Are you planning a getaway to the magnificent city of Lyon, in the heart of the Rhône? Between history, gastronomy, art, and various pleasures, the capital of the Gauls is full of amazing activities to explore alone, with family, or friends. Here is an overview of the five must-do activities in Lyon to stack the odds in your favor and not miss any of the Lyonnaise treasures, from heritage, artistic walks, culinary delights, to shopping! Get ready to delight your taste buds, cultivate your curiosity, and discover a unique metropolis where every street corner holds a surprise.
Dive into the magic of cinema at the Lumière Museum
Does Hollywood think it invented cinema? Not quite! The lights first shone in Lyon, thanks to the Lumière brothers and their famous cinematograph from 1895. The Lumière Museum, located in their former home, takes you back to the beginnings of the 7th art. Observe the very first camera placed where it all began, admire archival films from around the world, and experience the thrill of the past through interactive exhibits. The former Lumière factory, transformed into the Hangar of the First Film, rolls out its own red carpet each year during the prestigious Lumière Festival in October. If you want to see Harry Potter’s glasses up close or meet Herbie, the famous Beetle, head to the Cinema and Miniature Museum in the fairy-tale alleys of Old Lyon. Cinema fans, the party never stops!
Trace 2000 years of architecture and history
In Lyon, every walk is a journey through time! From the vertiginous terrace of Fourvière, let yourself be dazzled by a panorama worthy of a master painting. Walk on the ancient cobblestones of the Roman theaters, wander through the mysterious traboules of Old Lyon, or dance in the elegant squares of the Presqu’île district, between the Rhône and the Saône. Venture up the slopes of the Croix Rousse, the former cradle of silk workers, where silk workshops greet new artisans. Are you a fan of ultra-modern architecture? Hurry to see the Confluence Museum, a futuristic icon dedicated to the human adventure, located where the two rivers embrace. For more activity ideas in the region, take a look here for your upcoming Rhône holiday!
Explore Lyon’s mural and musical art
It’s impossible to visit Lyon without looking up! The city has adorned itself with over 100 monumental frescoes since the 1980s. From the gigantic Canuts Wall on the Croix Rousse, regularly updated, to the fresco honoring local celebrities along the banks of the Saône, each wall tells a story. The most curious will walk along the giant library painted with its stacks of books or discover the latest street art creations during the annual Peinture Fraîche festival. To experience music from the inside, push the door of the Lyon Opera during a guided tour. Dive beneath the grand dome, navigate behind the scenes, and discover how dance, song, and orchestra make the city vibrate.
Savor Lyon’s gastronomy in a bouchon
You can’t talk about Lyon without mentioning gastronomy! The city of the legendary Paul Bocuse is filled with lyon-style bouchons, those small typical labeled restaurants where you can savor pâtés en croûte, Lyonnaise salads, pike quenelles, and well-seasoned sausages. It’s impossible to resist the must-try floating island with pink praline, a gourmet reference at Daniel & Denise. Also, taste the trendy atmosphere of La Commune, an innovative food court where young talented chefs compete in creativity. Need more culinary inspiration or want a swim after a good meal? Discover this original selection.
Give in to the temptation of shopping between tradition and modernity
Shopping enthusiasts, welcome to Lyon! From the pedestrian Presqu’île and its chic boutiques to trendy stores, fashionistas as well as lovers of traditional souvenirs will find their happiness. Bring back tasty pralulines from Maison Pralus or old-fashioned woven silk scarves from your outing. To find the perfect gift or an original handmade piece, explore the former workshops of the Croix Rousse transformed into arty boutiques. On Sunday mornings, expect a bohemian atmosphere along the banks of the Saône: decorative creations, pottery, and artworks vie for attention at the design market. To vary the pleasures during your stay, check out new outdoor activity ideas at this inspiring link, or be tempted by a spring getaway to Quimper or an exotic trip to Mexico with these good deals and these must-see discoveries.
