Originally the capital for the Gauls during the Roman Empire, Lyon has grown into a city that will provide anyone with plenty to do. The city is home to fine dining restaurants from world-famous chef Paul Bocuse, cinema museums from the pioneering Lumière brothers as well as ancient Roman theaters from as early as the year 19 AD.
It also offers some stranger spots to explore from miniaturized worlds to galleries full of marionettes.
The scenery is top-notch too; whether you’re gazing up at the detailed ceilings of churches or taking in panoramic vistas from hilltops, you’ll always have some spectacular visuals to look forward to.
And if you want some great live music, awesome exotic animals, or unique perspectives into the history of silk production, fear not… the city’s got you covered!
This list of things to do in Lyon holds activities and destinations that will entertain history buffs, foodies and even vintage car enthusiasts. With so many stunning attractions and fun activities, read on to help make sure you’re not walking past any hidden gems or historical landmarks win your next trip to Lyon.
1 – Explore the Lyon Cinema and cMuseum
The Lyon Cinema and Miniature Museum is a must-see for movie buffs and cinema lovers. The halls contain props and costumes from over 200 films.
The admission will get you a backstage pass to see many items from famous productions such as Spiderman and Batman.
2 – Sit in the stalls of The Roman Theaters
Lyon is home to two Roman Theaters, which are classic examples of the stone-tiered, outdoor theatres of the Roman Empire.
The Theatres were originally where orchestras and plays were performed, although now they are mostly an eerie tourist destination. However, the theatres still host the annual ‘Nuits de Fourvière’ — a music and arts festival — each summer.
3 – Relax aboard a sightseeing cruise
If you need a break from the busy city streets of Lyon, a cruise aboard the Hermès ship will give you the chance to see the sights from the water.
The 2.5-hour cruise has guided commentary while you indulge in a 3-course gourmet meal.
You can choose between lunch or dinner cruises so whether you want to soak up the sun or see the city skyline at night, there’s plenty of options.
4 – Ride around Lyon on a bike tour
Lyon has a large concentration of notable sites and it can be hard to see them all and easy to miss them if you don’t have a guide.
A guided bike tour of the city is a very fitting way to pack a lot in and also get insight from a knowledgeable local.
There’s a two-hour tour that takes you around the UNESCO-listed historic center of Lyon on electric bikes, making it accessible to the young and old!
5 – Head to the Gallo-Roman Museum of Lyon-Fourvière
Lyon has a rich Roman history and the Museum of Lyon-Fourvière is where a lot of the artifacts of that history can be found.
The museum is built on the grounds of the ancient Roman town Lugdunum, which was founded in 43 BC. The collection includes some very unique items, such as a speech given in 48 AD by Emperor Claudius, written in bronze.
6 – Wander through Vieux Lyon District
Starting your day with a 2-hour walking tour through Old Town in Lyon and you’ll have ticked off more tourist sights than most before lunchtime.
On this tour, a knowledgeable guide takes you through all the significant spots around the city and even to some hidden spots that are hard to find on your own.
7 – Enjoy some Concerts Candlelight
The glow of candles is generally associated with quiet evenings at home, but the Candlelight Concert series is well worth leaving the house for!
The performances vary in genre, but each provide some world-class symphonic enjoyment – and a relaxing environment to boot!
Soak up operas, 70s rock music, and film soundtracks, along with special holiday programs for Christmas and Valentine’s Day.
It’s the perfect night out for romantics and music fans alike!
8 – Indulge at Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse
Lyon’s first indoor market was built in 1859 and it went on to become Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, a market and hub of the culinary cultures of Lyon.
The market is open from 7 am to 7 pm and is the only stop that needs to be made for local meats, produces, wine and cheeses, as well as meals prepared by famous Lyon chefs.
9 – Spot the frescos on a street art tour
There are three short walks around Lyon that will take you past a large collection of outdoor art, murals and Frescos.
