Known for its narrow passageways (traboules) and silk workshops, Croix-Rousse is a unique and vibrant neighborhood. It's also known as the 'hill that works' because it was traditionally home to many small silk workshops.

The Croix-Rousse district is a historic neighborhood in Lyon, known for its silk-weaving past. This area was once the heart of the city's silk industry, with many of the old workshops now converted into artists' studios and galleries. /n Today, the district is a vibrant arts scene, with many galleries, studios, and boutiques. The area is also known for its unique architecture, with many buildings featuring the distinctive 'traboules' - secret passageways used by the silk workers to transport their goods.

A historic neighborhood known for its silk-weaving past and vibrant arts scene.

Traboules are a type of passageway primarily associated with the city of Lyon, France.

The Traboules are a unique feature of Lyon's architectural landscape. These passageways, originally used by silk workers to transport their goods, offer a fascinating glimpse into the city's history. /n Walking through the Traboules is like stepping back in time. You'll find yourself in hidden courtyards, secret staircases, and narrow alleys that tell the story of Lyon's past. A tour of the Traboules is a must for any visitor to Lyon.

Traboules are unique passageways in Lyon, offering a glimpse into the city's history.

Bouchons are traditional Lyonnaise restaurants that serve local dishes, including sausages, duck pâté or roast pork. They are part of Lyon's unique gastronomic tradition.

Bouchons are a culinary institution in Lyon. These traditional Lyonnaise restaurants are known for their hearty local cuisine, warm atmosphere, and friendly service. /n From quenelles to sausages, the food served in Bouchons is a true reflection of Lyon's rich culinary heritage. Dining in a Bouchon is not just about the food, it's about experiencing the city's culture and tradition. It's a must-try for any food lover visiting Lyon.

Bouchons are traditional Lyonnaise restaurants known for their local cuisine.

Fourvière is a hill in the city of Lyon, France. It is the site of the original Roman settlement of Lugdunum.

Fourvière Hill is a historic site in Lyon, offering panoramic views of the city. The hill is home to several important landmarks, including the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière and the ancient Roman Theatres. /n A visit to Fourvière Hill is a must for any visitor to Lyon. The hill offers stunning views of the city, and the landmarks on the hill are some of the most important in Lyon. The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is a stunning example of 19th-century architecture, while the Roman Theatres are a testament to Lyon's ancient history.

A historic site offering panoramic views of Lyon.

The Roman Theatres of Lyon are two ancient Roman theatres that form a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Lyon. The large theatre and the Odeon are both embedded into the hill, and are part of the city's ancient heritage.

The Roman Theatres in Lyon are ancient structures that offer a glimpse into the city's past. These theatres, which are among the oldest Roman theatres in France, are a testament to Lyon's rich history. /n The theatres are located on Fourvière Hill, offering stunning views of the city. They are a must-visit for anyone interested in history or architecture. The theatres are still used today for performances, making them a living part of Lyon's cultural scene.

Ancient Roman theatres offering a glimpse into Lyon's past.

The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is a minor basilica in Lyon. It was built with private funds between 1872 and 1884 in a dominant position overlooking the city.

The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is a stunning 19th-century basilica located on Fourvière Hill in Lyon. The basilica is one of the city's most iconic landmarks, and a visit to the basilica is a must for any visitor to Lyon. /n The basilica is known for its stunning architecture, with intricate mosaics and stained glass windows. The basilica also offers stunning views of the city from its location on Fourvière Hill. The basilica is a place of worship, but it's also a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world.

A stunning 19th-century basilica located on Fourvière Hill.

The Saône River is a right tributary of the Rhône River that runs through Lyon. It offers scenic views and opportunities for river cruises and water sports.

The Saône River is a major river flowing through Lyon. The river offers scenic views of the city, and a walk along the riverbank is a must for any visitor to Lyon. /n River cruises are a popular way to see the city from a different perspective. These cruises offer stunning views of Lyon's historic architecture, and many also offer dining options. The river is also a popular spot for fishing and boating, making it a hub of activity in the city.

