things to do in lyon

Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France, is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are some things to do in Lyon:

Historical and Cultural Attractions

1. Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic district is filled with narrow streets, medieval buildings, and picturesque squares.
2. Roman Theatres of Fourvière: A well-preserved Roman theatre and amphitheatre, offering stunning views of the city.
3. Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon: One of the largest art museums in France, featuring a collection of art from ancient civilizations to modern times.
4. Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière: A beautiful white church perched on a hill, offering panoramic views of the city.

Food and Wine

1. Try traditional Lyonnaise cuisine: Sample dishes like salade lyonnaise, quenelles, and tarte aux pralines.
2. Visit a local market: The Marché des Halles and the Marché de la Croix-Rousse are great places to try local specialties and drinks.
3. Wine tasting: Lyon is surrounded by vineyards, and wine tastings are available at many local wineries.
4. Take a cooking class: Learn how to prepare traditional Lyonnaise dishes with a cooking class.

Outdoor Activities

1. Rhône River: Take a stroll along the river, rent a boat, or enjoy a scenic cruise.
2. Parc de la Tête d’Or: A beautiful park with gardens, a lake, and a zoo.
3. Monts du Lyonnais: Explore the surrounding mountains, perfect for hiking and skiing.
4. Lyon’s many parks: The city has many parks and gardens, including the Jardin de la Bourse and the Jardin de la Ville.

Shopping and Entertainment

1. Galeries Lafayette: A iconic department store with stunning views of the city.
2. La Croix-Rousse: A historic district with narrow streets, boutiques, and restaurants.
3. Vieux Lyon’s street performers: Enjoy live music, dance, and acrobatics in the historic district.
4. Lyon’s many museums: The city has many museums, including the Musée des Arts Décoratifs and the Musée des Confluences.

Day Trips

1. Annecy: A charming town in the French Alps, known for its canals and medieval old town.
2. Avignon: A historic city in southern France, famous for its Papal Palace and Saint-Benezet Bridge.
3. Chambéry: A beautiful city in the French Alps, known for its medieval old town and stunning mountain views.
4. The Beaujolais region: A wine-producing region with picturesque villages and vineyards.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Lyon. The city has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or outdoor activities.