The 10 Best Sights and Activities to Experience in Lyon, France
Lyon is one of the most vibrant and culturally rich cities in Europe. It is the 3rd largest city in France, located in the Rhone-Alps region near the country’s border with Switzerland. Lyon is known for its beautiful architecture, stunning riverside views, delicious food, and vibrant nightlife. It is a stunning backdrop for a vacation, and it is easy to see why it is one of France’s most popular cities. Here are the 10 best things to see and do in Lyon.
1. Vieux Lyon (Old Town)
Vieux Lyon is the oldest and most picturesque area in the city. It is known for its narrow cobblestoned streets, Renaissance-style buildings, and ancient churches. The area is divided into 3 distinct districts – Saint-Jean, Saint-Paul, and Saint-George – each with its own unique charm. Visitors can explore the streets and admire the architecture, or take a boat tour of the area to get a different perspective.
2. Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
The Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière is one of the most iconic landmarks in Lyon. The church stands atop a hill overlooking the city and can be seen from virtually anywhere in the city. The ornate interior of the basilica is filled with beautiful stained glass, sculptures, and frescoes. Visitors can take a guided tour of the church or enjoy the stunning views of the city from its bell tower.
3. Parc de la Tête d’Or
Parc de la Tête d’Or is a sprawling 117-hectare park located in central Lyon. The park boasts beautiful gardens, lakes, and pathways that are perfect for leisurely strolls. There are also many attractions within the park such as a zoo, an aviary, and even a botanical garden. Parc de la Tête d’Or is the perfect place to spend an afternoon in nature and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Book a tour of the Head Gold Park
4. The Museum of Fine Arts
The Museum of Fine Arts is one of Lyon’s most important cultural institutions. It houses a vast collection of art ranging from ancient Roman sculptures to modern masterpieces by artists such as Picasso and Monet. Visitors can explore the galleries at their leisure or take a guided tour for a more in-depth experience.
Book a tour of the Museum of Fine Arts
5. La Croix Rousse
La Croix Rousse is one of Lyon’s oldest neighborhoods and is known for its bohemian atmosphere and lively street markets. Visitors can explore the streets and browse through the many shops, cafes, and restaurants in the area. It is also home to some of Lyon’s best bakeries, where visitors can sample traditional French pastries and breads.
Book a tour of La Croix Rousse
6. Place des Terreaux
Place des Terreaux is a beautiful public square located in the heart of Lyon. The square is filled with ornate fountains and sculptures, making it a popular place to relax on a sunny day. Visitors can also take a leisurely stroll around the square to admire the stunning architecture that surrounds it, or enjoy some of Lyon’s famous street performers who often perform in the square.
Book a tour of Place des Terreaux
7. Tour de la Part Dieu
The Tour de la Part Dieu is a stunning skyscraper located in central Lyon. It is one of the tallest buildings in France and offers visitors breathtaking views of the city from its observation deck on the top floor. Visitors can also take an elevator ride to the top for an even more spectacular view of Lyon from above.
Book a tour of the Part Dieu Tower
8. Fourvière Hill
Fourvière Hill is one of Lyon’s most popular attractions due to its stunning views of the city below. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the hillside and admire the breathtaking views or take a cable car ride to the top for an even more spectacular view.
9. Traboules du Vieux Lyon
Traboules du Vieux Lyon are hidden passageways that were used by silk merchants during medieval times. These passageways are now popular tourist attractions and offer visitors an insight into Lyon’s past. Visitors can explore these passageways on foot or take a guided tour for an even more in-depth experience.
Book a tour of Old Town Traboules
10. Rue de la Republique
Rue de la Republique is one of Lyon’s most famous streets and is lined with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants that are perfect for exploring on foot or enjoying some delicious food and drinks. Visitors can also take a guided walking tour to learn more about this vibrant area and its history.
