The Magic of Lyon France – 7 Day Itinerary
When planning a visit to France, there are so many options for destinations and cities to consider. Paris is usually the first place that comes to mind.
But, what should you consider after having spent time in Paris – I personally think Lyon is a wonderful place to visit!
For anyone asking why you should visit Lyon:
- Food lovers will indulge in the city known as the “gastronomic capital of the world”,
- History lovers will marvel at the city that was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998 and that served as the “Capital of the Gauls” during the Roman Empire, and
- Lovers of French culture and architecture will appreciate so many of the same sights and experiences as Paris but in a less crowded and more affordable destination.
Here is how I recommend spending 7 days in Lyon, 4 days exploring the city and 3 days exploring nearby regions and towns.
**If you make a purchase using the links below, I may receive a small commission for that purchase. Thank you in advance for your support.**
Day 1: Fourvière and Vieux Lyon (Old Town/Lyon)

The city of Lyon is situated around two rivers – the Saône River on the west and the Rhône River on the east and there are arrondissements on both sides of these two rivers.
These two rivers play a major role in the story of the city, its prominence in history and leading to the city being designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Known as “the Hill that Prays”, Fourvière is a hilly neighborhood located on the west side of the city and west of both the Saône and Rhône Rivers.

A bit of history of Fourvière Hill
Since the city’s founding in 43 BC, Fourvière Hill has been a place of prominence.
The city served as the capital of the Gauls, the area of the Roman Empire that included lands that are now France and Belgium, after being conquered by Julius Caesar.
Gaul was part of the Roman Empire for approximately 500 years, from the 1st century BC to 400s AD.
Originally the hill was the site of a Roman Forum founded by Emperor Trajan, who ruled from 98 to 117 A.D.
The hill was also a popular place to worship the Virgin Mary with a shrine dating back to 1170.
Over the city’s history, the Virgin Mary is said to have protected the city during the Bubonic Plague, a cholera outbreak, and even from an invading army of Prussians.

TRAVEL TIP : I recommend taking the funicular to access the top of this hilly section of Lyon. The funicular stops right at the base of the Basilica.
Alternatively, you can walk the 1/2 mile uphill from Old Town (Vieux Lyon) or even climb the stairs (over 550) to reach the top of the hill.
Basilica de Notre Dame de Fourvière
First, I will have you start at the Basilica de Notre Dame de Fourvière, one of the most recognizable buildings and seen from almost anywhere in Lyon. This first destination allows you to get an eagle eye view of the city and its two rivers.
Construction on the basilica started in 1872, after what was considered the miracle of the Prussians’ advance on Lyon being halted. The basilica was finished and opened to worshippers in 1896.
Walking up to the Basilica from the funicular stop, you will first see the Romanesque architecture with the intricately carved white marble entry, three rounded arches at the entry and two of the Romanesque towers.

At the top of the front, you will see a triangular pediment with the Virgin Mary in the center holding baby Jesus.
As you approach the entry doors to the upper church, I recommend taking some time to marvel at the beautifully decorated covered patio and carvings.
Once inside, you will be transported to a blend of Byzantine decorations with the ornate and domed ceilings inside the church and mosaics along the walls of the upper church illustrating the history of the Catholic Church and of France.

Intertwined in the mosaics, you will also find elements of Gothic design with the stained glass windows above the mosaics.
There are stairs down to the lower church, where you will see simpler and less adorned designs with the dark wood carvings, arched doorways, and a simply and beautifully decorated mosaic nave.
After exploring inside, I recommend heading outside and marveling at the architecture of the building and the views of the city.
On the right side of the Basilica, there is a chapel with an ornate tower and a golden statue of the Virgin Mary at the top.

Walking to the side of the Basilica facing the city of Lyon, you will see the bronze statue of Archangel Michael facing and protecting the city of Lyon as well as amazing views of Vieux Lyon, the rivers and the surrounding region.

TOUR INFORMATION : You can take paid tours of the basilica and its towers, including some tours going up to the rooftop. The tours take anywhere from 1 hour to 1 hour, 30 minutes. Be prepared for just over 300 stairs if taking one of the rooftop tours.
There are some night tours during the months of October, November and February.
TRAVEL TIP : The Basilica opens at 7AM and closes at 8 PM on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday; closes at 10 PM on Thursday, Friday and Saturday; and closes at 9 PM on Sunday.
The basilica does have daily masses and prayer services; so please be mindful during those service times.
Plan to spend from 1/2 hour to 2 hours at the Basilica, depending on how much you want to explore the basilica and its ground. You may need more time if you want to take one of the guided tours.
Metallic Tower
Up the road from the Basilica, you can see a metallic tower.

