Lyon Holidays and City Breaks

Perched on a hill overlooking the city, this stunning basilica is a symbol of Lyon. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the basilica’s terrace, and the interior's intricate mosaics and stained glass are equally impressive.

This historic district is a maze of narrow, cobbled streets lined with Renaissance buildings. Explore the traboules (hidden passageways) and visit the Musée Gadagne, which houses the Museum of History of Lyon and the Museum of Puppetry.

One of the largest urban parks in France, Parc de la Tête d'Or offers a beautiful escape with its botanical garden, zoo, and serene lake where you can rent paddle boats.

This Gothic cathedral in Vieux Lyon is known for its astronomical clock, which dates back to the 14th century. The cathedral's façade and interior are magnificent examples of medieval architecture.

Often referred to as the "Little Louvre," this museum boasts an extensive collection of art ranging from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary pieces. Highlights include works by Monet, Picasso, and Rodin.

Named after the legendary chef Paul Bocuse, this indoor market is a food lover’s paradise. Sample a variety of local delicacies, including cheeses, charcuterie, pastries, and fresh seafood.

Lyon is surrounded by some of France's best wine regions. Take a day trip to the nearby vineyards of the Rhône Valley to sample exquisite wines, including Côtes du Rhône, Condrieu, and Saint-Joseph.

These traditional Lyonnaise restaurants serve hearty, rustic dishes such as quenelles (creamed fish dumplings), andouillette (pork sausage), and salade lyonnaise (salad with bacon, croutons, and poached egg). Popular bouchons include Daniel et Denise and Café des Fédérations.

Lyon is also known for its sweets. Don’t miss out on the city’s top patisseries and chocolatiers, such as Chocolats Voisin and Bernachon, for delectable treats like macarons, pralines, and chocolate confections.

Enhance your culinary skills by taking a cooking class in Lyon. Learn to prepare classic French dishes and local specialties under the guidance of expert chefs.

Located in the birthplace of cinema, this museum celebrates the work of the Lumière brothers, who invented the cinematograph. The museum offers fascinating exhibits on the history of film and regular screenings of classic movies.

This modern district at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers is known for its innovative architecture and cultural venues. Highlights include the futuristic Musée des Confluences, which focuses on natural history and anthropology, and the trendy shopping and dining options at the Confluence Mall.

One of the oldest and most beautiful theaters in France, Théâtre des Célestins hosts a variety of performances, from classical plays to contemporary productions. The theater's ornate interior is worth a visit in itself.

Lyon is home to an impressive array of street art and murals. Take a guided tour or explore on your own to discover colorful and thought-provoking works in neighborhoods like Croix-Rousse and the Presqu'île.

This museum, located near the Roman theater and odeon on Fourvière Hill, showcases Lyon's ancient history with artifacts from the Roman era, including mosaics, sculptures, and everyday objects.

Lyon boasts an efficient public transport system, including buses, trams, and the metro. The TCL network covers the entire city and is a convenient way to get around. Consider purchasing a Lyon City Card for unlimited travel and access to numerous attractions.

Lyon is a bike-friendly city with an extensive network of cycling paths. The Velo’v bike-sharing program offers a convenient and affordable way to explore the city on two wheels.

Many of Lyon's attractions are within walking distance, especially in the central districts of Presqu'île and Vieux Lyon. Walking tours are a great way to discover hidden gems and learn about the city’s history and architecture.

Explore Lyon from a different perspective by taking a river cruise along the Rhône and Saône. Cruises range from short sightseeing trips to dinner cruises that offer stunning views of the city at night.

If you plan to explore the surrounding regions, renting a car can be a good option. However, be aware that parking in the city centre can be challenging and expensive.