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    Lyon

    Lyon

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    Lyon, located in the heart of France, is renowned for its rich history and as the undisputed capital of French gastronomy. Here, you'll discover a unique blend of Roman heritage, Renaissance architecture in Vieux Lyon, and the industrial charm of the Croix-Rousse silk district. The historic passages, known as Traboules, connect courtyards and alleys, offering fascinating insights. Visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière on the hill of the same name for a breathtaking view over the city and the Roman theaters. Experience authentic Lyonnaise cuisine in one of the traditional "Bouchons". To explore the city at a relaxed pace and fully enjoy its markets, the months of April to June or September and October are particularly suitable.
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    • Neighborhoods & highlights
    • Walking tours
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    Overview

    Lyon, the undisputed capital of French gastronomy, blends rich history with modern dynamism. You'll explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Vieux Lyon with its Renaissance buildings and characteristic Traboules. From the Basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière, you'll enjoy panoramic views and discover impressive Roman theaters. The former silk district of Croix-Rousse reveals Lyon's industrial past through its alleyways and workshops. Experience authentic Lyonnaise cuisine in traditional "Bouchons"; the city is best visited in spring or autumn.

    Places in Lyon

    Discover the most important sights and attractions

    Sights in Lyon

    1Notre-Dame de Fourvière

    The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière majestically presides over Lyon and is a defining landmark of the city. Its construction between 1872 and 1884 was a votive offering to the Virgin Mary, after Lyon was spared from an invasion during the Franco-Prussian War. You will discover a unique blend of Byzantine and Romanesque architectural elements, which give it a distinctive appearance. Inside, you'll find magnificent mosaics, impressive frescoes, and elaborate stained-glass windows depicting biblical scenes and the history of Lyon. The Basilica comprises two superimposed churches: the richly decorated upper church and the simpler crypt below. From the esplanade in front of the Basilica, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over the entire city of Lyon, the Saône and Rhône rivers, and on clear days, stretching as far as the Alps. Our tip: For the best photos and to avoid the biggest crowds, a visit in the early morning or late afternoon is recommended, when the light is particularly soft. You can easily reach the Basilica with the Fourvière funicular, which ascends directly from Vieux Lyon.
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    2Basilique Saint-Martin-d’Ainay

    The Basilique Saint-Martin-d’Ainay in Lyon is an outstanding example of Romanesque architecture and one of the city's oldest churches. Its origins date back to the 9th century, when it was built as the abbey church of a Benedictine monastery. Here you'll find a rare blend of different eras reflected in its stone walls. Particularly noteworthy are the four ancient columns in the choir, which may have originated from a Roman temple, as well as the intricately crafted capitals. The simple yet impressive architecture invites quiet contemplation. Take your time to explore the crypt, which offers a fascinating insight into the site's early history. Our Tip: Visit the basilica in the morning to experience the special lighting and enjoy the tranquility before the larger crowds arrive. This is the ideal time for an undisturbed viewing of the details.
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    3Musée Cinéma et Miniature

    The Musée Cinéma et Miniature in Lyon, situated in a historic building within the UNESCO World Heritage site of Vieux Lyon, offers a unique blend of cinematic art and miniature worlds. The collection by miniature artist Dan Ohlmann features hundreds of hyperrealistic scenes, recreating everyday moments or famous film sets in miniature with incredible precision. These exhibits showcase exceptional craftsmanship.In the cinema section, you'll gain deep insight into the magic of film. Here, you can marvel at an extensive collection of original props, costumes, masks, and models from renowned Hollywood and European productions. From iconic Alien heads to detailed Batman costumes, the art of practical special effects from the pre-digital era comes alive, honoring the creativity of unseen artists.Our Tip: Ideally, visit the museum on a weekday morning to explore the intricate details of the miniatures in peace and avoid crowds. The miniature rooms also offer excellent subjects for impressive close-up shots.
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    4Silk Saint Georges