A major river flowing through Lyon, offering scenic views and river cruises.

The Confluence district is a modern and innovative neighborhood in Lyon, known for its striking contemporary architecture and its sustainable development. It's also home to the Musée des Confluences, a science and anthropology museum with a futuristic design.

The Confluence district is a modern neighborhood in Lyon, known for its innovative architecture and cultural institutions. The district is located at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, giving it its name. /n The district is home to many of Lyon's most modern buildings, including the Musée des Confluences, a science and anthropology museum with a striking modern design. The district is also home to many shops, restaurants, and bars, making it a vibrant part of Lyon's cultural scene.

A modern district known for its innovative architecture and cultural institutions.

The Murals in Croix-Rousse are a unique and vibrant form of street art that depict the history and culture of the city. They are a must-see for any visitor to Lyon.

The Murals in Croix-Rousse are a major attraction in Lyon. These large-scale works of art cover the sides of buildings, telling stories of the city's history and culture. /n The murals are a testament to Lyon's vibrant arts scene, and a walk around the Croix-Rousse district to see them is a must-do for any visitor. Each mural is unique, with some depicting scenes from Lyon's past, while others reflect the city's contemporary culture.

Famous for its large murals, reflecting the city's history and culture.

Experience the charm of Lyon, France, a UNESCO World Heritage city known for its historical and architectural landmarks. As the gastronomic capital of the world, Lyon offers a plethora of exquisite dining options, including traditional bouchons and Michelin-starred restaurants. Explore the city's vibrant culture by visiting the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, the Renaissance district Vieux Lyon, and the modern Confluence district. Don't miss the stunning views from Fourvière Hill and the beautiful Parc de la Tête d'Or. Lyon also hosts the famous Festival of Lights every December, transforming the city into a spectacular light show. Whether you're a foodie, history buff, or art lover, Lyon promises a unique and unforgettable journey.

Croix-Rousse district

Traboules

Bouchons

Fourvière Hill

Roman Theatres

Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

Saône River

Start your day with a visit to the Croix-Rousse district, known for its historical silk workshops. Wander through the hidden passageways, or Traboules, and enjoy the stunning murals depicting Lyon's history.

Enjoy a traditional Lyonnaise lunch in one of the local Bouchons in the Old Town. These small restaurants offer hearty, homemade dishes that are sure to satisfy your appetite.

After lunch, head to the Fourvière Hill for a panoramic view of the city. Visit the ancient Roman Theatres and the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, a stunning example of 19th-century architecture.

For dinner, venture into the trendy district of Confluence, where you can enjoy a meal in one of the modern eateries. The area is known for its innovative cuisine and stylish atmosphere.

End your day with a stroll along the Saône River. The riverside is beautifully lit at night, offering a romantic ambiance. You can also explore the vibrant nightlife in the nearby districts.

Exploring the Historical and Modern Sides of Lyon

Daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March, ends last Sunday in October

UTC+1

Lyon has a comprehensive public transport system, known as TCL, which includes metro, tram, trolleybus, and bus services. The metro has four lines (A, B, C, and D) that cover most of the city. The tram network has six lines (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, and T6) and is a great way to travel longer distances. The trolleybus and bus services cover the entire city and surrounding suburbs.

Ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft are available in Lyon. These can be a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling in a group or have a lot of luggage. Simply download the app, set your pickup and drop-off locations, and wait for your ride to arrive.

Lyon has a popular bike-sharing program called Vélo'v. There are hundreds of stations across the city where you can pick up and drop off bikes. The first 30 minutes of each ride are free, and you can use the bikes as often as you like.

Taxis are readily available in Lyon, and can be hailed on the street, found at taxi ranks, or booked in advance. They're a good option for direct, comfortable travel, especially outside of public transport operating hours.

Renting a car can be a good option if you're planning to explore the surrounding region. However, traffic can be heavy in the city and parking can be difficult and expensive. Most international car rental companies have offices in Lyon.

