How to Spend One Day in Lyon, France
Lyon, the culinary capital of France and a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and indulgence. Whether you're strolling through its Renaissance streets or savoring world-class cuisine, this city has something for every traveler. With just one day in Lyon, you can immerse yourself in its vibrant atmosphere, explore the iconic neighborhoods, and taste the flavors that make this city a dream destination for foodies and adventurers alike. Let us guide you through the perfect itinerary to experience the best of Lyon in 24 hours.
How to Get There?
From Paris
Hop aboard the high speed train from Paris Gare de Lyon to Lyon Part-Dieu Station for about 1.5 to 2 hours for the best and most convenient way to get from Paris to Lyon. There are many trains available and can be booked in advance for the best prices.
By Plane
You will want to catch a flight to Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS) and then do an airport transfer to reach the city’s center by the Rhônexpress tram. It should take you about 30 minutes to take this mode of transportation but of course there are always taxi and shuttle services available as well.
What Should I Do?
Vieux Lyon
Vieux Lyon is the heart of Lyon’s rich Renaissance history, with its narrow cobblestone streets and colorful architecture transporting visitors back in time. A stroll through this area reveals hidden traboules, secret passageways once used by silk workers, perfect for exploring. The district is packed with charming cafés and bouchons, traditional Lyonnaise restaurants where you can savor local specialties. As you wander, you’ll be surrounded by the energy of street performers and the vibrancy of this historic neighborhood.
Parc de la Tête d’Or
This sprawling urban park, covering over 100 hectares, is a tranquil oasis amidst the bustle of Lyon. Whether you're looking to jog along scenic paths, enjoy a leisurely picnic with a bottle of wine, or take a peaceful boat ride across the lake, Parc de la Tête d’Or offers something for everyone. The park also features a beautiful botanical garden, a zoo, and several relaxing spots to unwind and take in nature, making it an ideal stop for families or solo travelers alike.
Fourvière Hill
Towering over Lyon, Fourvière Hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the distant Alps on a clear day. Accessible via funicular or by a scenic hike, it’s not just the views that attract visitors. The hill is home to the stunning Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière and the Roman amphitheaters that host concerts and events. As you explore, you'll feel Lyon's deep historical and spiritual roots, making it a must-visit for culture and history enthusiasts.
Notre-Dame de Fourvière
Notre-Dame de Fourvière is an iconic basilica that crowns Fourvière Hill, offering a blend of Romanesque and Byzantine architectural styles. Built in the late 19th century, the basilica’s intricate mosaics, stained glass, and gold accents make it a masterpiece of religious art. Visitors can also climb to the basilica’s observation deck for a panoramic view of Lyon. Whether you’re admiring its artistic beauty or reflecting on its spiritual significance, Notre-Dame is an essential stop in Lyon.
Place des Jacobins
Place des Jacobins is a picturesque square in the Presqu’île district, known for its striking fountain featuring intricate sculptures of notable Lyonnais figures. Surrounded by beautiful Haussmann-style buildings, this square is ideal for relaxing and soaking up the city’s ambiance. With nearby high-end shops, restaurants, and cafés, Place des Jacobins blends elegance and charm, making it a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike.
Passerelle Saint Georges
The Passerelle Saint Georges is one of Lyon’s many pedestrian bridges, offering a beautiful connection between the Saône River’s banks. With its striking red ironwork, it provides a picturesque view of both Vieux Lyon and the river, perfect for photography or a romantic stroll. As you cross the bridge, you’ll find yourself in the Saint-Georges neighborhood, known for its charming medieval atmosphere and quiet beauty.
Shopping at Les Bal des Ardents
Les Bal des Ardents is a hidden gem for book lovers and those in search of unique finds in Lyon. This independent bookstore specializes in rare and avant-garde literature, offering an eclectic selection for readers looking for something different. The intimate, cozy atmosphere invites shoppers to linger, and its location near Place des Terreaux makes it a convenient stop while exploring Lyon’s artsy scene.
Place Bellecour
As one of the largest open squares in Europe, Place Bellecour is the vibrant heart of Lyon. Surrounded by cafés and shops, this square is the perfect starting point for exploring the city’s main attractions. In the center stands a statue of King Louis XIV on horseback, serving as a popular meeting spot for locals. Throughout the year, Place Bellecour hosts events and activities, making it a lively hub where Lyon’s rich history and modern culture meet.
Le Mur des Canuts
Le Mur des Canuts is one of Lyon’s most famous murals, celebrating the city’s silk-weaving heritage. Covering an entire building façade, this trompe-l'œil mural depicts the daily life of the workers who once lived in the Croix-Rousse district. As you stand in front of the mural, its hyper-realistic style will make you feel like you're part of the scene, offering a captivating glimpse into Lyon’s rich history of craftsmanship and community.
