Top Things to Do in Lyon

About the City

Consider Lyon, France as an epicurean's playground with a historical twist! Nestled in the gastronomic heart of France, this city is a treasure trove of culinary delights, from its famous 'bouchons' to its luxurious 'praline'. Food lovers rejoice as they browse the colorful markets, scouting for the freshest 'fromage' or 'charcuterie'. But Lyon isn't just a feast for the taste buds; it boasts a vibrant tapestry of history and culture. Wander through the mysterious 'traboules' of Vieux Lyon, secret passageways reminiscent of a bygone era, or gaze upon the grandeur of the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, a sentinel perched high on the city's hills. Yet not everything smells like roses in this urban garden. Brace for the perplexing 'périphérique' traffic that can confound even the savviest of navigators. And the weather may throw tantrums, flinging from sunny to stormy without so much as a 'pardon!'. Lyon, with its spirited festivals and restless Rhône, is a city of contrasts where ancient meets modern and tranquility dances with vivacity. It's a place where you can lose yourself in the cobbled alleys of history, only to find yourself sipping a robust 'Côtes du Rhône' in a contemporary bistro overlooking the city’s twinkling lights. In essence, a bewitching blend of the good, the bad, and the utterly delicious!

Things to Do in Lyon

Nibble on Andouillette AAAAA, the Aromatic Adventure

Food & Drink

Brace yourself for the bold flavors of Andouillette AAAAA – that's 'Association Amicale des Amateurs d'Andouillette Authentiques' for you! This is not your average sausage; it’s a gastronomic gauntlet...

The Great Lyon Treasure Hunt

Outdoors

Grab your map, and your best mates, and embark on a quest for hidden gems scattered around Lyon. It's a scavenger hunt with a French twist – monuments, secret squares, oh là là!

Leverage Your Culinary Skills in a Lyonnaise Cooking Class

The Unexpected

Get whisk-y in a kitchen with Lyon's top chefs and learn to cook like the locals do. End up with skills that'll make your friends beg for dinner invites.

Sleuth Around on a Historical Mystery Tour

The Unexpected

Don your detective hat and unravel the riddles of Lyon's past! This historical quest through the city is part walking tour, part brain teaser, and 100% intrigue.

Revel in Retro Gaming at a Hidden Arcade Bar

The Unexpected

Zap and pew-pew your way through the neon-lit maze of vintage arcade machines. It's like a time warp to your childhood, but with better beverages and you're allowed to stay up late!

Invoke Your Inner Poet at a Lyonnais Literary Salon

The Unexpected

Rub elbows with literary buffs and poetry enthusiasts in a salon overflowing with French charm. Share a verse, or just soak in the ambiance where prose is the prosecco of the brainy bunch.

Cycle the City's Soul on the Berges du Rhône

Outdoors

Ready to become a pedal-pusher and devour some riverside charm? Sail down the Berges du Rhône on two wheels, feel the breeze in your hair, and your calves singing with each spin!

Romantic Rowboats on the Rhône

Outdoors

Splash a little love in the air with a rowboat rental! Glide down the river with your sweetie, checking out the scenery, and working those biceps while you're at it. It's the stuff of rom-com dreams, ...

Pedal and Picnic Par Excellence

Outdoors

Bike your way to the perfect picnic spot on the banks of Lyon's iconic rivers. Feel that Gallic wind in your hair as you whizz past the sights, keeping an eye out for that ultimate baguette-and-cheese...

Escape into the Wilds of Parc de Miribel-Jonage

Outdoors

Unleash your inner Bear Grylls just outside the city. Parc de Miribel-Jonage is a massive playground for all you wild-hearted adventurers. Kayak, hike, or just wildflower-spot – it's nature's nirvana!

Munch on 'Gratin dauphinois' like there's no tomorrow

Food & Drink

Slide your fork into a creamy, cheesy slice of potato heaven that warms your soul. This is comfort food with a French twist that'll make you say 'Ooh la la!'

Step into the Storybook at Parc de la Tête d'Or

Sights

Enter a fairy tale at the Parc de la Tête d'Or with its enchanted gardens and a zoo that's free! It's a green dream in the middle of the city.

Explore the Musée des Confluences

Sights

Embark on a futuristic voyage in a spaceship-like museum where science and anthropology meet. Bring your curiosity and get ready to have your mind blown with extraordinary exhibits from the natural wo...

Discover Lyon's Ancient Theatre of Fourvière

Sights

Step into the shoes of an ancient spectator and catch a vibe where the Romans used to chill out and watch performances. This grand old dame has been around since 15 BC and still knows how to throw a g...

Journey Through the Renaissance at Musée Gadagne

Sights

Huddle around, history buffs! This is your chance to gallivant through the gobsmackingly gorgeous Gadagne museum. It's jampacked with Renaissance awesomeness and also hosts the intriguing Puppet Museu...

Relax in the Urban Oasis of Place des Terreaux

Sights

Let off some steam or just people-watch in the city's heartbeat. The bustling Place des Terreaux is perfect for a little timeout. Bathe in the vibe of the fountain - made by the same sculptor who did ...

Crack into Cervelle de Canut, the Cheese of Champions

Food & Drink

Spoon into this zesty, herby fromage blanc creation and you'll be cheese-grinning all day long!

Indulge in a Quenelle de Brochet, Lyonnaise Luxury

Food & Drink

Dive into a pillowy pike dumpling, swimming in a sea of creamy Nantua sauce. It's what foodie dreams are made of!

Savor a Saucisson Brioché Like a True Lyonnais

Food & Drink

Get your taste buds around this tasty sausage wrapped in fluffy brioche like a fancy pig in a blanket. It's the snack you never knew you needed!

Catch a Flick at a Mini Private Cinema

The Unexpected

Ever dreamed of a cozy movie night with just your pals... in France? Book a mini private cinema and be the director of your own movie marathon. Get the popcorn ready!