I recently visited Lyon for the 3rd time and stayed for several days, exploring most of the city’s famous attractions. With the help of some local friends, I also discovered hidden gems that are often missed by tourists.
From my experience, I’ve created this guide on what to do in Lyon for 2 days, covering must-see landmarks and lesser-known places to help you make the most of your visit.
Lyon, France’s culinary capital, is a city rich in history, culture, and charm. From its UNESCO-listed Old Town to its world-renowned cuisine, Lyon offers a perfect blend of experiences for any traveler.
If you’ve only got two days to explore Lyon, you’ll need a well-planned itinerary that allows you to experience its best spots without feeling rushed. Let’s dive into two days packed with unforgettable scenery, delicious food, and a taste of Lyon’s unique charm.
On this day we’ll explore Lyon’s History and Culture.
Breakfast at Les Halles de Lyon – Paul Bocuse
Start your day at Les Halles de Lyon, Lyon’s most famous food market, where you can enjoy an authentic French breakfast—perhaps a croissant and fresh coffee. The market offers a lively introduction to Lyon’s culinary culture.
Explore Vieux Lyon
Start your journey in Lyon with a visit to Vieux Lyon, one of Europe’s largest and most well-preserved Renaissance districts. This area is a living museum, filled with cobblestone streets, pastel-colored buildings, and centuries-old architecture that instantly transports you to a different era.
Take your time strolling through its narrow lanes, each revealing hidden corners and courtyards that feel like secrets waiting to be discovered.
One of the highlights here is the traboules—mysterious, covered passageways originally used by silk merchants to transport goods while staying sheltered from bad weather.
These hidden alleys, often concealed behind plain doors, weave their way through buildings and offer a unique way to explore the area. Not all traboules are open to the public, but several are, and they give a fascinating glimpse into Lyon’s silk-weaving heritage. You can even take a guided tour to uncover more of their history.
For the best experience, try visiting Vieux Lyon early in the morning or later in the evening, when the streets are less crowded, and the golden light adds even more charm to the area.
And don’t forget to explore some of the local eateries—grab a bite of praline tart or sip on some Côtes du Rhône wine at a traditional Bouchon (Lyon’s local restaurant).
Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste
No visit to Lyon is complete without stepping inside the Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste, an awe-inspiring Gothic cathedral that dominates the Vieux Lyon skyline. This architectural gem has stood the test of time, with construction starting in the 12th century and taking nearly 300 years to complete.
The cathedral’s stunning blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles reflects Lyon’s rich history and evolving design over the centuries.
But the real treasure here is the astronomical clock, one of the oldest in Europe, dating back to the 14th century. It’s a marvel of medieval engineering, with moving figures that come to life at certain hours of the day, depicting biblical scenes.
If you happen to visit during Sunday services, you can experience the powerful acoustics of the cathedral’s organ, which echoes through the vast space.
Roman Theatres
A short funicular ride from Vieux Lyon will take you to the Roman Theatres of Fourvière, a remarkable site that transports you even further back in time—to the days when Lyon was known as Lugdunum, a thriving Roman city. These ancient ruins, perched on Fourvière Hill, offer a fascinating glimpse into Lyon’s Roman heritage.
The site features two main structures: the Grand Theatre, built in 15 BC, and the smaller Odeon, used for musical performances and poetry readings. The Grand Theatre could once hold up to 10,000 spectators, who gathered to watch plays, gladiator battles, and other forms of entertainment.
Even today, the Roman Theatres of Fourvière continue to be a cultural hub. Every summer, they host the Nuits de Fourvière festival, a vibrant celebration of music, theatre, and dance.
If your visit coincides with the festival, it’s worth grabbing tickets for an unforgettable experience of modern performances in this ancient setting.
Don’t forget to wander around the nearby Museum of Gallo-Roman Civilization, where you can learn more about Lyon’s Roman past through an extensive collection of artifacts, mosaics, and sculptures.
Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière
End your morning with a visit to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, a masterpiece of Romanesque and Byzantine architecture.
Built-in the late 19th century, this iconic basilica sits atop Fourvière Hill, offering one of the best views in Lyon. Inside, admire the stunning mosaics and vibrant stained glass windows, each telling a story through color and design.
Once you’ve taken in the beauty of the interior, head to the terrace for breathtaking panoramic views of Lyon. On clear days, you can even see the Alps.
If you’re up for a climb, the tower offers an unbeatable 360-degree view of the entire city, making it well worth the effort.
Lunch: Enjoy Local Delights in Vieux Lyon
Head back down to Vieux Lyon and have lunch at a traditional Bouchon such as Le Bouchon des Cordeliers. Try local specialties like quenelles (fish dumplings) or salade Lyonnaise.
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon
Spend your afternoon exploring the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Lyon’s premier art museum and one of the finest in France. Housed in a beautifully restored 17th-century abbey, the museum is home to an impressive collection of European art, featuring masterpieces by legendary artists such as Monet, Rubens, Delacroix, and Rembrandt.
Each gallery offers a glimpse into different artistic movements, from Renaissance to modern art, making it a must-visit for art lovers.
In addition to its stunning paintings, the museum boasts an extensive collection of sculptures, ancient artifacts, and decorative arts. Be sure to take a stroll through the sculpture garden, a peaceful spot within the museum’s courtyard, perfect for a quiet break between galleries.
Place des Terreaux
After your visit to the museum, unwind at the Place des Terreaux, one of Lyon’s most vibrant squares. At its center, you’ll find the impressive Bartholdi Fountain, a dramatic sculpture created by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the same artist behind the Statue of Liberty. The fountain depicts a chariot pulled by wild horses, symbolizing the power of rivers.
