Lyon, France-3-day-itinerary

Lyon: A Gastronomic & Historical Adventure (3-Day Itinerary)

Things to Know:

  • Language: French is the official language. Basic phrases like “bonjour” (hello), “merci” (thank you), and “s’il vous plaît” (please) will be appreciated.
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) or Fall (September-October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Transportation:

  • Public Transportation: Lyon boasts an excellent public transportation system with metro, trams, and buses. Purchase a “TCL” card for unlimited rides.
  • Walking: Lyon is a very walkable city, especially the Old Town (Vieux Lyon).

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Hostels like Le People Hostel or Mama Shelter Lyon offer affordable options.
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Cour des Loges and Hotel Silky by HappyCulture are centrally located with charming ambiance.
  • Luxury: Hotel Le Royal Lyon and Four Seasons Hotel Lyon are opulent choices for a splurge.

Day 1: Exploring Vieux Lyon & Culinary Delights

  • Morning (9:00 AM): Start your day at the Place Bellecour, the largest pedestrian square in Europe. Admire the equestrian statue of Louis XIV and soak in the lively atmosphere.

  • Late Morning (10:30 AM): Wander through Vieux Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its labyrinthine streets, Renaissance architecture, and hidden “traboules” (secret passageways).

  • Lunch (12:30 PM): Indulge in traditional Lyonnaise cuisine at Le Bouchon des Filles. Try the quenelles (fish dumplings) or salade lyonnaise.

  • Afternoon (2:00 PM): Visit the Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste, a magnificent Gothic cathedral with stunning stained glass windows.

  • Evening (7:00 PM): Enjoy a delicious dinner at Daniel et Denise, renowned for its authentic bouchon experience and hearty dishes.

Day 2: Art, History & Panoramic Views

  • Morning (9:30 AM): Head to the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon, home to an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and ancient artifacts.

  • Late Morning (11:30 AM): Explore the historic Fourvière Basilica, perched atop Fourvière Hill. Take the funicular for breathtaking panoramic views of Lyon.

  • Lunch (1:00 PM): Have a picnic lunch at Parc de la Tête d’Or, a sprawling park with botanical gardens, a zoo, and boating lake.

  • Afternoon (3:00 PM): Visit the Roman Amphitheatre, remnants from Lyon’s Roman past.

  • Evening (7:00 PM): Dine at Brasserie Georges, a Belle Epoque-style brasserie known for its traditional French cuisine and lively atmosphere.

Day 3: Shopping & Farewell Dinner

  • Morning (10:00 AM): Browse the boutiques and shops along Rue Mercière in Vieux Lyon, famous for its silk merchants and artisan workshops.

  • Late Morning (11:30 AM): Visit Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, a bustling covered market where you can sample regional produce, cheese, and charcuterie.

  • Lunch (1:00 PM): Grab a quick bite at one of the many food stalls in Les Halles.

  • Afternoon (2:30 PM): Enjoy a leisurely walk along the banks of the Rhône River or explore the trendy Presqu’île district.

  • Evening (7:00 PM): Celebrate your Lyon adventure with a farewell dinner at L’Auberge du Pont de Collonges, Paul Bocuse’s Michelin-starred restaurant (reservations essential).

Tips:

  • Learn a few basic French phrases.
  • Purchase a “Lyon City Card” for discounted access to museums and attractions.
  • Dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable.
  • Try the local wines, such as Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône.
  • Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Enjoy your unforgettable journey through Lyon!