Lyon, the gastronomical capital of France, is a city bursting with charm, culture, and history. The city offers an array of attractions and things to do, making it a perfect destination for any kind of traveler. From its streets filled with Renaissance architecture to the lush parks that line its rivers, Lyon has something to offer for everyone. In this post, we will explore the top attractions and things to do in Lyon, providing you with an itinerary that lets you make the most of your visit to this enchanting city. Whether you’re a passionate foodie, history buff, or simply looking for a relaxing vacation, our guide covers all the must-see sites and activities that make Lyon such a special place to visit.

The 2 Best Family Activities in Lyon

1. Lyon Highlights and Secrets Tour
2. Private 4 Hour City Tour of Lyon With Driver Guide and Hotel Pick Up

The 2 Best Family Activities in Lyon

1. Lyon Highlights and Secrets Tour

Discover Lyon’s history, landmarks and gourmet traditions in this small-group walking tour – the Lyon Highlights and Secrets Tour. Meet your guide in the afternoon at the Bartholdi Fountain, located in the Place des Terreaux, and begin your journey to explore Vieux Lyon (its Old Town). You’ll learn about the city’s history from your guide’s commentary and stroll through Vieux Lyon, Fourvière Hill, and other local landmarks. The tour includes a funicular ride and takes several hours to complete, ensuring that you’ll see the best of Lyon in just one visit. The tour is offered to a maximum of 10 attendees, ensuring a personalized experience. The end point of the tour is at Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon).

2. Private 4 Hour City Tour of Lyon With Driver Guide and Hotel Pick Up

Discover the vibrant city of Lyon with a private four-hour tour, including a luxury vehicle and a licensed guide. Your driver will pick you up from your hotel, apartment or selected location in Lyon, and take you on a journey to explore the city’s most renowned attractions.

The tour will take you to the Opera National de Lyon and the Institut & Musee Lumiere, where you will spend a total of 35 minutes admiring the architecture of these stunning buildings. You will also visit other famous landmarks, which will be disclosed by your experienced guide.

During the tour, you will have the opportunity to take in the sights and sounds of this bustling city, experiencing its rich cultural heritage and traditions. Your guide will provide valuable insights into the city’s history – a perfect opportunity to learn more about the fascinating past of Lyon.

Please note that the admission tickets for the Opera National de Lyon and the Institut & Musee Lumiere are not included in the tour price. However, all entrance fees and food and drink expenses incurred for the driver and guide are fully covered.

The tour is suitable for most travelers but is unfortunately not wheelchair accessible. If you require an infant seat, please request it at the time of booking. The tour is fully refundable if canceled 24 hours in advance of the experience’s start time.

Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to explore the hidden gems of Lyon with a personalized tour that showcases the city’s most breathtaking landmarks.

Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions About Lyon

If you’re planning a trip to Lyon, France, you may have a lot of questions about this historic city. In this blog post, we will address the top 10 frequently asked questions by tourists about Lyon, ranging from transportation to popular attractions to local customs.

1. What is the best way to get around Lyon?

Lyon has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, trams, and metro trains. The most convenient option is to purchase the Lyon City Card, which provides unlimited use of public transportation as well as discounts on attractions and museums.

2. What are the must-see attractions in Lyon?

Lyon is home to many world-renowned sites, including the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, the Old Town of Vieux Lyon, and the Place des Terreaux. The Musée des Confluences, a science and anthropology museum, is also a popular attraction.

3. What food is Lyon famous for?

Lyon is known for its rich culinary heritage, including sausages, cheeses, and pastries. The city is also famous for its bouchons, which are small restaurants that serve traditional Lyonnaise cuisine. Don’t forget to try the locally produced Beaujolais wine as well.

4. What is the weather like in Lyon?

Lyon has a moderate climate, with mild temperatures in the spring and fall and warmer summers. Winters can be cold and rainy, so be sure to pack accordingly. The best time to visit Lyon is during the summer months, from June to September.

5. What is the currency used in Lyon?

Lyon is part of the Eurozone, so the euro is the official currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash as well.

6. What language do people speak in Lyon?

The official language in Lyon is French, but English is also widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. It’s always a good idea to learn a few basic phrases in French to help you navigate the city and communicate with locals.

7. What is the nightlife like in Lyon?

Lyon has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues. The Presqu’ile district is a popular destination for nightlife, with many bars and clubs in close proximity.

8. What are some local customs in Lyon?

Like much of France, Lyon has a culture of wine and food, so it’s common for locals to enjoy leisurely meals with friends and family. It’s also customary to greet people with a kiss on each cheek when meeting for the first time.

