The Ultimate Long Weekend in Lyon, France

Discover the culinary capital of France in Lyon.

03 May 2023

Lyon is a vibrant city located in the southeast of France that's best known for its culinary scene and rich historical culture. A trip to Lyon as a tourist will include visits to the Old Town, UNESCO World Heritage sites, museums and art galleries. Additionally, visitors can explore local markets, enjoy fine-dining experiences at Michelin-starred restaurants, and sample regional wines and cheeses.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

A Culinary Adventure in Old Lyon

  • Stay at Villa Maïa, a luxury hotel overlooking the city.
  • Start the day with a stroll through Vieux Lyon, stopping at boulangeries for fresh croissants.
  • Visit Les Halles Paul Bocuse for some food shopping. Try the saucisson sec and artisanal cheeses!
  • For lunch, head to brasserie Georges. Enjoy a pint of their own beer and the famous quenelle de brochet.
  • Afternoon wine tasting at Les Caves Des Vins De France. Try the Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône.
  • Dinner at Café Comptoir Abel, savoring their specialty, tablier de sapeur. It's made of breaded tripe and it's delish!
Day 2

Discovering Lyon's Presqu'île District

  • Enjoy breakfast at Boulangerie Jocteur. Try their pain au chocolat specific to Lyon, called coussin de Lyon.
  • Walk to Place Bellecour, the largest pedestrian square in Europe, and enjoy views of the city.
  • Visit the Museum of Fine Arts and marvel at their impressive collection of artwork.
  • Lunch at Frères Barbet, a historic brasserie. The foie gras terrine and entrecôte with café de Paris sauce are must-haves!
  • Afternoon stroll down Rue de la République for some shopping. Stop at Bonte (chocolate shop) for sweet treats!
  • Dinner at L'Atelier des Augustins, a contemporary restaurant. Try their fish soup and signature cocktail, L'Augustin.
Day 3

Hiking and Wine Tasting in Beaujolais

  • Take a day trip to the Beaujolais region for a scenic hike through the vineyards.
  • Visit a winery and learn about the region's signature wine, Beaujolais Nouveau.
  • Lunch at a local bouchon, traditional Lyonnaise taverns. Try the veal head and chicken liver mousse.
  • Visit the medieval city of Pérouges, a charming and quaint village preserved from the Middle Ages.
  • Dinner at Daniel et Denise, a Michelin-starred restaurant. Savor the quintessential Lyonnaise dish, quenelle de brochet, served in a creamy sauce.
  • End the night with a drink at Le Sucre, an open-air nightclub boasting panoramic views of the city.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Lyon, France by plane is to fly into Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport, which is located about 20 kilometers east of the city center. There are direct flights to Lyon from many major European cities, as well as some destinations in North Africa and the Middle East.

Car

The best way to get to Lyon, France by car is to drive on the A6 motorway, which connects Lyon to Paris in the north and Marseille in the south. However, driving in Lyon can be challenging due to heavy traffic and limited parking options.

Train

The best way to get to Lyon, France by train is to take the TGV high-speed train from Paris. The journey takes just over 2 hours and the train arrives at Lyon Part-Dieu station, which is located in the city center.

Boat

Unfortunately, there is no way to get to Lyon, France by boat as the city is located inland and does not have access to the ocean. The closest port cities are Marseille and Barcelona, which are both located over 300 kilometers away.

Bus

The best way to get to Lyon, France by bus is to take a long-distance bus from a major European city such as Paris, Barcelona, or Milan. There are several bus companies that operate routes to Lyon, including Flixbus and Eurolines.

Destination

Lyon

Looking for a city that'll make your taste buds dance? Look no further than the culinary capital where even the pigeons have Michelin stars. Welcome to Lyon!

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Time Travel Through Lyon's Hidden Gems: A Family Adventure

A trip to Lyon, France offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and entertainment for a family-friendly vacation. Explore the charming old town with its colorful Renaissance buildings, visit the spectacular Notre-Dame de Fourvière Basilica for breathtaking views of the city, and embark on a boat tour along the scenic Rhône River. Indulge in delectable French cuisine at the city's renowned restaurants and let the kids enjoy the interactive exhibits at the Musée des Confluences for an unforgettable family adventure.

Lyon, France: A Romantic 3-Day Getaway

Lyon, France is a beautiful city that is perfect for a romantic getaway. You can explore the ancient streets of Old Lyon, stroll along the banks of the Saône River, and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture. Whether you're looking for delicious cuisine, charming bistros, or scenic views, Lyon has everything you need to create an unforgettable trip with your loved one.

Lyon on a Budget: A Day Trip Delight

A trip to Lyon, France on a limited budget can still be enjoyable and exciting. With affordable accommodations in the city center, cheap eats from street vendors and local bakeries, and free activities such as exploring the historic Old Town and visiting the Parc de la Tête d'Or, travelers can experience the charm and beauty of Lyon without breaking the bank. Don't miss the chance to try the local cuisine, including Lyon's famous bouchons, traditional restaurants offering hearty meals and local wines at reasonable prices.

Fall in love: A long weekend in Lyon

Lyon, France is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. From the charming old town to the stunning architecture and the delicious local cuisine, there's plenty to enjoy. Whether you're strolling hand-in-hand along the banks of the Rhône or savoring a candlelit dinner in a cozy bistro, Lyon is sure to leave you feeling love-struck.