The square is also home to Lyon’s City Hall, a stunning 17th-century building that adds to the grandeur of the area. Grab a seat at one of the nearby cafés and soak in the lively atmosphere.
It’s the perfect spot to people-watch, enjoy the architecture, and experience the pulse of Lyon.
Opéra Nouvel
Just a short walk from Place des Terreaux, you’ll find the Opéra Nouvel, an architectural masterpiece that beautifully blends modern and classical design.
Originally built in the 19th century, the opera house was reimagined by architect Jean Nouvel in the 1990s, featuring a sleek glass dome atop its historic facade. The result is a stunning contrast between old and new that makes the building a must-see, even from the outside.
If you’re a fan of the performing arts, check the schedule to see if you can catch a performance in the evening. Whether it’s opera, ballet, or a concert, watching a show here adds a special touch to your Lyon experience.
Stroll Along the Saône River
As the day draws to a close, enjoy a quiet walk along the Saône River. The riverbanks provide a panoramic setting, perfect for watching the sunset paint the sky over Lyon’s skyline. This scenic route leads you back toward Presqu’île, Lyon’s central peninsula, offering beautiful views and a serene atmosphere.
Take your time meandering along the water, passing charming bridges and historical buildings lit by the soft evening light. It’s a relaxing way to reflect on your day and soak in the city’s evening charm before heading to dinner or your next destination.
Dinner at Le Sud
For dinner, enjoy Mediterranean-inspired cuisine at Le Sud, one of chef Paul Bocuse’s popular restaurants. The atmosphere is lively, and the food is both modern and comforting.
Day 2: Modern Lyon and Hidden Gems
Breakfast in Croix-Rousse
Start your day in the Croix-Rousse district, known for its bohemian charm and history as a silk-weaving hub. Enjoy breakfast at a local café, then explore the area’s street art and murals.
Parc de la Tête d’Or
After breakfast, make your way to Parc de la Tête d’Or, Lyon’s largest and most beloved park. This sprawling green space is perfect for a leisurely morning.
The park features a variety of attractions, including a zoo with animals from around the world, botanical gardens showcasing a diverse collection of plants, and a serene lake where you can rent a rowboat or paddleboat for a peaceful outing.
Stroll through the well-maintained gardens, enjoy a picnic by the lake, or simply relax on one of the park’s many benches. The park is a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a tranquil retreat from the city hustle.
Whether you’re looking to unwind or explore, Parc de la Tête d’Or provides a perfect escape into nature.
La Croix-Rousse Silk Workshops
Immerse yourself in Lyon’s rich industrial heritage by visiting La Maison des Canuts in the La Croix-Rousse district. This museum is dedicated to Lyon’s storied silk-weaving tradition and offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past.
Here, you can explore exhibits that detail the history of silk production in Lyon, once a global hub for the industry. The highlight of your visit will be the live demonstrations of traditional weaving techniques.
Watch skilled artisans work on antique looms, producing intricate patterns that reflect centuries of craftsmanship. These demonstrations provide a unique opportunity to see the intricate process behind Lyon’s famous silk textiles.
Lunch at Café Comptoir Abel
Head back to Presqu’île for lunch at Café Comptoir Abel, a bouchon that serves hearty Lyonnaise classics. Take your time here, as the restaurant’s traditional setting is an attraction in itself.
Musée des Confluences
In the afternoon, head to La Confluence, Lyon’s elegant and modern district where the Rhône and Saône rivers merge. The area is known for its cutting-edge architecture, and the highlight is the Musée des Confluences, a futuristic building that resembles a crystal cloud of glass and steel.
Inside, the museum offers an engaging exploration of anthropology, science, and the natural world, with exhibits that span everything from the origins of life to modern technological advancements. The displays are both interactive and educational, making it a great stop for visitors of all ages.
Even if you’re not a museum enthusiast, the striking architecture alone makes it worth a visit. Its unique design blends perfectly with the surrounding modern landscape and contrasts beautifully with Lyon’s more historic areas.
After your visit, stroll along the nearby riverbanks or explore the district’s trendy shops and restaurants to round off your afternoon.
Confluence Shopping Center
If you’re in the mood for shopping, the nearby Confluence Shopping Center offers an array of modern stores, restaurants, and a cinema.
Dinner at L’Institution
Finish your day with dinner at L’Institution, a stylish brasserie in the heart of Presqu’île. The restaurant offers a mix of classic French cuisine and modern dishes, perfect for a memorable final meal in Lyon.
Night Walk Along the Rhône River
After dinner, enjoy a peaceful nighttime stroll along the Rhône River, where Lyon’s illuminated bridges and buildings create a stunning, romantic backdrop. The riverside walkways are beautifully lit, offering a serene atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a busy day.
If you’re looking to cover more ground, consider renting a bike or scooter to leisurely explore the riverbanks. As you glide along, you’ll pass charming cafés, lively bars, and other late-night spots where locals gather.
The gentle sound of the water and the soft glow of the city lights make this a memorable and relaxing way to end your evening in Lyon.
Conclusion
Spending two days in Lyon gives you a perfect taste of the city’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and cuisine. From the cobbled streets of Vieux Lyon to the contemporary charm of La Confluence, Lyon seamlessly blends the old and the new.
You’ll marvel at the city’s stunning architecture, from Renaissance gems to modern masterpieces, and indulge in its renowned gastronomy.
Whether you’re captivated by its artistic treasures, intrigued by its industrial past, or simply soaking in the lively urban atmosphere, Lyon promises an unforgettable experience. It’s a city that leaves a lasting impression, no matter what draws you in.
