Tourist guide: Lyon
History and presentation of the town
Lyon, a city with Roman origins as Lugdunum, has stood the test of time as a major political, economic and cultural center. Capital of the Three Gauls, it prospered thanks to its commercial exchanges, notably in the silk industry from the Middle Ages onwards. Lyon's history is marked by tumultuous periods, notably during the Renaissance and the French Revolution, testifying to its central role in French history. Today, Lyon shines as a modern metropolis while preserving its rich historical heritage.
Nestled between the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon presents a contrast between its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its constantly evolving modern districts. Medieval traboules, historic monuments and Roman remains bear witness to its prestigious past, while its museums, festivals and dynamic gastronomic scene reflect its cultural vitality. Lyon is a city where ancient traditions meet contemporary dynamism, offering visitors a unique experience of history, art, gastronomy and vibrant city life.
Landmarks
- Notre Dame de Fourvière: Located on the Fourvière hill, the basilica offers a panoramic view of the city (69005).
- Old Lyon: This medieval district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its narrow cobbled streets, traboules (secret passageways) and well-preserved historic buildings. It's also brimming with artisanal stores and traditional bouchons. (69005)
- Place des Terreaux: Nestled in the heart of Lyon, this historic square is dominated by the imposing Bartholdi fountain and surrounded by superb buildings that bear witness to the city's history. (69001)
- Hôtel de Ville: A masterpiece of neo-classical architecture, Lyon's Hôtel de Ville has been a symbol of local governance for centuries, with its majestic façade and richly decorated rooms. (69001)
- Fresco of the Lyonnais: This monumental mural pays tribute to Lyon's emblematic figures through the ages, capturing the essence and history of the city at a glance. (69001)
- Place Bellecour: one of Europe's largest squares in the heart of the city, surrounded by stores, cafés and restaurants. It is also home to the famous equestrian statue of Louis XIV. (69002)
- Place des Cordeliers: This lively square is framed by historic buildings, a fountain and numerous stores. (69002)
- Hôtel-Dieu: This historic monument, once a hospital, is now a major cultural and tourist attraction, with its picturesque courtyards, gardens and boutiques. (69002)
- Place des Jacobins and Célestins: These two adjacent squares are home to the Jacobins fountain with its magnificent architecture, the Célestins theater, cafés/restaurants and boutiques. (69002)
- Halles Paul Bocuse: A must for food lovers, Halles Paul Bocuse is a covered market offering an incredible variety of fresh produce and local specialties. (69003)
- Murs des Canuts: Adorned with frescoes depicting the lives of silk workers, the Murs des Canuts are a living testimony to Lyon's rich industrial heritage and working-class history. (69004)
- Gallo-Roman theater: Overlooking the Fourvière hill, this ancient theater offers a panoramic view of Lyon and still hosts shows and events, perpetuating the city's theatrical tradition. (69005)
- Saint-Jean Cathedral: In the heart of Vieux Lyon, this Gothic cathedral is an architectural gem. Adorned with sculptures and stained glass windows, its towers offer breathtaking views. (69005)
- Traboules: these secret covered passages are a unique feature of Lyon's architecture, offering visitors the chance to explore hidden alleyways and beautifully preserved inner courtyards. (69001, 69002, 69004). Maps for tours are available from the Lyon Tourist Office.
Museums
- Musée des Confluences: Located at the tip of the Presqu'île, this museum of science and society offers interactive and innovative exhibitions on a variety of themes, from natural history to anthropology. Address: 86 Quai Perrache, 69002 Lyon.
- Musée des Beaux-Arts: housed in a magnificent 17th-century building, this museum houses a vast collection of European works, from Antiquity to contemporary art. Address: 20 Place des Terreaux, 69001 Lyon.
- Museum of Miniatures and Cinema: this original museum features collections of stunning miniatures as well as objects and sets from famous films, offering visitors a unique experience. Address: 60 Rue Saint-Jean, 69005 Lyon.
- Musée d'Art Contemporain de Lyon: this captivating venue presents innovative modern artworks, offering a unique artistic experience. Address: 81 Quai Charles de Gaulle, 69006 Lyon.
Green spaces / Viewpoints
- Parc de la tête d'or: This vast urban park offers hectares of greenery, a lake, a botanical garden, exotic greenhouses and even a free zoo. It's a popular place to relax and stroll. (69006)
- Rhône river banks: The banks of the Rhône offer kilometers of pedestrian and bicycle paths along the river, ideal for relaxing, exercising or simply enjoying the view of the city (69006-69003-69007).