While you can no longer go up into the tower, it does serve as a noteworthy sight – especially for those who love French history. It was originally built in 1892 to resemble the Eiffel Tower in Paris, which had been completed in 1889 (3 years earlier).
Prior to the French Revolution (1789-1799), members of the clergy were seen as part of the aristocracy. Immediately after the Revolution, there was a secularization across France with the removal of many of the religious symbols and statues as well as the removal of the protected and elevated status of the clergy.
When construction started on the Basilica in 1872, in addition to giving thanks to Mary for protecting Lyon from the Prussians in 1870, it was a direct reaction to the over secularization of France and served as a return to a more religious way of life for French citizens.
Therefore, the metallic tower of Fourvière was built as a political statement and a way to counterbalance the religious symbolism of Notre Dame de Fourvière. And as a way to enhance the counterbalance, the tower’s summit is the highest point in Lyon at over 1200 feet tall.
The tower now serves as a transmission tower for various TV channels.
Lugdunum
Lugdunum is a museum down the hill from the Basilica and showcases the connection between Lyon and its time under the Roman Empire.
Lugdunum was the former name of Lyon when it was the capital of the Empire known as the Three Gauls.
First, I recommend spending an hour exploring the museum and learning about the history, the Roman Empire, and how Lyon rose to prominence due to its two rivers converging.
Then, I suggest visiting the outside attractions and ruins, including several theaters, baths, and an ancient church.

TOUR INFORMATION : You can take guided tours of the museum and the outdoor theaters.
Entry prices vary based on any temporary exhibit that the museum may have.
If there is a temporary exhibit, entry to the museum will cost €7. If there is no temporary exhibit, entry to the museum will cost €4. If you want a guided tour, there is a €4 charge in addition to the museum entry price.
TRAVEL TIP : The museum is open Tuesday through Friday from 11am to 6pm and Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 6pm.
The Roman theaters are open from May 2nd to September 30th (7am to 9pm) and from October 1st to April 30th (7am to 7pm).
The museum is closed January 1st, May 1st, and December 25th.
Plan to spend 1-2 hours at the museum and exploring the outside attractions. You may need more time if you want to take one of the guided tours.
If you are visiting during the summer months, look for some information about the events hosted at some of the Roman theaters.
Vieux Lyon (Old Town/Lyon) and Lyonnais Cuisine
After finishing your visit at the top of Fourvière, I recommend visiting the area at the bottom of the hill known at Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon – also called Old Town) and have a bite of lunch.

One of things you will notice about the narrow streets of Vieux Lyon is the numerous restaurants!

This is the part of town that contributes to Lyon being designated as the “gastronomic capital of the world” with its over 4300 restaurants as well as its 20+ restaurants with the coveted Michelin star.
This spotlight and designation is also directly tied to the famous Lyonnais Cuisine.
Lyonnais Cuisine
The story of Lyonnais cuisine is the story of Lyon.
With the influence of the rivers and prominence of the city in the Roman Empire and European history, the city hosted many markets and fairs where foreign spices and ingredients were carried on boats to various destinations and blended with the local produce and meats.
One legend claims that Catherine de Medici, who married King Henry II and served as Queen in the mid-1500s, brought chefs from her home town of Florence Italy to France to help create some flavors from home.
As such, with the fresh French ingredients and Italian cooking methods, a new type of cuisine was said to be born. However, there is some disagreement on the influence of Catherine de Medici.
About 200 years later, in the late 1700s after the French Revolution, mères (French for mother) of Lyon took their recipes and honed their craft and skills while cooking for the wealthy families of France.
One mother in particular, Mère Francois Fillioux, is famous for creating a very popular dish of truffled chicken. She then opened her own bistro and presented her truffled chicken to her patrons tableside with much fanfare.
Eventually she began to teach other mères her recipes and skills, including Mère Eugenie Brazier.
Mère Brazier later opened her own restaurant and, in 1933, was the first woman to earn 3 Michelin stars in two different establishments.
In 1934, a famous culinary writer named Maurice Sailland, known as by his pen-name Gourmet Curnonsky, spent a few weeks in the winter in Lyon and declared the city the “Capital of Gastronomy”.
The city has more restaurants per person than almost any other city in Europe and the high number of restaurants with Michelin stars.
In France, delicious food is almost always accompanied with equally delicious wine. The wines from the region are said to be the 3rd river of Lyon.
When looking for restaurants in Lyon, and especially in Vieux Lyon, look for the words
- Buchon – a style of cooking found in more of a working class restaurant and focusing on simplicity and quality and with dishes that include sausages, chicken, onions, and potatoes.
- Mère(s) – indicating the inclusion of centuries old recipes and techniques from the mothers of Lyon.

