Lyon my love
A 2 days tour
in Lyon
I traveled all around Lyon and created the perfect tour for you.
I have created the perfect two-day itinerary in Lyon, France! With my carefully planned route, visitors will be able to experience the city’s top attractions, sample its delectable cuisine, and soak up the local culture. From exploring the historic Old Town to savoring a glass of wine in a quaint bistro, my itinerary has it all.
(DAY 1)
Hey! Quick heads up, the theater is free to enter, but the museum has an admission fee. The theater stays open until late afternoon, so you can consider it as a plan for the end of the day (perfect for grabbing an happy hour at Basilique de Fourviére, just a five-minute walk away, with a beautiful view of the entire city). Enjoy!
Morning:
- Visit the Roman amphitheater and theater at Fourvière Hill and the Gallo-Roman Museum.
- Continue your morning by visiting the Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière, a stunning church with panoramic views over Lyon.
- Take the funicular down the hill and walk to the historic Old Town (Vieux Lyon) to explore its charming cobblestone streets, hidden traboules, and Renaissance architecture.
The greenhouses in Parc de la Tête d'Or in Lyon date back to the time of the International Colonial Exhibition of 1894. These greenhouses, known as Serres de la Rotonde, showcase an example of art deco architecture. Originally built to house exotic plants, they have become an iconic feature of the park and are open to the public.
Afternoon:
- Grab a quick lunch at a bouchon, a traditional Lyonnaise restaurant known for its hearty cuisine.
- Visit the Parc de la Tête d’Or, a large park with a lake, botanical gardens, and a zoo.
- Walk along the banks of the Saône River and cross the pedestrian bridge, Passerelle Saint-Vincent, to reach the lively Croix-Rousse neighborhood.
The Croix-Rousse district in Lyon, known as the "Canut" district, holds a rich heritage as the historical hub of silk workers. Renowned for its traboules, or hidden passageways, and vibrant atmosphere, Croix-Rousse tells the tale of the canuts, the silk weavers who played a significant role in Lyon's silk industry during the 19th century.
Evening:
- Have dinner at one of the many restaurants in Croix-Rousse and enjoy a glass of wine while people-watching.
- Take a stroll through the neighborhood’s charming streets and enjoy the atmosphere.
(DAY 2)
The Museum of Fine Arts in Lyon (Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon) is a cultural treasure housing a vast collection of artworks spanning centuries of history. Among its precious pieces are masterpieces by renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Monet, and Delacroix, providing an extraordinary artistic experience in the heart of Lyon.
Morning:
- Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts, one of the largest fine arts museums in France.
- Walk through the Place des Terreaux, a central square with a beautiful fountain and the City Hall.
- Head to the Presqu’île neighborhood for some shopping and window browsing.
The Confluence district is a haven for architecture enthusiasts as it houses many famous works that are a true feast for the eyes.
Afternoon:
Have lunch at a brasserie and try some local specialties like quenelles and gratin dauphinois.
After lunch you can choose one of the following alternatives:
- Visit to Les Halles de Lyon, the famous indoor market, to sample local cheeses, meats, and wines.
- Visit the Confluence Museum and area, a new modern district where the Saône and Rhône rivers meet. The museum features interactive exhibits on science, technology, and society, and the area has a variety of restaurants, shops, and outdoor spaces to explore.
- Visit Monplaisir and the Institut Lumière, a historic cinema and museum dedicated to the Lumière brothers, pioneers of cinema. The museum showcases the history of cinema and the Lumière brothers’ inventions, and the area has several restaurants and cafes to relax and enjoy the ambiance.
Delight in the elegance of three exquisite red wines, crafted with passion from the renowned vineyards of the Lyon region. Experience the unique character and winemaking tradition of this captivating area with renowned names like Crozes-Hermitage, Beaujolais, and Saint-Joseph.
Evening:
- End your trip with a dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant or a cozy bistro, and raise a glass of Côtes du Rhône to a wonderful time in Lyon.
What you will see
in this Tour
If you’re short on time and want to see the main sights in Lyon, France, then the 2-day itinerary I’m about to provide can be very helpful. However, if you prefer a more personalized tour of the city and want to explore it at your own pace, you can always hire me as your private guide. Just send me an email at in**@ep*****.com and we can discuss your preferences and interests to create a tailored itinerary that suits you best.