Best Things to Do in Lyon France: Local Secrets & Hidden Gems

Lyon, France blends Renaissance architecture with culinary excellence through its twenty Michelin-starred restaurants and centuries of history.

Visitors can wander through UNESCO-listed Vieux Lyon’s cobbled streets and find the city’s hidden traboules. The stunning Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière provides panoramic city views. Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, the world’s largest indoor food market, fascinates visitors with its authentic French charm.

This enchanting city matches Paris in appeal but has fewer tourists. These hidden gems and local secrets make Lyon an unforgettable destination. Now let’s explore the best things to do in Lyon France!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I receive commissions for purchases made through those links at no cost to you. Please read my full disclosure for more information.

The Basilique Notre Dame de Fourviere

The magnificent Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière sits proudly on Fourvière hill as one of the best things to do in Lyon France. This stunning 19th-century church commands the city skyline with panoramic views that draw over 2.5 million visitors each year. 

Interior Mosaics and Artwork

The basilica features two churches – one above the other. The upper sanctuary is beautifully decorated, while the lower one remains understated. 

Six large wall mosaics show Mary’s relationship with both the Church and France. The three magnificent cupolas display Mary’s connection to the Holy Trinity. 

The floor features intricate geometric patterns that grow more ornate near the choir. The controversial “heresies” mosaics deserve special attention as they show Mary’s triumph over doctrines the Catholic Church condemned.

Taking the Funicular vs. Hiking Up

Visitors can reach the basilica in two ways. The spectacular views at the top make this experience an essential part of what to do in Lyon.

The convenient option is the charming red funicular (locals call it “Ficelle” or string) from Vieux Lyon metro station. This quick trip lets you see glimpses of the old city as you go up. 

The active option takes you through the Rosaire gardens that offer a peaceful break from city life. These gardens create a picture-perfect path between Vieux Lyon and the basilica, where you can take amazing photos during your climb.

Discover the Hidden Traboules of Vieux Lyon

Lyon’s maze-like network of secret passageways, known as traboules, stands out as one of the most fascinating things to do in Lyon, France.

These hidden corridors cut through buildings and connect streets and courtyards. They let people move quickly throughout the city’s history.

Historical Significance for Silk Workers and Resistance Fighters

The original purpose of traboules was quick river access, but these passages became crucial for Lyon’s silk industry. Canuts (silk workers) used traboules to move delicate fabrics while keeping them safe from rain and dirt. 

Finding the Entrance Points

The hunt for these hidden passages adds to the adventure. Shield-shaped bronze plaques mark traboule entrances in Vieux Lyon, but some don’t have any markings. 

The city has about 500 traboules spread across Vieux Lyon (200), Croix-Rousse slopes (160), and the Presqu’île (130), but only 80 are available to the public. 

You can just push the door once you spot one—these passages stay open from morning to evening thanks to an agreement between the city council and residents.

Most Photogenic Traboules

“La Longue Traboule” at 54 Rue Saint-Jean is without a doubt the most stunning traboule. It runs through four buildings and four courtyards before coming out onto Rue du Boeuf.

 Traboule de la Tour Rose is also eye-catching, with its soft courtyard colors and Renaissance-style windows.

The six-floor stairway façade at Traboule de la Cour des Voraces ranks among Lyon’s oldest and most captured spots.

Guided vs. Self-Guided Tours

Self-exploration lets you move at your own pace, but guided tours help you learn about the history in depth. Several companies run two-hour walking tours that show you the main secret passages. 

You can also download the “Traboules” app on iTunes to explore on your own. Whatever you choose, note that these are private homes—local residents have been kind enough to let visitors experience this unique heritage.

Step Back in Time at Lyon’s Roman Ampitheatres

The Roman amphitheaters of Fourvière are reminders of Lyon’s ancient past.

These remarkable structures date back to the 1st century BC and rank among the oldest things to see in Lyon, France. Visitors can experience the city’s origins as Lugdunum, the former capital of Roman Gaul.

Look for the pit’s beautiful geometric patterns created with marble, granite, and porphyry from Italy, Greece, and Egypt. The white limestone blocks in the stands show how this monument looked in its glory days.

