Lyon is France's third largest city. Located in the central-eastern part of the country, it has a long history. Culturally rich, the city is home to monuments from many different eras, from Gallo-Roman remains to medieval and Renaissance buildings. In the capital of the Gauls, it's a pleasure to stroll through its various districts, wander through its museums, take in the greenery in one of its parks and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere on the banks of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Lyon is also one of the best places in France to enjoy the pleasures of the table, with many local specialties. Fancy a weekend in Lyon? Two or three days for a long weekend? Here are the various visits and activities that could liven up your city trip.
Day 1: La Croix-Rousse, Musée de l'Imprimerie, banks of the Saône, gastronomy...
Saturday morning
A stroll through Lyon begins in the picturesque Croix-Rousse district. A maze of streets with a bohemian atmosphere and colorful buildings. The hillside is packed with trendy boutiques, bars and bouchons lyonnais. Lyon is undoubtedly one of the best shopping destinations in Europe. Not to mention its rich cultural life. Then it's off to a museum. The Musée de l'Imprimerie et de la Communication Graphique traces the evolution of printing techniques, which have been present in Lyon since the 14th century. The museum offers fun workshops and some areas are dedicated to temporary exhibitions.
Saturday afternoon
An afternoon stroll along the banks of the Saône is always a pleasant experience. It allows you to stop at the foot of exceptional monuments, such as the Saint-Jean-Baptiste primatial church. The building, which hosted the coronation of Pope John XXII in 1316, radiates Romanesque and Gothic styles. Take advantage of the relaxed atmosphere of the river quays to embark on a cruise. You'll discover the city, its historic districts and lush green spaces from a whole new angle. Once back on the quay, another relaxing moment over a drink on a barge is always welcome. When evening arrives, Lyon's restaurants await visitors for comforting tastings. There are many specialties to discover in the city, including andouillette lyonnaise.
Day 2: Presqu'île, Musée des Confluences, Notre-Dame de Fourvière, Ile Barbe
Sunday morning
The second day in Lyon begins on the Presqu'île, a district located between the Rhône and Saône rivers. Here, you can admire period monuments, notably the pretty 19th-century buildings, before crossing the Rue de la République, the main shopping street. Next stop is the Musée des Beaux-Arts, home to the second-largest art collection after the Louvre. A must-see in Lyon! Unless you prefer to walk to the Confluences district, to enter the eponymous museum with its resolutely futuristic architecture. It houses the collections of the former Muséum de Lyon. A fascinating museum of natural history and anthropology.
Sunday afternoons
It's impossible to spend a weekend in Lyon without visiting one of its main monuments: Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Located in the heart of the Fourvière district, the basilica's architecture and interior decor are sublime. The other highlight is a visit to the esplanade, which offers an incredible panorama of the city. Don't forget your camera! Going up, going down, it's well worth taking a few moments out in Lyon. The ideal way to do this is to take a bike and head for Ile Barbe. This verdant area offers the feeling of being in the countryside, with the river, lush green vegetation, pretty old buildings and even an inn where you can enjoy a meal. A great idea for apost-holiday activity in Lyon.
Day 3, in case of long weekend: Lugdunum, traboules in Vieux-Lyon
Monday morning
For an extended weekend in Lyon, return to the Fourvière hill on Monday morning to focus on one aspect of Lyon's rich heritage: the presence of Gallo-Roman remains. Lugdunum - Roman Museum and Theaters is an exceptional archaeological site. This has earned it Unesco World Heritage status. Once there, you'll discover some of the oldest Roman theaters in Gaul. The other highlight is a visit to the museum. Built of unfinished concrete, the museum transports the curious to the heart of early Lyonnais life. Its collections are rich in mosaics, jewelry, ceramics and sculptures. And let's not forget the impressive bronze plaque bearing Emperor Claudius' speech. It's always worth keeping up to date with Lugdunum's cultural program, which includes workshops, events, a festival and exhibitions.