Lyon is a very walkable city, especially in the city center and the Old Town (Vieux Lyon). Many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking is a great way to explore the city at your own pace and discover hidden gems.

Lyon is situated at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, and riverboats are a unique and scenic way to get around. There are public riverboat services, as well as private river cruises.

Electric scooters are a popular and fun way to get around Lyon. Several companies, including Lime and Bird, operate in the city. You can rent a scooter using the company's app, and then leave it anywhere in the city when you're done.

A traditional Lyonnaise dish made from creamed fish or meat, mixed with breadcrumbs and egg. It's a staple in Lyon and a must-try for any food lover.

Quenelles

A classic French dish originating from Lyon, made with chicken slow-cooked in a wine sauce, typically a red wine from Burgundy.

Coq au Vin

A hearty salad from Lyon, typically made with frisée or curly endive, bacon, croutons, and a poached egg.

Salade Lyonnaise

A type of dry-cured sausage from Lyon, typically made from pork. It's a popular addition to charcuterie boards.

Rosette de Lyon

A cheese spread or dip from Lyon, made with fromage blanc, seasoned with chopped herbs, shallots, salt, pepper, olive oil and vinegar.

Cervelle de Canut

A sweet tart made with red pralines, a specialty of Lyon. The pralines are made with almonds coated in a hard, red sugar shell.

Tarte à la Praline

A dish from Lyon made with salmon wrapped in a pastry crust, typically served with a creamy sauce.

Saumon en Croute

A type of doughnut from Lyon, typically made for Mardi Gras. They're light, crispy, and often dusted with powdered sugar.

Bugnes

A sausage made from pork intestines, a specialty of Lyon. It's typically grilled and served with mustard.

Andouillette Lyonnaise

Small, square pasta filled with cheese and parsley, a specialty of the Dauphiné region near Lyon.

Ravioles du Dauphiné

A soft cheese from the Isère department near Lyon. It's typically made from cow's milk and has a creamy, slightly tangy flavor.

Saint-Marcellin

A red wine from the Rhône Valley, which is near Lyon. It's typically full-bodied and fruity, with flavors of blackberry and black currant.

Côte du Rhône

New Year's Day

Easter Monday

Labor Day / May Day

WWII Victory Day

Ascension Day

Whit Monday

Bastille Day

Assumption of Mary

All Saints' Day

Armistice Day

Christmas Day

One of the most recognizable châteaux in the world because of its very distinctive French Renaissance architecture.

Château de Chambord

Known for its Red Cross headquarters and a hub of diplomacy, featuring luxury shops, restaurants, and the Jet d'Eau, a large fountain in Geneva Lake.

Geneva

Known as the 'Venice of the Alps', this idyllic and touristic representation offers a harmonious and romantic mix of cultural and natural beauty.

Annecy

Famous for its stunning alpine scenery and the site of the first Winter Olympics in 1924.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Known for its traditional mustard, Dijon is also a city of art and history with an exceptionally preserved heritage.

Dijon

Famous for its historic old town and the 1443 Hospices de Beaune.

Beaune

A design city that has a rich industrial heritage, beautifully designed by renowned architects.

Saint-Étienne

Known as the 'Capital of the Alps', Grenoble is surrounded by mountains and is renowned for its universities and research centers.

Grenoble

Known for its Roman monuments including a theater, and the Temple of Augustus and Livia.

Vienne

The most famous castle in France, known for its history and the Treaty of Versailles signed in the Hall of Mirrors.

Château de Versailles

Colmar

French Riviera

Lille

Nice

Nimes

Paris

Strasbourg

The city spreading across both banks of the Saone river

Statue of Archangel Gabriel and view of the city from the Fourviere Basilica

Palais-de-Justice bridge with the Court of Appeal building at night

Lyon is located in the Rhône-Alpes region of France, and is the third largest city in the country.

The city is known for its historical and architectural landmarks, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Lyon has a semi-continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Average summer temperatures are around 75°F (24°C), while winter temperatures can drop to around 32°F (0°C).

