Top 11 Best Things To Do in Lyon, an Underrated French Gem

Looking for the best things to do in Lyon for the best vacation ever? You’ve landed on the perfect guide to fill your itinerary with 11 of the city’s best sights and mouthwatering eats. Get ready to explore secret passageways once used by silk merchants and enjoy a meal at one of Lyon’s renowned bouchons. 

Even though Lyon is France’s third largest city, it still feels like a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Unlike its big sister, Paris, Lyon has a more laid-back vibe, with fewer crowds but just as much charm. The best activities and tours in Lyon perfectly capture this chill vibe.

Planning your trip is easy with a wide selection of vacation packages in Lyon. You can also check out Lyon’s top itineraries for inspiration. And, of course, this list is here to guide you through the best things to do in Lyon. Ready to jump in? 

11. Dive Into Classical Art at the Museum of Fine Arts

If you’re a fan of classic art, the Musee des Beaux-Arts is one of the best places to visit in Lyon. Housed in a stunning 17th-century abbey on Place des Terreaux, this museum is the second largest fine arts museum in France, right after the Louvre. 

Step inside, and you’ll find an impressive collection of European paintings, sculptures, and even ancient antiquities. Among the most popular works in the museum’s painting collection are those of Monet and Picasso. 

One of the highlights? The peaceful garden in the museum’s courtyard is scattered with statues and is perfect for a quiet break. The best part—it’s free to visit! So whether you’re here to explore masterpieces or simply unwind, the Musee des Beaux-Arts is a spot you won’t want to miss in Lyon.

After exploring the Musee des Beaux-Arts, why not tour the nearby Lyon attractions with a local guide? Since the museum sits right next to major landmarks like the Bartholdi Fountain, it’s an ideal meeting point to start a private tour.

10. Go on a Picnic in Parc de la Tete d'Or

If you’re looking for a relaxing escape, a private visit to Parc de la Tete d’Or (Park of the Golden Head) is one of the best things to do in Lyon. Parc de la Tete d'Or spans over 247 acres (100 hectares) and offers everything you need for a perfect day outdoors. 

Pack a picnic and find a cozy spot near the beautiful Lac de la Tete d’Or (Lake of the Golden Head), where you can even rent a boat for some summertime fun on the water. Stroll through the Jardin Botanique de Lyon (Lyon’s Botanical Garden), wander through the stunning rose garden, or visit the zoo for a bit of wildlife spotting. 

If you’re traveling with little ones, hop on the Petit Train (Little Train) for a scenic ride or catch a lively Guignol puppet show. If you don’t have time to settle down for a picnic, hop on a Lyon bike tour that cruises through the park! It’s the perfect spot for a refreshing break as you explore Lyon’s landmarks.

9. Delight in a Rhone River Cruise

A Rhone River cruise is one of the best things to do in Lyon if you’re looking to explore beyond the city. Take this 5-day Rhone River cruise as an example. This experience takes you along the Rhone, winding through beautiful landscapes from Lyon to Beaune. You’ll stop at scenic spots like Arles, Viviers, and Avignon. 

Along the way, you’ll pass terraced vineyards, lavender fields, rugged gorges, and charming medieval towns. A cruise is the perfect activity to highlight the magic of the French countryside.

Since cruises are usually multi-day trips, it’s best to save this adventure for the end of your Lyon itinerary, especially if you plan to explore other parts of France without the hassle of coordinating multiple travel arrangements. 

With a bit of strategic planning, a Rhone River cruise is the perfect way to visit multiple highlights in one go while soaking up some of France’s most picturesque sights.

8. Visit Place Bellecour 

If you’re exploring Lyon attractions, Place Bellecour is a must-see. Right in the heart of the Presqu’ile neighborhood, this sprawling pedestrian square marks “kilometer zero” for all regional roads, making it the official center of Lyon. 

It’s an impressive space bordered by the Rhone and Saone rivers, with open areas perfect for a stroll or as a starting point to discover the city’s rich heritage. At the center of the square, you’ll spot the grand statue of Louis XIV, proudly mounted on his horse—a striking tribute to the Sun King that serves as a popular meeting spot. 

Place Bellecour is also home to Lyon’s Tourist Office, where helpful staff can share tips for your Lyon trip. If you’d prefer to explore at your own pace, start a scavenger hunt and self-guided tour in Lyon from here. It’s the ideal place to kick off your city adventure!

