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Things to Do in Lyon

Things to Do in Lyon

Auvergne-rhone-alpes France Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Lyon's location near rivers and hills has opportunities for alfresco adventures, fitting various energy levels.

Hiking and Trekking

Urban Hikes

Exploring Fourvière and Croix-Rousse hills includes uphill walking and stairs or funicular rides. Moderate urban "hikes" with great vistas and a workout.

Day Trips

The Monts du Lyonnais, west of Lyon, offer numerous marked hiking trails through forests and mounds. Parc Naturel Régional du Pilat, south of Lyon, also has extensive chances to hike with varied terrain.

Adventure Sports

Intense adventure sports like bouldering or white-water rafting are limited directly within the city. These things to do would call for outings to the nearby Alps or the Ardèche region.

Water Sports and Cycling

  • Boat Tours: Scenic river cruises on the Rhône and Saône are popular. Companies like Bateaux Mouches Lyonnais offer sightseeing and dinner options. Unique city perspectives from a boat. Book river tours on GetYourGuide.
  • Kayaking/Canoeing: Available on the Saône River and nearby lakes, like Lac de Miribel-Jonage, during warmer months. Rental facilities provide equipment.
  • Swimming: Public swimming pools are available city-wide. Lac de Miribel-Jonage offers supervised beaches and swimming opportunities in summer.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Parc de la Tête d'Or has a complimentary zoo, offering views of several animals, including giraffes, lions, and monkeys. Family-friendly animal watching.

Urban Cycling

  • Lyon boasts an extensive network of dedicated bike lanes.
  • Especially along riverbanks (Voie Bleue, ViaRhôna).
  • Vélo'v bike-sharing for urban exploration.
  • Affordable and handy transport.

Mountain Biking

  • Trails are obtainable in the Monts du Lyonnais.
  • Other regional parks also offer challenging off-road cycling.
  • Great for those seeking more demanding cycling experiences.
  • Scenic routes beyond downtown.

Bike Rentals

  • Vélo'v terminals are widely distributed across the city.
  • Numerous private rental shops also available.
  • Options for different bike types, including electric.
  • Easy method for discovering the city at your own pace.

Safety Note for Outdoor Activities

Always check weather conditions and local regulations before starting outdoor activities.

Stay hydrated and be aware of your surroundings, especially in less-traveled areas.

Cultural Immersion

Deepen your understanding of Lyon's culture through hands-on experiences and captivating performances.

Workshops and Classes

  • Silk Workshops: La Maison des Canuts in Croix-Rousse often offers demonstrations related to silk weaving. Learn about Lyon's historic industry firsthand.
  • Cooking Classes: Numerous culinary schools in Lyon offer hands-on classes to learn traditional Lyonnaise cuisine. Practical and delicious cultural experiences.
  • Language Learning: Language schools in Lyon offer short-term immersion courses. Engaging with locals employing simple French phrases improves your experience.
  • Consider bringing a French phrasebook for everyday interactions and local engagement.

Cultural Performances

Live Arts Venues

Opéra National de Lyon: Renowned for opera, ballet, and classical music performances. Théâtre des Célestins: A beautiful Italian-style theater for plays.

Festival Highlights

Nuits de Fourvière Festival: Held in the ancient Roman theaters during summer, presenting international music, dance, and theater performances. Nuits Sonores: An electronic music gala during The month of may.

Community-Based Tourism

Supporting local bouchons, independent shops in Croix-Rousse, and local markets gives directly to the economy of the community and authentic interactions.

Opera & Music

Opéra National de Lyon offers world-class opera, ballet, and classical music. Auditorium de Lyon is where you'll find the Orchestre National de Lyon.

Theater

Théâtre des Célestins stages diverse plays. The Nuits de Fourvière festival has theater and dance in an ancient setting.

Major Festivals

Fête des Lumières (the First part of december): Transforms the city with light installations. Nuits Sonores (May): Electronic music festival.

