1 day itinerary for Lyon

Itinerary

Lyon is such a charming city with a rich history, delicious food, and beautiful sights. Here’s a relaxed one-day itinerary that will let you soak in the essence of Lyon without feeling rushed. Let’s dive in!

Morning: A Taste of Lyon’s History

9:00 AM - Breakfast at a Local Café Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Head to Café du Peintre in the Croix-Rousse district for a delightful croissant and a café au lait. The atmosphere is cozy, and you can enjoy watching the locals start their day.

10:00 AM - Explore Vieux Lyon After breakfast, take a stroll through Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon). This area is a UNESCO World Heritage site, filled with narrow cobblestone streets, Renaissance buildings, and charming shops. Don’t miss the Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière; it’s a bit of a climb, but the views of the city are absolutely worth it!

Midday: Culinary Delights

12:00 PM - Lunch at a Bouchon For lunch, indulge in some traditional Lyonnaise cuisine at a bouchon. Try Le Café des Fédérations for a cozy atmosphere and classic dishes like quenelles or coq au vin. The food here is hearty and delicious, perfect for refueling after your morning explorations.

Afternoon: Culture and Relaxation

1:30 PM - Visit the Musée des Confluences After lunch, take a short tram ride to the Musée des Confluences. This stunning modern museum is located at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers and offers fascinating exhibits on science, anthropology, and the history of humanity. Spend a couple of hours exploring the exhibits at a leisurely pace.

3:30 PM - Stroll Along the Rhône River Once you’ve soaked in the museum, take a relaxing walk along the Rhône River. The riverside paths are perfect for a leisurely stroll, and you can enjoy the beautiful views of the city. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even rent a bike or a pedal boat!

Evening: A Taste of Lyon’s Nightlife

5:00 PM - Explore the Presqu'île Head over to the Presqu'île area, where you can wander through the shops and boutiques. This is also a great time to grab a coffee or a gelato at one of the many cafés.

7:00 PM - Dinner at a Rooftop Restaurant For dinner, treat yourself to a meal with a view at Les Terrasses de Lyon. This rooftop restaurant offers stunning views of the city and a menu that highlights local ingredients. Enjoy a relaxed dinner while watching the sunset over Lyon.

9:00 PM - Evening Stroll and Nightcap After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets of Lyon. The city lights up beautifully at night! If you’re in the mood for a nightcap, stop by Le Sucre, a trendy bar with a great atmosphere and fantastic cocktails.

Wrap-Up

And there you have it! A perfect day in Lyon that balances history, culture, and, of course, the incredible food the city is known for. Enjoy your day at a relaxed pace, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! Lyon is a city that truly captures the heart. Safe travels!