Miniature Cinema Museum
In the middle of Vieux Lyon is the Miniature Cinema Museum.
Here, you can see over 10,000 movie memorabilia, including the original Darth Vadar helmet from “Star Wars”, a life jacket from the movie “Titanic”, and a Mogwai from the movie “Gremlins”.

The museum has both a permanent collection and temporary collection.
TOUR INFORMATION : There are no paid tours of the museum.
Entrance to the museum costs €16,90 and there are reduced rates for students, seniors, teachers, military, public safety workers and for children.
There is also a family 4 pack of tickets for 2 adults and 2 children for €49,00.
TRAVEL TIP : The museum is open everyday at 10:00 AM and closes at 6:30 PM on weekdays and 7:00 PM on weekends.
The museum is the least crowded in the middle of the day, which is why I recommend going after lunch and spending 1 hour at the museum.
Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste (Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist/Lyon Cathedral)
Located less than a quarter mile away from the Miniature Cinema Museum is the Cathedral of Saint Jean Baptiste, also known at the Lyon Cathedral.

Construction on the Cathedral started in the 1180s and was completed in 1476 on the site of the ruins of a church from the 500s. It was the main church in Lyon before Notre Dame was built.
Given its nearly 300 years of construction, the Cathedral has several architectural design elements, including Romanesque – at the altar and choir areas – and Gothic – with the rose window, the stained glass, and pointed arches over the entry.

Inside the Cathedral, you can find two crosses at the altar dating to 1274 and the famous astronomical clock near the entryway dating back to 1383.
The astronomical clock tells the date and time as well as the position of the sun, earth, moon, and stars plus the religious holidays of Ash Wednesday, Easter, Pentecost, and Advent.
The clock has different figures that move as the time approaches the top of the hour. You can see an angel that turns an hourglass, another angel directing three angels ringing bells to the hymn of St. John the Baptist.
You can also see the Virgin Mary kneeling and ArchAngel Gabriel opening a door and a dove, representing Jesus, taking flight. Finally, a Swiss Guard marches around the top before the bell tolls for the top of the hour.
The clock has endured some damages and repairs over the centuries, most recently in 2013, and is currently being restored and with an estimated completion sometime in 2024.
There are some YouTube videos of the clock’s movements prior to its damage in 2013 that show all of the activity.
TOUR INFORMATION : You can do a guided tour of the Cathedral on Tuesdays through Sundays at 3:00 PM. The cost is €6 for adults and €3 for children and tickets are purchased on-site in the cathedral store.
There are guided tours of the Astronomical Clock (once restored) on Wednesdays at 3:00 PM and Saturdays at 2:15 PM and 3:15 PM. The cost is €5 for adults and free for children.
TRAVEL TIP : The Cathedral is open on Tuesdays/Thursdays/Fridays from 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM; Wednesdays from 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM; Saturdays 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM; Sundays 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The Cathedral is closed on Mondays.
I recommend spending 1/2 hour to 1 hour at the Cathedral unless doing a guided tour or participating in one of the special events.
If you want to do both tours in a single day, Saturdays would be my recommendation with a clock tour (once restored) at 2:15 PM and then a cathedral tour at 3:00 PM.
The cathedral does have daily masses and prayer services; so please be mindful during those service times.
Fete Des Lumieres
If visiting in December, the Cathedral is part of the Fête des Lumières (Festival of Lights), which celebrates the placement of the golden statue of Mary on top of one of the towers at the Basilica de Notre Dame.

The festival starts in early December with its peak day on December 8th.
There is a procession in the evening lit by lanterns and participants walk from the Cathedral to the Basilica. Also many residents place candles in their windows.
On the front of the Cathedral, there are lights displayed and choreographed to music each evening.
Garden of Curiosities
While in the Fourvière District of Lyon, consider including the Garden of Curiosities.
Here you can see the views of Lyon from park benches and chairs set up on red squares that seem to mimic and reflect the red roofs from the buildings seen across the river.
The chairs were created by a sculpture from Quebec and face in different directions to encourage visitors to see the area from different points of view.
The benches and chairs have quotations and inscriptions, which allows visitors to practice contemplation and curiosity.
While enjoying the view of the city from the hill, I recommend making sure you note the blend of architecture across the river.

There are several tall and modern buildings that are a reminder of the modern and commercial economy of Lyon as well as traditional French architecture buildings made with iron and glass.
The garden is an amazing place to watch the sunset and watch the city of Lyon light up after dark.

You can finish the day at the Fourvière Hotel for happy hour and snacks at the bar or enjoy dinner at one of the two restaurants.
Day 2: Presqu’ile
On day two, I recommend exploring the part of Lyon between the two rivers, known as Presqu’ile.