- Garden of Curiosities: this unusual garden offers an enchanted escape with exotic plants, intriguing sculptures and secret nooks, inviting wonder and contemplation. (69005)
- Passerelle des Quatre Vents: This picturesque footbridge offers breathtaking views over the city and the river, elegantly linking the banks of the Rhône and providing a popular place for strolling and contemplation for locals and visitors alike. (69002)
- Jardin du Rosaire at Fourvière: This peaceful garden offers an oasis of calm and beauty on Fourvière hill, with its winding paths, fragrant rosebushes and panoramic views over the city, inviting contemplation and serenity. (69005)
- Place Bellevue in Croix-Rousse: This lively square offers breathtaking views over Lyon, with its inviting benches, café terraces and friendly atmosphere, making it a must-see meeting place for locals and visitors alike. (69004)
Our favorite restaurants
Bouchons Lyonnais
- Chez Paul (11 Rue Major Martin, 69001 Lyon)
- La Mère Léa (11 Rue des Marronniers, 69002 Lyon)
- Bistrot Abel (25 Rue Guynemer, 69002 Lyon)
- Daniel et Denis (36 Rue Tramassac, 69005 Lyon)
- Bouchon Tupin (38 Rue Tupin, 69002 Lyon)
- Café des Fédérations (8-10 Rue du Major Martin, 69001 Lyon)
- Le Musée (4 Rue de la Martinière, 69001 Lyon)
- Le Mercière (54 Rue Mercière, 69002 Lyon)
- Le Poêlon d'Or (29 Rue du Palais de Justice, 69005 Lyon)
- Bouchon Les Lyonnais (19 Rue Neuve, 69005 Lyon)
- Café du Jura - Bouchon Lyonnais (25 Rue Tupin, 69002 Lyon)
- Le Bouchon des Carnivores (24 Rue Royale, 69001 Lyon)
- Aux Trois Maries (11 Rue François Dauphin, 69002 Lyon)
- Le Garet (7 Place du Garet, 69001 Lyon)
Italian
- Casa Nobile (3 Pl. de l'Hôpital, 69002 Lyon)
- Nicolo & Franco Morreale (45 Rue Franklin, 69002 Lyon)
- Carmelo (7 Rue Neuve, 69001 Lyon)
- Napl (21 Rue du Garet, 69001 Lyon)
- Casareccio (90 Rue Duguesclin, 69006 Lyon)
- Gabriella - le clan des mamma (4 Rue de Fleurieu, 69002 Lyon)
- La tratoria des célestins (3 Rue Charles Dullin, 69002 Lyon)
- Fratelli trattoria (2 Av. Tony Garnier, 69007 Lyon)
- Nobile Mare (15 Rue de Brest, 69002 Lyon)
- Dolce by Sicilians (44 Bd des Brotteaux, 69006 Lyon)
Panoramic view
- Le celest (129 Rue Servient 32nd Floor, 69003 Lyon)
- Les terrasses du parc (115 Bd de Stalingrad, 69100 Villeurbanne)
- Christian Tetedoie (4 rue Professeur Pierre MARION, 69005 Lyon)
- Les 3 dômes (20 Quai du Dr Gailleton, 69002 Lyon)
- Gourmet bar Confluence (Pôle de Commerces et Loisirs, 112 Cr Charlemagne, 69002 Lyon)
- Bulle (9 Pl. de Fourvière, 69005 Lyon)
- Mamashelter (13 Rue Domer, 69007 Lyon)
- Maison Nô (11 Rue du Bât d'Argent, 69001 Lyon)
Our favorites
- Bichon (9 Rue Neuve, 69001 Lyon)
- Brasserie Sathonay (5 Pl. Sathonay, 69001 Lyon)
- Café du marché (25 Quai Saint-Antoine, 69002 Lyon)
- Clones (56 Rue Tronchet, 69006 Lyon)
- Gueuleton (29 Rue Molière, 69006 Lyon)
- L'établi (22 Rue des Remparts d'Ainay, 69002 Lyon)
- Bel Ami (34 Rue Sergent Blandan, 69001 Lyon)
- Le bistrot du potager (83 rue de Gerland, 69007 Lyon)
- Bistro Orcia (15 bis Rue d'Austerlitz, 69004 Lyon)
- La mutinerie (123 Rue Bugeaud, 69006 Lyon)
- Culina hortus (38 Rue de l'Arbre Sec, 69001 Lyon)
- BLO (37 Rue de la Charité, 69002 Lyon)
Economic restaurants
- Bouillon Maurice (33 Rue Tupin, 69002 Lyon)
- L'épicerie de Ginette (24 Cr Albert Thomas, 69008 Lyon)
- La Voie Himalaya (200 Rue Garibaldi, 69003 Lyon)
- Banh Mi (30 Rue Juliette Récamier, 69006 Lyon)
- La broche (14 Rue Romarin, 69001 Lyon)
- Durden Café (1 Pl. Antoine Vollon, 69002 Lyon)