The works range from a tribute to Paul Bocuse that lights up night to the Bibliothèque de La Cité — a work that contains the words of several hundred local writers all over an urban wall.
10 – Get caffeinated creatively at some coffee shops
With a marvelously varied selection of flavors and settings, the coffee shops of Lyon offer more than just a caffeine fix.
Try the praline rose pastries at MOKXA Boutique, the playful latte art and tasty lunches at Les Cafetiers, or the organic, fresh roasts and charming decor of Loutsa Torréfacteur.
Enjoy a cup and a cake at La Boîte à Café, a local brew at Slake Coffee Shop, or a charcoal latte at Diploid.
And for some globally-influenced options, sample the various brews – and breakfasts – at Placid Cafe.
11 – Dive into the Aquarium of Lyon
The Aquarium of Lyon has a huge variety of exhibits, from freshwater to saltwater, housing a diverse range of marine life.
Tickets are just 15 euros for adults and cheaper for those younger or still studying. Booking online will save you a few euros so if you’re sold on seeing Lyon’s biggest collection of aquatic animals, book ahead of your visit!
12 – Head out on a Beaujolais day trip
A scenic trip out from Lyon, visiting the wine-making Beaujolais region is a day well spent during your stay in Lyon.
On this tour, you get to sample three wines from a local vineyard along with a pastry, before visiting a 12th-century medieval village on your way back to Lyon.
13 – Visit the stunning Place Bellecour
Place Bellecour is the largest pedestrian square in all of Europe. It has become the hub of activity in Lyon and is one of the busiest places to shop in the city.
The square is where all distances from Lyon are measured which is unsurprising given it is the starting point to many of the most important streets and walks you can do from Lyon.
14 – Find the hidden Traboules
The Traboules are a hidden network of passageways that wind their way through buildings and courtyards around Lyon.
There are around 400 of these passageways around the city. With over 40 being open to the public.
Hunting down these secret tunnels is one of the essential things to do in Lyon for those who love exploring.
15 – Pay MHL – Musée d’Histoire de Lyon a visit
The other museum housed within the Gadagne building is the Musée d’Histoire de Lyon. This museum focuses more on cultural artifacts and historic items from Lyon.
If you visit this museum you’ll see things such as medieval limestone sculptures to 16th century looms. The collections here document the many parts of Lyon’s history and range all the way back to the Middle Ages!
16 – Stop by MAM – Musée des Arts de la Marionnette
What used to be known as the Gadagne Hotel, built in the 1500s, is now a collection of 2 museums that hold countless artifacts from Lyon’s history.
One of these museums is the Musée des Arts de la Marionnette which focuses on the artistic and creative side of Lyon. Here you can expect to find antiquated paintings and even collections of ancient puppets!
17 – Dive into the wonderful world of canyoning
The Rheby Canyon is one of the region’s great natural gems, with water steadily beating through its rocky walls.
But it’s even more amazing when you get down to the heart of it!
Your adventure begins when you begin abseiling down the rock faces, with the spray of nearby waterfalls keeping you extra alert.
Then it’s time for a natural waterpark full of swims, slides, and jumps… the perfect way to see the land!
18 – Cruise around on a segway tour
A segway tour is one of the most effortless ways to get around Lyon and see all the sights.
The tour includes a 15-minute training session so you feel comfortable before heading out for a 1.5-hour tour along the Rhône and Saône River.
19 – Step into Mini World Lyon
Mini World Lyon is a 3000 square meter animated miniature park. Inside you’ll find miniature recreations of the city, mountain, and countryside landscapes. The exhibits took the creators over 70’000 hours to build.
The best times to visit are between noon and 2:30 pm when they are at their quietest, ensuring you get the best chance to see every detail.
20 – Immerse yourself in the Musée Lumière
The Lumière Brothers are famous in the cinema world and the Musée Lumière provides a catalog of their achievements and creations.
Their inventions, such as the famous Cinematograph are all housed in the old family home in the Monplaisir District in Lyon, now known as the Musée Lumière.
