An ideal route
In one day, follow this route to get a great overview of the historical, cultural and gastronomic wealth of Lyon. Enjoy your visit!
Click on a marker or list item for more details.
1- Fourvière Hill
Start your day at Fourvière Hill. Take the funicular from Vieux Lyon to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière.
Must-see places in Fourvière
Use the map below to explore the iconic locations of Fourvière Hill.
Fourviere Basilica
Gallo-Roman Theater
Odeon
Temple of Cybele

Gier Aqueduct
Our Lady of Fourviere
Enjoy panoramic views of the entire city from the basilica's esplanade. Then visit the basilica itself, with its impressive mosaics and neo-Byzantine architecture.
More information HERE.
The Gallo-Roman Theatre, the Odeon and the Temple of Cybele
A few steps away, discover the ancient theater of Fourvière, an emblematic monument of the city, which bears witness to the Roman presence in Lugdunum. Built in the 1st century BC, it could accommodate up to 10,000 spectators.
Nearby, the Odeon and the Temple of Cybele also enrich this historic site. The Odeon, the smallest Roman theatre, was used for musical performances and public readings, while the Temple of Cybele was dedicated to the cult of this oriental goddess venerated by the Romans.
Today, this place steeped in history still hosts cultural events, notably the Nuits de Fourvière festival, which combines art and heritage in an exceptional setting.
More information HERE.
Remains of the Gier Aqueduct
If you are brave enough to walk a little further, you can see the remains of the Gier aqueduct.
The Gier Aqueduct, built in the 1st century AD by the Romans, carried water from the Gier River to Lugdunum (Lyon). 86 kilometres long, it included underground sections and bridges to maintain a constant flow. This structure, essential for the city's water supply, is a masterpiece of Roman engineering. Today, several well-preserved sections bear witness to the grandeur of this aqueduct, offering a fascinating insight into Roman mastery of infrastructure.
Itinerary
To get to Fourvière Hill in Lyon, here are some options:
- In funicular (this is the fastest way):
Take there line F2 from the funicular station Vieux Lyon – Cathédrale Saint-Jean. It will take you directly to the Fourvière station, very close to the basilica. - HAS foot : If you like walking, you can take one of the many paths that go up the hill from the Vieux Lyon district.
- From Saint-Jean Cathedral, you can follow the montée des Chazeaux or the montée Saint-Barthélémy.
- Another option is to start from Place des Minimes and follow the Nicolas de Lange climb, which offers a beautiful view of the city.
2- Old Lyon
Then go down to Old Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Stroll through the cobbled streets, discover the traboules, these secret passages which connect the interior courtyards of the buildings.
Must-see places in Old Lyon
Use the map below to explore the iconic places in Old Lyon.
Archaeological Garden
St. John's Cathedral
Manécanterie
Large traboule
Thomassin House
House of the Sieve
Bullioud Hotel
House of Chamarier
Gadagne Museum Courtyard
House of Lawyers
St. John's Cathedral and the Astronomical Clock
Saint-Jean Cathedral, a Gothic and Romanesque jewel of Old Lyon, is an emblematic monument of the city, with its dazzling stained glass windows and marked history. It houses a 14th-century astronomical clock, a mechanical marvel that indicates the time, celestial positions and religious festivals. Every day, figurines come to life at specific times, offering a unique spectacle to visitors. This fascinating clock is a testament to medieval know-how and makes the cathedral an essential part of Lyon's heritage.
More information HERE.
The Archaeological Garden: vestige of the Episcopal Group
The Archaeological Garden of Saint-Jean, located in Old Lyon near the cathedral, is a historical site rich in remains that reveal the religious importance of the district over the centuries. It houses the ruins of an ancient ecclesiastical complex, called the cathedral group, which once included several religious and administrative buildings. This episcopal group, led by the chapter of Saint-Jean, included in particular the churches of Saint-Étienne and Sainte-Croix, now disappeared, having been destroyed during the French Revolution, as well as the current Manécanterie, a building that served as a singing school for choirboys.
The Manécanterie
The Manécanterie (manicanteria means "singing house" in Italian), a historic monument of Lyon, is located in the Saint-Jean district, just southwest of the Saint-Jean Cathedral, of which it was part of the former cloister. Initially used by the canons of Saint-Jean, it later became a real singing school intended for the training of young clergy choristers.
