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Get InspiredEuropeFranceRhone AlpesLyon

Lyon

Rhône-Alpes, France
City·Historic, Culinary, Vibrant
Lyon
Photo by Tairi Soufiane from Google Places
Lyon
Photo by Randolfo Santos · from Google Places
Lyon
Photo by caio ribeiro from Google Places
Lyon
Photo by L E from Google Places
Lyon
Photo by Randolfo Santos · from Google Places
Lyon
Photo by Tairi Soufiane from Google Places
Lyon
Photo by Randolfo Santos · from Google Places
Lyon
Photo by caio ribeiro from Google Places
Lyon
Photo by L E from Google Places
Lyon
Photo by Randolfo Santos · from Google Places

Lyon, nestled in the Rhône-Alpes region, is a city steeped in history and culture. Known as the 'Capital of Lights', it hosts the famous Fête des lumières each December. Lyon's Old Town, Fourvière hill, and Presqu'île are UNESCO World Heritage sites, offering a glimpse into its Roman and Renaissance past. The city is a gastronomic paradise, renowned for its exquisite cuisine and vibrant culinary scene. Economically, Lyon is a powerhouse with thriving banking, biotech, and software industries. It is also a major student city, home to numerous universities and research institutions.

Lyon, nestled in the Rhône-Alpes region, is a city steeped in history and culture. Known as the 'Capital of Lights', it hosts the famous Fête des lumières each December. Lyon's Old Town, Fourvière hill, and Presqu'île are UNESCO World Heritage sites, offering a glimpse into its Roman and Renaissance past. The city is a gastronomic paradise, renowned for its exquisite cuisine and vibrant culinary scene. Economically, Lyon is a powerhouse with thriving banking, biotech, and software industries. It is also a major student city, home to numerous universities and research institutions.

You might want to ask

Highlights

  • UNESCO World Heritage sites including Old Town and Fourvière hill.

  • Renowned for its exquisite cuisine and vibrant culinary scene.

  • Hosts the famous Fête des lumières each December.

  • Major economic hub with thriving industries.

  • Significant role in the history of cinema.

Before you go: Lyon essentials

  • Close access to the French Alps, ideal for skiing and hiking.

  • Rich cultural heritage with several museums and historical sites.

  • Known for its vibrant culinary scene and traditional Lyonnaise cuisine.

Getting Around

Lyon has an efficient public transportation system including buses, trams, and a metro.

Local Cuisine

Don't miss the chance to try traditional Lyonnaise dishes like coq au vin and quenelles.

Best For

History enthusiasts and food lovers.

Currency

EUR €

Average Cost

$100-$200 p/day

Languages Spoken

French, English

Festivals

Visit in December to experience the spectacular Fête des lumières.

Historical Sites

Explore the Roman amphitheater and Renaissance architecture in Old Lyon.

Student Life

Lyon is a major student city with a vibrant nightlife and cultural scene.

Best time to visit Lyon

April-JuneSeptember-November

Best Season

Spring

Spring in Lyon is mild and perfect for exploring the city's historical sites and enjoying outdoor cafes.

Best Season

Summer

Summers are warm with numerous festivals and events, but it can be crowded.

Best Season

Fall

Fall offers pleasant weather and fewer tourists, ideal for sightseeing.

Winter

Winters are mild, and the Fête des lumières in December is a must-see event.

Join millions of curious travelers.

Get early access to exclusive partner discounts, tips & user itineraries.

