Lyon, France-2-day-itinerary

Day 1: Discovering Lyon’s Old Town and Gastronomy

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Start your day at the iconic Place des Terreaux, a beautiful square surrounded by cafes and historic buildings. Take in the sights and sounds of this bustling area.
  • 9:30 AM: Visit the nearby Saint-Bonaventure Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Bonaventure), a stunning example of Romanesque architecture.
  • 11:00 AM: Walk to the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon (Lyon Museum of Fine Arts), one of France’s largest and most important art museums. Explore the vast collections and exhibitions.

Lunch

  • 1:00 PM: Head to Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, a renowned food market offering a wide range of local specialties, from charcuterie and cheese to baked goods and desserts.
  • Try some traditional Lyonnaise cuisine at one of the many restaurants or cafes in the area.

Afternoon

  • 2:30 PM: Visit the Place des Cordeliers, a charming square with beautiful gardens and historic buildings. Explore the nearby streets and alleys, lined with shops and cafes.
  • 4:00 PM: Stop by the Théâtre Romain de Fourvière, a stunning Roman theater with great views of the city.

Dinner

  • 7:30 PM: Enjoy dinner at Le Garet, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving contemporary French cuisine. Be sure to book a table in advance.
  • Alternatively, try some traditional Lyonnaise specialties at La Maison Troisgros, another renowned restaurant with a focus on local ingredients.

Evening

  • 9:30 PM: End your day with a stroll along the Rhône River and take in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Find a spot to sit and enjoy the views, or grab a drink at one of the many bars and cafes lining the river.

Day 2: Exploring Modern Lyon and its Surroundings

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Start your day in the Confluence district, where modern architecture meets historic charm. Visit the Musée des Confluences, a science and anthropology museum with interactive exhibits.
  • 11:00 AM: Explore the nearby streets and alleys, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Lunch

  • 1:00 PM: Head to Le Jardin d’Été, a beautiful garden oasis in the heart of the city. Grab lunch at one of the on-site restaurants or cafes.
  • Alternatively, try some street food at La Place des Cordeliers.

Afternoon

  • 2:30 PM: Visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, a stunning example of Romanesque Revival architecture. Take in the great views of the city from the top.
  • 4:00 PM: Explore the nearby streets and alleys, lined with shops and cafes.

Dinner

  • 7:30 PM: Enjoy dinner at La Voûte, a modern restaurant serving seasonal ingredients and creative dishes.
  • Alternatively, try some traditional Lyonnaise cuisine at Le Clos des Cordeliers.

Where to Stay

  • Hotel Le Cénacle: A charming hotel located in the heart of the city, with comfortable rooms and a beautiful courtyard.
  • Hotel La Réussite: A modern hotel offering stylish rooms and a convenient location near the Confluence district.

Things to Know

  • Transportation: Lyon has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trams. Consider purchasing a rechargeable card (Carte Libeo) for easy travel.
  • Language: While many Lyonnais speak English, it’s still a good idea to learn some basic French phrases to enhance your experience.
  • Weather: Lyon experiences a continental climate with warm summers and mild winters. Be sure to pack accordingly.

Tips

  • Be prepared for crowds: Popular areas like the Old Town can get crowded during peak season (June-August). Plan ahead and consider visiting early in the morning or later in the evening.
  • Try local specialties: Lyon is famous for its gastronomy, so be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as salade lyonnaise or quenelles.
  • Explore beyond the city center: While the Old Town and Confluence district are must-visit areas, don’t forget to explore other neighborhoods, like Les Brotteaux or La Duchère.

Other Things to Do

  • Visit the nearby village of Collonges-au-Mont-d’Or: A charming village with beautiful views of the Rhône River.
  • Take a stroll along the Rhône Canal: A scenic walkway that offers great views of the river and surrounding landscape.
  • Explore the city’s many parks and gardens: Lyon has several beautiful parks, including Parc de la Tête d’Or, which is one of Europe’s largest urban parks.