Our recommendations

What you absolutely must see when coming to Lyon!

Must-sees in Lyon Monuments and museums By neighborhood As you wish

Lyon is full of historical and architectural treasures, pleasant places to walk, and magnificent viewpoints that deserve to be explored. Here is a list of must-see places not to be missed if you are visiting this pretty city:

The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière: perched on the Fourvière hill, this basilica is one of the emblematic symbols of Lyon. It offers a breathtaking view of the city and houses superb mosaics and stained glass windows. Our tip for getting there: take the funicular from the Vieux Lyon station and walk back down through the Rosary Garden. Tour of the rooftops of Fourvière It's really great!
The Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist: Located in Old Lyon, this gothic cathedral is an architectural masterpiece. It features a fascinating astronomical clock and its interior is adorned with magnificent stained glass windows.
The Old Lyon neighborhood: second largest UNESCO area in the world behind Venice, explore this must-see district with its cobblestone streets and traboules. Like any tourist area, there are restaurants to avoid, but we'll tell you all about it the best places to go Don't miss it!
The Gallo-Roman Theatre of Fourvière: This Roman theater is one of the largest and best-preserved in France. Admission to the site is free. The Lugdunum Museum, which requires an admission fee, is a great way to learn about the history of the Romans in Lyon. Every summer, it hosts the Nuits de Fourvière festival, which features concerts and performances.
Place Bellecour: largest square in Lyon and the second largest pedestrian square in Europe, it is the central point of Lyon. The equestrian statue of Louis XIV is our kilometer zero marker. You can enjoy the surrounding cafés, shops, and the events that take place there.
The Tête d’Or Park: This vast urban park is the true "lung" of Lyon. A haven of peace and a favorite spot for joggers in Lyon, you can go for a walk, ride a bike, visit the zoo and its African savanna, the botanical garden, or the rose garden. Rowing boats and electric boats are available for rent for a trip on the lake. The easiest way to get there is by bike. Otherwise, by metro, the closest stop is Masséna, followed by a 10-minute walk.
Garden of Curiosities: most beautiful viewpoint of the city, it's the perfect spot for a picnic or a drink, taking photos or simply admiring Lyon perched on the hill. Clearly our favorite.

The Grand Hôtel-Dieu : It is one of Lyon’s most iconic landmarks and one of the city’s most important historic sites. A former prestigious hospital, founded in the Middle Ages, it is located on the banks of the Rhône. Its magnificent dome was designed by Soufflot, and hidden beneath it is one of the most beautiful bars in the world. It also houses the Intercontinental Hotel, shops, bars, and restaurants, including the «Dome» who was elected in 2020 best bar in the world.
City Hall: it is both a historical symbol and an important administrative center of the city. Created by the architect of Versailles, Jules Hardouin-Mansart, the Hôtel de Ville is located on the Place des Terreaux, which is one of the central points of the city.
The Lyon Opera House: also known as the «Opéra Nouvel», this important cultural building is located in the 1st arrondissement of Lyon. The Lyon Opera offers an elegant performance hall called “l'Amphithéâtre” hosting large groups of dancers, singers... And we have a secret address to give you 🤫 On the top floor of the Opera is a rooftop with the bar «"The Muses of the Opera"» offering an incredible view of the Fourvière cathedral.
The Museum of Fine Arts: Located on Place des Terreaux, the Musée des Beaux-Arts is one of the most beautiful museums in France. You’ll find exhibits on ancient Egypt, modern art, paintings, sculptures, and temporary exhibitions. Masterpieces by great artists such as Rembrandt, Monet, and Picasso. If you’d like to take a break to grab a bite to eat, you can dine at the restaurant located on the first floor of the museum.
The Museum of Contemporary Art – MAC: Located in the heart of the Cité Internationale, this museum features temporary and traveling exhibitions showcasing a variety of works, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, and digital art.
Musée des Confluences The Musée des Confluences takes you on a journey through time and space to gain a deeper understanding of humanity and the world. This incredible building, located at the tip of the Confluence where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet, features various permanent exhibitions as well as temporary exhibitions by renowned artists. If you’d like to take a coffee break or have lunch during your visit, head up to the museum’s top floor to the rooftop, where you’ll find a small cafeteria offering a magnificent view of Lyon. Another food recommendation 🍽: the «"Rives"» , located outside the museum, is an excellent place to have lunch or dinner, either before or after your visit to the museum.
Lugdunum – Roman Museum and Theaters: Lugdunum was one of the most beautiful capitals of the Roman Empire. This impressive archaeological site, located within the UNESCO-designated area, houses artifacts related to the Roman city of Lyon. You can visit the Theater of Gaul and the Odeons of the Roman Empire.
The Gadagne Museum / MAM / MHL: Housed in one of the most beautiful mansions in Old Lyon, the Gadagne Museum is divided into two sections:
– MAM: All the dolls and puppets used in movies