This 2 ½ mile walking route is from north to south and explores the city’s wonderful architecture and incredible museums that contributed to the city being designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Opéra Nouvel (New Opera House) in the Place de la Comedie
Our first stop is the Opéra Nouvel (New Opera House) in the Place de la Comedie.
The closest Metro stop is Hotel De Ville.
The Opera House was originally built in 1756 and has undergone various renovations, including in 1993 when French architect Jean Nouvel updated the building to include its distinctive glass roof.

TOUR INFORMATION : You can buy tickets to one of the operas or take a tour inside the building.
Guided tours are on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 1:00 PM and on Thursdays at 5:30 PM. The tours take 1 ½ hours and cost €12 per person.
Hôtel de Ville (City Hall)
Located next to the Opera House is City Hall.
The building, completed in the mid-1600s, is very much French in architecture with the stone construction and carvings and the golden paint.
At the top center, you can see a carving of King Louis XIV, who was also known as the Sun King and the monarch who moved the royal residence from the Louvre in Paris to Versailles.

King Louis IV ruled France for 72 years and is still the longest serving monarch in Europe (2 years longer than Queen Elizabeth II of England).
The central bell tower, also known as a belfry, is listed as an additional UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the Belfries of Belgium and France.
TRAVEL TIP : The building is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM and Saturday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
The building is closed on bank holidays.
Museum of Fine Arts
The Museum of Fine Arts is located in a former Benedictine convent with a collection covering artifacts from ancient Egypt all the way through Modern Art.
There are paintings by French artists, like Monet, Gaughin, Van Gogh, Degas, Cezanne and Renoir; by Dutch artists like Rembrandt; and recent and renowned artists like Picasso, Matisse, and Modigliani.
The museum also has wonderful sculptures, including two by Rodin.
TOUR INFORMATION : Visit the museum’s website for information and tickets.
The cost to view the museum’s collections is €8 for adults and €4 for children.
The cost to view the museum’s special exhibitions is €12 for adults and €7 for children.
All tickets must be purchased online and in advance of your arrival.
Each Saturday at 2:30PM, there is a 1 hour guided tour of the museum exploring its history and the collections. The cost is €3 in addition to the entry ticket to the museum.
TRAVEL TIP : The museum’s hours are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM and Friday from 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM.
The museum is closed on Tuesdays and on public holidays.
Plan to spend 1-2 hours in the museum.
Palais de la Bourse (Lyon Stock Exchange)
Plans for the Lyon Stock Exchange started in 1853 for a place that would include a museum of art and industry, shops, and silk brokers.
Part of the commerce that the two rivers brought to the city of Lyon included silk and how the material was traded.
[We will explore more of silk’s prominence in the city’s history on Day 3 when we explore the Croix-Rousse]
The construction started 3 years later in 1856 and the opening of the building was celebrated by Napoleon III and Empress Eugenie in 1860.
The statues in the front of the Palais represent Justice, Agriculture, Commerce, and Industry.

Currently, the building is home to the Chamber of Commerce and is also used as a meeting and event space.
TRAVEL TIP : There is no charge to walk into the Palais and take a look around. The only restrictions would be access to some of the rooms that may have events occurring.
Saint Nizier Church
This Church, dedicated to Nicetius – the Archbishop of Lyon in the mid 500s – started being built in the 1300s. The church was damaged during the religious wars and the French Revolution and was renovated in the 1800s.
Nicetius, or Nizier, is one of the celebrated saints in the Catholic Church and is buried at the church. He was said to have performed exorcisms and, after his death, worshippers were cured of illnesses.

The church has elements of Gothic architecture with its spires and pointed arches on the left and right side entry and elements of Renaissance architecture with the domed center entry.
The most recent restoration of the church started in the 1960s and was completed in the 1980s.
Hotel Dieu de Lyon
This structure was originally a hospital in the mid 1400s and served as a meeting place for the clergy.
In 2010, the building was converted from a hospital and is now the Intercontinental Hotel.

Even if you are not staying at the Hotel Dieu, you can still spend some time shopping, dining, and taking an audio tour of the building and exploring its history.
You can also visit the Musee d’Illusion (Museum of Illusions) and spend some time in a mind-bending playground for children of all ages.
Place Bellecour
The Place Bellecour is the 3rd largest square in France and the largest pedestrian-only square in Europe.
The nearest Metro Stop is Bellecour.
The square is a wonderful place to have some lunch at one of the brasseries or cafes or spend some time shopping and admiring the late 1800s French archictecture.
You will see a another statue of King Louis XIV, previously seen on a statue at the top of the Hôtel de Ville/City Hall.

During the winter months, there is an ice skating rink in the middle of the square.
Museum of Confluence
This science and anthropology museum opened in 2014 where the Saône and Rhône Rivers converge – also known as a confluence.
This very modern design of metal and glass is as much of a work of art as the exhibits within the museum.

