Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière
Begin your journey in Lyon with a visit to the Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière, an architectural marvel that stands majestically on the Fourvière Hill. The basilica, with its stunning mosaics and breathtaking views of the city, truly is a testament to the grandeur of the bygone era. Whether you’re religious or simply an appreciator of great art and architecture, this basilica is a must-visit.
Entrance: Free
Website: www.fourviere.org
Address: 8 Pl. de Fourvière, 69005 Lyon, France
Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon)
Step back in time as you stroll through Vieux Lyon, one of Europe’s largest Renaissance districts. This part of the city, with its narrow cobbled lanes, beautiful old buildings, and hidden courtyards, exudes a unique charm. Don’t miss the chance to explore the ‘traboules’, secret covered passageways that are characteristic of the city.
Entrance: Free
Address: 69005 Lyon
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon
Next, make your way to the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon, often considered the next-best fine arts museum in France after the Louvre. Housed in a former Benedictine convent, this museum boasts an impressive collection of artworks spanning various eras, including masterpieces from artists like Rembrandt, Monet, and Picasso.
Entrance: Admission
Website: www.mba-lyon.fr
Address: 20 Pl. des Terreaux, 69001 Lyon, France
Parc de la Tête d’Or
For a breath of fresh air, head to Parc de la Tête d’Or, one of the largest urban parks in France. With its lush greenery, beautiful rose gardens, a serene lake, and even a zoo, this park offers an ideal retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. Whether you fancy a picnic, a leisurely boat ride, or simply a calming walk, this park has it all.
Entrance: Free
Website: www.loisirs-parcdelatetedor.com
Address: 69006 Lyon, France
Traboule et Cour des Voraces
Explore the enchanting Traboules of Lyon, a network of secret passageways used by silk weavers in the 4th century. These labyrinthine corridors, hidden behind innocent looking doors, provide an insight into the city’s fascinating history. Don’t be surprised if you feel like a character from a mystery novel while traversing these hidden pathways.
Entrance: Free
Website: www.lyon-france.com
Address: 9 Pl. Colbert, 69001 Lyon, France
Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste
Next, head to the Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste, a stunning example of Gothic and Romanesque architecture. This cathedral, with its impressive astronomical clock and richly decorated interiors, is a captivating sight. Whether you attend a service or simply bask in the quiet serenity, the Cathedral promises a deeply moving experience.
Entrance: Free
Website: primatiale.fr
Address: Pl. Saint-Jean, 69005 Lyon, France
Roman Amphitheatre of Fourvière
The Roman Amphitheatre of Fourvière is another must-see in Lyon. These ancient ruins, which once hosted gladiator fights and public spectacles, speak volumes about the city’s Roman heritage. Today, it serves as a stunning backdrop for various cultural events, blending the past and the present in a unique way.
Entrance: Free
Website: www.museegalloromain.grandlyon.com
Address: 17 Rue Cleberg, 69005 Lyon, France
Musée des Confluences
Visit the Musée des Confluences, a futuristic museum where science and humanities meet. With exhibits ranging from natural history to civilizations and societies, this museum will take you on a journey through time and space. Its stunning architecture, resembling a floating crystal cloud of stainless steel and glass, is an added attraction.
Entrance: Admission
Website: www.museedesconfluences.fr
Address: 86 Quai Perrache, 69002 Lyon, France
Place des Terreaux
Take a leisurely stroll in the Place des Terreaux, a lively square in the heart of Lyon. Framed by the City Hall and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, this square is a hub of cultural and social activity. The stunning Bartholdi fountain in the center, depicting France’s four major rivers, is a sight to behold.
Entrance: Free
Website: mairie1.lyon.fr
Address: Pl. des Terreaux, 69001 Lyon, France
Place Bellecour
Next, head to the Place Bellecour, one of the largest open squares in Europe. This expansive space is a central point in Lyon and is characterized by an equestrian statue of King Louis XIV. With a Ferris wheel during the winter months and numerous events throughout the year, it’s a vibrant space worth visiting.