Relaxation & Wellness

Find moments of calm and rejuvenation amidst your travels in Lyon, whether through tranquil parks or spa treatments.

Spa & Wellness

  • Luxury Hotels: Numerous high-end hotels in Lyon offer spas and wellness facilities, frequently open to non-guests (for a fee).
  • Standalone Spas: Standalone spas also can be found, providing various treatments from massages to facials.
  • Hot Springs: No natural hot springs directly in Lyon. The closest can be found in the Auvergne region (Vichy), a day trip away.
  • Yoga/Meditation: Several yoga studios in Lyon provide drop-off-in classes for visitors. Retreats are typically discovered in the adjacent rural areas.

Beaches & Pools

Urban Water Access

Lac de Miribel-Jonage offers sandy shores in summer. Lyon has several municipal swimming pools, including outdoor options for warmer weather.

Relaxation Spots

Parks like Parc de la Tête d'Or offer green spaces for relaxation. Riverside banks along the Rhône and Saône are ideal for leisurely strolls.

Peaceful Retreats

The Jardin des Curiosités on Fourvière hill has a quiet spot with stunning city views, perfect for unwinding.

Rejuvenation Tips

Morning Strolls

Start your day with a peaceful walk along the riverbanks or by means of Parc de la Tête d'Or.

Café Culture

Enjoy a leisurely coffee at a local café, observing daily life unfold.

Relaxed Dining

Savor a long, unhurried dining at a bouchon, embracing the convivial atmosphere.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Lyon's evenings present diverse entertainment, from live music to lively bar districts, catering to all mood.

Live Music & Performances

  • Concert Venues: Le Transbordeur for major concerts. Ninkasi Gerland / Kao for diverse live music.
  • Area Bands: Smaller taverns and bars often host local bands and jazz nights, especially in Vieux Lyon and Croix-Rousse.
  • Theater & Opera: Opéra National de Lyon, Théâtre des Célestins, Auditorium de Lyon present a range of performances.
  • Nightclubs: Various venues found in the 7th arrondissement (Guillotière, Gerland) and along the Rhône riverbanks provide late-night dancing.

Bar Districts

Vieux Lyon

Offers old-fashioned pubs and cozy wine bars, ideal for a relaxed evening.

Rue Sainte-Catherine Presqu'île

Known for its lively concentration of bars, popular with students and young adults.

Croix-Rousse

Features more bohemian and independent bars, reflecting the district's artistic vibe.

Evening Ambiance

Enjoy a relaxed evening at a traditional bouchon or a modern bistro. The city lights contribute to the magical atmosphere, particularly along the rivers.

Event Schedules

Check local event listings for concerts, festivals, and special performances during your visit. Lyon always hosts something unique.

Gaming Options

Casinos like Le Lyon Vert (located beyond downtown) offer gaming and entertainment for a different kind of night out.

Further Nightlife Notes

Rhône River Banks
  • Popular for outdoor terraces and floating bars in warmer months.
  • Offer riverside views and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Great for enjoying evening skies over the city.
Late-Night Eateries
  • Some restaurants and brasseries are open later for post-show or post-bar dining.
  • Look for kebabs or sandwich shops open until the early hours.
  • Pizzerias often cater to the late-night crowd.

Nightlife Safety

While Lyon is generally safe, typical urban precautions apply at night, especially around transport hubs or less-frequented areas.

Activity Planning Summary

Top Activities

  • Explore Old Town Traboules for historical discoveries.
  • Dine at a Traditional Bouchon for an authentic culinary experience.
  • Visit Fourvière Basilica for panoramic views and stunning architecture.
  • Stroll through Parc de la Tête d'Or for relaxation and wildlife viewing.

Considerations for Planning

  • Book popular tours and lessons in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Wear shoes that are good for walking tours and exploring hilly districts.
  • Check museum and opening times for sights for closures, especially on Mondays or Tuesdays.
  • Embrace local culture and culinary experiences for a richer visit.
Things to Do in Lyon. Activities, Experiences, Adventures