Inside the museum, you can find permanent and temporary exhibitions.
The permanent exhibition explores the story of humanity across four subject matters –
- “Origins – Stories of the World”, exploring the Big Bang theory as well as the beginning of life and the theory of human evolution
- “Species — the Web of life” talks about the connection between humans and animals and the evolution of various animal species
- “Societies — Human theater” discusses the origins of human societies and how we build communities
- “Eternities — Visions of the beyond” explores the meaning of life and how death has been discussed and celebrated across different times and cultures.
TOUR INFORMATION : Visit the museum’s website for information and tickets.
The cost to view the museum’s collections is €12 for adults, €7 for students aged 18-25, and free for those under 18 and with additional special circumstances.
All tickets can be purchased online prior to arrival or in person at the ticket office.
The museum does offer some tours that are an extra cost in addition to the museum entry ticket.
TRAVEL TIP : The museum’s hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 10:30 AM to 6:30 PM. The museum stays open until 10:00 PM on first Thursday of each month
The museum is closed on Mondays, January 1st, May 1st, and December 25th.
Plan to spend 1-2 hours in the museum.
Day 3: Croix – Rousse
Our third day, I recommend exploring the Croix-Rousse part of the Lyon. It is the area of town dedicated to the silk industry and how the textile shaped the city’s history.

The Croix district is known as the Hill That Works (as opposed to Fourviere, or the Hill That Prays).

The closest Metro Stop to the start of this tour is Croix-Rousse
Maison des Canuts (Silk Workers’ Center)
The center serves as a museum and as a workshop so you can explore the history of the silk industry, which dates back to the mid-1500s, the workers (canuts), and experience the process of creating silk products.
I recommend noting how the architecture of the area’s buildings were all centered on the silk industry –
- high ceilings to accommodate the looms,
- tall windows to allow for maximum sunlight,
- white walls to help see the colors of the patterns, and
- covered walkways (traboules) to allow for protected transport of the materials.
TOUR INFORMATION : Visit the Maison des Canuts website for information on ticket options, including guided tours and the ability to visit the workshops.
Some of the ticketing options include a tour of the Traboules, which are the covered walkways used to transport fabric.
TRAVEL TIP : Plan to spend 1-2 hours at the Maison, longer if you want to watch some of the workshop that include the creation of the silk prints.
Traboules
Closely associated with the silk workers are the traboules, or covered walkways used by silk workers to transport fabric securely and without any weather related damage.
Many of the traboules are still open for exploring.

As a fun history note – they were used during World War II by the French Resistance to avoid having movements and actions detected by the Nazi secret police force called the Gestapo.
TOUR INFORMATION : The Maison des Canuts website for information on ticket options, including a tour of the Traboules.
TRAVEL TIP : Guided tours of the Traboules are recommended since many of them are on private property and can be easily missed.
I recommend 1-2 hours touring the traboules. The guided tours last 1-1/2 hours.

Mur des Canuts
The last stop of the day exploring the Croix-Rousse neighborhood is a visit to the Mur des Canuts.
This mural, one of the largest in Europe, showcases the evolution of the neighborhood and the life of the silk workers, is located 1/3 of a mile away from the Maison des Canuts.
TRAVEL TIP : The closest metro stop to the Mur des Canuts is Hénon.
I recommend enjoying a meal at one of the bouchons in the Croix-Rousse neighborhood. These working class restaurants originally catered to the silk workers and produced hearty meals that could sustain their workloads.
Day 4: Exploring the Rest of Lyon
This last day of our 7 day itinerary is spent exploring the rest of Lyon and maybe even visiting some places previously mentioned but unable to visit.

The closest Metro Stop is either Masséna or Charpennes Charles Hernu.
Parc de la Tête d’Or (Park of the Golden Head)
I recommend you start the day with a stroll through the largest urban park in France. At almost 300 acres, the park is one of the largest in Europe.
Here you will find botanical gardens with greenhouses containing exotic plants and trees, a zoo, mini golf, and a small puppet theater.

During the summer months, there is a large lake where you can rent a boat.
Cité Internationale
On the far north side of the Parc de la Tête d’Or is this modern residential and commercial complex.
Within the Cité Internationale, you will find the Museum of Contemporary Art.
This museum has various temporary and permanent installations and exhibitions. Please check the website to see specific details, hours, and ticket pricing.
Wandering through this complex, you get an appreciation of the red brick, glass, and metal highlighting the architecture of a more modern home with the conveniences of nearby commercial amenities.
TRAVEL TIP : I recommend spending 1-3 hours at the Park, depending on your level of activity and the number of places you want to visit.
Visit Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bucose (Food and Market Hall)
After visiting the Parc de la Tête d’Or, I recommend heading south – just under a mile – to the Halles de Lyon Paul Bucose.
This multi-story metal and glass food hall has a bit of history tied to the “Gastronomic capital of world”. The hall was originally designed as a covered, open-air market for the chefs of Lyon to purchase fresh ingredients.
Today, you can visit and purchase ingredients for a delicious meal, snacks for a picnic, or sit and have a prepared meal. I also recommend wandering the different stalls and admiring the variety of wines, cheeses, and pastries.

