What to do in Lyon

1. The Musée des Beaux Arts

The Musée des Beaux Arts gives you the opportunity to see works by Monet, Rembrandt, Rubens, Picasso, and other masters, in its exquisite collection. No wonder it is known as the mini-Louvre. Its construction was completed in the early 19th century by the elites of France during the French Revolution. It has 700 paintings in 35 different rooms, which are ordered chronologically.

2. Musée des Confluences

Close to the area where the confluence between the Rhone River and its main tributary, the Saône River, is located, is the Musée des Confluences. It is a relatively new museum, as it was inaugurated in 2014. 

It is unique museum where you will learn about our history and that of the environment that has always surrounded us, since its exhibitions are about the history of human beings and nature. It is one of the most interesting things to see in Lyon.

3. El Parc de la Tête d´Or

This is one of the largest parks in France, despite being an urban park. Its extension is of 117 hectares. According to a legend, its name refers to a golden head of Christ that is still there. 

The large extension of this park allows it to have a zoo, a lake and even a velodrome. In 1530, the site was already called "Tête d'Or" (golden head) and was owned by a prestigious family, the Lamberts.

4. Tasting the gastronomy of Lyon

Food lovers will know the top activities after reading this. Lyon is known for its marvelous gastronomy. 

One of the most popular places to eat at in Lyon is La Mère Jean, in the Rue des Marroniers. It is cozy and ideal, with reasonably priced dishes created with the chef's local touch which gives you plenty of content for a light conversation. In addition, the quantity of food in the dishes is generous. Other places with a good gastronomic reputation in town include Chez Chabert and Daniel et Denise. 

For dinner, we recommend going to Le Café Des Fédérations in Rue Major Martin, a marvelous restaurant with a rustic style full of charm and authenticity. Its selection of cut meats and the cavier de la croix rousse are some of the highlights of this place.

Another interesting place to have dinner in Lyon is The Burgundy Lounge: it is comfortable and well-lit, overlooking the Saôna, with an excellent wine list, and features an amazing mackerel appetizer. Le Splendid is a place that presents an elegant combination of modern and traditional cuisine. It features outdoors seating, a quiet interior that is great for conversations, and a friendly staff. We recommend trying the frog legs.

5. Wine bars

If you love wine, visiting the wine bars has to be on your list of what to do in Lyon. Among these, one of the best is The Daughter Wine Bar in Quai de Brondy, with views over the water. Other upscale bars include: Dikkenek Café, Les Valseuses and Johnny's Kitchen, as well as Le Sirius, where they play live music with a unique touch aboard a docked ship.

6. Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière and surroundings

Making the walk to the basilica is something to do in Lyon at any time of the year. Down the cobblestones of Rue Saint-Jean you can admire the striking facade of La Maison Thomassin and the extravagance of the Petit Musée de Guignol. 

The Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière is one of the places to see in Lyon before you leave this wonderful city. This is a truly stunning 19th century neo-Byzantine basilica.

7. Walk along the Rhone River

A walk along the Rhone River, the city's flagship, is an ideal thing to do in Lyon to take your mind off things. The Rhone is one of the longest rivers in Europe and from its banks we can enjoy the views of the illuminated bridges, the colorful boats on the water, as well as the many splendid buildings on both sides.

8. Nightlife

Lyon has been ranked as the second-best party city in France. If you are a nightlife enthusiast, partying is an excellent choice here. Several different districts in Lyon offer interesting nightlife options. These include La Croix Rousse, Vieux Lyon, the banks of the Saône river or the Presqu'île. 

One of the most famous night clubs in Lyon is the Red House, with its live concerts offerings. The Café Sevilla is another curious place, as it includes a restaurant, a karaoke and it also offers dance classes. Other very interesting places to party in Lyon are L'Abrevoire and Loco Latino.

The Mistral Boat Bar, present on the Rhone River itself, is a unique place, as it is a large boat converted into a bar where parties are organized. This is not the only party boat in Lyon, others include the Sirius and the Marquise.

9. Shopping in Lyon

For any fashion lover, shopping is a must when deciding on what to do in Lyon. The fashion options in the city are very varied, ranging from luxury boutiques to handmade fashion. 

In the Croix-Rousse district you will find ateliers-boutiques, which are places where fashion exhibitions are held. Some well-known brands, such as Nina Ricci, started in this very neighborhood. 

Another special place for shopping tourism in Lyon is the Presqu'île district. A neighborhood in which stores such as Dior, Cartier or Massimo Dutti stand out. South of this area, in the Auguste Comte district, you can find antique stores as well as stores selling all manner of decorations.

The Part-dieu district is another place you should go, there you will find a huge shopping center with more than 260 establishments where you will find the best brands of perfumes, leather goods and decoration goods, among other products.