Monday afternoon
Before setting off again, we decide to lose ourselves in Vieux Lyon. To get the feeling of going back in time, of course, but also to pass through its unmissable traboules. These narrow passages, some of which date back to the 4th century, allow you to move from one street to another, or from one street to the quays. A new architectural stroll to punctuate a weekend in Lyon.
Where to stay in Lyon?
The Presqu'île district is a great place to put down your suitcases. Easily accessible by car, it's also close to many points of interest. Although prices are quite high, there are a number of pleasant hotels. Vieux Lyon and Croix-Rousse are also good places to stay during your stay. Well served by public transport, they are not easily accessible by car. Avoid the area around Perrache station and the Guillotière district, which can get crowded at night.
- Let's start our selection not far from the Musée Lumière.
- Hotel Le Lumière is one of Lyon's finest addresses. Although located in the city center, it has been soundproofed to optimize your comfort. You'll feel right at home in the renovated rooms, and thanks to the warm welcome from the owners... Before setting off to explore the city, enjoy lunch in the hotel courtyard: a great way to start the day! Click here to book your room in just a few clicks.
- For a slightly higher budget, you can also enjoy the comfort of the Maison Nô, located in the Presqu'île district. A pleasant feeling of well-being invades you as soon as you enter the atrium... Let yourself be swept away by this establishment where modernity is in the spotlight. Contemporary rooms, a fitness room, made-to-measure services - this is the program that awaits you! Click here to book a room easily.
- Looking for a 100% upmarket address for a luxury stay? At Villa Florentine, the price is as high as the service, and it's easy to see why. This large, charming residence is a former 18th-century convent. It backs onto the Fourvière hill, giving you easy access to some of the sights on offer. Its Michelin-starred restaurant offers a spectacular view of the city. The Italian-inspired interior decor takes you on a voyage of discovery. Indulge yourself in the hotel's superb swimming pool. It's surely one of the most beautiful in Lyon! Interested in a stay? Book your room here.
- Prefer to stay in a green setting? Head for the region's CityKamp, at Porte de Lyon, Dardilly. It's a common misconception that it's impossible to find a campsite close to the city. But this chain of campsites has proved us wrong!
What to do on a romantic weekend in Lyon?
Lyon is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. A cruise on a restaurant boat lets you discover the city while savoring local delicacies. Or stroll the aisles of the Halles Paul Bocuse and buy some of the best local produce to enjoy with a glass of wine later in your accommodation. Jésus de Lyon, saucisson brioché and tarte praline are absolute must-tries. Strolls through Lyon's old quarters always have a romantic air, like the Croix-Rousse. And then there are the wide paths of the Parc de la Tête d'Or, the largest in the country and one of the 10 most beautiful places to visit in France in autumn. Here, you can ride the rosalie or enjoy a picnic surrounded by trees and flowers. Lyon is also one of the best destinations in France for organizing an EVGF.
What to do on a family weekend in Lyon
Fancy a family weekend in Lyon? There's plenty to do with the kids. Like taking part in a workshop at the Musée de l'Imprimerie or attending a children's cinema at the Institut Lumière. The Cinématokid is part of the institute, which is also a museum dedicated to the beginnings of the 7th art and the history of the Lumière brothers, who lived in Lyon. Children are always delighted by a visit to the zoological park in the Parc de la Tête d'Or, home to over 400 animals. The Parc de Gerland is another area that little ones love. It boasts a vast playground, promenade, allotment gardens and skate park.
Free things to do in Lyon
Lyon is one of the best destinations for a cheap weekend away. Its neighborhoods are home to architectural treasures, which you'll enjoy contemplating one after another. A trip to Notre-Dame de Fourvière offers a breathtaking view of the city. Then there are the parks, where you can stroll endlessly. Always keep an eye out when strolling around Lyon, as its neighborhoods are home to curiosities such as traboules and impressive works of street art. Lyon is a city with a dense cultural offering. Many events are free of charge, such as the Fête des Lumières. Wondering where to go in December? Lyon's main monuments are decked out in magnificent illuminations and light displays.