Performances and Events

Les Nuits de Fourvière festival has brought these ancient theaters back to life since 1946. The festival runs every June and July and features about 60 shows that combine music, dance, opera, circus, and theater for more than 130,000 spectators. 

Roman history comes alive in October through educational shows that showcase ancient society, military displays, and artisan demonstrations.

Visiting Tips

The amphitheaters welcome visitors daily from 7 am to 7 pm with free entry—a rare treat among the best things to do in Lyon, France.

Photography enthusiasts will love the large theater’s sweeping views of Lyon’s rooftops. 

Immerse Yourself in Lyon’s Silk-Making Heritage at Maison des Canuts

Maison des Canuts is located in Lyon’s historic Croix-Rousse district. This workshop-museum shows you five centuries of Lyon’s rich silk-making heritage.

The Canuts Revolts and Social History

The museum tells a deeper story about how Lyon’s silk industry shaped society. You’ll learn about the famous Canuts revolts of 1831 and 1834—the first modern industrial strikes in France. These events helped shape labor movements across Europe.

Live Demonstrations on Jacquard Looms

The real magic happens when you watch the authentic 19th-century Jacquard looms in action. Expert craftspeople show these historic machines at work daily at 11 am and 3:30 pm.

The guides explain how Lyon’s silk weaving methods changed textile production around the world. You’ll even see the fascinating punch card system that later became the foundation for modern computers.

Shopping for Authentic Lyon Silk Products

The museum shop sells products made only in the Rhône Alps region, France’s leading textile hub for five centuries. Local workshops still use centuries-old techniques to make many items, which helps keep this amazing tradition alive.

Beautiful scarves, stoles, ties, and accessories made with traditional methods fill the shelves. Each piece shows off authentic Lyon craftsmanship and makes a perfect souvenir!

Wander Through the Parc de la Tete d’Or

Lyon’s crown jewel, the Parc de la Tête d’Or, is located in the heart of the city. Since its opening in 1857, this 105-hectare park has been the perfect escape from busy city life and welcomes visitors of every age.

The Botanical Gardens

The park’s botanical garden spans 8 hectares and boasts one of Europe’s finest plant collections with roughly 15,000 species. The botanical garden includes:

• An arboretum and historic rose garden showcasing 360 varieties
• An alpine garden with 1,700 mountain species (open March to October)
• A collection of greenhouses with over 1,000 orchid species

The Lake and Miniature Boats

A stunning 17-hectare lake is located in the center of the park.

L’embarcadère du parc lets you pick from pedal boats, rowing boats, or electric boats to cruise alongside swans and ducks. These peaceful boat rides give you a great way to see the park from a different viewpoint.

Family Activities and Children’s Play Areas

There’s tons of family-friendly activities to keep you entertained. 

Kids love the pony rides, Guignol puppet shows (at 3, 4:30, and 6 pm), playgrounds, miniature railway, and mini-golf course.

Experience Culinary Heaven at Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse

If you’re passionate about food, exploring Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse is a must when visiting Lyon. This renowned indoor market, named in honor of the legendary French chef, is a top culinary experience in the city.

Spanning 13,000 square meters over three vibrant levels, the market is home to more than 50 expert vendors offering everything from artisanal cheeses to local charcuterie and fine wines.

Connect with Lyon’s Culinary Heritage

Many of the stalls are run by long-established local families who take great pride in their craft, keeping traditional Lyonnais flavors and food-making methods alive.

You’ll find passionate sellers eager to share their knowledge — and while not every stand offers free samples, many include tastings with your purchase.

Morning Tastings and Breakfast Options

Les Halles comes alive in the early mornings. Local residents start their weekends with wine and fresh oysters – a tradition you should experience. 

Bakeries like Maison Victoire or Maison Claude serve fresh-baked delights that make a perfect Lyonnais breakfast.

You can also grab a seat at the market’s casual eateries to enjoy coffee with a traditional French sweet treat like almond praline tart or chocolate macarons.

Cheese, Charcuterie and Wine Selections

Lyon’s legendary dairy and meat expertise shines throughout the market. 

The city’s best cheesemonger, Fromagerie Mons, displays exceptional varieties while Mère Richard’s famous creamy Saint-Marcellin draws crowds. Charcuterie lovers will enjoy visiting Scibilia and Bobosse.

