Planning Your Trip to Lyon
General Information
France
GMT +1
French
Euro (€)
Lyon Weather and Climate
Get an idea of what to expect weather-wise during your trip.
- January: Cool, average temperature around 3°C (37°F), possible snowfall.
- April: Mild, pleasant temperatures around 12°C (54°F), blooming flowers.
- July: Warm, average temperature around 22°C (72°F), sunny days.
- October: Cool, average temperature around 13°C (55°F), colorful foliage.
Lyon City Overview
Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France, seamlessly blends history and modernity. Nestled where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet, this UNESCO World Heritage city boasts Roman ruins, Renaissance architecture in Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon), and the contemporary Confluence district. Lyon’s vibrant culinary scene, known for its traditional bouchons (restaurants), attracts food lovers from around the globe. Beyond its food culture, Lyon offers world-class museums, a thriving arts scene, and picturesque parks, making it a captivating destination. The city’s silk-weaving heritage is another defining aspect, still evident in the Croix-Rousse district. With its diverse neighborhoods, Lyon promises a rich and unforgettable travel experience, balancing its historical roots with a forward-looking spirit. Its manageable size and excellent public transport system make it easy to navigate and explore all that this captivating city has to offer.
Best Time to Visit Lyon
Deciding when to visit Lyon? Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons for Spring and Autumn:
- Spring (April-May): Pros: Mild weather, fewer crowds than summer, blooming gardens. Cons: Occasional rain showers.
- Autumn (September-October): Pros: Pleasant temperatures, beautiful fall foliage, harvest festivals. Cons: Potential for cooler evenings.
How to Get to Lyon & Visa Requirements
Planning your journey to Lyon? Here’s what you need to know:
- Flights: Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS) is the main international airport.
- Trains: Lyon Part-Dieu and Lyon Perrache are major train stations with connections to other European cities.
- Visa Details: Check visa requirements based on your nationality. Schengen visa rules apply for most countries. Schengen Visa Information
- Airport Transfers: Rhônexpress tram provides direct access between the airport and Lyon Part-Dieu train station. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.
Discover Lyon’s Rich History and Culture
Fun/Historical Fact About Lyon
Lyon is known as the “Silk Capital” of France. In the 19th century, Lyon became a major center for silk production, employing thousands of workers, particularly in the Croix-Rousse district. The Jacquard loom, which revolutionized silk weaving, was invented in Lyon, solidifying its place in textile history.
Famous Personalities from Lyon
Meet some of Lyon’s notable figures:
- Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (author of The Little Prince)
- Tony Garnier (renowned architect and urban planner)
- Auguste and Louis Lumière (pioneers of cinema)
Lyon’s Top Attractions and Hidden Gems
Top 10 Attractions in Lyon
Don’t miss these iconic Lyon landmarks:
- Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon): A UNESCO World Heritage Site with Renaissance architecture, cobblestone streets, and historical monuments.
- Address: Vieux Lyon, 69005 Lyon, France
- Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière: A stunning basilica perched atop Fourvière hill, offering panoramic views of the city.
- Address: Place de Fourvière, 69005 Lyon, France
- Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon (Museum of Fine Arts): One of France’s largest fine arts museums, housing a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and antiquities.
- Address: 20 Place des Terreaux, 69001 Lyon, France
- Parc de la Tête d’Or: A sprawling urban park with a lake, zoo, botanical garden, and rose garden.
- Address: Place Général Leclerc, 69006 Lyon, France
- Institut Lumière: A museum dedicated to the Lumière brothers, pioneers of cinema, located in their former home.
- Address: 25 Rue du Premier Film, 69008 Lyon, France
- Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste (Lyon Cathedral): A magnificent Gothic cathedral with an astronomical clock.
- Address: Place Saint-Jean, 69005 Lyon, France
- Traboules: Secret passageways connecting buildings in Vieux Lyon and Croix-Rousse, offering a glimpse into the city’s history.
- Address: Throughout Vieux Lyon and Croix-Rousse districts
- Croix-Rousse: The historic silk-weaving district, known for its unique architecture, artists’ workshops, and the Mur des Canuts fresco.
- Address: Croix-Rousse, 69004 Lyon, France
- Confluence Museum: A science museum housed in a striking modern building at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers.
- Address: 86 Quai Perrache, 69002 Lyon, France
- Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse: A renowned indoor food market with a wide array of local delicacies, cheeses, meats, and pastries.
- Address: 102 Cours Lafayette, 69003 Lyon, France
Hidden Gems in Lyon
Venture off the beaten path and discover these lesser-known treasures:
- The Roman Theatres of Fourvière: Discover the ancient history of Lyon with these well-preserved Roman theatres, often hosting events and performances.
- Address: Rue de l’Antiquaille, 69005 Lyon, France
- Mini World Lyon: An enchanting miniature park that brings famous landscapes and cities to life in intricate detail.
- Address: Pôle du Carré de Soie, 3 Avenue de Bohlen, 69120 Vaulx-en-Velin, France
- Jardin Rosa Mir: A unique and artistic garden adorned with shells, stones, and colorful mosaics, created by a Spanish tile setter.
- Address: 87 Grande Rue de la Croix-Rousse, 69004 Lyon, France
Local Festivals & Events in Lyon
Experience Lyon’s vibrant culture with these annual events:
- Fête des Lumières (Festival of Lights): A spectacular light festival held every December, illuminating the city with stunning light installations.