9. What are the best day trips from Lyon?

Lyon is surrounded by beautiful countryside, and there are many great day trips to explore the surrounding region. Some popular destinations include the Beaujolais wine region, the medieval town of Pérouges, and the picturesque village of Annecy.

10. Is Lyon a safe city to visit?

Lyon is generally considered to be a safe city, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions when traveling. Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. It’s also a good idea to stick to well-lit areas at night.In conclusion, Lyon is a city steeped in history with plenty to offer visitors. From its world-renowned attractions to its vibrant nightlife to its rich culinary heritage, Lyon truly has something for everyone. With a little planning and preparation, you’re sure to have a fantastic time exploring this amazing city.

Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Lyon with These Tips

When people think about France, Paris is usually the first city that comes to mind. However, there are many other beautiful French cities worth visiting, one of which is Lyon. Lyon is located in the south-eastern part of France, and it’s an important cultural center with a rich history. In this post, we’ll give you some tips on how to spend your time as a tourist in Lyon.

1. Start with a Free Walking Tour

One of the best ways to explore Lyon is by taking a free walking tour. Free walking tours are a great choice if you want to see the city’s major attractions as well as hidden gems. Lyon Free Tour offers daily walking tours in English, and it covers some of Lyon’s most important sights such as Place Bellecour, the Old City, and Fourvière Hill. The tour lasts around 2 hours, and it’s a great way to start your trip and get oriented in the city.

2. Visit the Old City (Vieux Lyon)

No trip to Lyon is complete without visiting the Old City, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Old City is full of charming narrow streets, beautiful Renaissance buildings, and hidden courtyards. Take a stroll through the main pedestrian street Rue Saint-Jean, which is lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops. Don’t miss the famous traboules, which are secret passageways that were used by silk workers to transport their goods.

3. Try the Local Cuisine

Lyon is known for its delicious cuisine, which is based on local ingredients such as pork, sausages, and cheese. Some of the local specialties that you should try include:- Rosette de Lyon: a dry-cured sausage made with pork- Quenelles: large dumplings made with fish or meat- Cervelle de canut: a creamy cheese spread made with fromage blanc- Tarte praline: a sweet tart made with pink praline almondsTo try these dishes, head to a traditional bouchon, which is a kind of Lyonnais restaurant that serves hearty food in a cozy atmosphere. Some of the best bouchons in Lyon are Chez Hugon and Le Bistrot de Saint-Jean.

4. Visit Fourvière Hill

Fourvière Hill is one of the most beautiful places in Lyon, and it offers stunning views over the city. You can reach the top of the hill by climbing the stairs, taking the funicular or driving. There are several attractions on top of the hill, including:- Notre-Dame de Fourvière: a beautiful basilica with a golden statue of the Virgin Mary on top – Ancient Roman Theater: a well-preserved Roman theater that dates back to the 2nd century AD- Gallo-Roman Museum: a museum that displays artifacts from Lyon’s Roman past

5. Take a Boat Tour of the Rhône and Saône Rivers

Lyon is located at the confluence of two major rivers, the Rhône and the Saône. One of the best ways to see the city from a different perspective is by taking a boat tour. There are several companies that offer boat tours of different lengths and themes. Some of the sights that you will see on a boat tour include the Old City, Fourvière Hill, and the modern district of La Confluence.

6. Visit Lyon’s Museums

Lyon is home to several excellent museums that are worth visiting. Some of the most popular ones include:- Musée des Beaux-Arts: a museum that houses a large collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from different periods- Musée des Confluences: a modern science and anthropology museum that explores the origins of life and the universe- Musée Gadagne: a museum that showcases Lyon’s history and culture through exhibitions and interactive displays

7. Take a Day Trip to the Beaujolais Wine Region

Lyon is located in the heart of the Beaujolais wine region, which is famous for its red wines made from the Gamay grape. If you’re a wine lover, you should consider taking a day trip to the Beaujolais region to visit some of the vineyards and taste the local wines. Some of the most scenic villages in the region include Fleurie, Morgon, and Saint-Amour.

Conclusion

Lyon is a beautiful city with a lot to offer to tourists. By following these tips, you can make the most out of your trip to Lyon and experience its unique culture, history, and cuisine. Don’t forget to try the local specialties, visit the Old City, and take a boat tour of the rivers. Take a day trip to the Beaujolais wine region to taste some of the best wines in France. Enjoy your trip to Lyon!