Basically all the delicious elements of French cuisine!
TRAVEL TIP : I recommend spending 1-2 hours at the Food Hall, depending on how many stalls you want to visit and if you plan to have a sit down meal.
Once you are done at the Food Hall, I recommend continuing onto the Institut Lumière.
The distance is just under 2 miles and can be walked. You can also consider using the Tram or Metro.
The most direct option between the Food Hall and the Institut Lumière is the C Tram #13 Grange Blanche from Halles Paul Bucose to Dauphiné-Lacassagne and then a 1/2 mile walk to the Institut.
Institut Lumière – Cinema History
At the Institut Lumière, you get to experience another of Lyon’s claims to fame – its pivotal role in cinema history.
The Lumière brothers – Louise and Auguste – invented a camera with a hand crank, called the cinematographe, in the late 1890s.
They used their cinematographe to film what many consider to be the first motion picture of workers leaving their family’s photograph factory, 40 seconds in length.
Within 12 months of the filming, the brothers were granted a patent for their invention and their motion picture was projected onto a screen in Paris.
At the time, it was ground breaking to have multiple people able to view the motion picture as the competing technology was Thomas Edison’s kinetoscope, which could only be used by one person at a time.
TOUR INFORMATION : There are a number of activities you can do at the Institut Lumière, including cinema screenings and visiting the museum. Check the Institut’s website for the different times and ticket options.
TRAVEL TIP : The Institut is open Tuesday – Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM and is closed on January 1st; May 1st; and December 25th.
I recommend spending 1-3 hours at the Institut, depending on number of activities in which you want to participate.
The closest metro line is Monplaisir – Lumière.
Boat Ride or Bike Ride along the Saône or Rhône
To finish your last full day in Lyon, I recommend renting bikes and riding along the river banks, doing a bike tour, or taking a boat cruise along one of the rivers.
I recommend seeing the city from one of the rivers, whether on a bike or on a boat, as the that view highlights the significance the rivers play in the history of the city and how the city’s past is still playing a role in the present.

Day Trips
Annecy
Annecy, a 2-hour train ride from Lyon, is located at the base of the French Alps and is known as the “Venice of the Alps,”.

This town offers a mix of stunning scenery, rich history, and an array of outdoor activities that make it a great destination for a day trip from Lyon.

There is a tourist office about a 1/2 mile from the Annecy Train Station. Stopping there first may help you get a good idea of the day’s happenings in this lovely town.
After stopping at the Tourist Office, here are my suggestions on what to see and a map as a reference point.

Vieille Ville (Old Town)
Annecy’s old town is an wonderful maze of cobbled streets, pastel-colored houses, and flower-laden canals. Walking through this area feels like walking through a postcard.
I recommend visiting the Palais de l’Isle, a triangular-shaped medieval building jutting into a canal. This building has been a prison and courthouse and now houses a local history museum.

Your next stop should be Cathédrale Saint-Pierre (Annecy Cathedral), a 16th-century church filled with impressive art and intricate stained glass.
The Gothic design elements are seen in with the rose window and stained glass and the Renaissance design elements are seen with its stone and brick structure as well as its use of geometrical shapes, like the triangles above the doors and at the very top.
After visiting Annecy Cathedral, I recommend heading towards Lac d’Annecy (Lake Annecy) and walking through the Jardin de l’ Europe.
Make sure not to miss the Pont des Amours. This beautiful bridge, according to legend, is where two people in love once kissed and their love never faded.
One last must see in Annecy is the Château d’Annecy (Annecy Castle) which is located above the town and allows you to learn about at the region’s history and take in the stunning views of the lake below.
Lac d’ Annecy (Lake Annecy)
I recommend spending the rest of your time in Annecy along the lake, considered one of the cleanest lakes in Europe. The lake boasts sparkling blue waters surrounded by tree filled hill and the Alps.
During the warmer months, you can rent a boat, kayak, or paddle board at at Annecy Boat Tours or visit one of the beaches, such as Plage des Marquisats (Marquisats Beach).
Annecy Boat Tours and Marquisats Beach are located just south of Old Town and offer great options for your time along the lake.

