Lyon, a city of rich history, culture, and gastronomic fame, is one of France’s most stunning yet often underrated gems. I recently had the opportunity to spend a day in this vibrant city, and here, I’ll share how you can make the most out of a short visit. While one day might seem like a limited timeframe, with a little planning, you can experience the essence of Lyon in a very enjoyable and meaningful way.
1. Morning: A Stroll Through Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon)
My day began early, as I made my way to Vieux Lyon, the city’s historic district, which is known for its Renaissance architecture and narrow, winding streets. As soon as I arrived, I was transported back in time, feeling the charm of the cobblestone streets beneath my feet and the centuries-old buildings surrounding me.
One of the first places to visit here is Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral, an architectural marvel that stands proudly at the heart of the district. This Gothic cathedral, with its intricate rose window and impressive façade, was a true highlight of the morning. The quiet atmosphere inside made it a peaceful place to start my exploration.
After exploring the cathedral, I wandered through the narrow passageways, or “traboules,” which are hidden, covered walkways that connect different buildings and streets. These traboules date back to the Renaissance period and were once used by silk workers to transport their goods. Today, they offer a unique glimpse into the past and are one of the reasons why Vieux Lyon is so special. While some traboules are open to the public, others are private, so be sure to check the signs to avoid trespassing.
Next, I headed towards the Musée Miniature et Cinéma, a quirky and fascinating museum dedicated to film sets and miniatures. The exhibits featured intricate miniatures used in films, and the collection of props and movie memorabilia was a treat for any film lover. The museum’s interactive displays made it a fun stop, and the blend of art and cinema truly added another layer to my experience in Lyon.
By this point, I was ready for my first taste of Lyon’s renowned food scene. I couldn’t resist stopping by Bouchon Georges, one of the classic “bouchons” in the city. These traditional Lyonnaise restaurants are known for serving hearty, local dishes like quenelles (dumplings made from fish or meat), salade lyonnaise, and andouillette (a type of sausage). I enjoyed a warm bowl of soupe à l’oignon, a comforting onion soup that was the perfect way to fuel up for the day ahead.
2. Late Morning: Exploring Fourvière Hill and Its Basilica
After a satisfying meal, I made my way to Fourvière Hill, which rises dramatically above the city. This area is famous for its panoramic views of Lyon and the Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière, a stunning basilica that dominates the skyline. To get there, I took the Funiculaire de Fourvière, a funicular railway that offers a scenic ride up the hill. The view from the top was absolutely breathtaking, and it provided a bird’s-eye view of Lyon’s sprawling cityscape, with the Rhône and Saône rivers converging in the distance.
The basilica itself is a masterpiece, with its intricate mosaics, grand interior, and towering spires. The atmosphere inside was serene, and I spent some time admiring the stained glass windows and the peaceful ambiance. The basilica also houses the Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine, which showcases artifacts from the Roman period, further connecting visitors to Lyon’s ancient past.
What truly made this stop memorable, though, were the panoramic views from the terrace outside the basilica. On a clear day, you can see for miles, with Lyon’s distinctive rooftops stretching out below. I took some time to just absorb the scene, taking in the peacefulness of the hill before heading back down.
3. Afternoon: Presqu’île District and Shopping
By the time I descended from Fourvière Hill, it was time to explore Lyon’s bustling Presqu’île district, which lies between the Rhône and Saône rivers. This area is the heart of Lyon’s modern city center, and it’s filled with beautiful squares, grand buildings, and plenty of shops, cafés, and boutiques.
I started my walk at Place Bellecour, one of the largest public squares in Europe. The square is dominated by a statue of Louis XIV, and it offers a fantastic view of the surrounding area, including Notre-Dame de Fourvière perched on the hill above. From here, I strolled along Rue de la République, a wide pedestrian street lined with elegant buildings and stores. It’s a great spot for window shopping or picking up a souvenir from one of the city’s many artisan shops.
One of the highlights of Presqu’île is Place des Terreaux, a lively square with a striking fountain in the center. The fountain, created by sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, depicts the Rhône and Saône rivers, and it’s an iconic symbol of the city. The surrounding area is also home to the Musée des Beaux-Arts, one of the most important fine arts museums in France. If you have the time, it’s worth popping in to see its impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts. The museum’s neoclassical architecture alone is enough to admire.
I took a brief break at one of the many cafés along the square, sipping a coffee while people-watching and soaking in the vibrant energy of the area.
4. Late Afternoon: Parc de la Tête d’Or and the Riverbanks
No visit to Lyon would be complete without a stroll through Parc de la Tête d’Or, the city’s most famous public park. This green oasis is located just north of the city center and is perfect for a relaxing afternoon walk. The park is home to a beautiful lake, botanical gardens, a zoo, and expansive lawns—ideal for unwinding after a busy day of sightseeing.
I made my way through the park’s pathways, stopping to admire the various plants and flowers in the botanical gardens. The rose garden, in particular, was in full bloom, and I couldn’t help but take a few photos. I also wandered down to the lake, where I saw families enjoying boat rides on the water and groups of friends lounging on the grassy banks. It was a peaceful moment in the middle of my busy itinerary.
From the park, I followed the Rhône River southwards, where the riverbanks have been transformed into a pedestrian-friendly area with bike paths, benches, and sculptures. This area provides another great view of the city and is perfect for a leisurely walk as the day winds down.
5. Evening: A Night Out in Lyon
As the sun began to set, I found myself back in the heart of the city, ready to experience Lyon’s nightlife. The city is renowned for its culinary offerings, and a visit to one of its top restaurants is a must. I made a reservation at La Mère Brazier, a historic restaurant that has earned two Michelin stars. It was the perfect way to end my whirlwind tour of Lyon, with an elegant dinner that included foie gras, lamb with herbs, and a delicate chocolate soufflé for dessert.
After dinner, I took a relaxed evening stroll along the Saône River, where the lights of the city reflected off the water, creating a magical atmosphere. The Pont Bonaparte bridge provided a stunning view of Lyon’s illuminated buildings and the basilica on Fourvière Hill.
Lyon’s nightlife doesn’t end there. If you’re in the mood for a drink, head to the Croix-Rousse district, where trendy bars and cafés provide a more laid-back, local experience. The district is known for its bohemian vibe and is a great place to end your night with a glass of wine or a craft cocktail.
Despite being a city with an immense amount of history, culture, and flavor, Lyon’s compact size and well-connected public transportation make it easy to explore in a single day. From the cobblestone streets of Vieux Lyon to the panoramic views from Fourvière Hill and the vibrant heart of Presqu’île, this one-day itinerary offers a fulfilling snapshot of what makes Lyon so special. You don’t need days to experience the best of the city—just a little planning and a sense of adventure will go a long way.
