Lyon-4-day-itinerary

Lyon, France: A 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore the Heart of Lyon

Morning

  • Start at Place Bellecour, one of the largest squares in Europe, surrounded by cafes and shops.
  • Visit the nearby Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, a stunning white church with panoramic views of the city.

Afternoon

  • Wander through the Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon) district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its narrow streets, medieval buildings, and charming squares.
  • Stop by Saint-Jean Street, lined with restaurants, cafes, and boutiques.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Le Kitchen Café, serving traditional Lyonnaise cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
  • Stay overnight at Hotel Le Royal, a comfortable hotel located in the heart of Lyon.

Tips:

  • Buy a Lyon City Card, which grants access to public transportation, museums, and discounts at various attractions.
  • Be prepared for cobblestone streets and uneven pavement in Vieux Lyon.

Day 2: Museums and Parks

Morning

  • Visit the Lyon Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des Beaux-Arts), one of France’s largest art museums, featuring an impressive collection of art from ancient to modern times.
  • Stroll through the beautiful Tête d’Or Park, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city.

Afternoon

  • Explore the Musée Lumière, dedicated to the history of cinema and photography, located in a beautiful 19th-century building.
  • Relax in the Parc de la Tête d’Or, which offers boat rides, a rose garden, and plenty of green space.

Evening

  • Dine at La Mère Braz, a traditional Lyonnaise restaurant serving local specialties like salade lyonnaise and quenelles.
  • Enjoy a drink at Le Sucre, a trendy rooftop bar with great city views.

Things to Know:

  • The Lyon Museum of Fine Arts is closed on Tuesdays.
  • Parc de la Tête d’Or has several entrances; use the one near the museum for easiest access.

Day 3: Croix-Rousse and Les Halles

Morning

  • Explore the Croix-Rousse district, known for its bohemian vibe, street art, and traboules (hidden passageways).
  • Visit the Sous les Toits de Lyon, a unique shopping center with a beautiful rooftop garden.

Afternoon

  • Wander through Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, a bustling marketplace offering fresh produce, flowers, and souvenirs.
  • Stop by La Halle Tony Garnier, a stunning example of industrial architecture now hosting cultural events and exhibitions.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at L’Auberge du Pont, serving seasonal dishes with a focus on local ingredients.
  • Stay overnight at Hotel Carlton Lyon, a stylish hotel located near Les Halles.

Tips:

  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the hilly Croix-Rousse district.
  • Be prepared for crowds and lively atmosphere in Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse.

Day 4: Roman Ruins and Modern Lyon

Morning

  • Visit the Roman Amphitheater of Fourvière, a well-preserved ancient theater with great city views.
  • Explore the Roman Odeon of Lyon, another impressive archaeological site featuring ancient ruins and mosaics.

Afternoon

  • Head to the Confluence district, where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet, offering modern architecture, street art, and trendy bars.
  • Visit the Musée des Confluences, a museum showcasing interactive exhibits on science, technology, and society.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at L’Épicerie, a cozy bistro serving creative dishes with a focus on local products.
  • End your trip with a scenic Rhône River Cruise, offering stunning views of Lyon’s skyline.

Transportation:

  • Use the efficient TCL (Transports en Commun Lyonnais) public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metro lines.
  • Consider purchasing a Lyon City Pass, which includes unlimited public transportation and discounts on attractions.

Other Things to Know:

  • Lyon is known for its gastronomy; be sure to try some traditional dishes like salade lyonnaise, quenelles, and tarte aux pralines.
  • The city has many hidden passageways (traboules) that connect buildings and streets; explore them to discover Lyon’s secrets.