House of Lawyers
The courtyard of the Maison des Avocats, in the heart of Old Lyon, is a place steeped in history that evokes the medieval atmosphere of the city. Today, this building houses the Musée Miniature et Cinéma, but its history is much older and more captivating.
The Long Traboule
There Long Traboule, located at 54 rue Saint-Jean in Vieux Lyon, is one of the most emblematic and fascinating traboules in the city. It connects rue Saint-Jean to rue du Bœuf, crossing several courtyards and buildings in a series of secret passages typical of Lyonnaise architecture. This passage, approximately 50 meters long, offers an immersion in the history of Lyon, in the heart of Renaissance buildings with elegant interior courtyards, spiral staircases, and stone galleries.
Courtyard of the Gadagne Museum
The courtyard of the Gadagne Museum, open to visitors, offers two contrasting facades. The northern facade (10-12 rue Gadagne), built in the 1520s-1530s by the Pierrevive family, is distinguished by its geometric door frames of Italian inspiration and its oval oculi restored in 1960. It houses the puppet museum, the history museum and a documentation center.
The southern façade (14 rue Gadagne), more sober, dates mainly from the 17th century with windows typical of the period and a floor added in the 19th century, where there is a small theater.
House of Chamarier
The courtyard of the Maison du Chamarier is a remarkable example of Renaissance architecture in Lyon. It houses a spiral staircase decorated with flamboyant Gothic motifs, a well attributed to Philibert Delorme with a sculpted lion and decorated coffers. The gallery displays the coat of arms of the d'Estaing family, and an Italianate fresco adorns the humanist's study, testifying to the refinement of the place.
Courtyard of the Bullioud Hotel
The courtyard of the Hôtel Bullioud is a Renaissance masterpiece in Lyon, designed by the architect Philibert Delorme. It is distinguished by a suspended gallery with elegant arcades and columns, which illustrate the architectural innovation of the time and the Italian influence.
House of the Sieve
The Maison du Crible, also called the “Tour Rose” because of its ochre spiral staircase, is located at 16 rue du Bœuf, in Vieux Lyon, 5th arrondissement. This Renaissance building, emblematic for its architecture and its distinctive tower, is one of the jewels of the Saint-Jean district. Listed as a historic monument since 1937, the house embodies the rich history and heritage of this area of Lyon.
Lunch : For lunch, stop at a Lyon cork, a typical restaurant in the city, to taste local specialties such as quenelle, apron of sapeur or brain of canut.
3- Place Bellecour
After lunch, cross the bridge to the Presqu'île.
Join Place Bellecour, one of the largest squares in Europe, with the equestrian statue of Louis XIV in its center. Place Bellecour is part of the historic site of Lyon, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998.
Place Bellecour in a few figures
- The square measures approximately 312 meters long and 200 meters wide.
- Place Bellecour extends over approximately 62,000 m², making it the largest pedestrian square in Europe and the fourth largest square in France.
- Place Bellecour is considered the zero point roads from Lyon. This means that all road distances from Lyon are calculated from this central point.
- Place Bellecour is a major crossroads in Lyon, and six major roads The main points converge there:
- Republic Street : One of the main commercial arteries of Lyon, which leads towards the Presqu'île and the Place de la Comédie.
- Victor Hugo Street : Pedestrian axis which crosses the 2nd arrondissement and joins Perrache station.
- President Edouard Herriot Street : A shopping street which links Place Bellecour to Terreaux.
- Charity Street : Which leads to the south and the Ainay district.
- Doctor Gailleton's Quay : Which borders the Saône to the west of the square.
- Guillotière Bridge / Jules Courmont Quay : Connects Place Bellecour to the left bank of the Rhône and the Guillotière district.
Historical curiosities
Place Bellecour, located in the heart of Lyon, is much more than just a square. It is full of historical curiosities that bear witness to the history and heritage of the city. Find below the little-known or underestimated monuments.
Little Prince of Lyon
Charity Bell Tower
Statue of Louis XIV
Stone Watchman
The Bell Tower of Charity
- History and Meaning : The bell tower is the only remaining vestige of the Hôpital de la Charité, an establishment founded in the 17th century to accommodate the most destitute. It was largely demolished in the 19th century, but this bell tower was preserved and remains today a discreet witness to the charitable history of Lyon.
- Curious Anecdote Looking at it, few passers-by know that it escaped demolition thanks to the intervention of influential figures who advocated for its preservation.