– MHL: iconic objects representing the city of Lyon and its history.

– > You will find permanent and temporary exhibitions, and you can choose to visit the museum alone or accompanied by a guide. We strongly recommend going for brunch at «Café Gadagne» 🥞 located in the museum's secret garden, offering a weekend brunch with fresh and, above all, homemade products! We advise you to book in advance.
The Lumière Museum: located in the incredible «Château Lumière» in the 8th arrondissement of Lyon, where cinema was born. Indeed, the museum is dedicated to the history of the Lumière brothers. You can attend film screenings, find original materials such as cameras and projectors, and enjoy the museum's temporary exhibitions.
La maison des Canuts : This museum traces the history of the canuts, Lyon’s silk workers. You’ll discover how the silk industry has evolved over time, as well as permanent exhibits and interactive activities for visitors of all ages. You can explore the three exhibition rooms to learn all about the canuts and the silk industry. If you’d like to take home a beautiful souvenir by purchasing a silk item or simply learn more about silk, you can visit the «Soierie Saint-Jean» or even to the «Saint-Georges Silk» Both of these stores carry authentic Lyon silk and will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
The Fourvière Museum: Discover a rich collection of artifacts tracing the history of Fourvière and its basilica, as well as temporary exhibitions featuring major artists from around the world. The museum is located in the « "Maison Carrée"», to the right of the Fourvière Basilica. If this is your first time in Lyon, we strongly recommend that you walk up to enjoy the view, visit the Basilica, and finish with the Fourvière Museum.
The Little Guignol Museum: An iconic figure in Lyon, Guignol has a museum dedicated entirely to him. The«"Little Museum"» is located in the heart of the Saint-Just neighborhood, in Old Lyon. The museum reveals the secrets behind the creation and manipulation of puppets.
The Museum of Cinema and Miniatures: It’s the world’s number one film museum. Located in the heart of Old Lyon, this exceptional museum showcases one of the largest collections of props from the movies we all know and love. You’ll be impressed by all the movie sets, props, and special effects used in film production. We highly recommend it, especially if you’re visiting with your family!
OL Museum: The OL Museum traces the history of Olympique Lyonnais, from its beginnings to the present day. Located in Groupama Stadium, it is a museum unlike any other in France, offering you a behind-the-scenes look at the Lyon soccer team and the opportunity to tour the players’ locker rooms and backstage areas. Right next to the stadium and the museum is the «"Leisure Center"» OL has set up a space where you can enjoy a variety of family-friendly activities: surfing on an artificial wave, playing an escape game, bowling, or even trying out a virtual reality experience. It’s the perfect way to round out your visit to the museum!

Lyon is a city full of beautiful hidden corners… Each neighborhood is different and has its own unique atmosphere. If you’d like to explore the city, here are our suggestions for things to do in each neighborhood:

A Stroll Through Old Lyon: Set out to explore the second-largest UNESCO site in the world, after Venice. Its cobblestone streets and iconic traboules make it a truly unique place. Explore Rue Saint Jean (the main street), Rue du Bœuf (the street with the most Michelin stars in France), or Rue Juiverie, all of which are lined with magnificent Renaissance buildings and plenty of restaurants, including traditional Lyon bouchons (watch out for tourist traps, but we’ve put together a selection of the best addresses)
Cruise on the Rhône or the Saône: Enjoy a different perspective as you take in the city and its main landmarks. There are several options—the choice is yours:
– Or the boats that don't require a license from our friends at Cap Confluent
– Or a guided cruise with the Lyon Boats
– Or a private cruise with WaterTaxi
– How about a dinner cruise on Hermès
A Walk Along the Banks of the Rhône: A pleasant setting for a walk or bike ride along the fully developed waterfront. You can also enjoy the many riverboats and their terraces for a drink. The perfect spot for an aperitif 🙂
Tour of the Croix Rousse: Take a stroll through a unique and lively neighborhood! Walk up the slopes of the Croix Rousse along the Montée de la Grande Côte, admire the view from the Esplanade de la Grande Côte, and head over to the Mur des Canuts (the largest painted wall in Europe). If you’re a fan of street art, you’re in for a treat.
A Walk in Confluence: Located at the southern tip of the peninsula, this neighborhood features a mix of contemporary architecture. You can stroll along the completely renovated waterfront, wander around the marina and its shopping center stores, and head to the southern tip of the Musée des Confluences gardens to see where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet.
Dining at Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse: A mecca for Lyon’s culinary scene—head to Les Halles for a late-morning aperitif. Lyon’s finest establishments are all there, where you’ll find nothing but top-quality products. You can also enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants. Oysters and white wine before lunch are a tradition. We recommend visiting between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. to experience the unique atmosphere of the place.
Walking food tours: Lyon is renowned for its gastronomy and culinary arts. There is no better way to discover culinary specialties and have a good time than Lyon FOOD Tour culinary tours. Several tours, several neighborhoods: Old Lyon, Lyon Food Markets and even a Street Food Tour or a Vegan Food Tour... all you have to do is choose and treat yourself!
Day trip around Lyon: If you wish to discover the Lyon region during your stay, a day trip to explore Pérouges and the Beaujolais is highly recommended. This preserved medieval village is located 30 km away and offers a charming and authentic atmosphere. Trust Olivier from Kanpai Tourism to take you aboard a minivan.
Electric bike tour of the Rhône Valley vineyards: Set off for a day to discover the must-try wines (Condrieu, Côte-Rôtie, Saint-Joseph...) south of Lyon with Wine and Ride. A friendly and gourmet experience through the vineyards.

For gastronomy: “Lyon is the capital of gastronomy”, and for good reason!

Les Halles de Lyon-Paul Bocuse: a renowned covered market where you can find fresh produce, local specialties, and high-quality products.
Lyonnais Bouchons These traditional Lyonnais restaurants serve typical dishes of the region, such as warm sausage, tablier de sapeur (breaded tripe), and quenelles. We highly recommend the «The Good Eaters», the «Café des Fédérations», «The Gang, «The Miller's Wife», «Le Café Comptoir d’Abel»or even «Le Poêlon d’Or.

Sweet specialties: discover «Sébastien Bouillet»or even «Dorner Frères for their exceptional high-end pastries, «Maison Bernachon» and the «Voisin Chocolatier» for their high-quality fine chocolates and Lyon specialties (cushions, quenelles).
For local markets :
The Quai Saint-Antoine market: this market is a food market located along the Saône. You will find fresh produce, fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and local specialties.
The Croix-Rousse market: this market is very lively and colorful, specializing in organic and local products.
For shopping: Republic Street: you will find many clothing, shoe, and accessory shops in this large shopping street.
Designer Boutiques in Old Lyon: you can find many small designer and artisan shops offering clothing, jewelry, and unique items.
The Confluence and
the Part-Dieu : these are the two largest shopping centers in Lyon.
The Village Outlet The «Village des Marques» is about a thirty-minute drive from Lyon, offering discounted items from various major brands all year round!
For walking in the parks and green spaces: Tête d’Or Park: it is the largest urban park in France, featuring a lake, a zoo, magnificent gardens, and vast spaces for relaxing, working out, or even having a picnic!
The Rhone Banks: enjoy this landscaped pedestrian area along the banks of the Rhone for walking, cycling, or having a picnic. You can also cool off at the Tony Bertrand Nautical Center on the banks, which is just a few minutes' walk from the Guillotière metro station.