    The district of Saint Georges, nestled within Vieux Lyon, is historically closely linked to Lyon's rich silk industry. Although the main centers of silk production were primarily in Croix-Rousse, this district also played a role in trade and processing. Here you'll find charming alleyways and buildings that preserve the atmosphere of bygone eras. The silk weavers, known as Canuts, shaped Lyon's cityscape and economy for centuries. Their history is palpable in the narrow streets and the characteristic Traboules, which once served as shortcuts for transporting silk bales. Our Tip: Explore the hidden Traboules in the area to gain an authentic insight into historic Lyon. Look out for the tall windows of the former workshops, which were designed for the Canuts' large looms. For a tranquil experience, it's best to visit the district in the morning.
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    5Parc de la Tête d'Or

    The Parc de la Tête d'Or in Lyon is one of France's largest inner-city green spaces and an important recreational oasis. Opened in 1857, it was designed in the style of English gardens, distinguished by its expansive lawns, ancient trees, and large lake. Here you'll find a free zoo with over 400 animals, an impressive botanical garden featuring greenhouses and rose gardens, as well as numerous sports and leisure opportunities. The park is a popular destination for walkers, joggers, and families. The large lake invites visitors to go boating and offers picturesque views, especially in the morning. Our Tip: Visit the park on weekday mornings to enjoy the greatest tranquility and observe the animal feedings at the zoo. For a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful photos, a stroll along the lake or through the rose garden is recommended, especially in early summer when the roses are in full bloom. The extensive paths also offer plenty of space to avoid crowds, even on weekends.
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    6Notre-Dame de Fourvière

    The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière majestically presides over Lyon and is a defining landmark of the city. Its construction between 1872 and 1884 was a votive offering to the Virgin Mary, after Lyon was spared from an invasion during the Franco-Prussian War. You will discover a unique blend of Byzantine and Romanesque architectural elements, which give it a distinctive appearance. Inside, you'll find magnificent mosaics, impressive frescoes, and elaborate stained-glass windows depicting biblical scenes and the history of Lyon. The Basilica comprises two superimposed churches: the richly decorated upper church and the simpler crypt below. From the esplanade in front of the Basilica, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over the entire city of Lyon, the Saône and Rhône rivers, and on clear days, stretching as far as the Alps. Our tip: For the best photos and to avoid the biggest crowds, a visit in the early morning or late afternoon is recommended, when the light is particularly soft. You can easily reach the Basilica with the Fourvière funicular, which ascends directly from Vieux Lyon.
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    City walks in Lyon

    Curated walking tours through the city's highlights — handpicked by experienced travel journalists.

    Lyons Historische Schätze: Ein Spaziergang durch Vieux Lyon und die Presqu'île

    Entdecken Sie Lyon auf diesem 2-stündigen Spaziergang, der Sie durch die charmanten Gassen des Vieux Lyon führt und die beeindruckende Presqu'île erkundet. Von Renaissance-Architektur und versteckten Traboules bis zu großzügigen Plätzen – erleben Sie die Essenz der Stadt der Gastronomie und Geschichte. Ideal für einen ersten Überblick über Lyons wichtigste Sehenswürdigkeiten.

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    Dining & Drinks

    Lyon's cultural heritage

    Lyon is a melting pot of cultures, boasting over 2000 years of history reflected in every corner of the city. Founded as the Roman colony Lugdunum in 43 BC, it quickly rose to become the capital of Gaul and still preserves impressive Roman theatres and odeons on Fourvière hill.The city experienced a golden age during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, particularly thanks to the silk industry and printing. The UNESCO World Heritage site Vieux Lyon, with its narrow streets, colourful Renaissance buildings, and characteristic "Traboules" – hidden passages – bears witness to this era. These passages once served the silk weavers, the "Canuts," for the swift transport of their goods.Architecturally, the spectrum stretches from Roman ruins and medieval cathedrals like St-Jean to modern structures in the Confluence district. A deeply rooted tradition is its outstanding gastronomy; Lyon is considered the capital of French culinary art, famous for its "Bouchons Lyonnais," which serve authentic regional cuisine. Culturally, the annual Fête des Lumières in December also shapes the city's image, a festival of lights that harks back to a centuries-old religious tradition and today attracts artists from all over the world.