The War Memorial
- Origin and Symbol : This monument pays tribute to the people of Lyon who fell during the First World War. Located at the entrance to the square, it may go unnoticed, but it bears witness to the sacrifice and collective memory of the city.
- Architectural Detail : There are details and commemorative inscriptions that deserve to be studied closely. Each engraving and sculpture has a precise meaning, often linked to the military history of the region.
The Statue of Louis XIV
- A Central Point : Standing in the center of the square, the equestrian statue of Louis XIV, made by François-Frédéric Lemot, is a symbol of royal authority. Installed in 1825, it replaced an earlier version destroyed during the Revolution.
- Little Stories : This statue was designed without stirrups, a detail that has intrigued many historians and visitors over the years. Some say it symbolizes the divine power and total mastery of the king.
The Statue of the Little Prince and Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
- Tribute to the Famous Writer : Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, a native of Lyon, is immortalized on Place Bellecour by a statue representing the Little Prince at his side. This monument reminds us that Lyon is also the city of great literary minds.
- Universal Symbolism : Unlike other statues, this one invites reverie and reflection. It is a nod to the imagination and poetry of Saint-Exupéry, as well as to his humanist values.
Other information about Place Bellecour HERE.
4- Place des Jacobins
Continue your exploration by heading towards Place des Jacobins, one of the most beautiful squares in Lyon.
Admire the magnificent Jacobins Fountain, restored in 2013, which is a 19th century masterpiece.
The Jacobins Fountain
- Origin and Creation : The central fountain of the square is the most emblematic element. Designed by the architect Gaspard Andre and inaugurated in 1885, it represents a masterpiece of neoclassical art.
- The Statues : The fountain features statues of four famous artists who contributed to the artistic influence of Lyon: Philibert Delorme (architect), Germain Pilon (sculptor), Guillaume Coustou (sculptor), and Hippolyte Flandrin (painter).
- Anecdote : The fountain has been restored several times, with the last major restoration taking place in 2013 to restore its original shine and splendor.
More information HERE.
5- Grand Hotel-Dieu
Right next door, visit the Grand Hôtel-Dieu, a recently renovated architectural masterpiece.
A former hospital transformed into a modern complex, it houses shops, restaurants, offices and even a luxury hotel. Stroll through the interior courtyards, admire the architecture and learn more about its fascinating history by visiting the museum space.
Find below the sectors of the Hôtel-Dieu with historical appeal.
Cloister of the Hotel Dieu
Chapel
Saint Louis Courtyard
Saint Elizabeth Courtyard
Saint Henri Court
South Court
The Chapel
Welcome to the Chapel, built in the 17th century on the site of the old medieval hospital and integrated into the first Hôtel-Dieu, initiated by the Italian rectors César Laure and Antoine Mey. Inspired by the Church of the Gesù in Rome and in accordance with the principles of the Counter-Reformation, it embodies the power of the Church with its imposing façade, its Latin cross plan, its single nave and its luminous dome.
Work began in 1637 and, despite delays due to the plague, the church was consecrated in 1645, the façade completed in 1646 by Pierre Le Muet. Admire the high reliefs, sculpted clusters and grotesque head motifs, signs of the power of the rectors. A place of prayer for the sisters, the Chapel saw the baptism of more than 30,000 children after the Second World War.
The Cloister Courtyard
The Cour du Cloître is the oldest and most authentic part of the Grand Hôtel-Dieu, where you can admire the 17th century hospital, as well as remains from the 15th and 16th centuries. You are on the old cemetery, while the current Chapel replaced the sick room.
In 1637, the rectors of the Hôtel-Dieu built this complex with a cross-shaped plan, inspired by the Ospedale Maggiore in Milan. The central dome, visible when looking up, served as a ventilation chimney and a chapel for the sick to attend mass.
Note the upstairs windows, designed to ventilate without disturbing the patients, and the small dome sculpted by Delamonce at the southwest corner, marking the former main entrance. Under the arcades, the tailors' marks and plaques commemorating donors recall the history of this place.
The Saint Louis Court
This courtyard represents the transition between the 17th and 18th century hospitals. On the left, you can see the eastern and southern arms of the hospital in the form of a cross of the "four rows", and on the right, the back of Soufflot's large façade. Note the difference in level: during the 18th century extension work, the quay and façade were raised to prevent flooding.
