3-Day Ultimate Travel Itinerary to Lyon, France

Lyon, France

3 days

The city spreading across both banks of the Saone river
Palais-de-Justice bridge with the Court of Appeal building at night
Montée du Garillan neighborhood
Bellecour square statue
Statue of Archangel Gabriel and view of the city from the Fourviere Basilica

About Lyon, France

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.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Vieux Lyon and Fourvière

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the historic district of Vieux Lyon. Explore the Renaissance architecture and wander through the narrow, cobbled streets. Don't miss the hidden passageways known as 'traboules'.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Lyonnaise lunch in a local 'bouchon'. These are typical Lyon restaurants serving local dishes such as quenelles and sausages.

Afternoon

Visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. This stunning basilica offers panoramic views of the city. Afterwards, explore the Roman Theatres of Fourvière, the oldest in France.

Dinner

Have dinner in the Presqu'île district, known for its vibrant dining scene. Try some local wine and cheese.

Evening

Take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Rhône River, enjoying the city lights reflecting on the water.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Museum of Fine Arts, one of the largest art galleries in France. It houses a wide range of artworks from antiquity to modern times.

Lunch

Have lunch in a café in the Croix-Rousse district, known for its bohemian vibe and silk-weaving history.

Afternoon

Explore the Croix-Rousse district, known for its silk-weaving history. Visit the Maison des Canuts to learn about the silk industry.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner in a restaurant offering views of the city. Lyon is known for its gastronomy, so make sure to try some local specialties.

Evening

Visit the Parc de la Tête d'Or, one of the largest urban parks in France. It has a lake, a zoo, and beautiful gardens.

Morning

Visit the Confluence district, a modern and innovative area. Explore the Musée des Confluences, a science and anthropology museum with a striking modern architecture.

Lunch

Have lunch in a restaurant in the Confluence district. Try some seafood, as Lyon is known for its freshwater fish dishes.

Afternoon

Take a boat tour on the Saône River, enjoying the views of the city's landmarks. This is a relaxing way to see the city from a different perspective.

Dinner

Have your last dinner in Lyon in the Old Town. Try some Lyonnaise potatoes and Rosette de Lyon, a type of salami.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to the Opera House. Enjoy a performance or simply admire the building's stunning architecture.

Attractions in Itinerary (8)

Vieux Lyon

1
Vieux Lyon

Vieux Lyon is the largest Renaissance district of Lyon in the 5th arrondissement of Lyon.

Attractions
Landmarks
Neighborhoods
Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

2
Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

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.

Attractions
Religious Sites
Architecture
Roman Theatres of Fourvière

3
Roman Theatres of Fourvière

The Roman Theatres of Fourvière are ancient Roman sites in Lyon, France. They consist of a large theatre and a smaller odeon, both used for performances and public events during the Roman era.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Museum of Fine Arts

4
Museum of Fine Arts

One of the largest art museums in France, housing a vast collection of artifacts, sculptures, and paintings from various periods.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Maison des Canuts

5
Maison des Canuts

A museum dedicated to Lyon's silk industry, offering guided tours that explain the history and techniques of silk weaving. The museum also has a shop where visitors can buy silk products.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Parc de la Tête d'Or

6
Parc de la Tête d'Or

Parc de la Tête d'Or, in Lyon, is a large urban park in France with an area of approximately 117 hectares.

Parks
Gardens
Musée des Confluences

7
Musée des Confluences

A science centre and anthropology museum which opened on 20 December 2014. It is located at the southern tip of the Presqu'île at the confluence of the Rhône and the Saône.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Opera House

8
Opera House

The Lyon Opera House, officially the National Opera of Lyon, is a modern reinterpretation of the original 1831 opera house. It is known for its unique architecture and is a major cultural landmark in the city. It hosts a variety of performances including opera, ballet, and concerts.

Attractions
Entertainment
Architecture

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Quenelles

Quenelles

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.

