3 Days in Lyon, France: History, Culture, Food

3 days in Lyon, France Lyon is history, culture, food. France’s 3rd city, Lyon is situated at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rich history, artistic vibe and Michelin starred restaurants, Lyon is a must visit. This itinerary will take you through the city centre, the old landmarks, the views and the famous food.

Planning Your Trip

Getting to Lyon

Lyon is a well-connected city, making it easy to reach from various parts of France and Europe. If you’re flying in, the Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport is your gateway, offering numerous flights to and from major destinations. For those who prefer train travel, the Lyon Perrache train station is a major hub with connections to cities across France and Europe, making it a convenient option for your Lyon France itinerary. Driving to Lyon is also straightforward, thanks to an extensive network of highways linking the city to the rest of the country and beyond. Additionally, bus companies like FlixBus and Eurolines provide affordable and comfortable travel options to Lyon from various European cities.

Best Time to Visit Lyon

When planning how many days to spend in Lyon, consider the time of year. The best time to visit Lyon is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded. Summer is also a popular time to visit Lyon, but be prepared for higher temperatures and more tourists. Winter, while quieter, offers its own charm, especially if you want to experience the city’s festive atmosphere during events like the Fête des Lumières in December. No matter when you visit Lyon, there’s always something happening, from the vibrant Lyon Festival in September to various cultural and gastronomic events throughout the year.

Day 1: Vieux Lyon and City Centre

Morning: Vieux Lyon

Start your first day in the historic centre of Lyon, Vieux Lyon, the old town. This is one of Europe’s largest Renaissance districts, with narrow streets, secret passages and old buildings. As you walk down Rue Saint-Jean you’ll find quaint cafes, shops selling Lyonnais specialties and medieval architecture.

Must see is Notre Dame de Fourvière on top of Fourvière Hill. This basilica dedicated to the Virgin Mary offers breathtaking views of the city below where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet. Inside you’ll be amazed by the stained glass windows and golden mosaics. The basilica is a symbol of Lyon’s history and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

After the basilica head to the Ancient Theatre of Fourvière, a leftover from Lyon’s Roman past. This amphitheater is part of the Gallo Roman Museum and is still used for performances. The museum itself is worth a visit as it has some great artifacts about the city’s Roman origins.

Lunch: Lyonnais Specialties

For lunch eat at one of Lyon’s charming cafes or bouchons, traditional restaurants serving regional specialties like coq au vin and quenelles. Lyon is the gastronomic capital of France after all.

Afternoon: City Centre

After lunch cross the Saône River to the city centre where you’ll find many of the city’s main cultural attractions when visiting Lyon. A visit to Lyon City Hall, also known as the Hôtel de Ville is a must. Located near Place des Terreaux this beautiful baroque building is often busy with locals and tourists.

Just across the street is the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Lyon’s fine arts museum housed in a 17th century abbey. With a collection as good as the Louvre’s this museum has works by European masters like Monet, Picasso and Rembrandt. For art lovers it’s a must see when you’re in Lyon.

Evening: Rhône and Saône Rivers

As the day ends take a stroll along the Rhône and Saône rivers. The riverbanks are peaceful places to enjoy the city views, especially at summer time. Finish the day with a riverside dinner and try Lyon’s cuisine again, maybe at a Michelin starred restaurant.

Day 2: Croix Rousse and La Confluence

Morning: La Croix Rousse

Start your second day by heading to the La Croix Rousse neighbourhood, once the silk-weaving district of Lyon. Here you can visit La Maison des Canuts, a museum about Lyon’s silk workers. The silk workers were the backbone of the city’s economy and this museum gives you an insight into their lives and work.

Explore the Cour des Voraces one of the many secret passages in the Croix Rousse district. These passages, or traboules, were originally built for the silk workers to transport their goods and today they give you a glimpse into Lyon’s past. The neighbourhood also has street art which gives a modern twist to this historic area.

Lunch: Cafes

For lunch visit one of the many cafes or brasseries in the neighbourhood, they offer local and international dishes. Lyon is close to the French Alps and the Mediterranean so you have a wide range of produce to choose from.

Afternoon: La Confluence

In the afternoon head south to the La Confluence district, the symbol of Lyon’s modernity. Located where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet this area is the opposite of the historic quarters. La Confluence is full of contemporary architecture, trendy shops and art galleries.

While you’re here don’t miss the Musée des Confluences, a science and anthropology museum in a futuristic building. The museum’s exhibits cover from the origins of the Earth to the future of humanity, it’s one of Lyon’s main attractions.

Evening: Parc de la Tête d'Or and Notre Dame de Fourvière

After a day of sightseeing relax at the Parc de la Tête d'Or, France’s largest urban park. The park has a beautiful lake, botanical gardens and a zoo, it’s a great place for a evening walk. As the sun sets you can have a picnic by the lake or walk along the many paths of the park.