Formerly a vegetable garden in the 17th century, this courtyard has always been very green. In 1825, a pendulum fountain was added, similar to another, older one, visible in the Sainte Élisabeth courtyard.
The Saint Henri Court
The Cour Saint Henri, or Cour d'honneur, is the most beautiful imprint left by Soufflot during the 18th century enlargement of the Hôtel-Dieu. Chosen to impress travelers arriving by the Pont de la Guillotière, Soufflot, then aged 27, designed the Grand Dôme and the surrounding wings.
Admire this 250-meter neoclassical façade along the Rhône, with its harmonious proportions of the golden ratio. After the visit, observe it from the Quai Jules Courmont.
The Dome served as a chapel and a ventilation chimney, evacuating stale air from the rooms. The stained glass windows and the former refectory recall the religious life of the hospital sisters, who took their meals in silence. The peristyle, designed by Soufflot, was completed in the 19th century.
The Saint Elizabeth Court
The Cour Sainte Elisabeth, the smallest of the Grand Hôtel-Dieu, dates back to the 18th century. It was initially surrounded by four identical buildings, one of which was replaced by a modern construction. Formerly called Lodge of Fools, it housed the insane on the ground floor, symbolizing the era of “great confinement”.
The asylum, destroyed in 1936, gave way to a boiler room, itself replaced in 1984. Today, the Courtyard has regained its closed appearance. Note the pendulum fountain, with its trough carved from a single block. Each courtyard had its fountain, essential in this "city within the city" where the nuns lived and served the sick.
The Saint Martin Court
The Cour Saint Martin, the last of the 18th century, houses a treasure: the staircase of honor, probably designed by Soufflot. If you come from the Cour Sainte Elisabeth, it is on the left after the passage, and if you arrive from the Cour du Midi, it is right in front of you. Admire the steps and the balustrade, a masterpiece of stone and ironwork, leading to the sick rooms.
Stand to the south of the courtyard to see the alignment of the courtyards, over nearly 250 m, the work of Soufflot. The stone arcades of Villebois allowed the sick to be transported to shelter. The ground floors were used for services, the upper floors for bedrooms, to avoid flooding.
In the 1920s, barracks housed the pediatric ward, causing controversy due to ambulance traffic. The statue of Amédée Bonnet, a pioneer of orthopedic surgery, now stands in the courtyard bearing his name, at the entrance on rue Bellecordière.
The South Court
The Cour du Midi, the most recent of the Grand Hôtel-Dieu, was built at the end of the 19th century by the architect Paul Pascalon, marking the third phase of the hospital's expansion.
This courtyard once housed the morgue, with a burial chamber, a dissection room and a hangar for hearses. Today, the place is lively, with shops and an elegant glass roof. Pascalon added a Dome, but unlike the others, it serves neither as a ventilation shaft nor as a chapel, instead marking his work with a historical stamp.
Before leaving, admire the modern glass roof, reminiscent of the 19th century, and the contemporary entrance on your left, reintegrating the old rue Bellecordière while preserving the original style of the buildings.
Other information HERE.
6- Banks of the Rhone
End your afternoon with a walk along the banks of the Rhône.
The banks have been developed to offer a pleasant setting for walking, with cycle paths and green spaces. You can even take a short cruise on the Rhône to see the city from the water.
More information HERE.
7- The street of the 'Ré'
From there, head towards Rue de la République, one of the city's main shopping streets.
The ideal street for a bit of shopping or simply to enjoy the lively atmosphere.
More information HERE.
8- Place des Terreaux
Continue on your way to Place des Terreaux.
Admire the magnificent Bartholdi Fountain and the City Hall.
More information HERE.
9- Croix-Rousse slopes
For your evening, head to the Croix-Rousse district, known for its bohemian atmosphere and its many bars and restaurants.
This neighborhood, once inhabited by the canuts (silk workers), has retained its authentic charm. Dine in a local restaurant and enjoy the neighborhood's nightlife.
More information HERE.
Back to the city center
If you still have some energy, head back to the city center for a final nighttime stroll. The illuminated city offers a magnificent spectacle, especially from the banks of the Saône or the Bonaparte Bridge.
- Transportation: Use the convenient and well-served TCL public transport network to get around the city.
- Comfortable shoes: Lyon is a city with a lot of cobblestones and hills, so wear comfortable shoes for walking.
- Map and guide: Bring a city map and possibly a tourist guide so you don't miss any points of interest.