- Assaggi (20 Rue de la Charité, 69002 Lyon)
- Bouillon Croix-Rousse (27 Pl. de la Croix-Rousse, 69004 Lyon)
- Chez Micheline (14 Pl. Carnot, 69002 Lyon)
Breweries
- Brasserie Georges (30 Cr de Verdun Perrache, 69002 Lyon)
- Brasserie le Nord - Bocuse (18 Rue Neuve, 69002 Lyon)
- Brasserie le Sud - Bocuse (11 Pl. Antonin Poncet, 69002 Lyon)
- Brasserie l'Est - Bocuse (14 Pl. Jules Ferry, 69006 Lyon)
- Marguerite - Bocuse (57 Av. des Frères Lumière, 69008 Lyon)
- L'Institut Restaurant (20 Pl. Bellecour, 69002 Lyon)
- Le splendid (03 Pl. Jules Ferry, 69006 Lyon)
- Brasserie des Brotteaux (1 Pl. Jules Ferry, 69006 Lyon)
Asian restaurants
- Riviere Kwai (7-9 Rue Chavanne, 69001 Lyon)
- Sabai Sabai (4 Pt Rue des Feuillants, 69001 Lyon)
- Petit grain (19 Rue de la Charité, 69002 Lyon)
- Chez banoi (152B Rue Moncey, 69003 Lyon)
Food court
- La commune (3 Rue Pré-Gaudry, 69007 Lyon)
- Le Heat (70 Quai Perrache, 69002 Lyon)
- Food society (Westfield Part Dieu, 17 Rue Dr Bouchut, 69003 Lyon)
- Food traboule (22 Rue du Bœuf, 69005 Lyon)
- Chikin Bang (12 Rue Neuve, 69002 Lyon)
Atmospheric restaurants
- La Maison (4 Rue Jonas Salk, 69007 Lyon)
- Selcius (43 Quai Rambaud, 69002 Lyon)
- Casa Jaguar (157 Rue Cuvier, 69006 Lyon)
- Six (13 Pl. Jules Ferry, 69006 Lyon)
- Choo Choo (13 Pl. Jules Ferry, 69006 Lyon)
- Le passage (8 Rue du Plâtre, 69001 Lyon)
- Coco (13 Pl. Jules Ferry, 69006 Lyon)
- Kaïa (14 Rue Grolée, 69002 Lyon)
Coffee
- Café Bellecour (33 Pl. Bellecour, 69002 Lyon)
- Slake (9 Rue de l'Ancienne Préfecture, 69002 Lyon)
- Café Joyeux (13 Rue Ferrandière, 69002 Lyon)
- Café court (14 Rue de la Monnaie, 69002 Lyon)
Cocktail bar
- L'antiquaire (20 Rue Hippolyte Flandrin, 69001 Lyon)
- Le dôme (20 Quai Jules Courmont, 69002 Lyon)
- L'Artchimist (22 Rue Professeur Weill, 69006 Lyon)
- Le passage (8 Rue du Plâtre, 69001 Lyon)
- The Monkey club (19 Pl. Tolozan, 69001 Lyon)
- The dispensary (3 Cour Saint Henri Grand Hôtel-Dieu, 69002 Lyon)
- Groom (6 Rue Roger Violi, 69001 Lyon)
Nightclub
- La Maison (4 Rue Jonas Salk, 69007 Lyon)
- Six (13 Pl. Jules Ferry, 69006 Lyon)
- Le Sucre (50 Quai Rambaud, 69002 Lyon)
- FnK (13 Pl. Jules Ferry, 69006 Lyon)
- Le Petit Salon (3 rue Cronstadt, Rue Paul Duvivier, 69007 Lyon)
- La plateforme (4 Quai Victor Augagneur, 69003 Lyon)
- L'ambassade (4 Rue Jacques Stella, 69002 Lyon)
- Docks40 (40 Quai Rambaud, 69002 Lyon)
Shopping
Shopping districts
- Avenue de la République / Rue President Edouart Herriot, rue de Brest: Located in the heart of the Presqu'île, this pedestrian street is one of Lyon's main shopping thoroughfares. It's home to a wide range of fashion boutiques and major brand names, as well as cafés and restaurants. Address: Rue de la République, 69002 Lyon.
- Westfield La Part Dieu: one of France's largest shopping centers, located in the Part Dieu district. It houses hundreds of stores, restaurants, a multiplex cinema and a children's playground. Address: 17 Rue du Docteur Bouchut, 69003 Lyon.
- Confluence shopping center: Located at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, this modern shopping center offers a selection of stores, restaurants and leisure facilities, in an innovative architectural setting. Address: 112 Cours Charlemagne, 69002 Lyon.
Typical souvenir stores
- Old Lyon streets: the cobbled streets of Old Lyon are full of small artisanal stores selling typical local souvenirs, such as silk objects, local gastronomic products, pottery and decorative items. Rue Saint-Jean, Rue du Boeuf and Rue du Doyenné are particularly rich in such stores.
