What to Do in Lyon

So you’ve decided Lyon is your next destination? Wohoo! This city is absolutely packed with incredible experiences. I’m telling you, the food scene alone will blow your mind. We’re talking traditional bouchons where locals have been eating for generations and if you’re less of a meaty person there are some of the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants I have been to.

I’ve been exploring Lyon for years now and I still discover new things about this city. The neighborhoods each have their own feel. Vieux Lyon takes you back centuries with its Renaissance buildings, while the Presqu’île feels more modern and bustling. I always tell people to just walk around without a strict plan because you’ll stumble across things you never expected.

These guides cover everything I wish someone had told me when I first explored Lyon. Some attractions are obvious must-sees, but I also include places that locals actually go to.

Palais de Justice de Lyon Information, History & Tips

The Palais de Justice sits along the Saône river and is one of Lyon’s most photographed buildings. Its long row ...
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Place des Terreaux & City Hall

Place des Terreaux is one of Lyon’s most recognizable squares, framed by the City Hall on one side and the ...
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Opéra de Lyon Information, History & Tips

The Opéra de Lyon combines a historic 19th‑century façade with a modern glass dome added in the 1990s. It’s one ...
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Confluences Museum Information, History & Tips

The Confluences museum stands at the southern tip of Lyon’s Presqu’île, where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet. Its modern ...
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Place Bellecour Information, History & Tips

Place Bellecour is one of the largest open squares in Europe and a central meeting point in Lyon. It’s surrounded ...
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Saint-Jean Cathedral Information, History & Tips

Saint‑Jean Cathedral is one of the key landmarks in Vieux Lyon, known for its mix of Gothic and Romanesque architecture. ...
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Grand Hôtel Dieu Information, History & Tips

The Grand Hôtel‑Dieu is one of Lyon’s most recognizable buildings, now transformed into a mix of shops, restaurants, and peaceful ...
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Roman Ruins Theatres of Fourvière Information, History & Tips

The Roman Ruins Theatres of Fourvière give visitors a direct look into Lyon’s ancient past. The site is open, spacious, ...
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Notre‑Dame de Fourvière Basilica Information, History & Tips

The Basilica of Notre‑Dame de Fourvière is one of those places that helps visitors understand Lyon right away. The view ...
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Come SHOPPING with ME: Lyon Thrift Stores & Vintage Shops in France

Here are my favorite Lyon thrift stores and vintage shops you need to visit! As well as a what did I buy haul.
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