Lyon France 6 Day Itinerary

Lyon, France: A 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon)

  • Morning: Arrive in Lyon and check-in to your accommodation. Recommended hotel: Hotel Le Royal or Hotel Carlton Lyon.
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the famous Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
    • Explore Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon), a charming historic district with narrow streets and medieval architecture.
    • Walk along the Saône River and admire the city’s beautiful views.
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Lyonnaise cuisine at La Mère Poularde or Le Garet.
  • Tip: Buy a Lyon City Card, which grants access to public transportation and several attractions.

Day 2: Museums and Galleries

  • Morning:
    • Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon (Lyon Museum of Fine Arts), one of France’s largest art museums.
    • Explore the Musée Lumière (Lumière Museum), dedicated to the history of cinema and photography.
  • Afternoon: Discover the contemporary art scene at the Musée d’Art Contemporain de Lyon (Lyon Museum of Contemporary Art).
  • Evening: Enjoy a drink at Le Sucre, a trendy bar located in a former sugar warehouse.

Day 3: Roman Ruins and Historical Landmarks

  • Morning:
    • Visit the Théâtre Romain (Roman Theater), a well-preserved ancient theater.
    • Explore the Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine (Museum of Gallo-Roman Civilization).
  • Afternoon: Walk through the Parc de la Tête d’Or (Golden Head Park), a beautiful urban park with a rose garden and a lake.
  • Evening: Savor traditional Lyonnaise cuisine at Le Kitchen Café.

Day 4: Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse and Croix-Rousse

  • Morning:
    • Visit Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, a bustling market named after the famous French chef.
    • Explore the charming neighborhood of Croix-Rousse, known for its bohemian vibe and street art.
  • Afternoon: Take a stroll along the Rhône River and admire the city’s views.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at L’ Auberge du Pont de Collonges, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Lyonnaise cuisine.

Day 5: Day Trip to Beaujolais Wine Region

  • Morning: Take a train or drive to the nearby Beaujolais wine region (approximately 1 hour).
  • Afternoon:
  • Evening: Return to Lyon and enjoy dinner at Le Grand Café, a beautiful Art Deco-style café.

Day 6: Shopping and Departure

  • Morning:
    • Visit the famous Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse market for some last-minute shopping.
    • Explore the trendy boutiques and art galleries in the Croix-Rousse neighborhood.
  • Afternoon: Depart for the airport or train station.

Transportation:

  • Lyon has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metro lines. Buy a Lyon City Card for unlimited access to public transportation.
  • Taxi services are also available.

Tips and Essentials:

  • Learn some basic French phrases to enhance your experience.
  • Be prepared for variable weather; bring umbrellas and comfortable shoes.
  • Don’t miss the famous Lyonnaise salad at a traditional bouchon (tavern).
  • Try some local specialties, such as salade lyonnaise, quenelles, and tarte aux pralines.

Other Things to Know:

  • Lyon is a walkable city; wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for cobblestone streets.
  • Be respectful of the city’s history and architecture; no flash photography or loud noise in historic areas.
  • Don’t forget to try some local wine, such as Beaujolais or Côtes du Rhône.

Bon voyage et à bientôt à Lyon!