- Les Halles Paul Bocuse: although primarily known for its food products, this covered market also features stores selling local produce, such as local wines, artisan cheeses and charcuterie. Address: 102 Cours Lafayette, 69003 Lyon.
Lyon markets
Lyon, the city of French gastronomy, is home to a plethora of food markets where local flavors and fresh produce meet in a lively, friendly atmosphere.
The Marché de la Croix-Rousse, located on the Croix-Rousse plateau, is a must for fresh produce lovers. Open every day except Monday, this market offers a wide range of fruit, vegetables, cheeses and charcuterie, as well as organic produce stands.
The Marché Saint-Antoine, located on the quays of the Saône, is a popular spot in Lyon for its warm atmosphere and varied selection of regional produce. Open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sunday mornings, this market offers fresh produce, flowers, spices and even clothing.
Finally, Marché de la Villette, in the 3rd arrondissement, is renowned for its organic produce and local producer stalls. Open on Wednesday and Sunday mornings, this market offers a fine selection of seasonal fruit and vegetables, as well as artisanal products.
Practical info
We suggest you opt for the Lyon City Card (also known as the Lyon City Pass) to explore Lyon in just a few days. Many major French cities, such as Strasbourg and Marseille, now offer this type of card.
The concept is simple: save money and time by visiting all the must-see sites in Lyon during your 1 to 4-day stay.
The Lyon City Card includes
- Unlimited access to public transport: bus, metro, streetcar and funicular.
- Free admission to all the city's museums (23 in all), including the Musée Gadagne, Musée des Confluences and Musée des Beaux-Arts.
- A cruise on the Rhône.
- A visit to the roofs of Fourvière Basilica.
- A guided walking tour of Old Lyon (advance booking required).
- A show at the Théâtre de Guignol.
- Access to the Mini World Lyon miniature park.
- Discounts or shopping advantages at Galeries Lafayette, Printemps or Pôle de Loisirs Confluence.
The card is valid for 1 to 4 consecutive days. We recommend reserving it online in advance and collecting it at the Lyon Tourist Office, located at Place Bellecour or at the airport.
Parking
Lyon has two paid parking zones: PRESTO and TEMPO. The PRESTO zone covers the busiest areas, in the heart of the city's commercial districts. The TEMPO zone covers other parts of the regulated zone, where there is less demand for vehicle rotation.
In the PRESTO zone, drivers can park for up to an hour at a rate of 1 euro per half-hour or 2 euros per hour. Parking is free from 7pm to 9am, as well as on Sundays and public holidays.
In the TEMPO zone, parking is available for up to three hours, at a rate of 50 centimes per half-hour or 4 euros for three full hours. As in the PRESTO zone, parking is free from 7 p.m. to 9 a.m., as well as on Sundays, public holidays and during the month of August.
Parking map below.
If you don't want to park on the street, there are plenty of underground parking lots throughout the city.
Bicycle use in Lyon
Lyon is a very bicycle-friendly city, offering an extensive network of cycle paths and self-service bike rental services. Vélo'v, a self-service bicycle system, is widespread in Lyon, enabling residents and visitors to get around the city with ease. To use Vélo'v, simply subscribe online or via the mobile app, then collect a bike from one of the many stations located throughout the city. Well-maintained cycle paths and numerous dedicated bike lanes make Lyon a pleasant and safe city for cyclists of all levels. Whether you're commuting to work, exploring the city or simply enjoying a stroll along the quays, cycling is a practical and environmentally-friendly way to get around Lyon.
Luggage in Lyon
Lyon offers several luggage storage options for travelers wishing to safely deposit their luggage during their stay in the city. Lyon's main train stations, such as Gare de Lyon Part-Dieu and Gare de Lyon Perrache, offer luggage locker services where travelers can deposit their suitcases and bags for a few hours or several days. Outside the stations, several luggage storage companies also offer their services across the city, providing convenient options for those wishing to explore Lyon unencumbered by their luggage. Luggage repositories offer a safe and convenient way to make the most of your stay in Lyon, without worrying about your belongings.
Useful addresses
- Office de tourisme (ONLYLyon pavilion): Place Bellecour, 69002 Lyon. Bellecour metro station. Contact: 04 72 77 69 69. Open daily from 9am to 6pm. Closed January 1 and December 25.
- Pharmacy on call: Grande Pharmacie Lyonnaise. 22 Rue de la République, 69002 Lyon. Contact: 04 72 56 44 00
- Gare de Lyon Part-Dieu: 5 place Charles Béraudier, 69003 Lyon. Further information: garesetconnexions.sncf
- Gare de Lyon Perrache: 14 Cr de Verdun Gensoul, 69002 Lyon. Further information: garesetconnexions.sncf