Entrance: Free
Website: www.lyon-france.com
Address: Pl. Bellecour, 69002 Lyon, France
La Croix-Rousse
Explore La Croix-Rousse, a bohemian neighborhood known for its silk-weaving history. With its steep streets, hidden traboules, and an open-air market, this ‘village within the city’ has a distinctive charm. The district is also known for its ‘canuts’ or silk workshops, giving you a glimpse into the city’s industrious past.
Entrance: Free
Address: 69004 Lyon
Musée Lumière
Wrap up your tour of Lyon with a visit to the Musée Lumière, dedicated to the Lumière brothers, pioneers of cinema. Located in the grand family home of the Lumière family, this museum showcases early cinematographic equipment, vintage films, and personal belongings. It’s a must-visit for film buffs and those interested in the history of cinema.
Entrance: Admission
Website: www.institut-lumiere.org
Address: 25 Rue du Premier Film, 69008 Lyon, France
Hôtel de Ville de Lyon
A grandiose symbol of Lyon’s rich history, Hôtel de Ville de Lyon, or Lyon’s City Hall, boasts a stunning facade that combines elements of classical and French baroque architectural styles. This monumental edifice, adorned with a clock tower and numerous statues, is a sight to behold. Hosting numerous festivals and events, it is a beating heart of Lyon’s cultural scene.
Entrance: Admission
Website: www.lyon.fr
Address: 1 Pl. de la Comédie, 69001 Lyon, France
Opera National de Lyon
For lovers of performing arts, a visit to the Opera National de Lyon is a must. Nestled in a historic 19th-century building, it has been beautifully modernized with a unique glass-domed roof. This stellar venue hosts a range of performances, from classic opera and ballet to contemporary dance and music concerts, offering something for every art enthusiast.
Entrance: Admission
Website: www.opera-lyon.com
Address: 1 Pl. de la Comédie, 69001 Lyon, France
Musée Gadagne
The Musée Gadagne is a treasure trove of Lyon’s history and the world of puppets. Housed in a magnificent 16th-century building, this twin-themed museum offers insights into Lyon’s cultural, social, and economic past, and features a fascinating collection of puppets from around the world. Prepare to be mesmerized by the historical riches and childhood nostalgia.
Entrance: Admission
Website: www.gadagne-lyon.fr
Address: 1 Pl. du Petit Collège, 69005 Lyon, France
Le Mur des Canuts
Prepare to be awestruck by Le Mur des Canuts, the largest trompe-l’oeil mural in Europe. Located in the Croix-Rousse district, this magnificent mural showcases the unique characteristics of the district and its inhabitants. It’s a unique blend of art and realism that’ll make you feel like you’re stepping into another world.
Entrance: Free
Website: www.citecreation.fr
Address: 36 Bd des Canuts, 69004 Lyon, France
Centre d’Histoire de la Résistance et de la Déportation
Experience a sobering part of history at the Centre d’Histoire de la Résistance et de la Déportation. This museum, set in the former military medical school Gestapo headquarters, provides a vivid account of World War II events in Lyon. It’s a profound journey through a painful past that provides a powerful message for the present.
Entrance: Admission
Website: www.chrd.lyon.fr
Address: 14 Av. Berthelot, 69007 Lyon, France
La Fresque des Lyonnais
Marvel at La Fresque des Lyonnais, a remarkable mural depicting over 30 famous individuals from Lyon. Spanning from the bottom to the top of a seven-story building, it features a realistic portrayal of personalities like the Lumière brothers and Saint Exupéry. It’s a unique ‘who’s who’ of Lyon that adds a dash of art to your exploration.
Entrance: Free
Website: www.lyon-france.com
Address: 2 Rue de la Martinière, 69001 Lyon, France
Le Parc de Gerland
Escape to the tranquillity of Le Parc de Gerland, a lush green expanse along the Rhône River. Whether you fancy a picnic, a game of football, or a leisurely walk, this park caters to all. With its beautiful views, vast lawns, and abundant plant life, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.
Entrance: Free
Website: www.lyon.fr
Address: All. Pierre de Coubertin, 69007 Lyon, France