Coq au Vin

Coq au Vin

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

Salade Lyonnaise

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

Rosette de Lyon

Rosette de Lyon

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

Cervelle de Canut

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

Tarte à la Praline

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

Saumon en Croute

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

Bugnes

Bugnes

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

Andouillette Lyonnaise

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

Ravioles du Dauphiné

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

Saint-Marcellin

Saint-Marcellin

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

Côte du Rhône

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.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Lyon, France, is from September to November or from April to June. During these periods, the weather is pleasant and the city is less crowded. The summer months can also be a good time if you don't mind the heat and a bit more tourist traffic. However, if you're interested in Lyon's famous Festival of Lights, plan your visit in early December.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

May 8

Wed

WWII Victory Day

May 9

Thu

Ascension Day

May 20

Mon

Whit Monday

July 14

Sun

Bastille Day

August 15

Thu

Assumption of Mary

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day

November 11

Mon

Armistice Day

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

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.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 112, 15; Fire: 112, 18; Police: 112, 17

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type E

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Lyon, France as a first time visitor

1

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

2

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

3

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).

4

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

5

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

6

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

7

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

8

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

9

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

10

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

11

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

12

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

13

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

14

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

15

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

16

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

17

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

18

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

19

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

20

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

Basic French to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Bonjour

bon-zhoor

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Au revoir

oh reh-vwar

Leaving or saying goodbye

Please

S'il vous plaît

see voo play

Making a request

Thank you

Merci

mehr-see

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Oui

wee

Agreeing or affirming

No

Non

non

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Excusez-moi

ex-koo-zay mwah

Getting attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

Je suis désolé

zhuh swee day-zoh-lay

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

Parlez-vous anglais?

par-lay voo ahn-glay

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

Je ne comprends pas

zhuh nuh kom-prahn pah

Expressing difficulty in understanding

Where is...?

Où est...?

oo eh...?

Asking for directions

Bathroom

Toilettes

twah-let

Asking for the restroom

Help

Aidez-moi

ed-ay mwah

In case of emergency

Call the police

Appelez la police

ah-peh-lay la po-lease

In case of emergency

I'm lost

Je suis perdu

zhuh swee pehr-doo

When you're lost

How much does it cost?

Combien ça coûte?

kom-byen sah koot

Asking for the price

Can I have the bill, please?

L'addition, s'il vous plaît

la-dee-syon, see voo play

Asking for the bill at a restaurant

Water

Eau

oh

Asking for water

Food

Nourriture

noo-ree-toor

Talking about food

Cheers

Santé

sahn-tay

Making a toast

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear for 4 days

  • Socks for 4 days

  • 2-3 comfortable walking shoes

  • 2-3 pairs of pants or jeans

  • 2-3 casual shirts or tops

  • 1-2 dressier outfits for evening

  • 1 light jacket or sweater

  • 1 rainproof jacket

  • 1 pair of pajamas

  • 1 swimsuit (if planning to swim)

  • 1 hat for sun protection

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner

  • Travel-sized body wash or soap

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Hairbrush or comb

  • Makeup and makeup remover (if applicable)

  • Sunscreen

  • Travel-sized laundry detergent

  • Prescription medications

  • First-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers)

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or other ID

  • Printed copies of flight and hotel confirmations

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in Euros

  • Guidebook or map of Lyon

  • French phrasebook or dictionary

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Universal power adapter

  • Digital camera or GoPro

  • Charger for camera or GoPro

  • Portable power bank

  • Headphones or earbuds

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Eye mask and earplugs

  • Snacks for travel

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Travel-sized umbrella

  • Books or e-reader for travel entertainment

  • Travel journal and pen

  • Tote or daypack for daily use

Weather Conditions

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!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

10° / 1°

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

11° / 1°

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

16° / 4°

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

19° / 7°

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

23° / 11°

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

June

27° / 15°

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

30° / 18°

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

30° / 18°

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

26° / 14°

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

20° / 10°

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

15° / 5°

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

10° / 2°

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.

Did you know?

Did you know that Lyon, France is known as the gastronomic capital of the world?

1 of 10

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