7. Treat Your Taste Buds on a Lyon Food Tour

If you’re passionate about food, eating your way around the city is one of the best things to do in Lyon. This city is known as the world’s gastronomy hotspot (as declared by a famous food critic back in 1935!). 

With over 20 Michelin-starred restaurants, Lyon serves up a feast for every palate. Get ready to sample savory classics like quenelles de brochet—delicate fish dumplings in a rich seafood cream sauce. For the sweet-toothed, the praline rose is a must! 

Food tours in Lyon come in all varieties. You can choose a private Lyon food tour and let a local guide take you to the top spots. Another great option is to explore the city’s culinary delights with a tasting tour through Lyon’s old town.

Want a hands-on experience? Join a French pastry-making class or cook a Lyonnais dish like roast beef with eggplant tatin on a rooftop cooking class in Lyon.

Lyon is also the perfect base for wine lovers. Enjoy a Lyon wine-tasting right in the city, or take a day trip to a nearby winery in Rhone Valley. You can also enjoy a wine tour in the Beaujolais region and have an unforgettable experience in this French wine country!

6. Marvel at the Murals of Croix-Rousse 

For art lovers, exploring the city’s impressive murals is one of the best things to do in Lyon. The city is known for its stunning trompe-l’oeil murals—massive works of art covering entire buildings that are so realistic you’ll do a double take.

These murals are scattered throughout Lyon, making them one of the most Instagrammable sights in the city. They are a unique highlight of a tour to Croix-Rousee, Lyon’s famous neighborhood.

A favorite mural is the “Mur des Canuts” (Wall of the Silk Workers) in the Croix-Rousse district, the heart of Lyon’s historic silk industry. This enormous mural pays homage to Lyon’s silk workers and blends seamlessly into the neighborhood. 

Another popular mural is the “Fresque des Lyonnais,” which features famous Lyonnais figures, including Antoine de Saint-Exupery, the author of “The Little Prince.” This art is popular because it looks astonishingly real.

5. Admire the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral

Nestled along the Saone, the majestic Cathedrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste is one of the must-see Lyon attractions. This stunning cathedral is an architectural masterpiece that beautifully blends Roman and Gothic styles. Step inside, and you’ll find the cathedral’s famous 16th-century astronomical clock tucked away in a back corner—don’t miss it!

If you’ve never seen an astronomical clock, you’re in for a treat. This marvel of engineering not only shows the time but also tracks the positions of the sun, moon, and stars, with certain displays activated at specific times of the day. 

In December, you’ll catch Lyon’s celebrated Fete des Lumieres (Festival of Lights). During this time, the cathedral becomes a canvas for dazzling light shows. It’s the best time to visit Lyon if you’re into spectacular night displays. 

4. Wander Through the Traboules

If you’re on the hunt for cool things to do in Lyon, exploring the hidden traboules on a tour is a must! These secret passageways wind from one street to another, sneaking through historic buildings and offering a unique glimpse into Lyon’s past. 

You’ll find them tucked away in Old Lyon and the Croix-Rousse neighborhood. Each passage reveals inner courtyards with beautiful, often unexpected architectural details like spiral staircases and ornate balconies.

Look for markers on certain buildings—these indicate traboules open to the public and ready for your exploration. Originally used by silk workers to transport textiles safely, these passageways also played a key role in WWII as meeting spots for the French Resistance. 

Many tours in Lyon offer the chance to explore these unique passageways, such as an Old Lyon historical guided tour. While wandering the traboules on your own is enjoyable, a guided tour provides deeper insights into Lyon’s history and the stories behind these hidden landmarks.

3. Discover the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourviere

For unbeatable views and breathtaking architecture, the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourviere is one of the absolute best places to visit in Lyon. Perched high on Fourviere Hill, this stunning 19th-century basilica dedicated to the Virgin Mary is a must-see on any list of Lyon attractions. 

Getting there is easy—just hop on the funicular, and you’ll be greeted with a fabulous view of the basilica as soon as you step off. While its fortress-like exterior is impressive, the interior will blow you away with intricate mosaics and stained glass. 

Fun fact: the mosaics contain around 8,000 shades of color! Entry is free, so take your time exploring the basilica, the gardens, and even the crypt (also known as the Chapel of the Virgin). Just check mass times beforehand, as tours pause during services.