- Nuits Sonores: An electronic music festival in May, featuring DJs and artists from around the world.
- Les Nuits de Fourvière: A summer festival of performing arts, held in the ancient Roman theatres, featuring music, theatre, and dance.
Day Trips & Nearby Attractions from Lyon
Explore beyond Lyon with these exciting day trip options:
- Pérouges: A medieval hilltop village with cobbled streets and well-preserved architecture (approx. 45 minutes).
- Annecy: A picturesque town on a beautiful lake, known as the “Venice of the Alps” (approx. 2 hours).
- Beaujolais Wine Region: Explore the vineyards and wineries of the Beaujolais region, known for its light and fruity wines (approx. 1 hour).
Photography Spots & Insta-Worthy Places in Lyon
Capture stunning memories at these picturesque locations:
- Fourvière Hill: Panoramic views of the city from the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière.
- Vieux Lyon: Cobblestone streets, Renaissance architecture, and colorful buildings.
- Mur des Canuts: A giant trompe-l’oeil mural depicting scenes from the silk-weaving district.
- Parc de la Tête d’Or: The rose garden and lake offer beautiful backdrops.
- Pont Bonaparte: This bridge offers stunning perspectives of Vieux Lyon and the Saône River.
Planning Your Stay in Lyon
Recommended Length of Stay in Lyon
To fully experience Lyon, plan to stay:
3-4 days
Top Places to Stay in Lyon (sorted by budget)
Find the perfect accommodation for your budget:
- Budget
- Mid-range
- Luxury
Getting Around Lyon
Explore the city with ease using these transportation options:
- Public Transport: TCL (Transports en Commun Lyonnais) operates an extensive network of buses, trams, and metro lines.
- Taxis: Taxis are readily available throughout the city.
- Bikes: Vélo’v is a bike-sharing program with numerous stations.
- Walking Tips: Many areas, especially Vieux Lyon, are best explored on foot.
Essential Tips for Your Lyon Adventure
What to Pack for Lyon
Pack smart with these essential items:
- Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Layers for variable temperatures.
- Comfortable Shoes: For walking on cobblestone streets.
- Rain Gear: Especially during spring and autumn.
- Adaptor: For European electrical outlets.
Useful Apps for Lyon
Make your trip easier with these handy apps:
- Citymapper: For navigation and public transport information.
- Google Translate: For language assistance.
- La Fourchette (TheFork): For restaurant reservations and reviews.
Local, Safety Tips & Cultural Etiquette in Lyon
Be a respectful and informed traveler:
- Do: Greet shopkeepers with “Bonjour” and “Au revoir”.
- Don’t: Be overly loud or disruptive in public places.
- Scams to Avoid: Be wary of street performers and pickpockets, especially in crowded areas.
- Respectful Behavior: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Lyon’s Culinary Delights and Nightlife
Top Restaurants in Lyon
Indulge in Lyon’s famous cuisine at these top-rated restaurants:
- Bouchon Lyonnais: Traditional Lyonnaise cuisine in a cozy setting.
- Description: Authentic Lyonnaise cuisine in a traditional bouchon setting.
- Address: Various locations in Vieux Lyon.
- Paul Bocuse: Renowned Michelin-starred restaurant for an unforgettable dining experience.
- Description: Exquisite French cuisine in an elegant setting.
- Address: 9 Quai du Commerce, 69009 Lyon, France
- Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse: A gourmet food market with various vendors offering local delicacies.
- Description: Indoor food market with a wide variety of local produce, cheese and patisseries.
- Address: 102 Cours Lafayette, 69003 Lyon, France
Must-Try Dishes in Lyon
Savor the flavors of Lyon with these local specialties:
- Quenelle: A fish dumpling served in a creamy sauce.
- Salade Lyonnaise: A salad with frisée lettuce, bacon, croutons, and a poached egg.
- Praline Tart: A sweet tart filled with pink pralines.
- Saucisson Brioché: Sausage baked in a brioche bread.
Nightlife & Entertainment in Lyon
Experience Lyon after dark at these popular spots:
- Le Sucre: A rooftop club with panoramic views of the city.
- Description: Trendy rooftop bar with electronic music.
- Address: 50 Quai Rambaud, 69002 Lyon, France
- Groom: A popular bar with live music and a lively atmosphere.
- Description: Cozy bar with a live music stage.
- Address: 7 Rue Roger Violi, 69001 Lyon, France
- Opéra National de Lyon: Enjoy a performance at the stunning opera house.
- Description: Opera house showcasing a variety of performances.
- Address: 1 Place de la Comédie, 69001 Lyon, France
What to Buy in Lyon (Souvenirs & Markets)
Take home a piece of Lyon with these unique souvenirs:
- Silk Products: Scarves, ties, and other silk items from local shops.
- Description: Silk shops throughout Lyon offer a wide variety of items.
- Address: Croix-Rousse area.
- Pralines: Pink pralines, a Lyonnaise specialty.
- Description: Sweet pralines, a local speciality.
- Address: Available in most patisseries and candy shops.
- Local Wines: Bottles of Beaujolais or Côtes du Rhône wine.
- Description: Wine shops offering Beaujolais or Cotes du Rhone.
- Address: Many wine shops throughout the city.
