Lyon-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Wednesday

Morning

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

  • Place des Terreaux: Start your day at the vibrant Place des Terreaux. This is a great place for people-watching and getting an idea of local life.
  • City Hall (Hôtel de Ville): Visit the beautiful City Hall, built in 1858. It’s a striking example of Second Empire architecture.

Afternoon

1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

  • Lunch at Le Comptoir du Relais: Enjoy traditional French cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
  • Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon (Museum of Fine Arts): Spend some time exploring the impressive collection here, which includes works by the likes of Rubens and Delacroix.

Evening

7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

  • Dinner at La Maison du Boeuf: This restaurant is known for its high-quality beef dishes. It’s a great place to experience French gastronomy.
  • Evening Stroll Along the Rhône River: End your day with a leisurely walk along the picturesque Rhône, taking in the city lights.

Where to Stay

Hotel Le Royal Lyon: This luxurious hotel is located in the heart of Lyon and offers elegant rooms and excellent service.

Transportation

  • Getting Around Lyon: Use the efficient tram system or buses for your daily travel. Taxis are also available if needed.
  • Lyon Airport (LYS): The city’s international airport serves flights from major European cities as well as some long-haul routes. It’s about 20 kilometers from central Lyon, with easy access to the metro and trams.

Tips

  • Bargains in Shops: Remember that Sunday shopping is restricted in France, so it might be better to visit shops on other days of the week.
  • French Hours: Be aware that some shops may have limited hours during peak tourist seasons. Plan your visits accordingly.
  • Learning French: While many Lyonnais speak English, learning a few basic phrases can go a long way in enhancing your experience.

Day 2: Thursday

Morning

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

  • Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière (Vieux Lyon): Visit the iconic Basilica of Notre-Dame, perched on a hill overlooking Vieux Lyon. This is one of the city’s most photographed landmarks.
  • Walk through Vieux Lyon: Explore the cobblestone streets and historic houses in this old town area.

Afternoon

1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

  • Lunch at Le Bistrot d’Astrée: Enjoy a meal here, which offers a mix of traditional French cuisine with some modern twists.
  • Musée des Arts Contemporains de Lyon (Modern Contemporary Art Museum): Discover the latest trends in contemporary art from around the world.

Evening

7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

  • Dinner at Le Ciel de la Vie: Treat yourself to a meal with a view, offering panoramic views of the city.
  • Nightlife in Lyon: Depending on your interests, you could explore the vibrant nightlife in the city’s bars and clubs.

Where to Stay

Hotel Mercure Lyon Centre: This hotel offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price. It’s also within walking distance of many attractions.

Day 3: Friday

Morning

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

  • Parks and Gardens: Spend the morning exploring some of Lyon’s beautiful parks, such as Parc de la Tête d’Or.
  • Lunch at Le Grand Café des Négres: This is a unique dining experience where you can enjoy your meal in an unusual setting.

Afternoon

1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

  • Visit to the Rhône-Alpes Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC Lyon): Explore this museum, which features an impressive collection of contemporary art.
  • Explore Croix-Rousse: This historic district is known for its textile industry past. You can explore the charming streets and buildings here.

Evening

7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

  • Dinner at Le Restaurant le Carré d’Or: Enjoy a traditional French meal in this cozy restaurant.
  • Cultural Events: Check if there are any cultural events happening in Lyon, such as concerts or theater performances.

Where to Stay

Hotel Novotel Lyon Confluence: This hotel offers modern rooms and is located near the Rhône River. It’s also within walking distance of many attractions.

Day 4: Saturday

Morning

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

  • Market Day: Visit one of Lyon’s markets, such as the daily market at Part-Dieu. This is a great place to sample local food and drinks.
  • Visit the École de Cuisine La Varenne: This culinary school offers cooking classes for visitors. If you’re interested in French cuisine, this could be an educational experience.

Afternoon

1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

  • Lunch at Le Café des Délices: Enjoy a light meal here, which is known for its delicious sandwiches and salads.
  • Palais de la Bourse (Stock Exchange Palace): Visit the historic Stock Exchange Palace, an impressive example of Second Empire architecture.

Evening

7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

  • Dinner at Le Restaurant La Couronne: Treat yourself to a meal in this elegant restaurant.
  • Evening Stroll Along the Rhône River (Again!): End your day with another leisurely walk along the picturesque Rhône, taking in the city lights one last time.

Where to Stay

Hotel Hotel Lyon Métropole: This luxurious hotel is located in the heart of Lyon and offers elegant rooms and excellent service.

Things to Know

  • Lyon is a cycling-friendly city: If you have your own bike, consider exploring the city on two wheels. There are also many bike rental services available.
  • Tap water is safe to drink: Enjoy the taste of fresh French tap water throughout your stay.
  • Cash is king in some places: While credit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted, some small shops or cafes might only accept cash.

Tips

  • Buy a Lyon City Card: This card grants you free entry into many attractions and public transportation. It’s also valid for a certain period of time.
  • Pack layers: Weather in Lyon can be unpredictable. Be sure to pack clothes that will keep you warm in chilly mornings and cool in sunny afternoons.
  • Respect local customs: While Lyonnais are generally welcoming, remember to respect any local customs or traditions during your visit.

Additional Information

For more information on traveling to Lyon and what the city has to offer, consult official tourism resources such as Lyon Tourist Office.