Wine merchants like Fac & Spera complement these French food delicacies with excellent regional selections, focusing on Côtes du Rhône and Crozes Hermitage varietals.

Hunt for Lyon’s Trompe l’Oeil Murals

Mural-hunting has become one of the most visually rewarding things to do in Lyon France, with over 150 spectacular works of street art adorning the city.

Lyon’s trompe l’oeil murals turn bland buildings into extraordinary canvases. These artistic illusions deceive the eye by creating striking 3D effects on flat surfaces. 

Mur des Canuts

Standing proudly at the intersection of Boulevard des Canuts and Rue Denfert-Rochereau, the Mur des Canuts is the largest mural in Europe. This impressive street art pays homage to Lyon’s rich history of silk weaving and its vibrant local culture.

Fresque des Lyonnais

Not far away, on the corner of Quai Saint-Vincent and Rue de la Martinière, you’ll find the eye-catching Fresque des Lyonnais. This bright yellow façade is brought to life with lifelike portraits of famous historic and contemporary Lyonnaise personalities.

Hidden Murals in Croix-Rousse

You’ll find many mural hidden gems in Croix-Rousse. Here’s a couple must-sees:

• La Bibliothèque de la Cité showcases a large bookcase featuring regional writers 
• Les Routes de la Soie (The Silk Roads) tells the story of Lyon’s silk industry history

Street Art Walking Tours

Expert-guided and self-guided audio tours are a great way to get stories behind Lyon’s spectacular street art, enhancing your experience of one of the top things to do in Lyon.

Explore the Musée des Confluences

The stunning Musée des Confluences stands proudly at the southern tip of Lyon’s newest district. This modern architectural marvel ranks among the top things to do in Lyon. 

The Building’s Unique Architecture

Austrian firm Coop Himmelb(l)au created an extraordinary design that looks like a “crystal cloud of knowledge” or a floating spaceship. Visitors will discover unexpected architectural features throughout the building. 

Exhibits and Interactive Science Displays

The museum features four major thematic exhibitions:

• Origins – Stories of the World
• Species – The Web of Life
• Societies – Human Theater
• Eternities – Visions of the Beyond

The museum also features state-of-the-art technologies to create engaging interactive experiences for visitors. These displays use virtual reality, augmented reality, and video mapping to bring science to life.

Rooftop Views

The museum’s rooftop terrace offers dramatic panoramic views of the rivers’ meeting point, from the city’s colorful buildings to the distant Alpine horizon. The unique view adds another dimension to this distinctive cultural landmark’s experience.

Dine at an Authentic Bouchon Lyonnais

A dining experience at a traditional bouchon is one of the most authentic things to do in Lyon, France. These special restaurants showcase Lyon’s world-famous culinary heritage with their distinctive checkered tablecloths and welcoming atmosphere.

The History of Lyonnais Cuisine

Bouchons first appeared between the 16th and 17th centuries as simple eateries that served hearty, traditional food.

Les Mères Lyonnaises—talented female chefs who started restaurants from the mid-18th century—helped shape this tradition. 

Lyon’s reputation grew until it became known as the “world capital of gastronomy” by 1935. The city now has about twenty certified traditional bouchons, though many other restaurants use this term.

Top Bouchons To Consider

Lyon’s oldest bouchon, Café Comptoir Abel, has delighted guests since 1890. Daniel et Denise also serves exceptional food. 

Budget-friendly options like Le Bouchon des Cordeliers and Chez Mounier offer great value. 

Reservation Tips and Peak Hours

Booking a reservation will secure your spot, especially on busy weekends and holidays. 

Bouchons follow traditional French dining schedules with lunch from 12-2 pm and dinner from 7-10 pm. 

Early birds can enjoy special “Mâchon” experiences—traditional silk workers’ meals—starting at 9 am.

Discover Cinema History at Musée Lumière

A visit to the Musée Lumière ranks among the best things to do in Lyon France.

The Lumière Family Villa

The museum is located in the former home of Auguste and Louis Lumière, two innovative brothers who invented the Cinematograph and hosted the world’s first paid public film screening in 1895. Their groundbreaking short films changed entertainment forever.

