Lyon, France is a beautiful destination for anyone looking for a unique cultural experience. With its vibrant atmosphere, delicious cuisine, and stunning architecture, it’s no wonder why so many tourists flock to the city. If you’re planning a trip to Lyon, there’s plenty to do and see! Here are 10 amazing things to check out when in the city:
1. Explore the Old Town
No trip to Lyon would be complete without exploring the Old Town. Here, you’ll find winding cobbled streets, quaint cafes, and beautiful architecture. You’ll also find a number of picturesque squares, such as Place Bellecour and Place des Terreaux. Be sure to take some time to wander around and soak up the atmosphere.
2. Visit the Cathedral of Saint John
The Cathedral of Saint John is one of the most beautiful and iconic landmarks in Lyon. The grand Romanesque style building was built in the 12th century and is home to a number of priceless artifacts, including stained glass windows and beautiful frescoes. A visit to the cathedral is a must-do for anyone visiting the city.
3. Climb Fourvière Hill
If you’re looking for stunning views of the city, head to Fourvière Hill. Here, you’ll find the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, which offers breathtaking views of the city. The hill is also home to the Gallo-Roman ruins of the ancient city of Lugdunum, which are worth exploring.
4. Explore the Traboules
The traboules are a unique feature of Lyon’s architecture. These secret passages were built in the 19th century to connect the city’s neighborhoods. There are still traboules in the city today, and exploring them is a great way to get a feel for the city’s history and culture.
5. Check Out the Lyon Museum of Fine Arts
The Lyon Museum of Fine Arts is one of the city’s top attractions. Here, you’ll find an impressive collection of art, with works from the 15th century to the present day. Whether you’re a fan of art or not, it’s worth exploring the museum to get a feel for the city’s culture.
6. Visit the Parc de la Tête d’Or
The Parc de la Tête d’Or is one of the largest parks in Europe and a great place to spend a day in the city. The park is home to an impressive variety of plants and animals, and the large lake is a great spot to take a boat ride or relax with a picnic.
7. Attend a Performance at the Opéra de Lyon
The Opéra de Lyon is one of the city’s most beloved cultural institutions. Here, you can catch performances of everything from contemporary ballet to classic operas. Even if you don’t manage to get a ticket, it’s worth taking a stroll around the building to admire its stunning architecture.
8. Take a Walking Tour of the City
Exploring Lyon on foot is the best way to get to know the city. There are a number of walking tours available, which give you the chance to discover the city’s hidden gems and learn about its history and culture.
9. Shop at Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse
If you’re looking to pick up some souvenirs, head to Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse. This is one of the city’s most popular food markets, and it’s the perfect place to pick up some local delicacies. From cheese and charcuterie to fresh fruits and vegetables, there’s something for everyone.
10. Try Some Lyonnaise Cuisine
Lyon is renowned for its delicious food, so it’s worth trying some local dishes while in the city. From classic Lyonnaise dishes such as quenelles and saucisson to modern creations like the iconic poulet en croute, there’s plenty to choose from. Be sure to sample some of the city’s famous wines too!
5 Places or Attractions to Avoid in Lyon
No city is perfect, and there are a few places in Lyon that are best avoided. Here are 5 places or attractions to avoid when in the city:
1. Croix-Rousse
Croix-Rousse is a neighborhood on the hill overlooking the city. While it’s worth a visit for the stunning views, it can be a bit rough around the edges and is best avoided at night.
2. Place des Jacobins
Place des Jacobins is a square in the city center. It can be a bit touristy and is best avoided if you’re looking for a more authentic experience.
3. La Part-Dieu
La Part-Dieu is a business district in the city. While it’s worth visiting during the day, it can be a bit sketchy at night, so it’s best avoided if you’re looking for a more relaxing experience.
4. Confluence
Confluence is a newly-developed area of the city. While it’s worth a visit for the impressive architecture, it can be a bit soulless and is best avoided if you’re looking for a more traditional experience.
5. Place Bellecour
Place Bellecour is a large square in the city center. While it’s worth a visit for the stunning views, it can be a bit crowded and is best avoided if you’re looking for a more peaceful experience.
Lyon is a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. From exploring the Old Town to sampling the delicious cuisine, there’s something for everyone in the city. Just be sure to avoid the places and attractions mentioned above if you’re looking for a more authentic experience!