Lyonnais mural. Can you spot Chef Paul Bocuse?

Be sure to check out both sides of the building — most of the characters are painted on the larger side (facing the north), but the mural continues on the narrow western edge facing the Saône.

Tip: If you’re taking the Cap Presqu’île river cruise, you’ll be able to see the narrow edge of the Fresque des Lyonnais.

In my opinion, these murals are one of the best reasons to visit Lyon.

19. Visit the Musée des Confluences

At the meeting point of Lyon’s two rivers, you will find the Musée des Confluences, a remarkable blend of a science center and an anthropology museum.

Here you’ll find fascinating exhibits that explore the history of mankind and our relationship with the natural world.

The museum’s building is an architectural marvel. Its ultra-modern architecture is a big contrast to the historic buildings and cathedrals in Vieux Lyon.

Although it’s a bit out of the way, don’t worry! It’s easily reachable by public transportation. You can even combine two great Lyon activities and take a scenic river cruise that comes with a museum ticket!

Take your time and immerse yourself in the captivating exhibits of the Musee des Confluences, truly one of the finest museums in Lyon!

(Location: Presqu’île. Closed on Mondays). 

20. Fool Your Eyes at the Musée de l’illusion Lyon

While most of Lyon’s top attractions are rooted in history, there are plenty more modern attractions to visit.

One really fun museum to visit is the Musée de l’illusion Lyon. It’s the perfect place for the whole family to explore and enjoy!

This museum’s collection of illusions and games will make you question reality. Your eyes will be tricked by the interactive exhibits showcasing holograms, kaleidoscopes, visual puzzles, and optical illusions.

Although you can visit solo, it’s best if you’re visiting with a friend so that you can take pictures of the illusions! It’ll be a one-of-a-kind memento from your Lyon trip!

21. Shop at the Saint-Antoine Market

Sometimes when I’m traveling, I don’t want to have a big meal three times a day. But you need to have something to fuel a long day of sightseeing.

The solution? A visit to a farmers market, or fresh food market. Every town in France has at least one market day. It comes as no surprise that Lyon has markets available nearly every day of the week!

My favorite is the Marche Saint-Antoine. It’s located on the banks of the Saône, with excellent views of Vieux Lyon. The market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, local specialties, and even rotisserie chickens for a quick and delicious meal.

The Saint-Antoine market is open every day of the week (except Mondays) but is especially bustling on Saturdays. It is a great place to stock up on ingredients for your own cooking or simply wander around, sampling various foods along the way.

Make sure to arrive early if you want to avoid crowds and get first pick of the freshest produce available. Pick up a loaf of bread, some cheese and whatever else strikes your fancy.

Then enjoy a tasty picnic lunch on the banks of the river or in the Parc de la Tête d’Or. (Enjoying a picnic in a beautiful park is one of the most romantic things to do in Lyon!)

22. Picnic in the Parc de la Tête d’Or

If you’re a nature lover visiting Lyon, you definitely won’t want to miss the Parc de la Tête d’Or (Park of the Golden Head).

This charming park, sprawling over 100 hectares, is a great place to relax on a bright sunny day. And it’s one of the best places in Lyon to enjoy an alfresco picnic!

Stroll (or jog) across the grass or along the park’s trails. Check out the central lake, the Lac de la Tête d’Or. In the summer, you can even rent a boat and have some nautical fun.

There’s more to explore in this enormous park, from Lyon’s botanical gardens to a zoo and a stunning rose garden showcasing hundreds of rose varieties.

Traveling with kids? Hop on the Petit Train for a ride around the park or watch a delightful Guignol puppet show.

A visit to the Parc de la Tête d’Or is one of the top things to do in Lyon, for both young and old!

23. Uncover the Magic at the Cinema and Miniatures Museum

Get ready to step into a world of imagination at Lyon’s very own Cinema and Miniatures Museum. It’s like having two exciting adventures in one place!

One part of the museum takes you behind the scenes of some of your favorite blockbuster films like Alien and Pirates of the Caribbean, revealing the magic of cinematic special effects and authentic movie props.

The other part? It’s a miniature wonderland, filled with intricately designed scenes from restaurants to shops to markets.

(Location: Vieux Lyon. Open every day.)

24. Dive into the World of Cinematography at the Musée Lumière

On the topic of movie magic, did you know that Lyon is the birthplace of cinematography? Yes, that’s true!

And the Musée Lumière is proudly located at the very spot where the Lumière brothers invented the Cinématographe.

This fantastic film museum takes you on a journey through the evolution of moving images and also hosts a variety of movie screenings.

The Lumière Museum is a must-visit for movie enthusiasts!

(Location: East Lyon. Closed on Mondays.)

25. Stroll Through the Place des Jacobins

Place des Jacobins is a charming little square in Lyon’s Presqu’île. It’s often overlooked but is definitely worth a visit.

The star of this square is the beautiful Fontaine des Jacobins, added in 1856 and carved from pristine white marble by Gaspard André. This fountain honors four of Lyon’s renowned artists and is a popular location for art students practicing their craft.

