Out of Town Blog
14 Best Things to do in Lyon + Tourist Spots & Places to Visit
Lyon Tourist Spots: Top Things to Do in Lyon, France
Lyon, the third-largest city in France, is a city of culture, history, and gastronomy that attracts millions of visitors every year. With its charming historic neighborhoods, impressive cultural landmarks, and secret traboule tunnels, Lyon is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you are interested in exploring museums and art galleries, indulging in culinary adventures, or enjoying outdoor activities, Lyon has plenty to offer.
One of the most significant aspects of Lyon is its rich history and heritage. The city boasts a plethora of historical landmarks, including the Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière, the Vieux Lyon, and the Musée des Beaux-Arts. These landmarks offer visitors a glimpse into Lyon’s past and cultural heritage.
Another highlight of Lyon is its culinary scene. The city is known for its gastronomic delights, famous Lyonnaise cuisine, and delicious wines. Visitors can explore the city’s many restaurants, cafes, and markets and indulge in some of France’s most delicious food and wine.
Why should you visit Lyon?
Lyon is a city of culture, history, and gastronomy that attracts millions of visitors annually.
Visitors can explore Lyon’s many historical landmarks, including the Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière, the Vieux Lyon, and the Musée des Beaux-Arts.
Lyon is known for its culinary delights, famous Lyonnaise cuisine, and delicious wines.
Historical Landmarks
Lyon is a city steeped in history, and visitors can explore many historical landmarks. Here are some of the most notable ones:
Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourviere By Dennis Jarvis, CC BY-SA 2.0 , cc
Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière
The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is one of the most iconic landmarks in Lyon. It is located on Fourvière Hill and offers stunning views of the city. The basilica was built in the late 19th century and is a prime example of French Gothic architecture. Visitors can explore the basilica’s interior, which features beautiful stained glass windows and intricate mosaics. The basilica is also home to a museum that showcases the history of Lyon.
Ancient Theatre of Fourviere By Jean-Christophe BENOIST – Own work, CC BY 4.0 , cc
Ancient Theatre of Fourvière
The Ancient Theatre of Fourvière is another must-see landmark in Lyon. It is located on Fourvière Hill and dates back to the Roman era. The theatre was built in the 1st century AD and could seat up to 10,000 spectators. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the theatre and imagine what it would have been like to attend a performance in ancient times. The theatre is also used for concerts and other events during the summer months.
Traboules of Lyon
The traboules of Lyon are a unique feature of the city’s architecture. Traboules were hidden passageways that were used by silk weavers to transport their goods from one building to another. Today, visitors can explore the traboules and get a glimpse into Lyon’s rich history. Some of the most notable traboules are located in the Vieux Lyon neighborhood, also home to many other historical landmarks.
Overall, Lyon is a city that is rich in history and culture. Visitors can explore various historical landmarks, from ancient Roman ruins to Gothic cathedrals. Whether you are interested in architecture or history, or just want to experience the city’s unique charm, Lyon has something to offer everyone.
Culinary Adventures
Lyon is known as the gastronomic capital of France, so it’s no surprise that culinary adventures are a must-do activity in the city. From traditional bouchons to the famous Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, plenty of options exist to satisfy any foodie’s cravings.
Bouchon leTablier via Wikimedia cc
Lyon’s Bouchons
Bouchons are traditional Lyonnaise restaurants that serve hearty, home-style dishes. These cozy establishments are known for their convivial atmosphere and rustic decor. Visitors should expect to find classics such as quenelles de brochet (pike dumplings), tablier de sapeur (breaded tripe), and andouillette (sausage made from pork intestines) on the menu.
One of the most famous bouchons is Chez Hugon, which has been serving up Lyonnaise cuisine since 1912. The restaurant’s cozy interior and traditional menu make it popular among locals and tourists. Another popular bouchon is Café Comptoir Abel, which has been in operation since 1928. The restaurant is known for its friendly service and generous portions.
Halles de Lyon-Paul Bocuse By Arnaud 25 – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0 , cc
Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse
The Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse is a covered market that is home to over 50 vendors selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal cheeses. The market is named after the famous Lyonnaise chef Paul Bocuse, who was instrumental in promoting the city’s culinary scene.
Visitors can explore the market and sample a variety of local specialties, including saucisson (dry-cured sausage), macarons, and pralines. The market is also home to several restaurants, including the Michelin-starred L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon.
Overall, Lyon’s culinary scene is not to be missed. Whether you’re looking for a traditional bouchon experience or want to explore the city’s famous food market, there’s something for everyone.
Museums and Art Galleries
Lyon is home to a variety of museums and art galleries that offer a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture. Here are some of the most popular ones:
Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon
Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon
The Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon is one of the largest art museums in France, with a collection that spans from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary art. Visitors can admire works by famous artists such as Rembrandt, Monet, and Van Gogh, as well as a vast collection of sculptures, drawings, and decorative arts. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
Lyon History Museum
The Lyon History Museum is located in the heart of the Old Town and offers a fascinating journey through the city’s past. Visitors can explore the museum’s collections of archaeological artifacts, medieval manuscripts, and Renaissance paintings, as well as interactive exhibits that bring Lyon’s history to life. The museum is housed in a beautiful 17th-century building that was once a Benedictine convent.
The Instiut Lumiere in Lyon By Matt Neale from UK, CC BY 2.0 , cc
Institut Lumière
The Institut Lumière is dedicated to the history of cinema and the Lumière brothers, who invented the cinematograph in Lyon in 1895. Visitors can explore the museum’s collections of early film equipment, photographs, and documents and watch screenings of classic movies in the institute’s cinema. The institute also hosts exhibitions and events throughout the year, including the Lumière Festival, which celebrates the city’s cinematic heritage.
Lyon’s museums and art galleries offer a unique and enriching experience for visitors who want to learn more about the city’s history and culture.
Outdoor Activities
Lyon offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are two popular options:
Parc de la Tete d’Or By Daderot – Own work, CC0 , c
Parc de la Tête d’Or
Parc de la Tête d’Or is a large urban park in Lyon that offers a wide range of outdoor activities. Visitors can take a stroll through the park’s beautiful gardens, rent a bike or boat, or visit the park’s zoo. The zoo is home to over 400 animals, including lions, tigers, and elephants. The park also has a lake where visitors can go boating or fishing.
Vieux Lyon by 4net via Wikimedia cc
Vieux Lyon
Vieux Lyon is the old town of Lyon and is a great place to explore on foot. Visitors can wander through the narrow streets and admire the historic architecture. There are also several outdoor cafes and restaurants where visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the sights and sounds of the city. The area is also home to several museums and galleries, including the Musée Gadagne, which showcases Lyon’s history and culture.
Shopping Destinations
Lyon is a shopper’s paradise with various shopping destinations ranging from luxury boutiques to local markets. Here are two of the best shopping destinations in Lyon:
La Part-Dieu Shopping Center By Micka13 – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0 , cc
La Part-Dieu Shopping Center
La Part-Dieu Shopping Center is the largest shopping center in Lyon, offering a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. It is located in the heart of the city and is easily accessible by public transportation. The shopping center features over 260 shops, including major international brands such as H&M, Zara, and Sephora. Several high-end boutiques and designer stores also include Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Prada. The shopping center also has a cinema, a bowling alley, and a food court.
Confluence Mall By Jean-Pierre Dalbéra, CC BY
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