Lyon, at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, stands as a perfect symphony of gastronomy, cinema, and history. In the heart of its majestic squares and mysterious passageways, culinary passion merges with cinematic art, all set against a backdrop of cobblestone streets. It’s a sensory journey, where each stroll holds a surprise: elegant bridges, fascinating museums, giant murals, all cradled in an atmosphere that invites one to take their time. Let yourself be guided through this astonishing city, vibrant with culture and anecdotes, and discover why Lyon captivates both lovers of heritage and food enthusiasts as well as film buffs.
Lyon, France: where two rivers meet #
It is impossible to mention Lyon without talking about its two iconic rivers: the Rhône and the Saône. Their waters create lively promenades lined with refreshing parks, bustling markets, and bridges that are as diverse as they are stunning. The arches of the Pont de la Guillotière remind us of the past, while the Passerelle du Palais de Justice embodies contemporary boldness. Whether you are a leisurely stoller or a jogger, each bank offers its own share of breathtaking landscapes and unexpected encounters.
At the end of the Presqu’île, where the waters merge, the Musée des Confluences emerges, part spaceship, part giant crystal, reminding us that this city has always blended genres and influences. Through its exhibitions, we travel from the depths of ancient times to the greatest challenges of the future while enjoying, from the panoramic café, a wonderful view of the rivers’ meeting point.
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A film feast: Spotlight on history and museums #
On the trail of the Lumière brothers
Head to Monplaisir to pay tribute to the pioneers of cinema, Auguste and Louis Lumière. Their former home is now the Institut Lumière, a true temple dedicated to the little screen and its origins. Among dark rooms and vintage reels, one can even admire the mythical Cinématographe and feel, for a moment, like they are at the world premiere of the train arriving at the station… and shiver just like the spectators of old.
And if you feel the urge to play director, the interactive course immerses you in the behind-the-scenes of the seventh art, with hands-on experience manipulating vintage projectors!
Miniature Museum and Cinema: the magic of the big and small screen
In the heart of Old Lyon, the Musée Miniature et Cinéma is a treasure trove for all lovers of pop culture and special effects. From the Triceratops of Jurassic Park keeping a watchful eye, the golden idol of Indiana Jones, the famous outfit of Leia, mischievous Mogwai, to artifacts from Ghostbusters and Blade Runner, each piece is a dive into our cult films.
On the miniature side, the precision of the artisans is breathtaking. Lyon workshops, miniature markets, Parisian apartments with tiny croissants floating about: one is tempted to dive into these Lilliputian settings where reality becomes a fairy tale.
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Gastronomy: Lyon, the capital of taste and sharing #
Regarded as the gastronomic capital of France, Lyon is an invitation to temptation at every street corner. One cannot resist the enticing displays of pastries where the famous praline tart reigns, a colorful delight. In authentic bouchons, you can taste the pike quenelles savored in their creamy sauce, brioche sausage, earthy flavors, and of course, bugnes and sabodets. Here, we eat without haste, celebrating the art of living well in the Lyonnaise way.
For another culinary journey, let yourself be tempted by a gourmet escape not far from Lyon in a medieval castle in the Loire, where tradition and refinement come together.
Covered markets, the Paul Bocuse Hall, and fine grocery stores offer, for the hungriest, the chance to bring back a piece of Lyon in your suitcase: a crunchy baguette, a melting tart, or an assortment of local cheeses, to enjoy by nightfall.
Streets steeped in history: passageways, churches, and living murals #
Place Bellecour, the city’s beating heart
You can’t miss the vast Place Bellecour, the largest pedestrian square in Europe, where the immense equestrian statue of Louis XIV oversees the dance of passersby. Every day, tourists, cyclists, and children create a joyful buzz on these historic cobblestones. It’s also here that one can retrieve the precious Lyon City Pass, the key to all the city’s treasures.
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The secret of the passageways
In Lyon, the walls whisper. In Old Lyon and on the hill of Croix-Rousse, the mysterious traboules, these hidden passages carved into buildings, once revealed secret paths to silk merchants and resistors. Climbing a spiral staircase, emerging onto a Renaissance courtyard, then coming out onto another street: it’s an urban treasure hunt where the past mingles with the present at every step.
To deepen your exploration, escape to an amazing story of a medieval castle near Lyon, a refined detour on the road of silk and heritage.
Religious heritage and monumental murals
From the top of the Fourvière hill, the Basilica of Notre-Dame watches over, perched like a lighthouse over the city. Its architecture blends Byzantine and Romanesque influences, and from the esplanade, the view over Lyon is simply breathtaking.
Lower down, the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral and its renowned astronomical clock defy the centuries, while countless more discreet churches reveal, at the turn of an alley, a calm conducive to contemplation.
The Lyonnaise heritage would not be complete without its murals. The most famous, the Fresque des Lyonnais, unfolds over meters of façade the iconic figures of the city, from Saint-Exupéry to Paul Bocuse, including the Lumière brothers. Passersby and painted characters blend together, blurring the boundaries between the real and the imaginary.
Roman ruins and historical escapes
At the summit of Fourvière, one discovers an incredible Roman theater, where millennia-old stones still host concerts and festivals. Nearby, a tower that resembles a mini-Eiffel marks the pinnacle of the city.
To push curiosity further, it’s all about discovering other treasures of heritage, like the medieval castle of the Loire, at the intersection of Roanne, Lyon, Saint-Etienne, and Clermont-Ferrand: a thrilling story just a stone’s throw from the city.
For quirky anecdotes from Greater Lyon, also discover the local life and news from the department.
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When puppets take power: Gadagne Museum
Nestled in Old Lyon, the Gadagne Museum invites you to rediscover your inner child. On the program: a tender and playful tribute to Guignol, the most mischievous puppet in France, and to a tradition that continues to amuse both young and old.
Where to sleep and how to explore Lyon: tips and favorite neighborhoods #
To fully enjoy the city’s sweetness, nothing beats a stay in the Presqu’île district, between modern cafés and historic buildings, or in the picturesque charm of Old Lyon, with its half-timbered houses. Bohemian spirits will prefer the hill of Croix-Rousse, the stronghold of artists and creators.
The Lyon-Saint Exupéry airport connects typically in under 30 minutes by a fast tram to the center, at the Part-Dieu station, the starting point for trains, subways, and trams. With the Lyon City Pass in hand, museums, galleries, and must-see sites await you. The pedestrian streets and efficient public transport ensure a serene visit, while leaving plenty of room for leisurely exploration.
Want to extend your discovery and vary pleasures between heritage, gastronomy, and nature? Explore our travel guide to France and let yourself be tempted by a new adventure.
