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Lyon

Lyon is France's third-largest city after Paris and Marseille. As the home of Interpol's headquarters, it also has the feel of an international city.

Updated August 15, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Lyon
Gateway airport
Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS)
Best season
Apr–Sep
Time zone
Europe/Paris
Sights covered
45 places

Sights worth seeing

See all 45 →
Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon

Museums & galleries

Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon

An art museum in Lyon, France, well worth a visit to admire a wide range of artworks. It's a great addition to any trip to Lyon.

Lyon Cathedral

Temples & religious sites

Lyon Cathedral

Lyon Cathedral is a Roman Catholic cathedral in Lyon, France, and the seat of the Archdiocese of Lyon. It's well worth visiting while exploring downtown Lyon.

Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

Temples & religious sites

Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière sits atop a hill overlooking Lyon, completed in the late 19th century with the support of local citizens. It's also a popular viewpoint among travelers, offering a sweeping panorama of the city.

Saône

Nature

Saône

The Saône is a river flowing through eastern France that merges with the Rhône in Lyon. Walking along its banks is a pleasant way to take in the cityscape.

Tour Incity

Views & landmarks

Tour Incity

Tour Incity is a 200-meter office tower in Lyon's Part-Dieu district. As the tallest building in Lyon, it's a landmark that defines the city's skyline.

Place Bellecour

Parks & gardens

Place Bellecour

Place Bellecour is a square in the heart of Lyon, ranked among the largest in Europe. As a car-free, pedestrian-only square, it's a pleasant place for a leisurely stroll.

La Croix-Rousse

Shopping & districts

La Croix-Rousse

A hilltop neighborhood in Lyon where old alleys and former workers' housing create a distinctive townscape. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it's a great place for a walk steeped in history.

amphitheater of Lyon

Culture & venues

amphitheater of Lyon

The remains of an ancient Roman amphitheater in Lyon. Sixty Gallic tribes once gathered here to worship Rome and Augustus, and the site was designated a historic monument in 1961.

How many days do you need?

Routes grouped by travel distance so each day stays comfortable.

Average temperature by month

5-year average

Jan
Feb
Mar
12° Apr
16° May
21° Jun
22° Jul
23° Aug
18° Sep
14° Oct
Nov
Dec

Getting there

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Getting around the city

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Fares and timetables change often, so we don't list them here. Check the operator or the booking site for current prices and schedules.

Lyon Tours & Experiences Booking

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Local data

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Where to stay

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