Lyon, the capital of gastronomy and heritage, is full of streets where excitement mixes with historical charm. Here is a selection of the must-see places to soak up the city's unique atmosphere.

1. Rue de la République: the pedestrian star

Republic Street, Lyon

Located in the heart of the Presqu'île, this street is a must-see for shopping and architecture lovers. Stretching from Place Bellecour to the Opera, it is lined with boutiques, cafés, and cinemas.

Trick : take a break at Grand Hotel-Dieu to admire its magnificent cloister.

2. Rue Mercière: the epicenter of gastronomy

Merciere Street Lyon

Between Place des Jacobins and Vieux Lyon, this cobbled street immerses you in a typically Lyonnaise atmosphere. Traditional restaurants (bouchons), lively bars and historic facades make it a great place for a dinner or a friendly evening. Little extra: admire the hanging signs, typical of the street.

Anecdote: The Bistrot de Lyon was the first restaurant on the street (64 Rue Mercière) to open in 1974.

Street view & 360° of the Bistrot de Lyon

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3. Rue Saint-Jean: the soul of Old Lyon

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this street is a journey through time. Stroll between the traboules, explore the artisan shops and enjoy an artisanal ice cream. Not to be missed: the Saint-Jean Cathedral at the end of the route.

Traboule: There traboule of 54 rue Saint-Jean, which can be visited freely, is one of the most famous traboules in Old Lyon.

4. Rue du Bœuf: the calm of Old Lyon

Less busy than Rue Saint-Jean, this parallel street is perfect for a quiet stroll among artisan shops, private mansions and secret traboules. Trick : don't miss the inner courtyard of the Pink Tower, a hidden treasure.

Jewel: Rue du Bœuf is also home to the iconic Pink Tower, one of the most famous monuments of Old Lyon. This cylindrical tower, built in the 16th century, is distinguished by its characteristic pink color and its Renaissance architecture.

Street view & 360° of the Pink Tower

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5. Rue Victor Hugo: shopping with a local atmosphere

Rue Victor Hugo is a must-see shopping spot in Lyon, with a wide variety of stores: clothing, decoration, delicatessens and much more. It is also dotted with renowned bakeries and pastry shops, perfect for a gourmet break.

History and dedication: It has been named after the famous writer Victor Hugo since 1878, in homage to his immense contribution to French literature. This name change marked a desire for modernization and prestige in this sector which was undergoing a complete transformation at the time.

6. Rue des Marronniers: a Gourmet Alley

This small street parallel to Place Bellecour is the ideal place to taste traditional dishes. It is lined with warm and typical restaurants where you can enjoy a quenelle or an apron of sapeur.

Bonus: In the evening, the atmosphere becomes even more romantic.

7. Rue Louis Paufique: between calm and history

An extension of Rue Confort, Rue Louis Paufique connects Rue de la République to Place de l'Hôpital. It offers a haven of tranquility with its welcoming terraces and rich past.

Dedicated to the Lyon ophthalmologist Louis Paufique, a pioneer of corneal transplants, the street is also marked by the birthplace of the poet Louise Labé, with its door decorated with arches and a superb impost. Redeveloped in the 19th century, it preserves elegant buildings typical of the Second Empire. Bars, shops, and murals enrich this place full of history and culture.

The Hôtel-Dieu of Lyon : A few steps away, this magnificent renovated historic building houses restaurants, shops, and a museum that traces the history of medicine in Lyon.

8. Climb the Grande Côte: a breathtaking view

The Montée de la Grande Côte, located in the historic Pentes de la Croix-Rousse district, is one of the most charming and picturesque streets in Lyon. Connecting the Presqu'île to the Croix-Rousse, it offers a unique experience combining heritage, culture, and spectacular views. This gently sloping cobbled street is lined with typical 19th-century buildings, once inhabited by silk workers, the famous canuts.

A spectacular view: At the top of the climb, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Lyon, from the Saône to the Presqu'île. On a clear day, you can even see the Alps in the distance.

Street view & 360° Panoramic view

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9. Rue du Garet: history, culture and gastronomy

Nestled behind the Opera, Rue du Garet connects Rue Joseph Serlin to Rue du Bât-d'Argent. Closely linked to the history of Lyon, it dates back to 1570, opened by Guillaume du Garet on his land. Today, it combines medieval charm and 19th century alignments, marked by its sober buildings and architectural details such as a cartouche or discreet columns.

Gastronomic institution : with famous stoppers like The Garet, famous for its terrines and its history linked to Jean Moulin, or At Georges', bastion of Lyonnaise mâchons. It also houses specialist shops, such asAC Creative Workshops for artists, and cultural institutions such as The Little Bulletin and the GRAME.

10. Rue Édouard Herriot: elegance and prestige

Rue Édouard Herriot, located in the Presqu'île de Lyon, is an essential artery for those wishing to discover the luxury, elegance and history of the city. Nearly 1.5 km long, it crosses the most prestigious districts, connecting Place Bellecour to the Hôtel de Ville. Built in the 1860s, the street was initially named Rue de l'Impératrice, in homage to Eugénie de Montijo, wife of Napoleon III. Following the fall of the emperor in 1870, it became Rue de l'Hôtel-de-Ville. A few months after the death of Édouard Herriot in 1957, emblematic mayor of Lyon since 1905 and President of the Council on three occasions, it was renamed Rue du Président-Édouard-Herriot.

A Street Synonymous with Luxury: Rue Édouard Herriot is famous for hosting an exceptional concentration of prestigious boutiques. Among them, we find emblematic brands such as Louis Vuitton, Cartier, Dior, Longchamp, And Hermes, making this artery an essential destination for luxury lovers.

Other places to see

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Pierre Bossan

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