Map Of Lyon France And Surrounding Area

Explore the Top Attractions

Located in east-central France, Lyon is a city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. Take a stroll through the charming streets of Vieux Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire the Renaissance and Gothic buildings that line the narrow alleyways. Visit the impressive Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière, which offers panoramic views of the city from its hilltop location, and explore the fascinating history of the Roman Amphitheatre of the Three Gauls.

Discover Hidden Gems

For a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience, head to the traboules of Lyon. These hidden passageways were originally used by silk workers to transport their goods and now offer a glimpse into the city’s past. The Parc de la Tête d’Or, a sprawling park with a lake, botanical gardens, and a zoo, is another hidden gem that is worth a visit.

Indulge in the Food Scene

Lyon is often referred to as the gastronomic capital of France, and for good reason. Sample the city’s famous bouchon cuisine, which includes dishes like saucisson chaud and quenelles de brochet. Don’t forget to try some of the local cheeses, like Saint-Marcellin and Bleu de Bresse, and wash it down with a glass of Côtes du Rhône wine.

Save Money with Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling on a budget? Lyon has plenty of options for affordable dining and accommodations. Look for local bakeries and markets for fresh and inexpensive food options, and consider staying in a hostel or renting an apartment through a site like Airbnb to save on lodging costs.

Embark on Outdoor Adventures

Surrounded by mountains and located at the confluence of two rivers, Lyon offers plenty of outdoor activities for adventure-seekers. Go hiking or skiing in the nearby Alps, take a kayaking or rafting trip down the Rhône or Saône rivers, or explore the city on a bike tour.

Explore Historical Landmarks

Lyon has a rich history that is evident in its many historical landmarks. Visit the Gallo-Roman Museum, which houses artifacts from Lyon’s Roman past, or the Musée des Beaux-Arts, which has a collection of paintings and sculptures from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Don’t miss the historic Place des Terreaux, which features a stunning fountain and the impressive Hôtel de Ville.

Enjoy Family-Friendly Activities

Lyon is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities that will keep kids entertained. Visit the Miniature Museum and Cinema, which has a collection of miniature movie sets, or take a ride on the Ferris wheel in Place Bellecour. The Parc de la Tête d’Or and the Lyon Aquarium are also great options for families.

Experience Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures

If you’re looking for something a little different, Lyon has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. Take a hot air balloon ride over the city, go on a wine tasting tour in the nearby Beaujolais region, or attend a traditional silk weaving workshop in the Croix-Rousse neighborhood.

Marvel at Natural Wonders

While Lyon is known for its urban attractions, there are also plenty of natural wonders to explore in the surrounding area. Take a day trip to the Gorges du Verdon, a stunning canyon with turquoise waters, or hike through the Monts d’Ardèche Natural Park, which has breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.

Experience Vibrant Nightlife

When the sun goes down, Lyon comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. Head to the Rue Mercière, which is lined with bars and restaurants, or check out the live music at the Ninkasi Kafé. For a more upscale experience, visit the rooftop bar at the Radisson Blu Hotel, which offers stunning views of the city.

Shop at Local Markets

For a taste of local life, visit one of Lyon’s many markets. The Marché Saint-Antoine, held on Sundays, is a great place to find fresh produce, meats, and cheeses, while the Marché de la Croix-Rousse offers a variety of artisanal goods and crafts. Don’t forget to try some of the famous Lyon sausage, which is sold at many of the markets.

Explore Art and Music Scene

Lyon has a thriving art and music scene, with many galleries and music venues throughout the city. Visit the Musée d’Art Contemporain, which features contemporary art from around the world, or catch a concert at the Halle Tony Garnier, a concert hall that has hosted many famous musicians. Don’t miss the Fête des Lumières, a festival of light that takes place in December and illuminates the city with stunning light displays.

Take Walking Tours

One of the best ways to explore Lyon is on foot. Take a walking tour of Vieux Lyon to learn about the city’s history and architecture, or explore the Croix-Rousse neighborhood, which was once the center of the silk industry. The Lyon City Card offers discounted admission to many of the city’s top attractions and includes free public transportation.

Admire Architectural Marvels

Lyon is home to many impressive architectural marvels, from the Gothic Cathedral of Saint-Jean to the modern Confluence Museum. Don’t miss the Musée des Confluences, a striking museum that explores the intersections of science, art, and culture, or the Basilique Saint-Martin d’Ainay, a beautiful Romanesque church.

Visit Historical Sites

Lyon has a rich history that is evident in its many historical sites. Visit the Maison des Canuts, a museum that explores the history of the silk industry in Lyon, or the Roman Theater of Fourvière, which dates back to 15 BC. The Place des Jacobins, a beautiful square that was once the site of a convent, is another must-see historical site.

Take Biking Routes

Lyon is a bike-friendly city, with many bike paths and routes throughout the city. Rent a bike from one of the many rental shops in Lyon and explore the city on two wheels. The ViaRhôna, a bike path that follows the Rhône River, is another great option for biking enthusiasts.

Relax at Wellness Retreats

After a busy day of sightseeing, relax and unwind at one of Lyon’s many wellness retreats. Visit one of the city’s many spas, like the Spa Lyon Plage, which offers massages and other treatments, or head to the Parc de la Tête d’Or for a yoga class in the park.

Experience Adventure Sports

If you’re an adrenaline junkie, Lyon has plenty of adventure sports to offer. Try your hand at rock climbing at the Lyon Vertical or take a paragliding lesson in the nearby mountains. The Lyon Kayak Club offers kayaking lessons and trips for all levels of experience.

No matter what your interests are, Lyon has something for everyone. With its rich history, stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and beautiful natural surroundings, Lyon is a destination that should not be missed.