Vieux Lyon: A Renaissance Jewel
Explore Lyon's historic heart: a UNESCO-listed district with Renaissance architecture, hidden traboules, and traditional bouchons, offering a captivating journey back in time.
Vieux Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the city's historic heart, boasting a captivating blend of medieval and Renaissance architecture. Wander through its cobblestone streets, explore hidden traboules (covered passageways), and admire the colorful facades of its buildings. This vibrant district is home to the iconic Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste, the Musée Miniature et Cinéma, and a plethora of traditional bouchons (Lyon's traditional restaurants) offering a taste of local cuisine. Nestled at the foot of Fourvière hill, Vieux Lyon offers a journey back in time, showcasing Lyon's rich history and cultural heritage. From silk workshops to religious landmarks, the area is a feast for the senses, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its unique atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to explore the Place du Change, once the city's business center, and the charming Rue Saint-Georges, lined with historic houses and bouchons.
A brief summary to Vieux Lyon
- Lyon, FR
Local tips
- Explore the traboules: These unique covered passageways offer a glimpse into Lyon's hidden history and architectural ingenuity. Look for the discreet entrances and venture through the courtyards and buildings.
- Dine in a bouchon: Experience Lyon's culinary heritage by dining in a traditional bouchon. Sample local specialties like quenelles, sausages, and Lyonnais salad for an authentic taste of the city.
- Visit the Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste: Admire the stunning Gothic architecture, stained-glass windows, and astronomical clock of this iconic cathedral.
- Take the funicular to Fourvière Hill: Enjoy panoramic views of Lyon from the top of Fourvière Hill, home to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière and the Gallo-Roman ruins.
- Check for accessibility: Vieux Lyon can be challenging to navigate due to cobblestone streets. Check accessible routes and transportation options beforehand.
Getting There
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Public Transport
The easiest way to reach Vieux Lyon is by taking the Lyon Metro D line to the 'Vieux Lyon - Cathédrale Saint-Jean' station. From the station, the heart of Vieux Lyon is a short walk away. A single ticket costs €2 and is valid for one hour on the entire TCL network (bus, metro, tram, and funicular). Tickets can be purchased at vending machines in the metro station.
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Funicular
If you are already near the Saône river, you can take the funicular from the 'Vieux Lyon' station to Fourvière hill, where you can visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière and enjoy panoramic views of Vieux Lyon. A round-trip ticket costs €3.50.
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Walking
Vieux Lyon is easily accessible on foot from the city center (Presqu'île). Cross the Saône River via the Pont Bonaparte or Pont Kitchener. From Place Bellecour, it's approximately a 30-minute walk. Follow the quays along the Saône, enjoying the views of the colorful buildings. No costs involved.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services (like Uber) are readily available in Lyon. A short ride from the city center (e.g., Place Bellecour) to Vieux Lyon will typically cost between €5-€7, depending on traffic and surge pricing.
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Driving
Driving directly into Vieux Lyon is not recommended due to narrow streets and limited parking. However, you can park in nearby parking garages such as Parking Saint-Jean or Parking Saint-Georges. Expect to pay around €30 per day for parking. Be aware that Vieux Lyon is partially a pedestrian zone, so access by car can be limited.
Discover more about Vieux Lyon
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cour des Loges Lyon, A Radisson Collection Hotel
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Immerse yourself in luxury and history at Cour des Loges Lyon, a Radisson Collection Hotel, where elegance meets the vibrant spirit of Lyon.
Pl. du Gouvernement
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Experience the vibrant culture and history at Pl. du Gouvernement, a picturesque square in the heart of Lyon, surrounded by cafes and stunning architecture.
Renaissance du Vieux-Lyon
0.1 km
Explore Lyon's rich history at Renaissance du Vieux-Lyon, a non-profit dedicated to preserving the city's architectural and cultural heritage.
MIMESIS | Escape Game Immersive
0.2 km
Experience the thrill of escape at MIMESIS, Lyon's top immersive escape game center, perfect for adventure seekers and puzzle enthusiasts alike.
The Weight of Oneself
0.2 km
Explore 'The Weight of Oneself' in Lyon, a mesmerizing sculpture that invites reflection and captures the essence of the human experience in art.
Pl. Saint-Jean
0.3 km
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Pl. Saint-Paul
0.3 km
Discover the historic charm and vibrant atmosphere of Pl. Saint-Paul, a must-visit square in the heart of Lyon, France.
