Lyon city guide
Architecture
From Roman beginnings to the silk working revolution, Lyon’s architecture is as diverse as its inspirations.
Dining Cruise - Lyon City Boat
Food / Restaurants Architecture Views & Landscapes
Departing from the quais du Rhône, this two and a half hour tour will take you past several IxDA venues including La Sucrière and Musée des Confluences before retreating north to take in the sights of the city and the mysterious Ile Barbe. Reservations required.
Opera house
Culture Architecture
One of the world's first freestanding opera houses, the original Opera de Lyon opened its doors in 1756. It was replaced as Lyon's cultural heart by the Lyon theatre in 1831 and it was not until 1985 that it was reimagined as the building we known today. Worth a visit for the stunning contemporary redesign as much as its performances, the Opera is once again on the top of Lyon's must see list.
Fourviere
Culture Architecture Views & Landscapes
Seen by many as the centrepiece of the city, the magnificent basillica Notre Dame de Fourviere watches over the city from the hill named in its honour. You can admire the stunning Byzantine and Romanesque inspired designs of the church itself before marvelling over some of the best views of Lyon.
Rhone walks / Saone walks
Culture Architecture Views & Landscapes
Lyon is defined by its rivers, both of which afford some magnificent walking trails. From a tour through the burgeoning district of Confluence to a modern trail past the recently reinvigorated banks of the Rhône, spending some time with the twin waterways of Lyon is always time well spent
Place Bellecour
Architecture Views & Landscapes
Place Bellecour is the heart of the city. One of the largest open plazas in Europe, this enormous space plays host to innumeral events throughout the year.
The Traboules
Architecture
Ever see a local emerge from a seemingly locked door, or disappear down a strange alley? These are the Traboules, Lyon's secret pathways. Winding their way through the city, there are over 400 colourful passages, each one unique. Finding them is half the fun.
Confluence Museum
Culture Architecture
At the centre of Interaction Week 18 is the stunning Musée des Confluence. Built in 2014 and modelled after the city of Lyon itself, the building holds 4 permanent and 5 temporary exhibitions. A must see.
Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral
Culture Architecture
Another in Lyon's long list of venerable churches is Cathédrale St Jean. Located in the quartier of the same name, this giant place of worship outdates the more recognisable Fourviere by almost 700 years. It also houses a work of art unique in the city: a fully functional astronomical clock created in 1598.
Tête d'Or Park
Culture Architecture
Lyon's largest park, La Tête D'or is home to three complementary rose gardens, the city botanic gardens and Lyon Zoo. Whether you're wiling away the afternoon wandering through the greenery or admiring the lemurs at play, this is the perfect spot to unwind.
Main entrance : Porte des Enfants du Rhône, Rue de Créqui, 69006 Lyon
Sofffa Coworking
Places to work Coffee places Architecture
As pay-as-you-stay cafés become more and more popular, Sofffa is one of Lyon's finest. In this uniquely bohemian space you pay only for your time. Coffee, tea, cakes...all are included in your per-hour payment.
Halles Paul Bocuse
Coffee places Drinks / Party Food / Restaurants French typical product Culture Architecture Views & Landscapes
A must see, with a history dating back to the 19th Century, this world famous market has been called "the belly of Lyon." Sample haute cuisine from over five dozen of Lyon's finest eateries.
