Visit Lyon
Lyon stands proud between its rivers and hills, a living museum of French heritage. The Saône and Rhône meet in the heart of the city. Bridges link colourful buildings on either bank. Cafés and bouchons line the streets, serving local dishes like quenelles and saucisson.
Vieux Lyon climbs steeply from the river. Narrow cobblestone lanes twist past Renaissance houses. Hidden courtyards and tiny shops invite exploration. Traboules, secret passageways between buildings, reveal the city’s hidden side.
The Presqu'île stretches between the rivers. Squares open onto grand façades and decorated fountains. Boutiques, markets and cafés spill onto the sidewalks. The mix of old architecture and modern life keeps the streets lively. Across the hills, Fourvière rises above the city. The basilica towers over rooftops and offers panoramic views. Roman theatres and ruins around the towers remind visitors of Lyon’s ancient past.
Lyon combines history, gastronomy and vibrant city life. From riverside walks to hilltop views, from hidden traboules to bustling markets, the city is a playground for road trippers.
Top sights to visit
- Vieux Lyon (Old Town) & St. Jean Cathedral This is one of the largest Renaissance districts in Europe. It is famous for its colorful façades, narrow streets and the central St. Jean Cathedral. A combination of Romanesque and Gothic architecture.
- Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière Located high atop the Fourvière hill, this striking 19th-century basilica is an iconic symbol of Lyon. Its decorative architecture is matched only by the incredible panoramic views of the entire city from its terrace.
- Presqu’île District The lively peninsula between the Rhône and Saône rivers, full of shops, cafés and historic squares. Place Bellecour and Place des Terreaux are highlights with impressive architecture and fountains. Street performers and vibrant markets add energy to the area.
- Fresques Murales The city is famous for its large-scale trompe-l’oeil murals depicting everyday life and history. Notable examples include the Fresque des Lyonnais and Mur des Canuts. Exploring these murals turns a simple walk into an art discovery adventure.
- Confluence District A modern waterfront area where the Rhône and Saône meet. Showcasing contemporary architecture and cultural spaces. Enjoy shopping, dining and walks along the riverfront promenade. The mix of modern design with urban leisure makes it a unique part of Lyon.
- Croix-Rousse District and the Canuts (silk workers) Located on the 'hill that works,' this district was the historical home of the Lyonnais silk industry. It retains a distinct village-like atmosphere with steep streets, former silk workshops and an bohemian vibe.
- Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse A gourmet market named after the famous chef. It features local produce, cheeses, meats and pastries. It’s a paradise for food lovers wanting to taste Lyon’s culinary specialties. Sampling the market’s offerings gives a delicious insight into the city’s culture.
- Parc de la Tête d'Or This immense park is one of France's largest and most beautiful. It features a botanical garden, a zoo (free to enter) and a large lake (where you can rent boats). A perfect escape from the city streets.
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History of Lyon
Lyon was founded by the Romans in 43 BC as Lugdunum. It became the capital of Roman Gaul. You can still see remnants in Fourvière and the Roman theatres.
In the Middle Ages, Lyon grew as a trade and banking centre. Its location at the meeting of the Rhône and Saône made it a hub for merchants from across Europe. Silk production began in the 15th century, turning the city into a centre of textiles. Wealthy merchants built grand houses in Vieux Lyon.
The Renaissance transformed the city. Architects added Renaissance façades and elaborate courtyards. Lyon became a cultural centre with printing presses spreading ideas across Europe. The traboules, secret passageways between buildings, helped merchants move goods efficiently and survive political unrest.
In the 19th century, Lyon industrialized rapidly. The silk industry expanded. Factories, railways, and new bridges reshaped the city. Workers’ neighbourhoods grew along the rivers. During World War II, Lyon played a key role in the French Resistance. Safe houses, hidden passages and secret networks helped protect thousands. Today, the city honours this history in museums and memorials.
Modern Lyon unite its layers of history with vibrant life. For road trippers, Lyon is a city where every street and building is a reference to centuries of trade and resilience.