Lyon-2-day-itinerary

Lyon: A Culinary and Cultural Journey - 2-Day Itinerary

Things to Know:

  • Language: French
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Transportation: Lyon has an excellent public transportation system with metros, trams, and buses. Purchase a Lyon City Card for unlimited access and discounts on attractions.
  • Best time to visit: Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Generator Lyon Hostel: Modern, social hostel with private rooms and dorms.
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Silky by HappyCulture: Stylish boutique hotel in the heart of the city.
  • Luxury: Cour des Loges: Luxurious 5-star hotel housed in a historic Renaissance mansion.

Day 1: Exploring Old Lyon & Culinary Delights

Morning:

  • 9:00 AM: Begin your day with a stroll through Vieux Lyon (Old Town), a UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire the charming cobblestone streets, Renaissance architecture, and hidden courtyards called “traboules.”
  • 10:30 AM: Visit the Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste, an impressive Gothic cathedral with intricate stained glass windows.

Lunch:

  • 12:30 PM: Indulge in a traditional Lyonnaise lunch at Le Bouchon des Filles, known for its authentic bouchon cuisine (hearty dishes like quenelles and saucisson brioché).

Afternoon:

  • 2:00 PM: Explore the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon, showcasing a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and ancient artifacts.
  • 4:00 PM: Take a scenic walk along the banks of the Rhône River, enjoying the views of the city skyline.

Evening:

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Le Neuvième Art, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering creative and elegant French cuisine.
  • 9:00 PM: Sip cocktails and enjoy live music at one of Lyon’s trendy bars in the Croix-Rousse district.

Day 2: History, Culture & Panoramic Views

Morning:

  • 9:30 AM: Visit the Gallo-Roman Museum of Lyon-Vienne, showcasing artifacts from the Roman era when Lyon was known as Lugdunum.
  • 11:30 AM: Explore the Fourvière Basilica perched atop Fourvière Hill, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Lyon.

Lunch:

  • 1:00 PM: Enjoy a casual lunch at a traditional bouchon in the Presqu’île district (the peninsula between the Rhône and Saône rivers).

Afternoon:

  • 2:30 PM: Immerse yourself in history at the Musée Gadagne, exploring Lyon’s past through its collection of puppets, dolls, and furniture.
  • 4:30 PM: Take a leisurely boat tour on the Saône River, admiring the bridges and architecture from a different perspective.

Evening:

  • 7:00 PM: Savor a delicious Lyonnaise dinner at La Mère Brazier, one of Lyon’s most renowned culinary institutions.
  • 9:00 PM: Relax with a glass of wine at Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, a bustling food market offering local specialties and international cuisine.

Tips:

  • Take advantage of the free walking tours offered in Vieux Lyon to learn about its history and hidden gems.
  • Sample Lyon’s famous “pâté en croûte,” a savory pie filled with meat and vegetables.
  • Visit the Musée Miniature et Cinéma for an enchanting exhibition of miniature scenes from movies and history.
  • Pack comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking.
  • Don’t forget to say “bonjour” (hello) and “merci” (thank you) – locals appreciate good manners!

Enjoy your culinary and cultural adventure in Lyon!