The best things to do in Lyon
Lyon, the third-largest city in France, is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, delicious cuisine, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or just looking for a fun and exciting vacation, Lyon has something to offer for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in this charming French city.
Visit the Old Town
The Old Town of Lyon, also known as the “Vieux Lyon,” is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most charming neighborhoods in the city. The area is filled with narrow streets, beautiful Renaissance-era buildings, and charming boutiques and cafes. Visitors can take a stroll along the cobblestone streets, admire the architecture, and stop by one of the many museums or art galleries in the area.
Explore the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière
The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is a stunning 19th-century church that sits atop a hill overlooking the city. The church is known for its ornate decoration and beautiful views of Lyon. Visitors can take a tour of the church, learn about its history, and enjoy the panoramic views from the terrace.
Take a Food Tour
Lyon is known as the gastronomic capital of France, and for good reason. The city is home to a wide variety of delicious traditional French dishes, as well as a thriving culinary scene. Visitors can take a food tour to sample some of the best local cuisine, including traditional Lyonnaise dishes like “quenelles” and “poulet à la crème” as well as the famous “bouchons” which are small traditional restaurants that serves local dishes.
Visit the Lyon Museum of Fine Arts
The Lyon Museum of Fine Arts is one of the most important art museums in France. The museum is home to a wide variety of artworks from different periods and styles, including works by famous artists like Monet, Cézanne, and Van Gogh. Visitors can spend hours wandering through the galleries and admiring the art.
Take a Boat Ride on the Rhône River
The Rhône River runs through Lyon, and taking a boat ride on the river is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. Visitors can take a leisurely boat ride and admire the beautiful architecture of Lyon, or they can take a more adventurous trip and explore the countryside along the river.
Visit the Lumière Institute
The Lumière Institute is a museum dedicated to the history of cinema. The museum is housed in the family home of the Lumière brothers, who were pioneers of the motion picture industry. Visitors can learn about the history of cinema, see early film equipment and artifacts, and even watch some of the Lumière brothers’ first films.
Take a Day Trip to Beaujolais Wine Region
Beaujolais is a wine region located just outside of Lyon, known for its delicious red wines. Visitors can take a day trip to the region and visit one of the many wineries for a wine tasting. The tour allows visitors to explore the vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and sample some of the local wines.
Lyon is a city with a lot to offer visitors. From its rich history and beautiful architecture to its delicious cuisine and vibrant culture, there is somethingfor everyone to enjoy in Lyon. Whether you’re interested in exploring the old town, visiting museums, or trying some of the best food in France, Lyon has something to offer. It’s also a great city for those looking for a more relaxed, laid-back vacation, with plenty of parks, gardens, and green spaces to explore.
Visit the Parc de la Tête d’Or
The Parc de la Tête d’Or is a large urban park located in the heart of Lyon. The park is a great place to relax and enjoy nature, with plenty of walking and biking trails, a lake with a small beach, and a playground for children. Visitors can also rent boats, take a train ride around the park, or visit the botanical gardens.
Explore the Roman Theater
Lyon was founded by the Romans, and the city is home to several Roman ruins, including the Roman Theater. The theater is one of the best-preserved Roman ruins in France and is a great place to learn about the history of the city. Visitors can take a guided tour of the theater and learn about the history of the Roman Empire in Lyon.
Shop at the Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse
Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse is a large indoor market located in the city center. The market is known for its wide variety of fresh, local produce, as well as its delicious prepared foods. Visitors can wander through the market, sample some of the local cuisine, and purchase some of the freshest ingredients for a delicious meal.
Enjoy the Nightlife
Lyon is a city that never sleeps, and visitors can enjoy a vibrant nightlife scene. From trendy bars and clubs to traditional French jazz clubs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Visitors can also enjoy some of the best live music in France, as well as a thriving comedy and theater scene.
Visit the Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport
Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport is a modern airport located just outside of the city. Visitors can take a tour of the airport, learn about its history, and see behind the scenes of the airport’s operations. The airport also has a museum dedicated to the famous French aviator, Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, which tells the story of his life and work.
In conclusion, Lyon is a city that offers a wide variety of things to see and do. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or just looking for a relaxing vacation, Lyon has something to offer. Visitors can explore the old town, visit museums, take a food tour, or enjoy the nightlife, among many other activities. With so much to see and do, Lyon is the perfect destination for your next vacation.
