things to do in lyon france
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
- Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic district is filled with narrow streets, medieval buildings, and picturesque squares.
- Roman Theatres of Fourvière: A well-preserved Roman theatre and amphitheatre, offering stunning views of the city.
- 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.
- Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière: A beautiful white church perched on a hill, offering panoramic views of the city.
Food and Wine
- Try traditional Lyonnaise cuisine: Sample dishes like salade lyonnaise, quenelles, and tarte aux pralines.
- Visit a local market: The Marché des Halles and the Marché des Terreaux offer a wide range of fresh produce, cheeses, and local specialties.
- Wine tasting: Lyon is surrounded by vineyards, and wine tastings are available at various wineries and wine bars.
- Take a cooking class: Learn how to prepare traditional Lyonnaise dishes with a cooking class.
Outdoor Activities
- Rhône River: Take a stroll along the riverbank, rent a bike, or take a boat tour to explore the city from a different perspective.
- Parc de la Tête d’Or: A beautiful park with gardens, a lake, and a zoo.
- Monts du Lyonnais: Explore the surrounding mountains, which offer hiking trails, ski resorts, and stunning views.
- Lyon’s many parks: The city has numerous parks, including the Parc de la Croix-Rousse and the Parc de la Bastille.
Shopping and Entertainment
- Galeries Lafayette: A iconic department store with stunning views of the city from its rooftop.
- La Part-Dieu: A shopping center with a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
- Théâtre de la Comédie: A historic theatre hosting various performances, including concerts, plays, and musicals.
- Lyon’s many festivals: The city hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the Fête des Lumières and the Festival d’Automne.
Day Trips
- Annecy: A charming town in the French Alps, known for its canals, old town, and stunning mountain scenery.
- Avignon: A historic town in southern France, famous for its Papal Palace and the Rhône River.
- Mâcon: A charming town in the Burgundy region, known for its wine production and stunning views of the Saône River.
- Chambéry: A city in the French Alps, known for its medieval old town, castle, and stunning mountain scenery.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Lyon, France. The city has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or outdoor activities.