Lyon-3-day-itinerary

August 5, 2024

Day 1: Discovering Old Lyon

9:00 AM: Start your day at the iconic Place des Terreaux, a vibrant square in the heart of Old Lyon. Admire the beautiful fountain, street performers, and historic buildings.
10:00 AM: Visit the stunning Cathédrale Saint-Jean Baptiste (St. John the Baptist Cathedral) nearby.

12:30 PM: Grab lunch at Bouchon des Brotteaux, a cozy bistro serving traditional Lyonnaise cuisine.
2:00 PM: Explore the winding streets and charming squares of Old Lyon, including Vieux Lyon (Old Town) and La Place Bellecour.

7:30 PM: Enjoy dinner at Les Jardins de Cybèle, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering modern French cuisine.
9:00 PM: End your day with a stroll along the Rhône River, taking in the city’s beautiful lights and scenery.

Day 2: Modern Lyon

9:00 AM: Visit the Musée des Confluences, a unique science museum featuring an aquarium and a collection of human cultures from around the world.
11:30 AM: Head to the nearby Confluence district, a modern neighborhood with trendy shops, cafes, and restaurants.

1:00 PM: Grab lunch at Le Bistrot Lyonnais, a casual restaurant serving traditional dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
2:30 PM: Explore the Musée des Arts Décoratifs de la Ville de Lyon (Lyon City Decorative Arts Museum), showcasing art and design from the 19th century to the present.

7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at La Remise, a restaurant offering Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in a lively atmosphere.
9:00 PM: Visit the Tête d’Or Park, one of Europe’s largest urban parks, and enjoy the beautiful gardens and lake views.

Day 3: Gardens and Food

9:30 AM: Visit the Jardin des Plantes, a charming botanical garden featuring a variety of plants and flowers.
11:00 AM: Head to the nearby Gare de Lyon Part-Dieu, one of France’s largest train stations, and grab some coffee at Café Part-Dieu.

12:30 PM: Enjoy lunch at La Cuisine Lyonnaise, a restaurant serving traditional dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
2:00 PM: Visit the Lyon Chocolate Museum (Musée du Chocolat), showcasing the history and craftsmanship of chocolate making.

7:00 PM: Farewell dinner at Le Grand Café, a historic restaurant offering modern French cuisine in a beautiful setting.
9:00 PM: End your trip with a leisurely stroll around the city, taking in the sights and sounds of Lyon.

Where to Stay

Hotel des Brotteaux (3-star): A charming hotel located in the heart of Old Lyon, offering cozy rooms and a delicious breakfast.
Novotel Lyon Confluence (4-star): A modern hotel situated near the Rhône River, featuring spacious rooms and an excellent restaurant.

Getting Around

Metro: The metro system is efficient and convenient, with several lines connecting major attractions. Buy a ticket for €1.50 or purchase a day pass for €8.
Bus: Bus services cover most areas of the city. A single ticket costs €1.50 or buy a 10-ticket pass for €12.
Walking: Lyon is a compact city, and walking is an excellent way to explore its charming streets and neighborhoods.

Tips and Essentials

Language: French is the official language, but many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas.
Currency: Euro (€) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted.
Weather: Lyon enjoys a mild climate year-round. Summer temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), while winters can be chilly, with average highs around 10°C (50°F).
Safety: Lyon is generally a safe city. Take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Other Attractions

Lyon Opera: A stunning opera house featuring a diverse range of performances.
Musée des Arts Contemporains de la Ville de Lyon (MACLY): A museum showcasing contemporary art from the 20th century to the present.
Parc de l’État: A beautiful park with gardens, fountains, and walking trails.

This itinerary provides a mix of culture, history, food, and relaxation, making your trip to Lyon an unforgettable experience. Enjoy your travels!