Things to Do in Lyon：From Roman Theaters to Michelin-Starred Bouchons

Wondering about the best things to do in Lyon? Explore 2025's must-see attractions – from Vieux Lyon's Renaissance alleys to the Confluence Museum's futuristic architecture, plus secret bouchons and silk workshops for an authentic French experience.

As a proud local of Lyon, France, I am thrilled to share with you an in-depth guide to all the wonderful things our city has to offer. Lyon is a vibrant metropolis that seamlessly blends rich history, exquisite cuisine, and a thriving cultural scene. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or an art enthusiast, Lyon has something for everyone. In this guide, I'll walk you through the best activities, landmarks, dining spots, and seasonal highlights to make your visit truly unforgettable.

Seasonal Highlights: What to Do by Month

Spring (March - May)

Spring in Lyon is a time of renewal, with the city's parks and gardens bursting into bloom. The weather is mild, making it the perfect time to explore the outdoors.

Top Activities

• Parc de la Tête d'Or: This expansive park is a must-visit in spring. Take a stroll through the rose garden, rent a boat on the lake, or have a picnic on the lush green lawns.
• Fête des Lumières Preparations: Although the main event is in December, spring is when the city starts preparing for the annual Festival of Lights. Keep an eye out for early installations and workshops.

Seasonal Events

• Lyon International Film Festival: Held in late April, this festival showcases the best in international cinema, with screenings, workshops, and Q&A sessions with filmmakers.

Summer (June - August)

Summer in Lyon is lively and warm, with long days perfect for outdoor adventures.

Top Activities

• River Cruises: Enjoy the Rhône and Saône rivers with a scenic boat tour. Many cruises offer dinner options, allowing you to savor French cuisine while taking in the city's skyline.
• Bike Tours: Rent a bike and explore Lyon's many bike paths. The city is very bike-friendly, and a guided tour can help you discover hidden gems.

Seasonal Events

• Fête de la Musique: On June 21st, Lyon comes alive with free concerts across the city. From street performers to big-name acts, there's music for every taste.
• Lyon Street Food Festival: Held in July, this festival celebrates the city's diverse culinary scene with stalls offering everything from traditional French dishes to international flavors.

Autumn (September - November)

Autumn in Lyon is a feast for the senses, with vibrant foliage and cooler temperatures.

Top Activities

• Wine Tasting: Lyon is surrounded by some of France's best wine regions. Take a day trip to the Beaujolais or Côtes du Rhône for wine tastings and vineyard tours.
• Fall Festivals: Attend local harvest festivals, where you can sample seasonal produce and enjoy traditional music and dance.

Seasonal Events

• Nuits Sonores: This electronic music festival takes place in October and November, featuring performances by both established and up-and-coming artists.
• Lyon Art Fair: Held in November, this event showcases contemporary art from around the world, with galleries, installations, and workshops.

Winter (December - February)

Winter in Lyon is magical, with the city transformed by the annual Fête des Lumières.

Top Activities

• Fête des Lumières: This is Lyon's most famous event, held in December. The city is adorned with thousands of lights and installations, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
• Christmas Markets: Explore Lyon's charming Christmas markets, where you can shop for handmade crafts, sample seasonal treats, and soak up the festive atmosphere.

Seasonal Events

• New Year's Eve Celebrations: Join the locals in celebrating the new year with fireworks, concerts, and parties across the city.

Must-Visit Landmarks and Attractions

Old Lyon (Vieux Lyon)

Old Lyon is the city's historic district, known for its Renaissance architecture and narrow, cobblestone streets.

Key Sights

• Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière: Perched atop Fourvière Hill, this stunning basilica offers panoramic views of the city. The interior is equally impressive, with beautiful mosaics and stained glass.
• Traboules: These secret passageways were originally used by silk workers to navigate the city quickly. Today, they offer a unique glimpse into Lyon's history.

Presqu'île

The Presqu'île is the peninsula between the Rhône and Saône rivers, home to many of Lyon's main attractions.

Key Sights

• Place Bellecour: One of the largest pedestrian squares in Europe, Place Bellecour is a great place to relax, people-watch, or enjoy a coffee at one of the many cafes.
• Opéra de Lyon: This beautiful opera house hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, from classical ballets to contemporary theater.

Croix-Rousse

Known as the "working hill," Croix-Rousse was once the heart of Lyon's silk industry.

Key Sights

• Mur des Canuts: This colorful mural depicts the history of Lyon's silk workers and is a must-see for art lovers.
• Croix-Rousse Market: Held every morning, this market is a great place to sample local produce, cheeses, and meats.

Culinary Delights: Lyon's Food Scene

Lyon is often referred to as the gastronomic capital of France, and for good reason. The city is home to some of the country's finest restaurants and a rich culinary tradition.