Locals nicknamed this stunning Art Nouveau villa the “château”. It’s the only remaining symbol of Lumière family’s industrial success in Lyon. The villa, built between 1899 and 1902, blends white limestone, brick, and glazed roof tiles beautifully.

The museum showcases the brothers’ revolutionary Cinématographe—a portable device that worked as a camera, film processor, and projector all in one.

Visitors can see the original “N°1” Cinematograph that played the first ten films at the Grand Café in Paris on December 28, 1895.

The museum displays their other innovations too, including the Autochrome color photography process from 1903.

Cruise the Saône and Rhône Rivers

A river cruise through Lyon reveals the city from a whole new perspective on the Saône River. This peaceful way to see Lyon ranks among the best things to do!

The river gives you a perfect spot to see Old Lyon’s Renaissance buildings and the modern Confluence district at once. You’ll get clear views of Lyon’s UNESCO Heritage sites that you just can’t see from the streets. 

Boat Tour Options

Les Bateaux Lyonnais runs engaging guided sightseeing cruises on the Saône River that last one to two hours. Expert guides share fascinating stories about Lyon’s rich history during the trip. 

Kids will love the special themed cruises like “Les Moussaillons” with pirate guides. The “Safa’rives de Saône” tour shows off the river’s wildlife. 

Hermès I and Hermès II restaurant boats offer an unforgettable night out that combines sightseeing with great food. These 2.5-hour trips serve three-course meals cooked fresh on board with seasonal ingredients. 

Explore the Renaissance Architecture Vieux Lyon

A walk through the cobblestone streets of Vieux Lyon will show you one of Europe’s most extensive Renaissance neighborhoods. This 424-hectare district earned UNESCO World Heritage status in 1998 for its exceptional architectural value.

Saint Jean Cathedral

Saint Jean is the beating heart of Old Lyon with its magnificent Gothic cathedral dedicated to John the Baptist. The cathedral’s construction spanned from 1180 to 1480, blending Romanesque and Gothic elements that showcase Lyon’s rich history.  

St. George and St. Paul Districts

Italian banker-merchants made Saint-Paul, the northernmost section, their home during the 15th-16th centuries. The quarter’s prosperity shows in its stunning Renaissance urban residences called “hôtels particuliers,” including the Hôtel Bullioud and Hôtel de Gadagne.

Saint-Georges developed as a silk-weaving district and features a distinctive neo-Gothic church. Architect Pierre Bossan rebuilt this church in 1844.

Notable Buildings and Their History

Vieux Lyon’s remarkable Renaissance architecture tells stories of wealth and commerce:

• The Loge du Change stands as evidence of the trade fairs that brought wealth
• The Golden Cross Inn dates from the 15th century and houses the Museum of Miniatures and Film Sets
• The Maison du Crible (Tour Rose) showcases symmetrical arched windows and a rose-colored tower

Shop at Lyon’s Vibrant Markets

Lyon’s bustling markets give visitors a glimpse into authentic local life. These vibrant markets connect visitors with regional producers and artisans across the city.

Saint-Antoine Riverside Market

The Saint-Antoine market is located along the beautiful Saône River between Bonaparte and Maréchal-Juin bridges. It is the largest open-air food market in Lyon dating back to 1910. 

The market attracts locals and Lyon’s best chefs who come to find premium ingredients. Weekend crowds can see about 140 vendors who display fresh vegetables, aged cheeses, and artisanal bread. 

The market transforms uniquely on Monday mornings into a bazaar that sells clothing, jewelry, and household items.

Croix-Rousse Market

The lively Croix-Rousse market captures the spirit of this former working-class neighborhood. This market offers fresh ingredients and prepared foods.

Market tours combined with rooftop dining classes let people experience this iconic market fully.

Les Puces du Canal Flea Market

Les Puces du Canal in nearby Villeurbanne has grown into France’s second-largest flea market. This paradise for treasure hunters has 200 permanent shops and space for up to 500 traveling merchants.

Visitors can find antiques, vintage items, furniture, and decorative arts across the sprawling “village”. 

Seasonal and Specialty Markets

Lyon features specialized markets throughout the week. The Quai Augagneur market runs on Fridays, while the Montchat market brings life to Place du Château on Saturdays. 