The city is renowned for its cuisine and gastronomy, and is often referred to as the 'gastronomic capital of the world'.

Lyon is home to many 'bouchons', traditional Lyonnaise restaurants that serve local dishes.

The city is also known for its silk production, and you can find many shops selling silk products.

Lyon is a bike-friendly city, with many bike lanes and bike rental services available.

The city has an efficient public transportation system, including a metro, tram, and bus network.

Lyon's main airport is Lyon-Saint Exupéry, located about 20 miles east of the city.

The city is divided into nine districts, called 'arrondissements', each with its own unique character.

The local currency is the Euro (€), and credit cards are widely accepted.

French is the official language, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas and hotels.

Tipping is not mandatory in France, as service charge is included in the bill, but it is customary to leave small change.

Lyon is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+1).

The city has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues.

Lyon is a safe city, but like any major city, it's advisable to take precautions against pickpockets in crowded areas.

The city has many markets, where you can buy fresh produce, local products, and antiques.

Lyon is home to several universities, and has a large student population.

The city is also known for its festivals, the most famous of which is the 'Fête des Lumières' (Festival of Lights) in December.

Lyon is a great base for exploring the surrounding regions, including the vineyards of Beaujolais and the French Alps.

January is the coldest month in Lyon, with temperatures often dropping to near freezing. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy winter activities and don't mind the cold.

February is still quite cold, but temperatures start to rise slightly. It's a good time to visit if you want to avoid the tourist crowds.

March sees the start of spring in Lyon, with temperatures starting to rise. The city begins to bloom, making it a beautiful time to visit.

April is a pleasant month to visit Lyon, with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. The city is in full bloom and outdoor activities are enjoyable.

May is a great time to visit Lyon, with warm temperatures and long days. The city is bustling with outdoor activities and festivals.

June marks the start of summer in Lyon, with high temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's a perfect time for outdoor activities and exploring the city.

July is the hottest month in Lyon, with temperatures often reaching 30 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy hot weather and want to take advantage of the city's outdoor activities.

August is another hot month in Lyon, with high temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy the heat and want to explore the city's outdoor attractions.

September marks the start of autumn in Lyon, with temperatures starting to drop. It's a good time to visit if you want to avoid the summer crowds and enjoy the city's autumnal beauty.

October is a mild month in Lyon, with temperatures dropping further. The city is adorned with autumn colors, making it a beautiful time to visit.

November is a cool month in Lyon, with temperatures dropping further. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy cooler weather and want to explore the city's indoor attractions.

December is a cold month in Lyon, with temperatures often dropping to near freezing. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy winter activities and want to experience the city's Christmas festivities.

Lyon, France, is known for its temperate climate, which can vary greatly throughout the year. As such, it's important to plan your visit according to the weather conditions you prefer.

Spring (March to May) in Lyon is generally mild with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 68°F (10°C to 20°C). It's a great time to visit if you enjoy outdoor activities, as the city is in full bloom. However, it's also the city's rainiest season, so don't forget to pack a raincoat or umbrella.

Summer (June to August) is warm and sunny, with temperatures often reaching up to 86°F (30°C). This is the perfect time for sun-seekers to visit. However, it can get quite hot, so make sure to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and take breaks in the shade when sightseeing.

Autumn (September to November) sees cooler temperatures ranging from 45°F to 64°F (7°C to 18°C). The city is beautifully colored with fall foliage, making it a picturesque time to visit. Do pack some warm clothing as it can get quite chilly, especially in the evenings.

Winter (December to February) in Lyon is cold with temperatures often dropping to around 32°F (0°C), and occasionally snowfall. If you're planning to visit during this time, make sure to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, scarves, gloves, and hats.

Regardless of when you visit, Lyon's weather can be unpredictable. It's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and pack layers to accommodate changing conditions. Enjoy your visit to this beautiful city!

Cookie consent

1-Day Lyon Adventure: Unexplored Paths & Sightseeing with Friends

About Lyon, France