Traditional Lyonnais Dishes

• Quenelle: A type of dumpling made from pike or other fish, served with a rich sauce like Nantua (made with crayfish).
• Saucisson brioché: A sausage wrapped in brioche dough and baked, creating a delicious, savory treat.
• Tablier de sapeur: Marinated tripe that is breaded and fried, a local specialty that's not for the faint of heart but loved by many.

Top Restaurants

Michelin-Starred Establishments

• Paul Bocuse: Named after the legendary chef, this restaurant is a pilgrimage site for food lovers. Expect exquisite French cuisine and impeccable service.
• L'Auberge du Pont de Collonges: Another gem from the Bocuse empire, this restaurant offers a more intimate dining experience with a focus on local ingredients.
• La Mère Brazier: Founded by the first female chef to earn three Michelin stars, this restaurant continues to uphold her legacy with classic French dishes.

Bouchons Lyonnais

Bouchons are traditional Lyonnais bistros that serve hearty, home-style cooking.

• Café des Fédérations: This iconic bouchon is known for its warm atmosphere and classic dishes like sausage and mashed potatoes.
• Le Musée: Another popular bouchon, Le Musée offers a cozy setting and a menu filled with Lyonnais specialties.

Food Markets

• Halles de Lyon - Paul Bocuse: This indoor market is a food lover's paradise, with stalls selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal cheeses and charcuterie.
• Marché de la Croix-Rousse: As mentioned earlier, this market is a great place to experience the local food scene and sample a variety of regional products.

Cultural and Artistic Experiences

Lyon has a thriving cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters.

Museums

• Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon: One of France's largest art museums, it houses an impressive collection of European art, from ancient times to the present day.
• Musée Gadagne: This museum is dedicated to the history of Lyon and the art of puppetry. It also features a beautiful garden and a rooftop terrace with stunning views.

Theaters and Performance Venues

• Opéra de Lyon: As mentioned earlier, this opera house is a major cultural hub in Lyon, offering a diverse program of performances.
• Théâtre des Célestins: This historic theater hosts a variety of plays, concerts, and dance performances throughout the year.

Street Art and Murals

Lyon is also known for its vibrant street art scene. Take a walk through the Croix-Rousse district or the Confluence area to discover colorful murals and installations.

Day Trips from Lyon

If you have extra time during your visit, consider taking a day trip to one of Lyon's nearby attractions.

Beaujolais

• What to Do: Visit wineries, taste Beaujolais wine, and explore the picturesque villages of the region.
• How to Get There: Take a train from Lyon Part-Dieu station to Villefranche-sur-Saône, and then a local bus or taxi to the vineyards.

Pérouges

• What to Do: This medieval village is a step back in time, with cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and a charming central square.
• How to Get There: Take a train from Lyon to Meximieux-Pérouges station, and then a short walk or taxi ride to the village.

Annecy

• What to Do: Known as the "Venice of the Alps," Annecy is famous for its crystal-clear lake, canals, and charming old town.
• How to Get There: Take a train from Lyon to Annecy station. The journey takes about 1.5 hours.

Q&A

1. Is Lyon worth visiting for tourists?

Absolutely! Lyon offers a unique blend of history, culture, and cuisine that makes it a must-visit destination in France. Whether you're interested in exploring ancient landmarks, savoring gourmet meals, or enjoying vibrant festivals, Lyon has something to offer every traveler.

2. What to do in a day in Lyon?

If you only have one day in Lyon, here's a suggested itinerary:

• Morning: Start your day in Old Lyon, visiting the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière and exploring the traboules.
• Lunch: Head to a bouchon Lyonnais for a traditional meal.
• Afternoon: Walk across the Saône River to the Presqu'île, visiting Place Bellecour and the Opéra de Lyon.
• Evening: Enjoy a river cruise or a dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant.

3. What is Lyon best known for?

Lyon is best known for its rich history, vibrant food scene, and the annual Fête des Lumières. The city's architectural heritage, from Roman ruins to Renaissance buildings, is also a major draw. Additionally, Lyon is a major center for the silk industry and has a thriving cultural and artistic scene.

4. Is 2 days enough in Lyon?

Two days in Lyon will give you a good taste of what the city has to offer, but you'll likely want to return for more. With two days, you can visit the main landmarks, sample the local cuisine, and attend a few events or festivals. However, to truly experience all that Lyon has to offer, consider spending at least three to four days in the city.

In conclusion, Lyon is a city that captivates visitors with its charm, history, and culinary delights. Whether you're planning a short visit or an extended stay, I hope this guide has inspired you to explore all that Lyon has to offer. Bon voyage!