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The Ultimate 5-Day Lyon Adventure Guide

Discover the culinary capital of France in Lyon.

22 April 2023

As a tourist in Lyon, France, you will be treated to a unique blend of historical and modern attractions. Explore old town alleys, shop in designer boutiques, enjoy fine dining, and witness some of the most well-preserved Roman architectures all in one trip. Take a stroll along the banks of the Rhône and Saône rivers or climb up the Fourvière hill to the Lyon cathedral for an unforgettable panoramic view of the city.

Travel plan

• Check into Hotel Carlton Lyon, a luxurious 19th century hotel with a prime location near Place Bellecour.
• Visit the Old Town (Vieux Lyon) with its charming Renaissance architecture and narrow cobblestone streets.
• Have lunch at Le Garet, a traditional bouchon serving hearty and authentic Lyonnaise cuisine.
• Take a stroll along the banks of the Saône river and enjoy the views of Fourvière hill and the ancient Roman theater.
• End the day with a rooftop cocktail at Le Perchoir, a trendy bar with panoramic views of the city.

• Explore the Musée des Confluences, an impressive contemporary museum of natural history and anthropology.
• Have lunch at Les Halles de Lyon-Paul Bocuse, a famous indoor market with dozens of food stalls and artisan producers.
• Take a guided tour of Les Halles, and taste local specialties such as charcuterie, cheese, wine, and chocolate.
• Visit the Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière, a majestic 19th century basilica overlooking the city.
• In the evening, attend a classical music concert or an opera performance at the Opéra National de Lyon.

• Start the day with a croissant and coffee at a local bakery, such as Boulangerie Jocteur or Boulangerie du Palais.
• Take a bike or a tram to Parc de la Tête d'Or, a vast urban park with a zoo, a botanical garden, a lake, and a velodrome.
• Have a picnic or rent a rowboat in the park, and enjoy the tranquility and the lush greenery.
• In the afternoon, visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon, one of the largest art museums in France with masterpieces from all eras and styles.
• For dinner, try a modern and creative cuisine at Takao Takano, a Michelin-starred restaurant run by a Japanese chef.

• Take a day trip to the Beaujolais wine region, just a short train or car ride from Lyon.
• Visit a local winery, such as Château de Corcelles or Château de Chénas, and taste some of the region's famous red wines made from Gamay grapes.
• Have lunch in a charming medieval village, such as Oingt or Pérouges, and enjoy some local delicacies.
• In the afternoon, visit the Abbaye de Cluny, a majestic Romanesque abbey founded in the 10th century and now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Return to Lyon for a dinner at Les Apothicaires, a gourmet restaurant with a creative cuisine and a focus on local and organic ingredients.

• Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs and gifts in the chic boutiques and fashion stores of Rue de la République and Rue du Président Édouard Herriot.
• Have lunch at Les Enfants Terribles, a trendy brasserie with a retro ambience and a tasty menu.
• Take a last stroll in the city center, and admire the impressive architecture and monuments, such as the Place des Terreaux and the Hôtel de Ville.
• In the evening, have a farewell drink at Le Sirius, a rooftop bar with a stunning view of Lyon's skyline.
• End the day with a dinner at La Mère Brazier, a legendary restaurant founded in 1921 and now run by a talented female chef, serving classic and refined dishes.