The lake also has 25 miles of scenic bike paths that allow you to take in the gorgeous scenery.
What to Eat/Drink in Annecy
When considering what to eat, Annecy is known for its hearty alpine dishes given its location. Some of the city’s famous dishes are
- Raclette: Melted cheese served with potatoes, charcuterie, and pickles,
- Fondue Savoyarde: A gooey fondue with 3 cheeses – mildly sweet Beaufort, earthy Comté, and nutty Emmental – enjoyed with bread chunks, and
- Tartiflette: A rich gratin made with potatoes, reblochon cheese, onions, and bacon.
Also, the Savoie region is known for crisp white wines that goes well with its famous dishes.
Festivals & Year Round Events
Annecy hosts various festivals throughout the year, including an International Animation Film Festival in June as well as Christmas Markets in December.
There are guided tours of Annecy as well as a food tours.
Beaujolis Region
Beaujolais, located a 45-minute train ride north of Lyon, is a charming region that offers more than just great Beaujolis wine.

With its rolling vineyards, quaint villages, and vibrant cultural scene, this region is an amazing day trip from Lyon.

Exploring the Vineyards
While in Beaujolis, I recommend you enjoy a wine tasting. Many of the vineyards offer tastings and tours, allowing visitors to sample different wines directly from the source.
The famous Beaujolais Wine Route can be enjoyed by hiring a driver and exploring the 87-mile wine route through picturesque villages, stopping at family-run wineries along the way.

Visiting the Quaint Villages
The Beaujolais region is dotted with charming villages that are steeped in history and culture.
I recommend a guided tour of the villages, the food, and the wineries given the miles between the villages and allowing you to hear from an expert in the area.

Festival and Year Round Events
Beaujolis is gorgeous destination, no matter the time of year.
In the Spring, the vineyards start to bloom, making it a picturesque time to visit. In the Summer, the longer days are ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and wine tastings.
In the Autumn, the harvest season transforms the vineyards into a patchwork of red, gold, and green.
Also, there is the Beaujolais Nouveau Festival, where the entire region celebrates with wine tastings, parades, and street parties to mark the first release of the year’s wine.
In the winter, you stay warm enjoying the local wine and hearty food in a local tavern, or enjoy the festive spirit around the Beaujolais Nouveau release.
What to Eat/Drink in the Beajoulais Region
The cuisine in the region is closely tied to the local wines.
The amazing charcuterie platters of cured meats are designed to pair perfectly with the local red wine.
Also, diners will delight on a regional twist on a French classic dish, Coq au Vin, with the chicken simmered in Beaujolais wine.
Local goat cheeses served with bread and a drizzle of honey and the bugnes, a sweet fritter, often enjoyed during festivities are not to be missed.
Dijon
Dijon, the capital of the Burgundy region and offering an irresistible blend of history, gastronomy, and culture, is a two hour train ride north of Lyon.

While Dijon may be most famous for its mustard, the city has so much more to offer than condiments.
Exploring the city
When on your day trip, make sure to take time to walk through the streets of Dijon and appreciating its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture.

Walking through its streets feels like stepping back in time, with charming timber-framed houses and elegant mansions.
Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy (Palais des Ducs) is a grand building that now houses the Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des Beaux-Arts). This was once the seat of the powerful Dukes of Burgundy.

Church of Notre-Dame is a Gothic masterpiece with unique gargoyles and an astronomical clock from the 14th century.
The Owl Trail (Parcours de la Chouette) is a self-guided walking tour leads you through Dijon’s most important landmarks by following little owl plaques set into the pavement. Rub the owl carving on the church wall for good luck!
There are walking tours of Dijon to help you not miss any of the details of this historic and charming city.
What to Eat/Drink in Dijon
If visiting during Autumn, make sure to attend the Foire Internationale et Gastronomique (International Gastronomy Fair) is held in the Autumn and is one of the largest food fairs in France.
You can also explore the local vineyards with a half day guided tour where you can learn about the history of the wine production process in the famous Côte de Nuits part of the area.
If visiting in December, I recommend not missing the Christmas Markets where you can browse local crafts and enjoy the region’s food and drink.
Where to Stay in Lyon
5th Arrondissement (Fourviere)
- Fourviere Hotel Lyon (4 star – €200/$216+ per night)
2nd Arrondissement (Presqu’ile)
- Intercontinental Lyon – Hotel Dieu (5 star – €280/$300+ per night)
- Mercure Lyon Centre Château Perrache (4 star – €175/$190+ per night)
- Hotel de Savoies Lyon (3 star – €130/$140+ per night)
3rd Arrondissement (Between Lyon Part-Dieu and Rivers)
- Best Western Du Pont Wilson – right on the river-€140/$150+ per night)
- Radisson Blu (pretty close to main train station – which seemed to have a lot of traffic and road work when we were there – €185/$200+ per night).
6th Arrondissement (Near the Parc de la Tete d’Or and inside the Cité Internationale)
- IHG Crown Plaza Cité Internationale (€120/$130+ per night)
- Lyon Marriott Cité Internationale (€160/$170+ per night)
Getting Around Lyon
The subway system and the tram are very easy to use and easily and safely move you from Point A to Point B.
Here is a map showing the metro (subway) line, the tram line, and the funicular lines.