Image Source: Lyon Tourist Office
Fête des Lumières
The Fête des Lumières is Lyon’s most famous annual event, transforming the city into a glowing wonderland for four magical nights in December. Buildings, squares, and monuments are illuminated by creative light installations, attracting millions of visitors from around the world. What began as a humble celebration of the Virgin Mary has evolved into a city-wide spectacle of art and light, with vibrant displays in every corner of Lyon. It’s a must-see if you’re visiting during the winter holiday season.
Below you can find more tours in Lyon!
What Should I Eat?
Lyon is often hailed as the gastronomic capital of France, and for good reason. The city is home to a rich culinary heritage that blends traditional French techniques with local flavors, making it a paradise for food lovers. One of the best ways to experience Lyon's cuisine is by visiting a bouchon—a small, cozy restaurant serving authentic Lyonnaise dishes. Here, you can savor hearty specialties like quenelles, a delicate fish dumpling in a rich sauce, and cervelle de canut, a flavorful cheese dip made with fresh herbs. Whether you’re indulging in a multi-course meal or grabbing a sweet treat from a local café, Lyon's food scene promises a memorable feast for every palate.
Brunch
Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse
This gourmet food market is a paradise for food lovers, offering an array of high-quality local products like charcuterie, cheese, oysters, and Lyonnaise specialties. It's the perfect spot to sample traditional dishes like quenelles and saucisson brioche in a lively, authentic setting.
Momento Coffee House
A cozy café with a modern vibe, Momento Coffee House serves specialty coffee and light bites, including sandwiches and pastries, perfect for a laid-back brunch or afternoon snack. It’s a favorite among locals for its artisanal approach to coffee.
New Cafe
New Café offers a relaxed, contemporary setting with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their menu includes salads, sandwiches, and healthy bowls, making it a great spot for a quick, wholesome meal in the heart of Lyon.
Les Papas Sucrés
This café and bakery is known for its mouth-watering pastries and decadent sweets, specializing in creative, sugar-laden treats like éclairs, tartes, and choux. It's a perfect stop for indulging your sweet tooth with a gourmet twist.
Boulangerie du Palais
A local favorite in Vieux Lyon, Boulangerie du Palais offers freshly baked bread and traditional French pastries like croissants, pain au chocolat, and the famous praluline, a buttery brioche filled with praline. It’s ideal for grabbing a quick snack while exploring the city.
Dinner
L’Auberge du Pont de Collonges
This legendary restaurant, founded by renowned chef Paul Bocuse, serves elevated traditional French cuisine with a focus on refined Lyonnaise classics. The menu features iconic dishes like black truffle soup and roasted Bresse chicken, making it a must-visit for fine dining enthusiasts.
Le Kitchen Café
Known for its creative and seasonal menu, Le Kitchen Café blends modern cuisine with fresh, local ingredients. Offering both savory and sweet options, their brunch and lunch menus are a hit, especially their fruit tarts and quiches.
La Mère Brazier
A Michelin-starred institution, La Mère Brazier offers sophisticated French dishes with a modern twist, drawing from Lyon’s rich culinary heritage. Expect dishes like foie gras, quenelles, and expertly crafted desserts in an elegant, historical setting.
Les Apothicaries
A modern, experimental restaurant, Les Apothicaries showcases seasonal and foraged ingredients in a constantly evolving menu. Dishes are presented in creative, small-plate formats, offering a fresh take on traditional French cuisine with a farm-to-table philosophy.
Where Should I Stay?
Luxury
InterContinental Lyon - Hotel Dieu
Located in the 2nd arrondissement, this hotel features a Michelin-starred restaurant, spacious rooms and great historical significance.
20 Quai Jules Courmont, 69002 Lyon, France
Mid-Range
Okko Hotel Lyon Point Lafayette
This hotel features a stylish design, complimentary evening aperitivo and a fitness center. It can be found in the 6th arrondissement.
14 bis Quai General Sarrail, 69006 Lyon, France
Hotel des Celestins
Located in the 2nd arrondissement you will find this boutique hotel in a great location, close to shopping and dining.
4 Rue des Archers, 69002 Lyon, France
Lyon has a way of capturing your heart, whether you're savoring local flavors in a cozy bouchon or getting lost in the charm of its historic streets. From the breathtaking views atop Fourvière Hill to the vibrant energy of the city’s markets, every moment here feels special. While one day in Lyon is just a glimpse, it’s enough to fall in love with the city’s unique blend of culture, history, and incredible food. We hope our recommendations inspire you to explore and experience the best of Lyon at your own pace.
