Things to do in Lyon
Discover the best attractions and experiences Lyon has to offer
Historic Monuments
Lyon’s history unfolds across Roman ruins, medieval lanes and Renaissance façades.
Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière
Iconic basilica on Fourvière hill with panoramic views over Lyon.
Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Lyon
A Gothic–Romanesque cathedral famed for its astronomical clock and ornate interiors.
Théâtre gallo-romain de Lyon-Fourvière
Ancient Roman theatre ruins reflecting Lyon’s early urban life.
Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon)
UNESCO-listed Renaissance district with traboules and atmospheric lanes.
Museums
Lyon’s museums span classic fine arts, science and local history.
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon
France’s second-largest fine arts museum, with paintings spanning centuries.
Musée des Confluences
A striking science and anthropology museum at the confluence of the rivers.
Musée Gadagne
A twin-museum complex focused on the history of Lyon and its people.
Musée Miniature et Cinéma
A collection of intricate miniatures and cinema props.
Religious Monuments
Lyon’s sacred architecture includes grand churches and historic basilicas.
Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière
Iconic hilltop basilica with panoramic city views.
Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Lyon
Historic cathedral with a remarkable astronomical clock.
Église Saint-Nizier
Medieval church on the Presqu’île with notable Gothic interiors.
National & Theme Parks
Natural escapes and theme parks within reach of Lyon for day trips.
Parc de la Tête d'Or
A vast urban park with lakes, lawns, a small zoo and botanical gardens.
Parc naturel régional du Pilat
Scenic nature park with vineyards, forests and viewpoints near Lyon.
Walibi Rhône-Alpes
A lively theme park just outside Lyon offering roller coasters and family rides.
Neighborhoods
Each Lyon district has its own character, eateries and hidden corners.
Vieux Lyon
Medieval and Renaissance lanes, lined with bouchons and traboules.
La Croix-Rousse
Historic silk-weaving quarter with steep streets and vibrant murals.
Presqu'île
The lively peninsula between the Saône and Rhône with elegant squares.
Free Things to Do
Many of Lyon’s best experiences come at no cost.
Stroll along the banks of the Saône and Rhône
Enjoy scenic riverside promenades with bridges and viewpoints.
Explore the traboules of Vieux Lyon
Passageways that reveal hidden architectural gems and courtyards.
View street art in Croix-Rousse
Walk among murals, including the famous Canuts works.
Take in city views from Fourvière hill (exterior)
Catch sweeping panoramas of Lyon from public viewpoints.
Gastronomy
Lyon is famed for its gastronomy—try iconic dishes and bites.
Quenelles de Lyon
Light dumplings often served with a delicate sauce.
Cervelle de Canut
A tangy soft cheese spread with herbs, classic Lyonnais fare.
Andouillette Lyonnaise
Distinctive sausage with a traditional, rustic flavor.
Tarte praline
A praline-topped pastry that displays Lyon’s sweet side.
Nightlife
Lyon offers buzzing nightlife from rooftop bars to concert venues.
Le Sucre
A top rooftop club with river views and electronic nights.
Ninkasi Kao
A popular concert venue and brewery hosting live music.
Rooftop & riverside bars along the Saône
Casual spots with good views to end the night.
Entertainment
The city’s stages host opera, theatre and performances year-round.
Théâtre des Célestins
Historic theatre offering classical and contemporary productions.
Opéra National de Lyon
Premier opera house with world-class performances.
La Comédie Odéon
A renowned venue for plays and contemporary theatre.
Sports
Active options to catch a game or get outdoors in Lyon.
Watch an OL football match at Groupama Stadium
Experience a live Ligue 1 game in a modern stadium.
Kayaking or stand-up paddle on the Rhône/Saône
Water adventures along Lyon’s river routes.
Bike or run along the Voie Verte paths
Scenic routes for cyclists and runners along the riverbanks.
Off the Track
Discover lesser-known experiences that reveal Lyon’s quieter side.
Traboules tour in Croix-Rousse
Delve into hidden passageways once used by silk workers.
Fresque des Canuts
Iconic street mural celebrating Lyon’s silk weavers.
Silk-weaving history walk in Croix-Rousse
Follow a themed stroll through the district’s weaving heritage.