Lyon Travel Guide

Lyon is a city where France’s grand history and everyday pleasures feel tightly woven together. It's set between the Rhône and Saône rivers, and shaped by generations of merchants, silk workers, and chefs. You’ll quickly sense why Lyon is considered one of the country’s great urban hubs: it’s energetic without feeling overwhelming, elegant without being flashy, and full of neighborhoods that each offer a different rhythm.

Start in Vieux Lyon, the Renaissance old town along the Saône, where narrow lanes wind past pastel façades, small museums, and hidden courtyards. One of the most memorable experiences is finding the traboules—secret, covered passageways that connect streets through stairwells and inner galleries, originally used by silk workers and still a signature Lyon discovery.

From the riverbank, look up to Fourvière Hill, crowned by the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Whether you climb or take the funicular, the views stretch across rooftops, bridges, and the long lines of the modern city beyond.

Across the water, Presqu’île feels more cosmopolitan: broad squares, handsome 19th-century buildings, shopping streets, and café terraces made for lingering. For a contemporary contrast, head toward La Confluence, where former industrial areas have become a modern waterfront district with bold architecture and easy riverside walks.

And then there’s the food. Lyon’s reputation is no exaggeration—classic bouchons, lively markets, and simple, delicious meals are part of the city’s daily life. Add in excellent museums and a pace that invites wandering, and Lyon becomes a rewarding stop for travelers who want culture, scenery, and great flavors in one place.