21 – Escape to Rhone Valley on a wine tour
Rhone Valley is known for its wine and cheesemakers.
A four-hour day trip out to the area will take you to an authentic French farm where you can sample some Rigotte de Condrieu, a famous local goat’s cheese.
You’ll also get to sample multiple local wines before being taken back to Lyon just as the sun sets.
22 – Head to the Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon
The Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon is a 7000 square meter gallery housed in a former 17th-century abbey.
The 70 rooms of the museum hold one of Europe’s largest collections of art spanning a timeline as far back as ancient Egypt.
Spotting a Rembrandt at the Museum of Fine Arts is one of the quintessential things to do in Lyon.
23 – Delve into the Abode of Chaos
The Abode of Chaos is a free outdoor museum consisting largely of steel sculptures.
The near 2500 pieces of work display a chaotic and destructive expression of local artists with the local mayor describing it as ‘dramatic, images of destruction.’
24 – Unwind in the Parc de la Tête d’Or
The Parc de la Tête d’Or is an 117 hectare park right in the urban centre of Lyon.
Within the park are the Lyon Botanical Gardens as well as lake, filled with paddle-boats during the summer months.
On top of the natural beauty, there are sporting facilities as well as a zoo with free admission.
25 – Reach the lookout at Fourvière Hill
The top of Fourvière Hill is one of the most famous views in Lyon. On a clear day, you are able to see as far as Mont Blanc.
Once you’re atop the hill, there’s a small railway, known as a funicular, which runs down past gardens and monuments before ending at Saint-Just funicular station, which is a short ride from Vieux Lyon.
26 – Step back in time at the Musée des Confluences
The Musée des Confluences is a collection of artifacts, skeletons and models of animal and human life.
At the museum, there’s anything from Samurai armor to dinosaur bones. Heading here is an archaeology buff’s dream, with pieces from all around the world that you can’t find anywhere else.
27 – Admire Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière ceiling
The aforementioned funicular also runs to Fourvière Basilica where you get another panoramic view of the city and surroundings.
Here you’ll also find La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière, a minor basilica built in the 1800s.
Tying a wish onto the olive tree in the garden of the basilica is one of the definitive things to do in Lyon whilst you’re in town.
28 – Stop by the Amphitheater of the Three Gauls
The Amphitheater of the Three Gauls is an old Roman structure dating all the way back to 19 AD.
It was known as a sanctuary and meeting place for all the surrounding Gallic tribes (of which the area now known as Lyon was the capital).
Getting there to soak up the ancient atmosphere is an easy walk from Old Lyon or a quick bus ride on the S6 or S12 routes.
29 – Relax at the Grand Parc Miribel Jonage
The Grand Parc Miribel Jonage is a 2200 hectare public park located on the outskirts of Lyon. It is a popular recreation location for locals with biking and running trails, and swimming during summer.
It is also a great spot for nature lovers with wildlife protection habitats where you can spot an array of local flora and fauna.
30 – Tap into the mellow atmosphere of La Croix Rousse
While there are distinctive neighborhoods all over the city, La Croix Rousse is one of the most popular – and after a short stroll through its streets, it’s easy to see why!
Long celebrated as a bohemian enclave, it hums with history and culture, from its beautiful buildings to its fascinating shops.
Take in a movie at the century-old cinema, stroll through the former silk district, and enjoy a meal at a “cork” – the cozy, relaxed restaurants that have long been a community fixture.
It’s the best of French village life, right in town!
31 – Tour the famous Place des Terreaux
The Place des Terreaux is right in the heart of Lyon and is where several important landmarks can be found.
There’s the 1889 Bartholdi Fountain — sculpted by the creator of the Statue of Liberty, there’s the Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon and the Hôtel de Ville de Lyon — the town hall of Lyon and one of the biggest buildings in the city.
You can hop on a guided tour on a Tuk Tuk which will take you to all the key places in the Place de Terreaux, as well as all along the Saône’s riverbank.
