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With a history stretching back 2000 years, Lyon has a rich past to explore: Fourvière, with its basilica and ancient theatres, Vieux-Lyon (Old Lyon), with its Renaissance architecture, and the Presqu’île, with its iconic monuments and squares, are districts that have their own unique identity. They are all listed as UNESCO World Heritage, as are the slopes of Croix-Rousse hill and the silk industry. 

The Musée des Beaux-arts (Museum of Fine Arts), the Musée des Confluences and Lugdunum Museum are fascinating for both their architecture and their collections. Find out more about the museums.

The rivers Rhône and Saône run through Lyon and come together in the Confluence district, making the city an excellent place for river cruises. Find out more about cruises

Tête d'Or Park is a green haven, with an internationally renowned rose garden and a lake, right in the city centre.

Lyon is also famous for its gastronomic tradition, with delicacies including quenelles (dumplings), pork products and praline tart, and its authentic restaurants known as ‘bouchons’. Click here to find out more about gastronomy. 

Many events and festivals are held in the city, including the Fête des Lumières (Festival of Lights), offering something for all tastes.

The Fête des Lumières (Festival of Lights) is held for four days around the 8th of December, always including a weekend.

For four evenings, starting at 7 or 8 pm depending on the day, Lyon is bathed in light: iconic buildings in the Presqu'île and Vieux-Lyon (Old Lyon) districts, the hill of Fourvière and the banks of the Rhône, as well as Tête d'Or Park and Blandan Park, are illuminated by artists and designers from around the world and young local talents. 

On the evening of the 8th of December, the people of Lyon place lumignons (small candle lanterns) on their window sills and balconies. 

Discover the recommended routes to see all the festival’s main attractions, as well as practical info and the origins of the festival. 
Further information...

The Lyon City Card is a contactless pass that provides access to museums, various discovery activities and shows, as well as public transport, for one to four days, with the option to include a return ticket on the Rhônexpress airport shuttle. Junior, student and family prices are available.

It pays for itself with just two activities per day and transport, so it is a very economical way to make the most of your stay in Lyon.

A 365-day version is also available for residents of Lyon, without transport, including three activities and a guided tour. 
Find out more about Lyon City Card

The Tour Guides Bureau offers many themed guided tours throughout the year, in French or English. To choose one and book it at our online store, click here...

There are also various tour options, including theatrical, storytelling, unusual, gourmet and fun tours, to discover the city. ​​​​​​

The Lyon Tourist Office’s stay advisers welcome visitors on Place Bellecour non-stop from 9 am to 6 pm, every day of the year, except the 25th of December and the 1st of May. 

They are also available via chat, Messenger, telephone (+33(0)472 776 969) and email ([email protected]). 
Find out more...