Things to do in Lyon

Activities, attractions and tours

A statue of an angel overlooking a densely packed city with red-roofed buildings and a river.
A modern building with a glass facade and a bike parking area in front.
An ornate church interior with intricate carvings, golden accents, and a central altar.
A densely packed urban area with historic buildings, a river, and a bridge.
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Things to do

Picture 2 for Activity Lyon: Private Walking Tour of Lyon's Traboules

Lyon: Private Walking Tour of "Traboules" in the Old Town

P2,459
per adult
Lyon: Private Walking Tour of "Traboules" in the Old Town
Lyon: Guided Evening Food Tour

Lyon Sunset Food Tour: Full Meal of Lyon’s Best Bites

P6,508
per adult
Lyon Sunset Food Tour: Full Meal of Lyon’s Best Bites
Lyon: Musée de l’illusion Entrance Ticket

Lyon: Musée de l’illusion Entrance Ticket

P1,335
per adult
Lyon: Musée de l’illusion Entrance Ticket
Lyon: Tête d'Or park on an electric bike Tour

Lyon: 2-hour guided bike tour

P2,107
per adult
Lyon: 2-hour guided bike tour
Lyon: Aquarium Entrance Ticket

Lyon: Aquarium Entrance Ticket

P1,370
per adult
Lyon: Aquarium Entrance Ticket
Vieux Lyon Cultural & Historical Walking Guided Tour

Vieux Lyon Cultural & Historical Walking Guided Tour (English)

P351
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Vieux Lyon Cultural & Historical Walking Guided Tour (English)
Lyon Walking Tour with Audioguide on Your Smartphone

Lyon Walking Tour with Audioguide on Your Smartphone

P702
per adult
Lyon Walking Tour with Audioguide on Your Smartphone
Lyon: City Highlights Walking Tour

Lyon: City Highlights Walking Tour

P1,545
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Lyon: City Highlights Walking Tour
Lyon: Guided tour of the last Lyon silk printing workshop

Lyon: Guided visit of the last silk printing workshop in Lyon

P843
per adult
Lyon: Guided visit of the last silk printing workshop in Lyon
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Top places to visit

1. Bellecour Square

Bellecour Square is an enormous square that serves as the central hub of Lyon. Join locals and other travelers at this common meeting spot on a peninsula between the city’s two rivers. Gaze up at the equestrian statue of Louis XIV standing proudly in the heart of the plaza.
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A historic plaza with a statue of a man on a horse, a clock tower, and the Hotel Royal building.

2. Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

Because of its hilltop location, the Notre-Dame Basilica, officially Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière, can be seen from almost anywhere in Lyon. Not only is it a symbol of the city, but it is also one of Lyon’s most popular attractions. Visit to admire the extravagant excess of the gilded interior and admire spectacular views across the city.
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A detailed ceiling with intricate gold and turquoise patterns, including floral motifs and angelic figures.

3. Tête d'Or Park

Tête d’Or Parc is to Lyon as Central Park is to New York, a favorite spot to escape city bustle and find new treasures in every corner. Plan family outings or daily jogs in this lovely green space.
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A bronze equestrian statue in a park with surrounding flowers and trees.

4. Hôtel de Ville de Lyon

Be sure to visit the City Hall of Lyon (Hôtel de Ville de Lyon) on your journey through this historic city. The magnificent structure has a rich legacy of stories and an elegant façade that causes visitors to stop and stare. Come to see the stunning exterior, then explore the surrounding square to see further examples of gorgeous Lyonnais art and architecture.
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A grand historic building with ornate architecture, a large open square, and surrounding cafes.

5. Lyon National Opera

The Opéra de Lyon or Nouvel Opera is an eye-catching building that incorporates an original 19th-century façade and foyer with a striking modern extension. A remarkable architectural feat that blends old and new, the opera house can be further explored on a tour or by buying tickets for a show.
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A historic building with a classical facade and a modern glass structure atop.