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Location

Lyon, Rhône-Alpes, France

Where to stay in Lyon

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Hôtel des Artistes

4.6(853)
Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Elegant, Trendy, Artistic
Place
Place
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Place

Hôtel Chromatics by HappyCulture

4.1(3 K)
Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Warm, Low Key, Relaxed
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Hotel de l'Abbaye

4.7(864)
Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Chic, Retro, Upscale
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Hôtel Mercure Lyon Centre Beaux Arts

4.4(1,4 K)
Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Warm, Inviting, Central
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Hôtel Lyon Métropole by Arteloge

4.2(4,1 K)
Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Relaxed, Polished, Versatile
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Félix dOrt

4.4(136)
Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Charming, Cozy, Intimate
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

MEININGER Hotel Lyon Centre Berthelot

4.5(3,7 K)
Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Straightforward, Comfortable, Practical
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Hôtel Vaubecour

4.6(373)
Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Relaxed, Historic, Comfortable

Food & drink in Lyon

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Place
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La Trattoria des Gones

4.9(173)
Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Cozy, Authentic, Welcoming
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Café Luna

4.8(622)
Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Cozy, Inviting, Authentic
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Place
Place
Place
Place

L'Osteria Lyon St. Nizier

4.9(259)
Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Warm, Cozy, Inviting
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Sepela

4.7(564)
Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Warm, Welcoming, Authentic
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

La petite ferme

4.9(966)
Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Cozy, Inviting, Local Favorite
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Place
Place
Place
Place

homie. | café | restaurant | brunch | apéro

4.8(252)
Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Casual, Relaxed, Friendly
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Chères Cousines - The Bagel Bakery

4.8(1,2 K)
Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Cozy, Friendly, Casual
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Garden Bistro - Restaurant Français Rue Mercière

4.7(2,5 K)
Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Fashionable, Vibrant, Lively

Things to do in Lyon

Lyon Old Town Food Tour with 5 Authentic Dishes & Fine Wine
From $127

Lyon Old Town Food Tour with 5 Authentic Dishes & Fine Wine

4.9(703)
Duration: 3h 30min
Lyon
Private Transfer: Lyon Airport LYS to Lyon City in Luxury Van
From $110

Private Transfer: Lyon Airport LYS to Lyon City in Luxury Van

4.0(4)
Duration: 30 min
Lyon
Golden stones Beaujolais Wine Tour with Tastings from Lyon
From $116

Golden stones Beaujolais Wine Tour with Tastings from Lyon

4.7(176)
Duration: 4h
Lyon
Lyon Sunset Food Tour – A Full Taste of France by Do Eat Better
From $111

Lyon Sunset Food Tour – A Full Taste of France by Do Eat Better

4.9(404)
Duration: 3h 30min
Lyon
Northern Rhône Valley From Lyon Full day
From $185

Northern Rhône Valley From Lyon Full day

4.8(169)
Duration: 6h
Lyon
Lyon Small-Group Full Meal Food Tour by Do Eat Better
From $87

Lyon Small-Group Full Meal Food Tour by Do Eat Better

4.9(755)
Duration: 3h 30min
Lyon
Guided tour and wine tasting Northern Rhône Valley
From $140

Guided tour and wine tasting Northern Rhône Valley

5.0(229)
Duration: 4h 15min
Lyon
Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse Tasting and Lunch Food Tour
From $87

Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse Tasting and Lunch Food Tour

4.9(9)
Duration: 2h 30min
Lyon
Explore on Viator

Attractions in Lyon

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Parc des Hauteurs

4.6(1,5 K)
Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Peaceful, Scenic, Relaxing
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Mobilboard Lyon

4.9(1,4 K)
Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Engaging, Informative, Fun
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LyonExplorer - Free Walking Tour & Private Tour

4.9(612)
Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Informative, Engaging, Local Focused
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Place Bellecour

4.4(26,7 K)
Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Spacious, Bustling, Scenic
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VISITER LE VIEUX LYON & SES TRABOULES

4.8(164)
Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Historic, Cultural, Educational
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Maison Thomassin

4.2(152)
Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Historic, Cultural, Educational
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Les SUBS

4.5(733)
Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Creative, Historic, Vibrant
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Place
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Place

Gallo-Roman Museum of Lyon-Fourvière

4.6(6,5 K)
Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Educational, Historical, Cultural