Lyon in 2 Days: A Foodie's Guide to the City of Lights

River in Lyon
© Andreas Schnabl

Discover the culinary delights and charming streets of Lyon in this 2-day itinerary, packed with tips on where to eat, what to see, and how to get around. Let's explore the gastronomic capital of France!

Day 1 in Lyon: Immerse Yourself in Lyon's Vibrant Heart

Explore Lyon's City Center

Start your day by discovering the heart of Lyon, the Presqu’île. Wander through Place des Terreaux, marvel at the Hôtel de Ville, and admire the Bartholdi Fountain. Don't miss the Museum of Fine Arts for a dose of artistic inspiration.

Explore Lyon's City Center
© Geraldine Belmont

Uncover Lyon's History

Step back in time in Vieux Lyon, Lyon's historic district. Take a guided walking tour to uncover hidden gems and stories, immersing yourself in the city's rich past.

Uncover Lyon's History
© Manuel Antunes

Relax by the Saône River

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the scenic Saône Riverbanks. Admire the city's architecture and bridges while soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.

Relax by the Saône River
© Jennifer Desvaux

Experience Lyon's Cultural Scene

End your day with a captivating performance at the Lyon National Opera. Immerse yourself in the world of opera, dance, or music in this stunning opera house.

Experience Lyon's Cultural Scene
© Opéra national de Lyon

Day 2 in Lyon: Discover Lyon's Hidden Gems and Culinary Delights

Admire Lyon's Artistic Expressions

Embark on a journey through Lyon's vibrant street art scene. Discover the Mur des Canuts, a masterpiece of trompe-l'oeil murals that adorn buildings throughout the city.

Admire Lyon's Artistic Expressions
© Florian

Conquer Fourvière Hill for Panoramic Views

Ascend Fourvière Hill for breathtaking panoramic views of Lyon. Visit the Basilica of Notre Dame of Fourvière, a symbol of the city's religious heritage.

Conquer Fourvière Hill for Panoramic Views
© Konstantyn Grigor'yev

Master Lyonnaise Cuisine

Indulge your culinary senses with a hands-on cooking class at L'atelier Des Chefs Lyon. Learn to prepare traditional Lyonnaise cuisine, a true taste of the region.

Master Lyonnaise Cuisine
© Philippe Ginisty

Relax in Lyon's Green Oasis

Escape the city bustle in Parc de la Tête d’Or, Lyon's largest park. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon amidst the greenery, exploring the zoo, botanical garden, and lake.

Relax in Lyon's Green Oasis
© luis vidilla

References

Transportation in Lyon

To get around Lyon, France, you have several options. Walking is a great way to explore the city, as it allows you to discover its wide boulevards and tiny cobblestoned streets. You can also use one of the 15,000+ bikes available through the city's bike-sharing system, which has over 1,200 stations. If you prefer a faster way to travel, you can use the Lyon Metro, which has 4 lines and 37 stations, or take a bus. The Lyon Metro is the fastest way to get around the city, and you can use a single ticket or a 10-ticket carnet. Additionally, you can take a tram, which is a convenient way to travel to the outskirts of the city. If you're looking for a more leisurely way to explore the city, you can take a river cruise on the Rhône and Saône rivers, which offers a unique perspective on the city's landmarks and bridges.

Dos in Lyon

Don'ts in Lyon