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Things to do in Lyon

If you dream of exploring cobblestone streets, discovering leafy squares, eating delicious food, and admiring impressive architecture, Lyon is the city for you. In Lyon the things to do and see are endless from more non touristy things to do in Lyon to more adventurous things. By the end of this guide you will know all the best things to do in Lyon to better plan your visit.

Located just a seven hour drive from Calais, Lyon is known as being the culinary capital of France and for good reason! With many places to eat in Lyon amongst its many monuments, museums, and markets dotted all over the city you'll be sure to be drawn in by its renaissance charm. There are plenty of things to do in Lyon, so you'll be sure to have an unforgettable time exploring this fascinating city. Not only does Lyon boast incredible French food and sights, but Lyon is also a short drive from the city of Annecy as well as just under an hour from the Swiss city of Geneva.

If you're travelling by car take advantage of more freedom and peace of mind by upgrading to one of our Flexi tickets. Allowing you to take the scenic route home at a leisurely pace, our Standard Flexi and Fully Flexi tickets give you greater flexibility to your departure time so you can enjoy seeing more of the must visit places in Lyon during your trip!

So whether you are planning a short break or a longer holiday, start planning your trip to Lyon today and book now.

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Morning	01:55	04:25	06:50	09:15
Midday	11:40
Afternoon	14:05
Evening	18:55	20:50	23:40

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About the city
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Attractions
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About the city

Explore the city on two wheels

Although you can quite easily wander around Lyon and find all the best places to see in Lyon, one of the top things to do in Lyon is exploring the city on two wheels within the many guided tours on offer. Here these tours allow you the opportunity to learn all about the city's culture and history along the way.

You will find both electric bike and Segway tours in Lyon which are equally fun options that offer the chance to see the city in a safe and enjoyable way. Tours will include some of the best places to see in Lyon , including Vieux Lyon (the old town), the Parc de la Tête d'Or, and along the banks of the river Rhône, giving you a fantastic overview.

There is also a Segway night tour which is arguably one of the best things to do in Lyon as it takes you around the city’s La Confluence area. This area sits where the Rhône meets the Saône and boasts contemporary architecture and modern design that is the complete opposite of what you will see elsewhere in the city.

Places to see in Lyon - Head to La Croix-Rousse

For something a little different,to see one of the most famous places in Lyon, why not head to la Croix-Rousse which is home to romantic squares, lovely facades, and a very creative population. This area of Lyon was at the centre of the city’s silk industry and you will find murals dedicated to this craft, plus silk weaving demonstrations in the museum too.

Foodies will also love La Croix-Rousse as it is home to an open market which offers an amazing range of local produce, plus plenty of lively bars, and a wide choice of places to eat in Lyon including unmissable patisseries, and hip restaurants.

With so many great things to do in Lyon, what are you waiting for? Book your Dover to Calais crossing today and you could be exploring this varied and vibrant city in no time at all.

Lyon things to do - discover Lyon’s history

Everywhere you turn in Lyon you will find a different district, monument, or museum that offers a glimpse into the city’s fascinating past and the things that have happened there over the years. As popular tourist places in Lyon, they offer a wide variety of things to do and see to entertain and educate the whole family whilst immersing in the history and culture of Lyon.

Your first stop should be the stunning Basilique de Fourvière which sits on top of a hill and offers panoramic views of the city and beyond. Boasting four striking towers which each stand at 48 metres tall, the basilica’s interior is just as beautiful due to its stained glass windows, mosaics, and combination of materials including marble, pink granite, green onyx, and slivers of silver and gold. Here the beauty of its architecture and interior makes it a top thing to do in Lyon for most visitors as the beauty of its construction and surrounding views really takes your breath away.

One of the most famous things to come out of Lyon is the invention of the cinematograph which was invented by brothers Auguste and Louis Lumière in the 1890s. If you are interested in film and cinema a more unique thing to do in Lyon is visiting the Institut Lumière celebrating the brothers’ contribution to filmmaking. To make your trip even more special, come and visit in October where they hold a festival every year which really is an annual event and one of the best things you can do in Lyon.

Places to eat in Lyon

Known as the culinary capital of France, you won’t be disappointed with the eating and drinking options that you will find in Lyon. The city’s location gives it unrivalled access to plenty of places to eat in Lyon with local produce which makes meals taste even better than they would elsewhere, you will find a whole range of rich and rustic specialties that are typically French in the best way.