32 – Work up a sweat at Cimes Aventures
Cimes Aventures is an adventure park with a variety of rides that just about anyone could enjoy. The park is divided into two courses — one for young and one for old — so you’ll be able to find your level and have an adventure that is the right challenge for you.
There are zip lines, high ropes courses and challenging bridge walks, so you’ll be sure to conquer a fear or two if you visit Cimes Aventures.
Parc Family Aventure is another adventure park aimed at all ages, located in the green surrounds of Auvergne. The park is a scenic drive from Lyon and makes a great day trip for those traveling in a family group.
There are 14 different tree climbing courses tailored to all ages and physical abilities so everyone can have something to do!
33 – Turn normal upside-down with some VR adventures
You can often take on different identities when traveling… and with these virtual reality rooms, you can do so literally!
Save Notre-Dame from a raging inferno, discover the wonders of Mars, or try out a few puzzles with a multisensory twist.
With top-notch technology, you’ll truly feel like you’re in a new realm!
34 – Step into Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste
Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste is Lyon’s main Roman Catholic Church, located right in the heart of Lyon.
It is a classic example of Gothic architecture, built all the way back in 1480. Paying this iconic structure a visit is one of the best things to do in Lyon for history buffs.
35 – Solve clues on a scavenger game
If you want to discover the darker side of Lyon, a scavenger hunt that takes you to all the haunted locations of the city is a great option.
With the freedom to start and stop the game whenever suits you, your mobile phone becomes your map.
You will solve clues and mysteries to uncover secret spots around town and learn all about the history of places such as Loyassse Cemetery and Fourviere Hill.
36 – Swing by La Maison des Canuts
The men who originally made Lyon’s famous silk —known as the Canuts — used to work out of a 19th-century building in the heart of the city.
The building has now become a museum of the history of silk-making in Lyon, as well as a currently functioning production facility.
There are three rooms of historic exhibitions as well as a workshop so you can get an insight into the process of silk-making over the years.
37 – Visit the animals at Lyon Zoo
The Lyon Zoo is over 150 years old, making it one of the most historic zoos in France.
There is a huge variety of animals from native to foreign so whether you’re a local or traveling from afar there will be something you haven’t seen before.
The zoo also prides itself on its conservation practices that breed endangered populations so there’s also bound to be an exotic species or two you’ve never laid your eyes on.
38 – Explore the Textile Arts and Decorative Arts Museum
The Textile Arts and Decorative Arts Museum in Lyon is a collection of artifacts from the fashion, music and gastronomic industries.
The exhibitions will teach you all about the history of textiles, trends in fine dining and everything in between.
39 – Free fall with a bungee jumping session
About a 45-minute drive from Lyon is a viaduct where there has been a bungee jumping school since 2011.
The jump is from a height of 65 meters, making it one of the most thrilling things to do in Lyon whilst you’re in town.
40 – Catch a football game at Groupama Stadium
Groupama Stadium is the home of French professional football team Olympique Lyonnais.
The team plays in France’s top division so catching a game here is one of the quintessential things to do in Lyon for sports fans.
41 – Head over to Museum of Contemporary Art of Lyon
The Museum of Contemporary Art of Lyon is where you’ll find a rotating collection of creative works from recent artists, with a focus on the works of locals.
The Museum is situated in a very picturesque location, right on the edge of the Parc de la Tête d’Or.
Head to the museum on a sunny day and reflect on all the pieces in the sunshine along the Rhône River.
42 – Explore the Musée de l’Automobile Henri Malartre
The Musée de l’Automobile Henri Malartre is a collection of cars and vehicles that display the development of the automobile in Lyon.
The museum is housed in a 12th-century castle and the collection is made up of Henri Malartre’s acquisitions since the 1930s.
You’ll find anything from early motor prototypes to vintage 1960’s race cars and just about everything in between.
43 – Test your puzzle skills with an escape room
For those who love solving puzzles and mysteries, an escape room can be a great way to experience Lyon.
