Things to do in Lyon

Activities, attractions and tours

A statue of an angel overlooking a densely packed city with red-roofed buildings and a river.
A modern building with a glass facade and a bike parking area in front.
An ornate church interior with intricate carvings, golden accents, and a central altar.
A densely packed urban area with historic buildings, a river, and a bridge.
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Things to do

Lyon: Guided Sightseeing Cruise

Lyon: Guided Sightseeing Cruise

HK$136
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Lyon: Guided Sightseeing Cruise
Picture 2 for Activity Lyon: Private Walking Tour of Lyon's Traboules

Lyon: Private Walking Tour of "Traboules" in the Old Town

HK$317
per adult
Lyon: Private Walking Tour of "Traboules" in the Old Town
Lyon City Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus Tour

Lyon City Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus Tour

HK$226
per adult
88% of travellers recommend
Lyon City Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus Tour
Walking Tour Lyon

Lyon Walking Tour: Explore Top Sights & Hidden Gems

HK$306
per adult
Lyon Walking Tour: Explore Top Sights & Hidden Gems
Lyon: Guided Evening Food Tour

Lyon Sunset Food Tour: Full Meal of Lyon’s Best Bites

HK$838
per adult
Lyon Sunset Food Tour: Full Meal of Lyon’s Best Bites
Lyon: City Highlights Walking Tour

Lyon: City Highlights Walking Tour

HK$199
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Lyon: City Highlights Walking Tour
Lyon: Musée de l’illusion Entrance Ticket

Lyon: Musée de l’illusion Entrance Ticket

HK$172
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Lyon: Musée de l’illusion Entrance Ticket
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Top places to visit

1. Bellecour Square

Bellecour Square is an enormous square that serves as the central hub of Lyon. Join locals and other travelers at this common meeting spot on a peninsula between the city’s two rivers. Gaze up at the equestrian statue of Louis XIV standing proudly in the heart of the plaza.
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A historic plaza with a statue of a man on a horse, a clock tower, and the Hotel Royal building.

2. Tête d'Or Park

Tête d’Or Parc is to Lyon as Central Park is to New York, a favorite spot to escape city bustle and find new treasures in every corner. Plan family outings or daily jogs in this lovely green space.
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A bronze equestrian statue in a park with surrounding flowers and trees.

3. Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

Because of its hilltop location, the Notre-Dame Basilica, officially Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière, can be seen from almost anywhere in Lyon. Not only is it a symbol of the city, but it is also one of Lyon’s most popular attractions. Visit to admire the extravagant excess of the gilded interior and admire spectacular views across the city.
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A detailed ceiling with intricate gold and turquoise patterns, including floral motifs and angelic figures.

4. Hôtel de Ville de Lyon

Be sure to visit the City Hall of Lyon (Hôtel de Ville de Lyon) on your journey through this historic city. The magnificent structure has a rich legacy of stories and an elegant façade that causes visitors to stop and stare. Come to see the stunning exterior, then explore the surrounding square to see further examples of gorgeous Lyonnais art and architecture.
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A grand historic building with ornate architecture, a large open square, and surrounding cafes.

5. Place des Terreaux

Terreaux Square (Place des Terreaux) is a bustling and busy square where both city inhabitants and tourists convene. Make this your starting point to visit major shopping streets, restaurants, bars and cafés, as well as the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall).
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A grand building with a clock tower, ornate sculptures, and a large dome.

6. Lyon National Opera

The Opéra de Lyon or Nouvel Opera is an eye-catching building that incorporates an original 19th-century façade and foyer with a striking modern extension. A remarkable architectural feat that blends old and new, the opera house can be further explored on a tour or by buying tickets for a show.
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A historic building with a classical facade and a modern glass structure atop.

What to do in Lyon

Stay near popular Lyon attractions

A historic plaza with a statue of a man on a horse, a clock tower, and the Hotel Royal building.

Bellecour Square

8.6/10 (2,316 reviews)
Place Bellecour, one of Europe's largest pedestrian squares, pulses at Lyon's heart beneath Louis XIV's statue. Relax at surrounding cafés or visit during December's spectacular Fête des Lumières.
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Where to stay in Lyon

Find the best Lyon areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Lyon
Learn more about Lyon
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Lyon City Centre

Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Bellecour Square to Place des Jacobins – discover Lyon City Centre, a destination also famous for its shopping.

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La Presqu'île

Bellecour Square and Place des Jacobins are top sights in La Presqu'île, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Ampere-Victor Hugo Station or Bellecour Station to see more sights in the area.

A statue of an angel overlooking a densely packed city with red-roofed buildings and a river.

Old Lyon

If you're spending time in Old Lyon, you might enjoy attractions like Lyon Cathedral and Cinema and Miniature Museum. You might also enjoy the neighbourhood's ample dining options before hopping on the metro at Vieux Lyon Station to see more of the city.

A cityscape with a river, historic buildings, and a prominent church with a large circular window.

La Croix Rousse

Shopping, spas and restaurants are just a few things travellers like about La Croix Rousse. Sights like Place de la Croix Rousse and Gros Caillou are spots to explore, and you can get around the greater Lyon area at Henon Station.

A tall building with a curved facade and a clear blue sky above.
Photo by Kevin CARY
Open Photo by Kevin CARY

Part Dieu - Bir Hakeim

While you're in Part Dieu - Bir Hakeim, take in top sights like Part Dieu Mall or Auditorium Maurice Ravel, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Part-Dieu - Auditorium Tram Stop or Part-Dieu - Vivier Merle Tram Stop.

A cityscape with a prominent hilltop church and a tower.

Charbonnieres-les-Bains

A cityscape at dusk with prominent skyscrapers, a historic building, and a network of illuminated red lines.

Vaulx-en-Velin

Frequently asked questions

Is Lyon worth visiting?
Offering a blend of festivals and dining, there are plenty of things to do in Lyon. While you're here, check out Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon, a major attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Lyon?
Once you've visited leading attractions like Lugdunum and Lyon Aquarium, spend some time exploring Lyon's shopping and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Lyon?
Don't leave without exploring Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon, ranked the top tourist attraction in Lyon.
Is three days enough to stay in Lyon?
Three days in Lyon is more than enough to enjoy the city's major highlights. Many travellers spend two days on average. Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon, Lyon Cathedral and Lugdunum are top-rated sights. Want to see more? Stick around a little longer to check off nearby hotspots like Colombier-Saugnieu.
Is Lyon a walkable city?
It all depends on what you plan to do and see in Lyon. Several key attractions, like Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon and Lyon Cathedral, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of Lyon's neighbourhoods, Lyon City Centre is 2 kilometres away from downtown, while 2nd Arrondissement is 2 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Lyon with kids?
Whether you're travelling with young explorers or playful teenagers, a fun-filled itinerary sets the tone for a great escape. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Lyon with kids.
What to do in Lyon for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or fan of Mother Nature, there are plenty of things to do in Lyon for adults including Hôtel de Ville de Lyon and Halle Tony Garnier.
Are there free things to do in Lyon?
One of the top ways to discover free things to do in Lyon is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on cool neighbourhoods, parks and other hotspots you can enjoy without getting your cash out. Historic Site of Lyon is one sight that doesn't have an entrance fee.