Itineraries for Your Trip to Lyon
1 Day in Lyon for First Timers
Although I live near Nantes, on the other side of France from Lyon, the country’s third-largest city has often worked its way onto my road-trip itineraries. After all, it’s the gateway to the French Alps and a short hop from the Swiss and Italian borders. There are plenty of good reasons to linger in Lyon: UNESCO–listed monuments, an impressive festival roster, and arguably France’s best foodie scene. Each time I visit, I find myself staying longer.
One day in Lyon isn’t nearly enough time to experience everything the city has to offer, so this itinerary is designed to give you a taste of the highlights (and the food). Here’s what to do in Lyon for first-time visitors.
The mountain-backed city has four distinct seasons, so layers will be your friend.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a wander through Lyon’s atmospheric Old Town.
A large area of central Lyon is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but Old Lyon (Vieux Lyon) is the obvious place to dive into the city’s history. Walking tours are the best way to explore the Renaissance-era architecture and historic traboules (covered passageways). Cross the Saone River into the historic neighborhood, stop at landmarks such as Saint-Jean Cathedral, then enjoy the funicular train ride up to Fourvière Hill, where the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière and magnificent city views await. After the tour, head over to Les Halles (Paul Bocuse), Lyon’s legendary food market, for lunch.
While Lyon is compact enough to get around on foot, having your own wheels is handy if you’re pushed for time. Hop aboard an eco-friendly pedicab and set out to explore other neighborhoods, such as the Presqu’ile and the 1st arrondissement. Stop at must-see Lyon attractions such as Place Bellecour, Place des Terreaux, and the Lyon Opera House, then continue to the Croix-Rousse neighborhood, where you can admire the street art and historic murals, or watch a silk-weaving demonstration at the Maison des Canuts.
Move over Paris: Lyon is France’s gastronomic capital according to locals, and a food-tasting tour is among the best things to do in Lyon for first timers, especially if you’re short on time. Come hungry so you can sample all of Lyon’s local specialties in one go, including delicious quenelle (meat or fish dumplings), sweet praluline (brioche buns topped with pink pralines), and regional cheeses, charcuterie, wine, and liqueur, all enjoyed at small local establishments.