Next time you’re strolling through the neighborhood, why not pause and soak in the beauty of this spectacular fountain? (It’s only a 3-minute walk from Place Bellecour.)

The Place des Jacobins is particularly stunning at night when the fountain and the buildings surrounding the square are beautifully illuminated.

26. Explore the Charm of Musées Gadagne

Immerse yourself in Lyon’s history at the Musées Gadagne, a distinctive gem situated in the city’s oldest Renaissance building.

This museum is a two-in-one treat, with the Lyon History Museum and the unique World Puppet Museum that showcases Lyon’s famous Guignol puppet.

For a serene break from sightseeing, visit the building’s inner courtyard. Enjoy the roses and the hanging gardens. (Plus, visiting the garden is free!)

(Location: Vieux Lyon. Closed on Tuesdays.)

27. Step into the World of Silk Weaving at Maison des Canuts

Take a journey back in time to Lyon’s thriving silk-making era at the Maison des Canuts, or the House of the Silk Workers.

This museum offers an in-depth exploration of the city’s rich textile history, focusing particularly on the evolution of silk production.

Consider joining a guided tour for an unforgettable weaving demonstration on a Jacquard loom. The invention of the Jacquard loom was a game-changer for the silk-making industry.

Before you leave, stop by the gift shop to grab a gorgeous silk scarf — it’s the perfect Lyon souvenir.

(I love buying scarves as souvenirs in France — they’re light, easy to pack, and an amazing fashion accessory!)

(Location: Croix-Rousse. Closed on Sundays and Mondays.)

Learn more about Lyon’s history by taking this Lyon silk tour!

28. Climb Lyon’s Painted Staircases

Adding to Lyon’s fabulous public art are several painted staircases scattered throughout the city.

These outdoor masterpieces are found in various neighborhoods, each with a unique design and style.

One beautiful example is the Escaliers Prunelle. This painted staircase is located at 2 Rue Prunelle. The base of the staircase (where you can take an Instagram-worthy photo) is on Rue Rivet.

Another great painted staircase is the Escaliers Montée des Carmélites. It’s a hidden gem in Lyon. You’ll find it in the southwestern corner of Lyon’s Jardin des Plantes.

And to round things out, visit the Escalier Mermet at 25 Rue René Leynaud.

29. Reflect on History at the Resistance and Deportation History Center

Venture to the eastern side of Lyon and immerse yourself in the poignant and evocative Resistance and Deportation History Center.

This museum serves as a profound reminder of the trials and tribulations experienced during World War II.

The part I liked the best was the collection containing hundreds of firsthand video accounts from resistance fighters and deportees. These stories really put a personal touch on this tragic time in history.

(Location: East Lyon. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

30. Visit the Opéra National de Lyon

Looking for some culture? The Opéra National de Lyon is your destination.

It’s a feast for the eyes, inside and out! From concerts and dance performances to operas, there’s always something happening here to check your ‘culture’ box.

What’s more, the Opera House hosts a rooftop terrace, offering breathtaking views of the city that you’ll definitely want to capture.

Conveniently located just east of the Place des Terreaux and the Hôtel de Ville and right by a metro stop, you’ll likely pass this landmark often during your visit. (My hotel was very close to the Opera House, so this was certainly true in my case!)

31. Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at the Salon du Chocolat

If you love chocolate as much as I do, you won’t want to miss the Salon du Chocolat!

That’s right, you’ll find chocolate in endless varieties at this fabulous festival celebrating all things chocolate.

The Salon du Chocolat is the world’s largest chocolate festival and is held in Lyon for three days in November.

Enjoy chef demonstrations, pastry workshops, and chocolate exhibitions.

All I can say is, ‘Yum!’

Lyon attractions maps

With such a long list of great things to do in Lyon, it can be hard to know where everything is located, and which attractions are close to each other.

If you’re short on time, you don’t want to waste a lot of time backtracking around the city.

Check out this map of Lyon attractions to help you get a good idea of where things are located. Use this to help group your must-see attractions based on location.

For example, on a 3-day trip to Lyon, I’d spend one day just exploring Vieux Lyon and Fourvière Hill. Then another day I’d focus on checking out the attractions in Presqu’île.

The third day is a catch-all day for more far-flung attractions like Les Halles de Lyon, the Croix-Rousse area, and the Parc de la Tête d’Or. (And any good stuff that I didn’t have time to fit into days 1 or 2!)

Lyon Travel Tips and FAQ

Final Thoughts:

As you can see, there are so many incredible things to see and do in Lyon. I definitely recommend three days in Lyon for the most enjoyable visit, so that you have time to see the famous murals, explore the historic neighborhood of Vieux Lyon, or nibble your way through the city on a Lyon food tour.

If you are visiting Lyon on a day trip, you’ll be hard-pressed to see everything I’ve included in this post. But you can still see a lot of Lyon’s top attractions! Check out this post for my one-day Lyon itinerary.

Happy Travels!

Planning a trip to Lyon, France? Don’t miss out on any of these great Lyon attractions! Pin it for Lyon travel inspiration!

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