24 Hours in Lyon, France

Lyon is a beautiful city located in the Rhône-Alpes region in southeastern France. This city is famous for its stunning architecture, gastronomy, and rich history. If you only have 24 hours to visit Lyon, don’t worry, you can still see some of the main attractions of the city.

9:00 am – Morning Stroll at Vieux Lyon

Start your day by taking a stroll through the narrow streets and alleys at Vieux Lyon, also known as Old Lyon. This historic district is known for its Renaissance architecture, Gothic churches, and traboules, secret passageways between the buildings. You can also visit the Cathedral St-Jean, which is located in the heart of the district.

11:00 am – Visit La Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière

La Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière is an iconic landmark and a must-see attraction in Lyon. This stunning church, built in the late 19th century, sits atop a hill and offers breathtaking views of the city. You can take a funicular or hike up the hill to reach the basilica.

1:00 pm – Enjoy a Lyonnaise Lunch

Lyon is known as the gastronomic capital of France, so make sure to try some of the local dishes. You can try quenelles, a type of dumpling made with fish or meat, or boudin noir, a blood sausage. For dessert, indulge in some pralines, a type of almond candy, that is a specialty of Lyon.

3:00 pm – Walk along the Rhône River

Take a serene walk along the Rhône River and enjoy the beautiful scenery. You can also visit the Parc de la Tête d’Or, which is a beautiful park located by the river. You can rent a bike or boat and explore the park’s many attractions.

5:00 pm – Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts

If you are an art lover, visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts, which houses an impressive collection of fine arts from different eras. The museum is located in the historic Hôtel de Ville, which is itself a beautiful building.

7:00 pm – Dinner at a Bouchon

A bouchon is a traditional Lyonnaise restaurant that serves hearty and filling meals. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, and the food is delicious. Be sure to try the Lyonnaise sausage and the pork roast.

9:00 pm – Take a Night Walk at Place des Terreaux

End your night with a pleasant evening walk to the Place des Terreaux. This square is located in the heart of Lyon and features beautiful fountains, sculptures, and buildings. You can also see the City Hall and the Museum of Fine Arts.

Lyon is a beautiful city, and 24 hours is not enough to see everything but following this itinerary will allow you to experience the best of what the city has to offer.