Palais Saint-Jean
0.4 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Palais Saint-Jean, a must-visit museum and historical landmark in Lyon's vibrant cultural scene.
Pl. des Jacobins
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Explore the enchanting Pl. des Jacobins in Lyon, where history meets vibrant local culture in a picturesque urban square.
5 Imp. Turquet
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Discover the architectural brilliance of 5 Imp. Turquet in Lyon, where history and modernity meet in a captivating urban landscape.
Rue de la République
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Rue de la République, a must-visit street in Lyon, blending shopping, dining, and rich historical architecture.
Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon
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Explore the Museum of Fine Arts in Lyon, a cultural jewel showcasing timeless artworks from ancient to modern times in a stunning architectural setting.
Pl. des Terreaux
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant culture and historical significance of Pl. des Terreaux in Lyon, a must-visit square filled with art, architecture, and local charm.
Place de la République
0.7 km
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Palais de la Bourse de Lyon
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Explore the exquisite Palais de la Bourse de Lyon, a historical gem that symbolizes the city's rich architectural and cultural heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Vieux Lyon
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Explore Lyon's historic heart: a UNESCO-listed district with Renaissance architecture, hidden traboules, and traditional bouchons, offering a captivating journey back in time.
Les traboules du Vieux Lyon
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Discover the hidden traboules of Vieux Lyon, where history and architecture blend into a captivating journey through time and culture.
Rue Saint-Jean
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Discover Lyon's Renaissance soul on Rue Saint-Jean: a historic street with captivating architecture, hidden traboules, artisan shops, and culinary delights in the heart of Vieux Lyon.
Tour rose
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Explore Tour Rose, a stunning historical landmark in Lyon, showcasing the city’s rich cultural heritage and architectural beauty.
Place du Gouvernement
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Discover the charm and culture of Lyon at Place du Gouvernement, a historic town square brimming with local life and architectural beauty.
Traboule “Maison du Crible – Tour Rose”
0.1 km
Discover Lyon's hidden gem: the Traboule Maison du Crible – Tour Rose, a 16th-century architectural marvel blending Renaissance history with modern culinary experiences in the heart of Vieux Lyon.
Palais Justice 24 Colonnes
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Explore the grandeur of Palais Justice 24 Colonnes, a stunning courthouse in Lyon showcasing exquisite neoclassical architecture and rich judicial history.
Le Petit Musée de Guignol
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Discover the whimsical world of puppetry at Le Petit Musée de Guignol in Lyon, a charming museum dedicated to the beloved French puppet character.
Lyon, Quai Romain Rolland
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Discover the tranquil beauty of Quai Romain Rolland, an urban park in Lyon, perfect for relaxation and stunning riverside views.
Quai Romain Rolland
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Discover the beauty of Quai Romain Rolland in Lyon, a picturesque riverside promenade perfect for relaxation, culture, and stunning views of the Rhône.
The Charvet Clock
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Musée des arts de la marionnette - Gadagne
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Explore the magical world of puppetry at the Musée des Arts de la Marionnette in Lyon, a fascinating museum celebrating this enchanting art form.
Eingang einer Traboule
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Explore the enchanting traboules of Lyon, where history and beauty intertwine in hidden passageways filled with stories.
Court of Appeal of Lyon
0.1 km
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Cour d'Appel de Lyon
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Explore the Cour d'Appel de Lyon, a stunning courthouse blending history, culture, and striking architecture in the heart of Lyon.
Essential places to dine
Bouchon Rouge
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La Nef Des Fous
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Chez Grand-Mère
0.1 km
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Restaurant La Chimère
0.1 km
Experience authentic French cuisine in Lyon at Restaurant La Chimère, where every dish tells a story of tradition and taste.
Restaurant à la Traboule
0.1 km
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RESTAURANT LE VIEUX LYON
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Experience authentic French cuisine at Restaurant Le Vieux Lyon, where tradition meets taste in a charming atmosphere.
Food Traboule
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Les Adrets
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Le Cabaretier
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Savor the essence of traditional French cuisine at Le Cabaretier in Lyon - where every meal is a celebration of flavor and culture.
Au 14 Février
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Jérémy Galvan
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Experience the pinnacle of French gastronomy at Jérémy Galvan, where exquisite flavors meet artistic presentation in a charming Lyon setting.