If you are taking the tram, make sure you are validating your ticket upon entrance. There is a machine near the doors, as seen in the picture below.

Lyon is mainly a flat city and is easy to walk. The Fourviere section is a bit more hilly and I would definitely use the funicular to get up to the top of and back down from the hill.
The line for the funicular can be long but it moves pretty quickly. We saw how long the line was, went to a cafe for some water and a snack and came back and the line was much shorter.
There is a Lyon City Card that is valid for anywhere between 24 and 96 hours (1-4 days). With the City Card, you can enjoy free and unlimited rides on the metro, trams, buses and cable cars.
The travel pass included in your card will be activated when first used at a network terminal and then active to the length of time for the purchase.
Make sure to activate on each and every ride to keep the card valid.
The card is also great for free or reduced cost entry to many of the museums and attractions around town, including boat rides.
The public transport runs every day of the year (except the 1st of May).
Best Time to Visit Lyon
Anytime of year is perfect for visiting Lyon.
Given the number of festivals hosted by the city, there are opportunities year-round to explore the great city and enjoy a local festival.
WINTER: Fête des Lumières (Festival of Lights)
The Festival of Lights, as described earlier in this post and occurring in early December, is a magical time to celebrate the historical and religious heritage of the city.
SUMMER: Nuits de Fourvière
The Nuits de Fourvière is an annual summer festival, which runs from early June to late July, celebrates the performing arts in the spectacular setting of the ancient Roman theaters of Fourvière.
Dating back to 1946, the festival has grown into one of the most prestigious cultural events in France, attracting world-renowned artists and performers from diverse disciplines.
The main performances take place in Lyon’s ancient Roman theaters, the Théâtre Antique and Odéon de Fourvière. These historic sites, located on Fourvière Hill, provide a magical open-air stage under the stars.
The backdrop of Roman ruins adds a sense of grandeur and historical significance to the modern performances.
The festival’s lineup spans music, theater, dance, opera, and circus arts. You might experience a Shakespearean play one evening, a modern dance performance the next, and a live concert by an international music star later.
Artists from genres like classical music, rock, pop, jazz, electronic, and world music frequently perform here.
Over the years, the festival has hosted world-class performers, including David Bowie, Björk, Radiohead, and Sting, as well as leading orchestras, cutting-edge dance troupes, and avant-garde theater companies.
Tickets for this blending of ancient history and modern art are in hight demand. Booking in advance is recommended.
AUTUMN: Festival Lumière
The Festival Lumière, held each October and named after the Lumière brothers, is a prestigious international film festival that celebrates the art of cinema and its history.
During the festival, classic and restored films are showcased as a way to honor the history and evolution of cinema. It also highlights different filmmakers and their craft and allows films enthusiasts to see legendary movies on the big screen.
During the festival, the Lumière Award is presented to an influential filmmaker for their contribution to the world of cinema. Past recipients include Martin Scorsese, Jane Campion, Pedro Almodóvar, Clint Eastwood, and Tim Burton.
In addition, the festival offers masterclasses, debates, and talks with celebrated filmmakers, critics, and historians, which allow attendees to gain insight and knowledge about the craft of filmmaking.
How to Get to Lyon
Via Train from the Geneva International Airport:
From the Geneva Airport, you will need to catch a train into Geneva. The main station in Geneva has over multiple trains per day to Lyon. The trains are approximately 2 hours to arrive at the Lyon Part Dieu train station.
Via train from the Paris Airport (Charles de Gaulle):
From Charles de Gaulle in Paris, you can take an express train (also known as a TGV) directly from the airport. The TGV from Charles de Gaulle has two stops and takes approximately 2 hours to arrive at the Lyon Part Dieu train station.
Non-Stop Flights to Lyon (LYS)
There are also non-stop flights to Lyon (LYS) from Amsterdam, Paris (CDG), London (Heathrow), Munich, Madrid Frankfurt, Vienna, Brussels, and Barcelona.
Conclusion
For me, Lyon was the type of destination where I started planning my return trip as soon as I left. The city has so much to offer travelers – amazing food, jaw dropping history (both ancient and recent), and an overall exquisite French experience.
If you are interested in assistance planning a trip to Lyon, or anywhere else in the world, please fill out this form and I would be more than happy to help with each step of the planning and travel process.