6. Place des Terreaux

Terreaux Square (Place des Terreaux) is a bustling and busy square where both city inhabitants and tourists convene. Make this your starting point to visit major shopping streets, restaurants, bars and cafés, as well as the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall).
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A grand building with a clock tower, ornate sculptures, and a large dome.

What to do in Lyon

Stay near popular Lyon attractions

A historic plaza with a statue of a man on a horse, a clock tower, and the Hotel Royal building.

Bellecour Square

8.6/10 (2,316 reviews)
Place Bellecour, one of Europe's largest pedestrian squares, pulses at Lyon's heart beneath Louis XIV's statue. Relax at surrounding cafés or visit during December's spectacular Fête des Lumières.
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Where to stay in Lyon

Find the best Lyon areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.
A statue of a figure holding a staff, overlooking a city with red-roofed buildings and a river.

Lyon City Centre

Lyon City Centre is highly notable for its popular shops, and you might want to visit top sights like Bellecour Square and Place Carnot. See more of Lyon by jumping on the metro at Saint-André Tram Stop or Rue de l'Universite Tram Stop.

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La Presqu'île

La Presqu'île is highly notable for its popular shops, and you might want to visit top sights like Place Carnot and Bellecour Square. See more of Lyon by jumping on the metro at Ampere-Victor Hugo Station or Bellecour Station.

A statue of an angel overlooking a densely packed city with red-roofed buildings and a river.

Old Lyon

Take time in Old Lyon to visit attractions like Lyon Cathedral and Cinema and Miniature Museum. You might also appreciate the abundant dining options, and you can hop on the metro at Vieux Lyon Station to see more of the city.

A cityscape with a river, historic buildings, and a prominent church with a large circular window.

La Croix Rousse

Shopping, spas, and restaurants are just a few things travelers like about La Croix Rousse. Sights like Place de la Croix Rousse and Gros Caillou are spots to explore, and you can get around the greater Lyon area at Henon Station.

A tall building with a curved facade and a clear blue sky above.
Photo by Kevin CARY
Open Photo by Kevin CARY

Part Dieu - Bir Hakeim

If you're spending time in Part Dieu - Bir Hakeim, check out sights like Part Dieu Mall or Auditorium Maurice Ravel and hop on the metro to see more the city at Part-Dieu - Auditorium Tram Stop or Part-Dieu - Vivier Merle Tram Stop.

A stone bridge with metal railings leading to a tunnel entrance.

Bron

A historic stone church with a bell tower and a round tower.

Ecully

A large stadium with blue seats and a green field.

Decines-Charpieu

Frequently asked questions

Is Lyon worth visiting?
Offering a blend of festivals and dining, there are plenty of things to do in Lyon. While you're here, check out Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon, a major attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Lyon?
Once you've visited leading attractions like Lugdunum and Lyon Aquarium, spend some time exploring Lyon's shopping and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Lyon?
Don't leave without exploring Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon, ranked the top tourist attraction in Lyon.
Is three days enough to stay in Lyon?
Three days in Lyon is more than enough to enjoy the city's major highlights. Many travelers spend two days on average. Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon, Lyon Cathedral and Lugdunum are top-rated sights. Want to see more? Stick around a little longer to check off nearby hotspots like Colombier-Saugnieu.
Is Lyon a walkable city?
It all depends on what you plan to do and see in Lyon. Several key attractions, like Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon and Lyon Cathedral, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of Lyon's neighborhoods, Lyon City Centre is 2 kilometers away from downtown, while 2nd Arrondissement is 2 kilometers away from the center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Lyon with kids?
Whether you're traveling with young explorers or playful teenagers, a fun-filled itinerary sets the tone for a great escape. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Lyon with kids.

What to do in Lyon for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or fan of Mother Nature, there are plenty of things to do in Lyon for adults including Hôtel de Ville de Lyon and Halle Tony Garnier.
Are there free things to do in Lyon?
One of the top ways to discover free things to do in Lyon is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on cool neighborhoods, parks and other hotspots you can enjoy without getting your cash out. Historic Site of Lyon is one sight that doesn't have an entrance fee.