Les Terrasses de Lyon
0.2 km
Discover exquisite French cuisine with breathtaking views at Les Terrasses de Lyon - a fine dining experience not to be missed.
Le Bœuf d'Argent
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Notre Maison
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Burgundy by Matthieu
0.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
boutique new delhi lyon/ bohéme shop
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Discover the unique blend of style and artistry at Bohème Shop in Lyon, a must-visit boutique for fashion lovers.
couleurs ethniques by boutique new delhi lyon
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Explore the vibrant ethnic fashion at Couleurs Ethniques, a unique boutique in Lyon showcasing men's and women's clothing with cultural flair.
Souvenirs de Lyon. Com
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Discover the essence of Lyon through unique gifts and artisanal delights at Souvenirs de Lyon, a must-visit gift basket store in the heart of the city.
BROCHIER SOIERIES Vieux Lyon
0.1 km
Experience the rich heritage of Lyon's silk-making tradition at Brochier Soieries, where luxury meets culture.
Pylones
0.1 km
Explore Pylones in Lyon for a delightful selection of quirky gifts, stylish accessories, and unique home decor that make perfect souvenirs.
Boutique Curiosités
0.1 km
Explore Boutique Curiosités in Lyon for unique women's clothing and a personalized shopping experience that combines style with sustainability.
CathAm Soie
0.1 km
Explore unique silk and tweed accessories at CathAm Soie, a charming family-owned boutique in the heart of Lyon, perfect for discerning fashion lovers.
Mandragore
0.1 km
Discover Mandragore, an enchanting gift shop in Lyon, offering unique items from rare books to magical treasures for every traveler.
L'univers de Guignol et du Petit Prince - Boutique de souvenirs du Vieux Lyon - Musée
0.1 km
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Von Dutch
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Discover unique fashion at Von Dutch, a trendy clothing store in Lyon, perfect for stylish tourists seeking quality and flair.
Concept Store du Vieux-Lyon
0.2 km
Explore the Concept Store du Vieux-Lyon – where art meets tradition in the heart of Lyon, offering unique gifts and local delights.
Soierie Saint-Georges
0.2 km
Discover the heart of Lyon's silk weaving tradition at Soierie Saint-Georges, where artistry meets history in every exquisite piece.
Souvenir de lyon
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Discover unique souvenirs, local delicacies, and charming keepsakes at Souvenir de Lyon, the perfect stop for every traveler in Lyon.
Les Pièces Vintage Store
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Discover unique vintage clothing, shoes, and accessories at Les Pièces Vintage Store in Lyon, where timeless fashion meets modern style.
Little Liamone - Concept Store - Bar à Plantes
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Explore Little Liamone in Lyon for a unique shopping experience with gifts, costume jewelry, and vibrant indoor plants.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits
0.0 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail culture of Lyon at Bar Le Florian, where expertly crafted drinks meet a lively atmosphere.
Big Easy - Cocktail Bar & tapas
0.1 km
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BAR DE BON-SECOURS
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail culture of Lyon at Bar de Bon-Secours, where expertly crafted drinks meet a lively atmosphere.
La Fonderie
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Discover La Fonderie in Lyon: a cocktail bar offering exquisite drinks and a lively atmosphere by the beautiful Rhône River.
Black Hole
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Black Hole, where craft beers, cocktails, and delicious tapas blend for an unforgettable evening in Lyon.
Look Bar
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Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Look Bar in Lyon, where vinyl music and unique decor create the perfect backdrop for a memorable night out.
Le Pub Danois
0.1 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Le Pub Danois in Lyon, where great drinks and local culture come together along the beautiful Rhône River.
Big White
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Big White, a cozy bar in Lyon offering a diverse drink menu and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Cigale
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Lyon at Cigale, a premier cocktail bar known for its creative drinks and lively atmosphere.
Berthom Old Lyon
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The Smoking Dog
0.2 km
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Le Lion Bar
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Le Lion Bar, a top cocktail and tapas destination in the heart of Lyon, perfect for both relaxation and celebration.
The Elephant & Castle
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Experience the best of British pub culture in Lyon at The Elephant & Castle, where hearty dishes meet a lively bar atmosphere.
The Elephant & Castle English Pub Lyon
0.3 km
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Funky Monky Lyon - Bar - Restaurant - Tapas
0.4 km
Discover the taste of Lyon at Funky Monky, a lively tapas bar offering an array of flavors and a vibrant atmosphere for a memorable dining experience.