2. Dine at a Traditional Lyonnais Bouchon

When it comes to the best things to do in Lyon, dining at a traditional bouchon is a must! Lyon’s bouchons are cozy, no-frills restaurants that serve up hearty, authentic Lyonnais dishes with all the charm you’d expect from the city’s food scene. 

Picture red-and-white checkered tablecloths, rustic decor, and a menu full of local favorites. Try the famous andouillette (a tripe sausage for the adventurous eater) and classic coq au vin (chicken in wine).

Dining in a bouchon isn’t just about the food; it’s a chance to soak up Lyon’s rich culinary history. Many of these bouchons have been around for centuries, keeping Lyon’s food traditions alive. 

For an authentic experience, look out for the “Les Bouchons Lyonnais” label on restaurant windows—it’s a mark of quality, ensuring you’re in for a truly traditional Lyon meal! You can join a food tour that includes a stop at some of Lyon’s best bouchons. After a hearty meal, join a bakeries and pastries tour in Lyon as your next adventure. 

1. Stroll Through Vieux Lyon

A visit to Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon) is one of the best things to do in the city, offering a glimpse into its past and unique charm. This UNESCO-listed neighborhood is a delightful maze of cobblestone streets lined with pastel-colored buildings, traditional bouchons, and boutique shops that capture the essence of Lyon’s historic and cultural heart.

As you wander along main streets like Rue Saint-Jean and Rue du Boeuf, you’ll pass by centuries-old architecture and lively spots where locals and visitors gather. Book a Lyon highlights tour to explore Vieux Lyon and other must-see spots in the city.

Even if you only have one day, this is the one thing you should never skip in Lyon. And if this happens to be the case for your visit, there are plenty of half-day tours in Lyon you can join to see the best of this city.

Where is the best part of Lyon to stay in? 

The best area to stay in Lyon depends on what you’re looking to experience, but the Presqu'ile neighborhood is a popular choice for first-time visitors. This central area is home to a mix of midrange and luxury hotels. It's surrounded by restaurants, shopping spots, and cultural sites. This spot is ideal for those who want to explore the city's highlights on foot. 

For a more historic vibe, Vieux Lyon offers charming cobblestone streets and easy access to Lyon’s UNESCO-listed attractions. If you're after a trendy and artsy atmosphere, the Croix-Rousse district is full of murals, creative spaces, and great cafes. For more details on where to stay, check out this guide on the best places to stay in Lyon.

How to get to Lyon from Paris?

The best way to get from Paris to Lyon is by train. High-speed TGV trains connect the two cities, completing the journey in just about 2 hours. Departing from Paris Gare de Lyon, these trains are fast, comfortable, and a great way to enjoy the scenic French countryside along the way. 

If you prefer to drive, the trip by car takes about 4-5 hours via the A6 motorway. Alternatively, there are also flights from Paris to Lyon. Upon arrival, you can book a private transfer to your destination in Lyon. 

Are there fun things to do in Lyon for families? 

Lyon offers plenty of activities that families will love. A visit to Parc de la Tete d’Or is a must—it’s one of the largest urban parks in France and features a zoo, botanical gardens, and a lake where you can rent paddleboats. Kids will also enjoy riding the Petit Train or watching a Guignol puppet show, a fun Lyon tradition.

Exploring the city’s traboules provides an interactive way to learn about its history, while the Musee Miniature et Cinema is perfect for movie-loving families, showcasing miniature sets and props from famous films. Dining at a traditional bouchon is also one of the fun things to do in Lyon for families.

With so many diverse and engaging activities, Lyon ensures an unforgettable experience for family members of all ages.

What is Lyon famous for? 

Lyon is famous for its world-class gastronomy, historical architecture, and its role as the birthplace of cinema. From traditional bouchon restaurants to the hidden traboules of Vieux Lyon, the city offers plenty to discover. You can explore all of these highlights with the top tours and activities in Lyon.

Is Lyon a good base for exploring France?

Yes, Lyon is a fantastic base for exploring France. Its central location and excellent train connections make it easy to reach cities like Paris and Marseille, or even Geneva in Switzerland. Plus, being close to the Alps, it’s a great starting point for a trip to the mountains.

What is the best month to go Lyon?

The best month to visit Lyon depends on your interests, but May, June, and September are popular for their pleasant weather and lively events. For more detailed information, check out this guide on the best time to visit Lyon