With an hour to solve the clues required to get out of the room, this is bound to bring together a group of fellow travelers and test everyone’s lateral thinking!
44 – Discover the Resistance and Deportation History Centre
From exhibitions on health crisis’ or the movements of the Jewish population of Lyon during the war, the Resistance and Deportation History Centre is a very unique place to visit.
History buffs will flourish as this museum holds a lot of rare and otherwise hard to find information about Lyon’s significance during the Second World War and the Anti Fascist movements in the city.
45 – Visit the fantastic Museum Jean Couty
The Museum Jean Couty is a contemporary art museum originally dedicated to the work of Lyon local Jean Couty, who is well known for painting the cities landscape.
For just 10 euros, you will gain admission to the biggest collection of Jean Couty’s paintings, the photographic works of contemporary artists along with other rotating exhibitions.
46 – Eat at a Michelin-starred restaurant
Lyon has no shortage of fine dining options for those who love to sample the best culinary delights a city has to offer. One of the most famous is Paul Bocuse restaurant, a double Michelin star restaurant in Collonges-au-Mont-d’Or, known for experimental takes on classic French cuisine.
Right in the heart of Lyon, there’s even more with the experimental Takao Takano and the classic French Mère Brazier.
47 – Roam with the animals at Safari de Peaugres
An hours drive out of Lyon will take you to the French commune of Peaugres where the open range Safari de Peaugres is located.
Here you can drive through open areas alongside the huge assortment of wildlife and get very up close and personal.
The safari is modeled off the harmonious ecosystem of a typical African village so you’ll be able to see zebras and antelopes all happily living side by side.
48 – Pop into the Museum of Printing and Graphic Communication
The Museum of Printing and Graphic Communication is a collection of all things printed and written down. The collection consists of things such as Gutenberg’s 42 line bible to the daily paper.
On top of this you will also get to discover the history of the printing press and other technology used to make books, signs and posters over the years.
49 – See the city from up high at Tour Part-Dieu
If you want a somewhat different vantage point on the town, head to Tour Part-Dieu!
At an impressive 541 feet high, it’s the thirteenth-tallest building in the country, and offers some spectacular views to match.
Along with a spacious shopping center, the top several floors are home to the Radisson Blu Hotel, offering the chance for a room above it all.
50 – Spend a night at Villa Florentine
Villa Florentine is a luxury hotel that used to be a gothic-style convent. It’s located right in the heart of Old Lyon so your room will offer panoramic views of the historic heart of Lyon.
Staying at this hotel, soaking in the spa and having dinner at one of the on-site fine dining restaurants is one of the perfect things to do in Lyon for those celebrating or on a romantic getaway.
51 – Soak up a show at Opera National de Lyon
Opera National de Lyon is where you’ll find all of the local orchestral and opera performances.
If you keep an eye out for heritage days at the opera house you can reserve a place on a free guided tour of the building, learning all about its history and development.
52 – Chase thrills at Walibi Rhône-Alpes
Walibi Rhône-Aples is one of the biggest amusement parks in Lyon.
There’s a huge range of rides, suiting anyone from children all the way up to thrill-seeking adults. The park has wild rollercoasters, high diving boards, and everything in between.
Getting to the park is easy with shuttles running to and from the center of town!
53 – Indulge at The Presqu’île
Situated between the Rhône and the Saône rivers, the Presqu’île is a famous Lyon District where you’ll find a luxurious gathering of cafes, restaurants, and high-end shopping.
Not only a great place to indulge in some fine dining or enjoy a show at a theater, but it is also where you’ll find a large amount of Lyon landmarks, including Lyon town hall, the Church of St. Nizierm, and the Fine Arts Museum.
54 – Live your best al fresco life on the best rooftops
Another great way to enjoy the city from above? The rooftop cafes and bars!
Splurge on a nice meal at Le Celest Bar, or the elegant, plant-filled terrace of Le Phosphore.