Day 3: City Centre culture and shopping - Lyon France Itinerary

Morning: Lyon’s History

On your last day, after exploring what to do in Lyon for 2 days, dive into Lyon’s history by visiting the Lyon History Museum in Old Lyon. The museum gives you an overview of Lyon’s development from Roman times to the French Revolution. Next door is the Gallo Roman Museum where you can go deeper into Lyon’s ancient past.

After the museums walk through Saint Georges and Saint Jean, two of the most beautiful areas of Old Lyon. The medieval streets are full of pastel coloured buildings and the atmosphere is peaceful. Take a moment to visit the Lyon Tablet, a Roman artifact found in the city, as you wander through this historic part of town.

Lunch: Local eats

By lunchtime head to the Place Bellecour, one of Europe’s largest open squares. In the heart of the city centre this is a great spot to relax and have a coffee. The statue of Louis XIV in the middle of the square is a landmark and the shops around the square are perfect to buy some local souvenirs.

Afternoon: Shopping and culture

The afternoon is dedicated to Lyon’s shopping districts and cultural attractions. Start with Lyon Part Dieu, one of the largest department stores in France. From high end fashion to local crafts you’ll find everything here.

Then explore the artistic side of Lyon by visiting the many street art murals around the city. Lyon has some of the best street art in France, especially in La Croix Rousse. The murals tell the story of the city’s history and are a great way to see the different architectural styles.

Evening: Taste Lyon’s cuisine

Finish your 3 days in Lyon by dining in one of Lyon’s Michelin starred restaurants or one of its famous bouchons. The city’s gastronomy is a mix of rustic French cuisine and local specialties reflecting Lyon’s history as a food capital.

Don’t forget to try Lyon’s signature dishes, coq au vin or pâté en croûte with a glass of wine from the nearby Beaujolais or Côtes du Rhône.

Day Trips

Visit the Nearby Villages and Vineyards

While three days in Lyon will give you a fantastic taste of the city’s history, culture, and food, consider extending your stay to explore the beautiful surrounding areas. A short drive from Lyon takes you to the picturesque Beaujolais region, renowned for its rolling vineyards and delightful wines. Spend a day visiting charming villages like Oingt, Theizé, and Charnay, where you can sample local wines and enjoy the serene countryside. Another must-visit is the medieval town of Pérouges, a perfectly preserved gem that offers stunning views and a step back in time with its cobblestone streets and historic buildings. For history enthusiasts, the Roman ruins of Saint-Romain-en-Gal provide a fascinating glimpse into the past, with well-preserved structures dating back to the 1st century AD. These day trips offer a perfect complement to your Lyon itinerary, showcasing the rich heritage and natural beauty of the region.

Useful information

• Public Transport: Lyon has a great public transport system, buses, trams and a metro.

• Lyon City Card: Buy a Lyon City Card to have access to public transport and free or reduced entry to many of the city’s museums and attractions.

• Accommodation: From luxury hotels to charming boutique hotels, Lyon has many accommodation options. Best areas to stay are city centre, Vieux Lyon and Lyon Perrache.

Top 3 Hotels in Lyon:

1. Villa Maïa - Book Here

Located on Fourvière Hill, this 5-star hotel offers spectacular views of Vieux Lyon, the Saône River, and the Notre Dame de Fourvière Basilica. The hotel is renowned for its elegant design, combining modern luxury with timeless elegance. Guests can enjoy amenities like an indoor heated pool, spa services, and a rooftop terrace. The hotel’s proximity to Lyon's UNESCO World Heritage Sites makes it an ideal choice for exploring the city.

2. InterContinental Lyon – Hotel Dieu - Book Here

Situated in the historic Hôtel Dieu, one of Lyon’s most iconic buildings, this hotel offers a perfect blend of history and modern luxury. Located on the banks of the Rhône River, it’s steps away from Lyon’s city center and the lively Place Bellecour. The hotel features stunning architecture, Michelin-starred dining, and spacious rooms with river views.

3. Cour des Loges - Book Here

Nestled in the heart of Vieux Lyon, Cour des Loges is a luxury boutique hotel that exudes charm and character. The hotel’s design blends Renaissance architecture with contemporary touches. It offers a serene courtyard, a relaxing spa, and a highly acclaimed restaurant. Staying here provides easy access to Lyon’s Old Town, including Rue Saint-Jean and other historic landmarks.

Conclusion: Lyon

3 days in Lyon, France and you’ll get to experience its history, culture and gastronomy. From the medieval streets of Vieux Lyon to the modern architecture of La Confluence, Lyon is a city where past and present live together. Whether you’re walking through UNESCO World Heritage Sites or dining in a Michelin starred restaurant, Lyon has something for everyone. Visit Lyon and you’ll see why it’s one of the most beautiful and culturally rich big cities in France.