To make the most out of your time in Lyon, a great thing to do around Lyon is taking a tour that allows you to try lots of dishes and ingredients so that you don’t miss out on anything. Tasting tours also teach you about the food that you are eating, so you can pick up some tips about what to buy in the markets to bring home with you.

A final must visit place in Lyon is located just a 30 minute drive from the city centre where you will find a Beaujolais vineyard Segway tour that will show off just how beautiful the French countryside can be. Not only will you be shown the vineyards, countryside, and picturesque villages, but you will have the chance to taste both wine and local food too.

Everywhere you turn in Lyon you will find a different district, monument, or museum that offers a glimpse into the city’s fascinating past.

Places to stay in Lyon

Like the places to eat in Lyon, it also offers a variety of places to stay to cater to all needs. Whether you want to stay in the hustle and bustle of the city or have a more relaxing stay there is an option for everyone.

For a family-friendly atmosphere, one place to stay in Lyon is Vieux Lyon. This historic district features cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and proximity to key attractions like the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. You'll find quaint boutique hotels and apartments, with plenty of casual dining options, ideal for families. The nearby Parc de la Tête d'Or offers open spaces for children to enjoy.

If you're looking for a more modern, cosmopolitan vibe, the Presqu'île area is perfect. This district is situated between the Rhône and Saône rivers and is a hub for shopping, dining, and nightlife. The area is walkable and centrally located, making it ideal for those wanting to explore all the top things to do in Lyon including visiting landmarks like Place Bellecour and the Musée des Beaux-Arts. It’s also home to a wide range of dining options, from casual bistros to refined eateries.

For a quieter, more residential feel, the Croix-Rousse area provides a bohemian atmosphere. Known for its silk-weaving history, it offers a mix of charming cafés, local markets, and boutique accommodations. This neighborhood is ideal for those seeking a more laid-back experience, yet still close to Lyon's cultural heart so you are never far away from all the tourist places in Lyon.

10 things to do in Lyon

With such a variety of things to do in Lyon depending on the type of holiday you’d like it can be hard planning and being able to get everything done. At P&O Ferries we want to make planning a trip to France easier so below we have provided you with a list of our top 10 things to do in Lyon that you just cannot miss:

1. Visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière
2. Explore Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon)
3. Stroll through Parc de la Tête d'Or
4. Tour the Musée des Beaux-Arts
5. Discover the Presqu'île District
6. Sample Lyon’s Culinary Delights
7. Visit the Musée Miniature et Cinéma
8. Take a boat cruise along the Saône River
9. Explore Croix-Rousse
10. Walk along the Rhône River Banks

FAQs:

1. Where is the best place to stay in Lyon?

The best places to stay in Lyon depend on your preferences. Vieux Lyon offers historic charm with its medieval streets, while Presqu'île provides central access to shopping and major attractions. Part-Dieu is ideal for business travellers offering modern amenities and transport links, and the bohemian vibe of Croix-Rousse is perfect for a more relaxed stay. Where you stay is a vital part of your travel plans as well as your travel itself, why not start relaxing straight away and book onto a Club Lounge and start your trip as you mean to go on.

2. What are the most unusual things to do in Lyon?

If visiting all the tourist attractions in Lyon isn’t all you want to do on your trip, then you do not have to worry. Lyon offers some unusual experiences for more adventurous travellers. You can explore the hidden traboules, the secret passageways that wind through the city’s old quarters. Or you could visit the Musée Miniature et Cinéma to see fascinating movie props and miniature sets. Why not take a guided tour of the city's underground caves, or experience the vibrant street art scene in the Croix-Rousse district. Whatever you decide to do there is a wide variety of choices including both unusual and non-tourist things to do in Lyon as well as more touristy ones to suit every type of traveller.

3. Where are the must visit places in Lyon?

Lyon has many must-visit places. Vieux Lyon, with its medieval streets and Renaissance architecture, is perfect for history enthusiasts. The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière offers stunning views of the city. Parc de la Tête d'Or is ideal for outdoor lovers, while the Musée des Beaux-Arts is a must for art fans. Make sure you don’t miss the culinary delights at Les Halles de Lyon and the vibrant Presqu'île district. Don’t forget there are also many must visit places to see on our Dover to Calais with our onboard amenities from duty free shopping and many restaurants and bars you will never be bored travelling just like you won’t be bored in Lyon. Book your Dover to Calais ferry crossing today.

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