Lyon

This is your travel guide for Lyon, France

1 : Visit Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière [2 hrs]

Start your day in Lyon by visiting the iconic Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière, an impressive 19th-century basilica located on Fourvière Hill. Admire the stunning architecture both inside and outside, and don’t miss the panoramic views of the city from the basilica’s terrace.

2 : Explore Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon) [3 hrs]

Next, head to Vieux Lyon, the charming historic district of Lyon. Wander through the narrow cobblestone streets lined with Renaissance buildings, visit traboules (hidden passageways), and discover local shops, cafes, and restaurants. Be sure to also check out the impressive Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste in this area.

3 : Walk along the Rhône River [1 hr]

Take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Rhône River, one of the two rivers that flow through Lyon. Enjoy the scenic views of the river, bridges, and the architecture of the city. You can also find various parks and green spaces along the riverbanks to relax and admire the surroundings.

4 : Indulge in Lyonnaise cuisine [2 hrs]

Lyon is renowned for its delicious traditional cuisine, so take some time to savor Lyonnaise specialties. Head to a bouchon (a typical Lyonnais restaurant) to taste dishes like quenelles, coq au vin, and tarte aux pralines. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a glass of local Beaujolais or Côtes du Rhône wine.

5 : Visit Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon [2 hrs]

End your day by exploring the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon, one of the largest fine arts museums in France. Admire its impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, including works by famous artists like Rembrandt, Monet, and Picasso. Take your time to appreciate the richness of the museum’s exhibits.

Background Info

Weather

Lyon enjoys a moderate climate with warm summers and cold winters. In summer, temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C, while winter temperatures can drop to 0°C. Rainfall is spread throughout the year, with higher precipitation in autumn and spring. Humidity levels are relatively high.

Language

The official language spoken in Lyon, France, is French. English is also commonly understood in tourist areas, but it is helpful to learn some basic French phrases.

Cost Of Living

The cost of living in Lyon is relatively high compared to other cities in France. Rent, groceries, and dining out can be expensive, but public transportation is affordable. The overall cost of living index in Lyon is moderate.

Other

Lyon is known for its quality of life, excellent public transportation system, and rich cultural heritage. The city is also famous for its gastronomy, with numerous Michelin-starred restaurants and traditional bouchons offering delectable dishes.