Lyon, France’s “Second City,” is a destination that captivates visitors with its rich history, vibrant culinary scene, and stunning architecture. With so much to see and do, your only challenge will be finding enough time to experience it all!
Hit the Trail: Exploring Lovely, Legendary Lyon
Wind your way through courtyards, hidden doorways, and staircases on this fun and active trek to discover Lyon’s ancient traboules—secret-covered passageways within the city’s oldest buildings. Over the centuries, these hidden routes have served various purposes: as shortcuts for silk workers in the 19th century, escape paths for the Resistance during World War II, and even as quick routes to the river as early as the 4th century. This vigorous excursion ensures you get all your steps in while uncovering Lyon’s fascinating past!
Street view with cafes near the river in Old Town City Lyon
Bites & Highlights of Lyon
Lyon is world-renowned for its culinary heritage, and there’s no better way to experience it than through a guided food tour. Join an expert guide for a sensory adventure through Old Town Lyon, where history and gastronomy collide. As you wander the charming streets, you’ll meet friendly shopkeepers and sample Lyon’s most famous specialties—rich cheeses, cured meats, delicate pastries, and exquisite local wines. The city’s reputation as France’s gastronomic capital shines in every bite!
Rhone Alps Lyon Pastry – Virtuoso
Lyon with Fourvière Basilica & Place des Terreaux
Uncover Lyon’s history on an exciting half-day adventure. Begin with a visit to the magnificent Fourvière Basilica, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramas of the city. Then, explore the Old Town’s maze of medieval alleyways, including one of Lyon’s secret traboule passageways. Discover lively Place des Terreaux, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at Place Bellecour, one of the largest squares in Europe.
Lyon Fourvière Basilica
Paul Bocuse Food Market, Croix Rousse, and Painted Walls
Your adventure begins with a stop at the renowned Les Halles Paul Bocuse, where the finest food merchants gather to showcase exceptional produce. Walk through the bustling market, learn about Lyon’s culinary specialties, and grab a coffee and croissant for a quintessentially French breakfast.
Les Halles de Lyon – Paul Bocuse – Facebook Page
Walls That Tell a Story: Lyon’s Must-See Frescoes and Murals
Step into an open-air museum as you explore Lyon’s most vibrant works of public art. Scattered throughout the city—from historic neighborhoods to lively squares—more than 100 frescoes transform walls into storytelling canvases, capturing Lyon’s rich heritage, notable figures, and deep connection to silk production.
Whether you’re here for a short stay or know the city like the back of your hand, these handpicked murals, mostly created by local art collective CitéCréation, offer a fresh lens through which to experience Lyon. With over 40 years of experience and a team of painters, architects, and designers, CitéCréation has turned cityscapes across the globe into visual masterpieces—and Lyon is where it all began.
Ready to explore? Here’s a self-guided walking route featuring five standout murals:
1. La Fresque des Canuts (Silk Weavers’ Wall)
Begin your journey in the Croix-Rousse district with Europe’s largest mural—a living tribute to Lyon’s silk workers. Updated regularly, this ever-evolving fresco is full of delightful details, from chatty parrots to a hidden painter in his workshop. Corner of Bd des Canuts & Rue Denfert Rochereau, 69004 – Metro C, Hénon stop
2. Les Routes de la Soie (The Silk Roads)
Next, discover a lesser-known gem that traces 3,000 years of silk history. Tucked away near Clos Jouve, this mural is a quiet yet powerful homage to Lyon’s textile roots. 4 Rue Carquillat, Lyon 1 – Metro C, Croix-Rousse stop
3. Fresque des Lyonnais (Famous Faces of Lyon)
In the Presqu’île district, pause to admire this stunning mural, which showcases iconic figures who have shaped Lyon’s legacy, including Paul Bocuse, the Lumière Brothers, and Abbé Pierre. Don’t miss the adjacent Fresque Tony Tollet, honoring the local artist. 2 Rue de la Martinière, Lyon 1 – Metro A or C, Hôtel de Ville / Saint-Paul bus stop
4. La Bibliothèque de la Cité (The City Library)
Stroll along the Saône River to this larger-than-life painted library, featuring fictional titles and real authors from Lyon and the Rhône-Alpes region. A visual treat for book lovers! 6 Rue de la Platière, Lyon 1 – Metro A or C, Hôtel de Ville / Bellecour, Saint-Paul bus stop
5. Cour des Loges Fresco
Wrap up your walk with a stop at this theatrical trompe-l’œil—an elegant curtain scene painted on a historic hotel façade. 26 Quai de Bondy & 3 Place Ennemond Fousseret, Lyon 5 – near Pont de Feuillée bridge
Lyon’s murals aren’t just art—they’re immersive windows into the city’s identity. So lace up your walking shoes and take a colorful journey through history, creativity, and local pride.
La Fresque des Canuts – Michel Djaoui (Visit Lyon)
Lyon Old Town
Explore Vieux Lyon (Old Town), a UNESCO-listed Renaissance district. Wander through its enchanting traboules, uncovering hidden courtyards and historical architecture. These narrow, covered passageways connect streets through private buildings, revealing spiral staircases, Italian-style galleries, and beautifully restored inner courtyards. Take a moment to soak in the lively atmosphere, with its many boutiques, cafes, and souvenir shops.
Vieux Lyon – Visit Lyon
Lyon is a city where history and modern life blend seamlessly. From its ancient Roman roots to its vibrant present-day culture, every corner of the town tells a story. Whether exploring secret passageways, indulging in gourmet delights, or taking in breathtaking views, Lyon offers an unforgettable mix of charm, history, and cuisine.
With so much to discover, Lyon promises an adventure like no other!
Ready to experience France’s culinary and cultural capital like never before? Let’s craft your perfect Lyon itinerary—designed just for you by Inspired Travel Designs.
Produced by Inspired Travel Designs with Virtuoso Travel and Lyon Tourist Office