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
Les traboules du Vieux Lyon
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Discover the hidden traboules of Vieux Lyon, a network of historical passageways showcasing the city's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
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
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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
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Experience the thrill of escape at MIMESIS, Lyon's top immersive escape game center, perfect for adventure seekers and puzzle enthusiasts alike.
Maison Thomassin
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Quartier Saint-Paul
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The Weight of Oneself
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Passerelle du Palais de Justice
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Fontaine Saint Jean
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Pl. Saint-Jean
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Pl. Saint-Paul
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Palais Saint-Jean
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Metallic tower of Fourvière
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Pl. des Jacobins
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Unmissable attractions to see
Vieux Lyon
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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.
Traboule “Maison du Crible – Tour Rose”
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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.
Le Petit Musée de Guignol
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Quai Romain Rolland
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Musée des arts de la marionnette - Gadagne
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Eingang einer Traboule
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Explore the enchanting traboules of Lyon, where history and beauty intertwine in hidden passageways filled with stories.
Cour d'Appel de Lyon
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La Longue Traboule
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Musée d'histoire de Lyon - Gadagne
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Musée Cinéma et Miniature
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Temple du Change
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Escalier Basilique de Fourvière
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Jardin Archéologique
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Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste
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Essential places to dine
Bouchon Rouge
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La Nef Des Fous
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Chez Grand-Mère
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Restaurant La Chimère
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Restaurant à la Traboule
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RESTAURANT LE VIEUX LYON
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Food Traboule
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Les Adrets
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Le Cabaretier
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Au 14 Février
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Jérémy Galvan
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Les Terrasses de Lyon
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Le Bœuf d'Argent
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Notre Maison
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Burgundy by Matthieu
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
boutique new delhi lyon/ bohéme shop
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Souvenirs de Lyon. Com
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BROCHIER SOIERIES Vieux Lyon
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Pylones
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Boutique Curiosités
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CathAm Soie
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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
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L'univers de Guignol et du Petit Prince - Boutique de souvenirs du Vieux Lyon - Musée
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Von Dutch
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Concept Store du Vieux-Lyon
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Soierie Saint-Georges
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Souvenir de lyon
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Les Pièces Vintage Store
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Little Liamone - Concept Store - Bar à Plantes
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Boutiques De Fourvière
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits
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Big Easy - Cocktail Bar & tapas
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BAR DE BON-SECOURS
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La Fonderie
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Black Hole
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Look Bar
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Le Pub Danois
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Big White
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Cigale
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Berthom Old Lyon
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The Smoking Dog
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Le Lion Bar
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The Elephant & Castle
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Funky Monky Lyon - Bar - Restaurant - Tapas
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La Cave Des Voyageurs
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Lyon fc
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Le Menestrel
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Black&White Club
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La Grange au Bouc
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Dream's Club
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Saône Night
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l’appart le 24
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Hot Club Lyon
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Disco pub Tata mona
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New. Ibiza
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La Luna Club
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The Cloe, Bar Hostesses in Lyon (Old Lyon)
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La Maison M - Club
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L'Ambassade
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Chez Nico et Greg
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