If you’re planning a trip to Lyon and only have three days to spend in the city, you might be wondering what to do and see. Lyon is a beautiful city with a rich history, delicious food, and plenty of things to do and see. Here are some travel tips and recommendations for making the most of your three days in Lyon.
What to See in Lyon
Lyon is a city full of history and culture, and there are plenty of sights to see and places to explore. Here are some of the most important places that you should not miss:
- Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière: This beautiful basilica sits atop Fourvière Hill and offers stunning views of the city. The inside of the basilica is just as impressive as the outside.
- Vieux Lyon: The old town of Lyon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s easy to see why. The narrow streets are lined with colorful Renaissance buildings and there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore.
- Musée des Confluences: This museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in science and natural history. The building itself is an architectural masterpiece, and the exhibits are interactive and engaging.
- Parc de la Tête d’Or: This sprawling park is a great place to relax and enjoy nature. There’s a lake, a botanical garden, a zoo, and plenty of walking paths.
- Place Bellecour: This is the largest square in Lyon and is a popular spot for events and festivals. There’s a statue of Louis XIV in the center of the square, and it’s surrounded by shops and restaurants.
- Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse: This indoor market is a food lover’s paradise. You’ll find everything from fresh produce to cheese, wine, and chocolate.
Of course, there are plenty of other sights to see in Lyon, but these are some of the most iconic and memorable.
Routes in Lyon
One of the best ways to explore Lyon is on foot. Here are a few routes you can take to make the most of your time in the city:
- Fourvière Hill Route: Start at the bottom of Fourvière Hill and make your way up to the basilica. From there, take in the panoramic views of the city before making your way down to Vieux Lyon.
- Presqu’île Route: This route takes you through the heart of Lyon’s city center. Start at Place Bellecour and make your way down Rue de la République, stopping at shops and restaurants along the way.
- Croix-Rousse Route: This route takes you up the hill to Croix-Rousse, a neighborhood known for its silk industry. Along the way, you’ll see beautiful views of the city and can explore the traboules, hidden passageways that date back to the Renaissance.
Where to Sleep in Lyon
Lyon has plenty of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. Here are a few options that come highly recommended:
- Hôtel Carlton Lyon: This four-star hotel is located in the heart of Lyon and offers luxurious rooms and amenities.
- Alexandra Hotel: This charming boutique hotel is located in Vieux Lyon and has a cozy, homey feel.
- Le Flâneur Guesthouse: This hostel is a great budget option and is located in the Croix-Rousse neighborhood.
Where to Eat in Lyon
Lyon is known for its delicious food, and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from. Here are a few recommendations:
- Chez Mounier: This restaurant in Vieux Lyon serves up traditional Lyonnaise cuisine, including quenelles and pike dumplings.
- Le Bistrot de l’École des Plantes: This vegetarian restaurant offers creative dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
- Café Comptoir Abel: This classic Lyonnaise bistro has been around since 1933 and serves up hearty dishes like sausage and lentils.
Free Tours in Lyon
If you’re looking to learn more about Lyon’s history and culture, consider taking a free walking tour. Here are a few options:
- Lyon Free Tour: This two-hour walking tour takes you through Vieux Lyon and covers the city’s history and architecture.
- Alternative Lyon Tour: This tour takes you off the beaten path and shows you Lyon’s alternative culture and street art scene.
- Fourvière Hill Tour: This tour takes you up Fourvière Hill and shows you the highlights of Lyon’s oldest neighborhood.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions people have about visiting Lyon:
- What is Lyon known for?
- Lyon is known for its delicious food, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene.
- What should I see in Lyon?
- Some of the top sights to see in Lyon include the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, Vieux Lyon, and the Musée des Confluences.
- What is the best time of year to visit Lyon?
- The best time to visit Lyon is in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.
- Where can I find more information about Lyon?
- You can find more information about Lyon on the official tourism website of the city of Lyon: https://www.en.lyon-france.com/
Three days in Lyon is the perfect amount of time to see the city’s highlights and get a taste of its culture and cuisine. From exploring the historic streets of Vieux Lyon to taking in the panoramic views from Fourvière Hill, Lyon has something for everyone. Make sure to try some Lyonnaise cuisine and consider taking a free walking tour to learn more about the city’s rich history. With so much to see and do, Lyon is a must-visit destination in France.