Try the seasonally rotating menu at Maison Nô, or the brightly colored furnishings and live music at Mama Shelter.
Each venue offers great food and drinks, and better yet: views to die for!
55 – Take in a play at Théâtre des Celestins
The Théâtre des Celestins was opened in 1792, originally as a small playhouse for dramas and vaudevilles. The site of the theatre was previously a convent so the surrounding architecture holds a lot of Lyon’s history.
The Theatre is now one of the best places to see the theatrical works of Lyon playwrights, as well as big performances of famous pieces.
56 – Get lucky at Grand Casino de Lyon
Gran Casino de Lyon caters to the daring, the fun-loving, and everything in between… but it’s always guaranteed to be fun!
Choose between electronic games, tables, and slot machines; with dozens of options available, you can mix and match for an ideal gambling experience.
And in between rounds, you can stop by the Acacia Restaurant for some delicious cuisine.
For a taste of the high life, this gambling palace can’t be beat!
57 – Get a little wild with the city’s nightlife
Save some energy during all of your sightseeing, because the nightlife in this town is top-notch!
Le Sucre offers top-notch artists and a party-perfect rooftop, while Terminal Club draws artists from all over the world.
Loft Club Lyon offers an all-night mix of classics and current hits, and Azar Club serves up the best techno and house beats.
Or swing by F&K Bistroclub, and enjoy a somewhat more relaxed setting, with great cocktails and meals to sample.
How to get to Lyon?
Once you’re in town, public transit is fairly easy to come by; but to get to the town itself, flying is often most convenient.
After arriving at Lyon Airport, you can get to the city with ease, courtesy of an airport transfer.
You’ll save plenty of time and hassle, and be able to get straight to your hotel!
Where to stay in Lyon?
When you settle into InterContinental Lyon – Hotel Dieu, you’ll be able to enjoy everything from a garden and a fitness center to a bar and great riverside views – a perfect home away from home!
And with its prime location in Part Dieu Tower, Radisson Blu Hotel, Lyon is ideal for sightseeing and being in the thick of the action, with shops and transit just outside the door.
Best Western Hotel du Pont Wilson combines easy access to museums and train stations with gorgeous rooms and stunning views of the city.
Campanile Lyon Centre – Berges du Rhône gets your day started right with a complimentary breakfast and newspaper; and with shops and Place Bellecour a short walk away, it’s the perfect launchpad for further adventures.
And for a chance to be right in the midst of it all, book a room at MOB Hotel Lyon Confluence, tucked snugly in the midst of museums and stores, with a lovely restaurant and terrace on-site to welcome you when you return for the day.
Visiting Lyon on a budget?
From architecture to lively neighborhoods and charming public art, free walking tours are a great way to explore the city at length.
Bring your sense of curiosity and some cash to tip your guide – it will be a marvelous adventure!
And if you want to see the best spots at a discounted rate, consider buying a City Card to save on transportation, tourist attractions, and more.
Where to go next?
Paris has long been a top destination for travelers, and for good reason; from museums and parks to world-famous monuments and quirky side adventures, it’s the perfect place for hedonism and elegance in equal measure.
And while Bordeaux may be mostly known for its wine, it has more than enough restaurants, artistic venues, and beautiful natural areas to keep everyone entertained.
Marseille blends beachy scenery, a thriving creative scene, and utterly gorgeous buildings that offer a glimpse into the country’s past.
And in Nice, you can amble through monastery gardens, down historic streets, and all along the shores of some picture-perfect beaches.
For even more stunning scenery – along with powerful historical sites and charming towns filled with art and culture – be sure to spend some time exploring Normandy.
If all of these spots have gotten you amped up for more adventures, keep exploring even more of the best places to visit in France!
Final thoughts
Whether you want to stroll through history or party in the present, this iconic town is the perfect place to go!
And the more you start exploring the amazing things to do in Lyon, the more inspiration you’ll find, because there really is an adventure around every corner!
Pack your bags and get ready for some French hospitality!
Happy travels!