Art lovers can visit the Marché de la Création on Quai Romain Rolland every Sunday. The artwork here makes perfect souvenirs from your Lyon adventure.

Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts

Lyon’s Musée des Beaux-Arts is located in a beautiful 17th-century Benedictine convent. This museum ranks among France’s most important art collections, making this cultural gem one of the best things to do in Lyon, France.

European Painting Masterpieces

The museum’s paintings tell the story of Western art from the Middle Ages to modern times. The collection ranks second only to the Louvre, with masterpieces from European artists like Rubens, Delacroix, Monet, Gauguin, and Picasso. 

Sculpture Collection Highlights

The sculpture department boasts nearly 1,000 pieces. Medieval stuccos and Renaissance treasures fill the former baroque refectory, while newer works live in the abbey’s church. Auguste Rodin’s pieces stand out – the museum has the largest collection of his works outside Paris.

Ancient Egyptian Antiquities

Lyon’s historic role in Egyptology helped build an impressive Egyptian collection. Canopic vases, jewelry, and artifacts from Antinoöpolis highlight daily life across 3,000 years of Egyptian history.

Peaceful Courtyard Garden

Nuns once used this garden for reflection. Abbey walls protect this quiet space where trees surround a circular fountain with an ancient sarcophagus.

Today, visitors can enjoy original bronze sculptures, including two of Auguste Rodin’s major works: “The Age of Bronze” and “The Shadow”.

Experience the Magic of the Festival of Lights

Lyon comes alive each December with the Festival of Lights (Fête des Lumières), a spectacular display that ranks among the most magical things to do in Lyon, France. 

The city welcomes 3 to 4 million visitors who gather to experience this unique four-day celebration. No other European city offers anything quite like it.

Main Squares and Installation Locations

Light and sound transform Lyon’s architectural gems into magical displays. The Basilica of Fourvière and Place des Terreaux are prime viewing spots, with Place des Terreaux featuring new light shows each year. 

Recent shows featured interactive displays at Saint-Jean Cathedral. The Parc de la Tête d’Or drew crowds with sculptures like “Rose Family” that paired with custom orchestral music.

Local Celebrations and Special Menus

Lyon’s families proudly display their collections of stained or clear glass candles on windowsills every December 8th. The “montée aux flambeaux” procession starts at 6:30 pm from Lyon Cathedral and winds its way to Fourvière Basilica.

Visitors can enjoy seasonal treats from street vendors, including mulled wine (vin chaud). Pop-up refreshment areas dot major squares like Place Bellecour and Parc Blandan.

Accommodation Tips During the Festival

Book your stay several months ahead since hotels reach full capacity quickly. A room near the security perimeter will make access to the festival easier. 

Explore the Bohemian Croix-Rousse District

The distinctive Croix-Rousse hill stands proudly north of Lyon’s center. This unique neighborhood blends bohemian charm with rich industrial heritage to create one of the most interesting things to do in Lyon France.

What was once known as “the hill that works” in contrast to Fourvière’s “the hill that prays” has changed into a creative hub that still keeps its rebellious spirit alive.

The Slopes and Staircases

A maze of steep streets and hidden passages makes Croix-Rousse’s landscape perfect to explore. 

The Grand Côte pathway rewards visitors with amazing views of Lyon and the Peninsula. Locals love to walk through Venelle des Pierres Plantées, a peaceful slope that leads to a school and garden. 

The famous Cour des Voraces (Court of the Voracious) stands out with its incredible six-story floating staircase from 1840. This architectural wonder connects three streets—Rue Imbert Colomès, Montée Saint Sébastien, and Place Colbert. Revolutionary silk workers who met here gave the court its unique name.

Artisan Workshops and Studios

The district’s textile heritage lives on in many active workshops. 

The Mattelon silk workshop, Lyon’s last family-run silk-weaving business, operated until 1996 and is now a protected Historical Monument. 

Brochier Soierie printing workshop keeps tradition alive with frame printing techniques on silk squares that date back to the early 20th century. 

A new addition, Poussière des Rues screen printing studio, opened its doors in January 2022 just 100 meters from their boutique and welcomes visitors every Thursday.

