Lyon

France

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City skyline with Pont Bonaparte and Saone River, Lyon, Rhone Valley, France, Europe

Getty Images/Robert Harding World Imagery

Why visit Lyon

Commanding a strategic spot at the confluence of the Rhône and the Saône Rivers, Lyon has been luring people ever since the Romans named it Lugdunum in 43 BC. Commercial, industrial and banking powerhouse for the past 500 years, Lyon is France's third-largest city, and offers today's urban explorers a wealth of enticing experiences.

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The French Riviera & Provence: A Journey Through Authentic France

11 days / 10 nights

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  1. 1 Hopping between villages — and countries — with a guided tour to Èze, Nice, and Monaco
  2. 2 Wafting the scent and color of violets in Tourettes-sur-Loup, a floral and medieval wonderland
  3. 3 Enjoying the unique galleries and sculpture gardens of Saint Paul de Vence museum, Fondation Maeght
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    France

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    Summer Soirée: 10 Days of French Wine, Sun, and Culture

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    Cultural Pillars of Paris and the French Countryside

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  • Basque Country at Its Best: Bilbao, San Sebastian, and Spain’s Rioja Wine Region
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Top places to visit in Lyon

Discover the best attractions in Lyon from must-see sights to unexpected hidden gems.

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Lyon travel tips from Lonely Planet experts

Find practical guidance from our team of contributors around the world who bring their decades of first-hand travel experience to your next trip.

Best Things to Do

Offering everything from cinematic history to photogenic riverbanks to edgy art galleries, France’s culinary capital is more than just a pretty plate.

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Best Time to Visit

Whether you're heading to Lyon for food, festivals, or a slice of local life, we give you the best times to visit and why.

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Free Things to Do

Mysterious passageways, stunning street art and 2000-year-old Roman ruins can all be part of your Lyon adventure, without spending a single euro. 

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Day Trips

Go beyond France's third-largest city with these amazing day trips from Lyon.

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5 Shops

From innovative stores doing clothing rentals to places selling delicious wine and cheese, here is our guide to Lyon's best independent shops.

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