    Nightlife

    Lyon offers a diverse nightlife, ranging from relaxed bars to energetic clubs. Especially in the districts of Croix-Rousse and Vieux Lyon, you'll find a wide selection of venues; the Hot Club Lyon is, for instance, a well-established name for jazz enthusiasts. For live music off the mainstream, Le Périscope is an excellent choice.

    Local exploration

    Lyon features an extensive and excellently developed public transport network, encompassing subways, trams, buses, and even funiculars. This allows visitors to explore the city comfortably and in an environmentally friendly manner, without being reliant on a private vehicle. Supplementing this, the popular bike-sharing system Vélo'v provides a flexible opportunity to discover the banks of the Rhône and Saône.

    Accommodations in Lyon

    Accommodations in Lyon

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    Locations nearby

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    Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

    Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

    The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, nestled in the heart of France, captivates with its breathtaking diversity: from the majestic peaks of the Alps to the volcanic landscapes of Auvergne and vibrant metropolises like Lyon. It is a paradise for nature lovers, gourmets, and culture enthusiasts alike, renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage sites and excellent cuisine.
    Cluny

    Cluny

    Cluny, nestled in the heart of Burgundy, is intrinsically linked to its once mighty Benedictine abbey. The Abbaye de Cluny was the centre of monastic reform in the Middle Ages and the largest church in Christendom before St. Peter's Basilica in Rome was built. Although largely destroyed after the French Revolution, its impressive ruins, the Musée d'Art et d'Archéologie, and the partially reconstructed monastery grounds bear witness to its former grandeur. You can wander through the preserved sections of the abbey, grasp the dimensions of the former church, and trace the history of this significant site. Beyond the abbey, a stroll through the charming small town with its medieval houses and the Haras National, the national stud farm, is worthwhile. A morning visit allows you to explore the site in peace before the main crowds arrive.
    Lac du Bourget

    Lac du Bourget

    Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Lac du Bourget, France's largest natural lake, which stretches majestically between the foothills of the Alps. This region, often called the 'Riviera of the Alps', combines alpine splendor with Mediterranean flair and invites you to a getaway filled with relaxation, activity, and cultural discoveries. From the elegant thermal baths of Aix-les-Bains to the historical treasures along its shores and breathtaking panoramic views – Lac du Bourget promises unforgettable moments.
    Grenoble

    Grenoble

    Grenoble, nestled in the alpine panorama of the French Alps, is a dynamic city that blends science and nature. Ascend to the Bastille, a historic fortress high above the city, comfortably by cable car – the 'Bulles' – and enjoy expansive views of the Isère Valley and the surrounding mountain ranges. The charming Old Town (Vieux Grenoble), with its narrow streets, historic squares like Place Saint-André, and numerous cafés, invites you to linger. The renowned Musée de Grenoble houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art and is a cultural anchor of the city. As the 'Capital of the Alps', Grenoble has a long tradition as a center for research and technology, reflected in its lively atmosphere and universities. For an authentic experience, visit one of the local markets, such as Place aux Herbes, to discover regional products. The months of May to October are ideal for hikes in the surrounding area, while the winter months provide access to nearby ski resorts.
    Annecy

    Annecy

    Annecy, often called the 'Venice of the Alps', captivates with its medieval Old Town and the clear Lac d'Annecy. The Vieille Ville is characterized by winding alleys, pastel-colored houses, and the canals of the Thiou River. The striking Palais de l'Isle, a former prison, is picturesquely situated in the middle of a canal and bears witness to the city's rich history. Perched above the rooftops is the Château d'Annecy, once a residence of Savoyard princes, which today houses a museum. Lac d'Annecy offers numerous leisure activities such as boat trips or swimming. To experience the atmosphere without large crowds, a visit in spring or autumn is recommended. Explore the local markets to sample regional cheeses and other specialties.