Café Culture and Local Hangouts

Creative energy flows through the district’s cozy cafés. 

La Boîte à Café sits high in Croix-Rousse with comfortable seats, fast WiFi, delicious cakes, and locally-roasted Mokxa coffee. 

Le Perko Café draws people in with its unique décor, swing chairs, and sunny terrace near the Croix-Rousse market.

Croix-Rousse Market

The boulevard comes alive with one of Lyon’s biggest markets that stretches almost a kilometer with up to 100 merchants. The Croix-Rousse market features:

• Fresh produce from local farmers
• Organic foods (exclusively on Saturdays)
• Prepared dishes like spit-roasted chickens and paella

Movie Magic at the Miniature and Cinema Museum

Located in a beautiful 16th-century UNESCO World Heritage building in Vieux Lyon, the Miniature and Cinema Museum takes visitors on an amazing journey through movie history and the detailed art of miniature creation.

Hollywood Props Collection

This museum has an impressive collection of original movie props. Visitors can see legendary items like Thor’s Mjölnir Hammer, the original mask from “The Mask,” and Iron Man’s glove.

The collection includes authentic costumes worn by iconic characters like Spider-Man and James Bond. You’ll also see animatronic creatures from “Gremlins,” “Jurassic Park,” and “Alien”. 

Intricate Miniature Scenes

On the top floor, you’ll find more than 1,000 amazing miniature scene masterpieces by miniature artists from around the world.

Special Effects Demonstrations

The museum shows visitors how movie magic happens through various special effects demonstrations. A dedicated exhibition area lets visitors go behind the scenes to see techniques like Blue Screen and 3D. 

Interactive Exhibits

Visitors can take photos in immersive spaces inspired by famous films like “Indiana Jones,” “Alien,” and “Jurassic Park”. 

The museum also offers workshops and special events where people can try filmmaking techniques first hand. These hands-on activities make the museum great for movie fans and families looking for fun educational experiences.

Take a Lyon Food Tour

Lyon is France’s undisputed gastronomic capital with a food culture that spans centuries. A guided food tour offers a deep taste of Lyon’s history.

The Influence of Les Mères Lyonnaises

Lyon’s culinary fame rests on Les Mères Lyonnaises—remarkable female chefs who brought worldwide recognition to the city’s gastronomy.  These talented women built Lyon’s culinary foundation. Eugénie Brazier made history as the first woman to receive three Michelin stars in 1933.

Traditional Lyonnais Specialties

Lyon’s cuisine features distinctive dishes rooted in humble beginnings. The quenelles de brochet (pike dumplings served in creamy seafood sauce) serves as the life-blood of traditional menus. 

Authentic experiences include cervelle de canut (seasoned fresh cheese spread with herbs, shallots, and olive oil), which translates to “silk worker’s brain.” Local favorites also feature gâteau de foies de volaille (chicken liver cake) and tablier de sapeur (breaded tripe).

Sweet Treats and Pralines

Lyon’s signature sweets make every food tour special. The beloved brioche praline—buttery bread filled with pink sugared almonds appears consistently on tours. 

Local confectioneries proudly showcase cousins, cocon, and petits pavés de Lyon. The tarte aux pralines (praline tart) highlights the city’s famous pink-colored candied almonds beautifully.

Wine Tastings

Local wines from Burgundy, Rhône and Beaujolais regions complement regional specialties perfectly on food tours. 

Expert sommeliers demonstrate how specific foods improve different wines’ flavors. Wine tastings reveal how certain dishes can change a wine’s taste profile dramatically. 

The best tours combine visits to Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse with dedicated tasting sessions that feature regional charcuterie and cheese boards.

Visit the Gallo-Roman Museum of Lugdunum

The Lugdunum Museum, built into Fourvière’s hillside, gives visitors a trip through Lyon’s ancient past. History enthusiasts will really enjoy the historical treasures in this museum!

Archeological Treasures

The museum’s exceptional collection showcases what daily life was like in an imperial capital. The Lyon Tablet, found in 1528, stands as one of its most valuable artifacts. 

France’s largest collection of inscriptions, statue bases, and epitaphs gives an explanation of ancient inhabitants’ activities.

