Visit Lyon
Set at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon elegantly blends Renaissance heritage with a gourmet way of life. Between the traboule passageways of the old town, Fourvière hill and the renowned tables of its bouchon restaurants, the city charms with its authenticity and cultural richness.
Why visit Lyon?
Lyon is recognized as France's gastronomic capital, with a historic center listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city combines a rich Renaissance heritage, unique traboule passageways and an internationally renowned food scene, while remaining a practical base for exploring the Alps and the Rhône valley.
Lyon's Must-Sees
Six experiences that capture the spirit of the city, between heritage, food and culture.
Old Town and Traboules
This UNESCO-listed Renaissance district is explored through its traboules, secret passageways typically linking streets through inner courtyards.
Fourvière Basilica
Perched on its hill, this basilica offers an exceptional panorama over Lyon and stands above the remains of ancient Roman theatres.
Bouchon Restaurants
These traditional eateries serve hearty, convivial cuisine, a hallmark of the city's food reputation built up over generations.
Presqu'île and Terreaux
Between the Rhône and Saône, this lively district brings together shops, elegant squares and major museums at the heart of Lyon life.
Croix-Rousse
The former silk weavers' district, the Croix-Rousse keeps its typical inner courtyards and village-like atmosphere within the city.
Confluence
This contemporary district at the tip of the Presqu'île showcases Lyon's architectural renewal with bold buildings and a museum of civilizations.
What to discover in Lyon?
The old town, one of Europe's largest Renaissance districts, is best explored through its traboules, hidden passageways that cut through buildings from one street to another. Fourvière hill, topped by its basilica, offers a sweeping view over the city and holds the remains of ancient Roman theatres. The Presqu'île peninsula, between the Rhône and Saône, concentrates shops, lively squares such as Place des Terreaux and major museums, while the Croix-Rousse district keeps alive the memory of the canuts, Lyon's historic silk weavers.
Lyon is also inseparable from its food scene: traditional bouchon restaurants serve hearty dishes such as quenelles, cervelle de canut cheese spread or andouillette sausage in a convivial setting. The Confluence district, at the southern tip of the Presqu'île, showcases the city's contemporary architectural renewal with bold buildings and a museum dedicated to world civilizations. Lyon also makes an excellent base for exploring the nearby Beaujolais vineyards or the Alpine mountains just a few hours away.
Practical Information
Region
Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Department
Rhône
Population
About 520,000 in the city, over 1.4 million in the metro area
Language
French
Currency
Euro (€)
Time zone
UTC+1 (Central European Time)
Climate
Semi-continental, warm summers and cool winters
Best season
Spring and autumn (April-June, September-October)
Lyon in pictures
Frequently Asked Questions about Lyon
When is the best time to visit Lyon?
Spring and autumn bring mild weather, ideal for exploring the city on foot. Summer can be hot, while winter stays cool, notably during the Festival of Lights in early December.
How much time should I plan for Lyon?
Two to three days are enough to explore the old town, Fourvière and the Presqu'île at a good pace, while leaving time to enjoy the local food scene in a bouchon restaurant.
What is a traboule?
A traboule is a covered passage running through one or more buildings to connect two streets, typical of the old town and Croix-Rousse, historically used by the silk weavers.
Is Lyon a good base for exploring the region?
Yes, Lyon is ideally placed for trips to the Beaujolais vineyards, the Alps or the Rhône valley, thanks to good road and rail connections.
How do you get around Lyon?
The metro, tram and bus network covers the city efficiently, and the historic center is easy to explore on foot. A funicular makes it easy to reach Fourvière hill.
What should you try eating in Lyon?
Quenelles, cervelle de canut cheese spread, saucisson brioché and pink praline pastries are among the must-try specialties found in the city's traditional bouchon restaurants.
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