Interactive Historical Displays

Roman daily life comes alive through innovative displays. Young explorers can enjoy hands-on learning experiences in a specialized children’s area. 

A tour app guides visitors through exhibits in French and English. This helps people learn about Lugdunum’s rise from prehistoric times through early Christianity in Gaul.

Connection to the Roman Amphitheatres

The site’s unique appeal comes from its direct connection to the adjacent Roman theaters. Both the museum and theaters stand on the exact location where Lugdunum was founded in 43 BC. Visitors can understand artifacts in their original context through large windows that overlook the amphitheater and Odeon.

Explore the Modern Confluence District

The Confluence district is located in southern Lyon, where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet. This area represents France’s most ambitious urban renewal project.

The former industrial zone has completely transformed since the early 2000s and now ranks as one of the most modern things to do in Lyon, France.

Architectural Innovations

International architects have created eye-catching modern designs throughout the area. This district serves as a testing ground for eco-friendly ideas that blend bold architectural designs with sustainable development principles.

The Orange Cube and Green Cube (Euronews headquarters) catch everyone’s eye with their bold geometries and perforated facades. David Chipperfield also added to the skyline with three distinctive buildings, including a mixed-use tower that welcomes visitors to the quarter. 

Shopping at Confluence Mall

The Confluence Shopping Mall offers: over 100 stores and 30 restaurants spread across three floors. It also features a cinema, climbing wall, and fitness center.

Riverside Walking Paths

The Parc de Saône is 13 hectares with ponds and 3,000 tree species. Visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the merging rivers at the peninsula’s tip.

New Cultural Venues and Galleries

The Confluence district area’s creative spirit shines through its many galleries. 

La Sucrière is a former sugar factory warehouse that now hosts contemporary art exhibitions and cultural events.

Docks 40 adds to the vibrant scene with its bar-restaurant and live music performances.

Medieval Pérouges Day Trip from Lyon

A charming medieval hidden gem awaits just 40 minutes northeast of Lyon. Pérouges stands proudly as the Ain department’s only officially designated “Most Beautiful Village of France”.

Preserved Medieval Architecture

The walled city has remarkably preserved medieval buildings. Ancient stones from nearby rivers pave the cobblestone streets, which locals call “galets”.

The town’s architectural beauty shines through the Upper Gate, a fortress-like Church from 1440, and the Maison des Princes where feudal lords once lived. 

Place du Tilleul serves as the town’s historic heart, featuring a magnificent liberty tree that has stood since 1792.

Famous Galette de Pérouges Dessert

The iconic Galette de Pérouges makes every visit memorable. Marie-Louise Thibaut created this delightful treat in 1912. The culinary masterpiece has earned the official “Flavors of the Ain” designation.

The dessert features thin brioche dough with lemon zest, butter and sugar that transforms into caramel during baking. Locals serve this warm delicacy with crème fraîche. 

Artisan Shops and Crafts

Pérouges has ten thriving artisan workshops. Skilled craftspeople keep traditional arts alive through stained glass, pottery, bookbinding, ceramics, and screen printing. 

These workshops welcome visitors to witness historical techniques firsthand and the opportunity to purchase authentic creations as souvenirs.

Transportation Options from Lyon

Lyon offers several easy ways to reach Pérouges:

• By train: Quick 17-minute ride run from Lyon Part-Dieu to Meximieux-Pérouges station. A scenic 20-minute walk leads to the village
• By car: The A42 motorway connects you in 30 minutes
• By bus: Daily services from Lyon Part-Dieu Bus Station take 43 minutes

If you prefer, you can also join a small group guided tour or a private guided tour of Pérouges.

Conclusion: Best Things to do in Lyon, France

Lyon sets itself apart from other French cities with its amazing mix of historic treasures and modern innovation. The city’s story spans two thousand years, and each neighborhood adds its own chapter to this rich narrative.

Unexpected discoveries await around every corner in this fascinating city. Lyon might not draw the crowds that Paris does, but it matches the capital’s cultural wealth. The city stays true to its local character while celebrating both its heritage and dynamic modern culture.

All these wonderful qualities make Lyon one of Europe’s most fascinating cities and a destination that leaves lasting impressions.