As you know, I think river cruising is a fantastic way to see Europe and France’s Provence region is no exception. Sailing down the Rhone River is a perfect way to view the countryside and visit the towns. Lyon, France is often a beginning or ending point for Provence river cruises. But what is there to do? Well, aside from the food (Lyon is considered the Gastronomic Capital of France) there is so much to see and do in this easy to navigate city.
See this post: Lyon, France–the Gastronomic capital of France
If you are traveling by river cruise then you will have an overview tour of Lyon included. But, what if you have already been on that tour or want to venture out on your own. The tours usually visit the 19th-century basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière, the St. Jean District and Cathedral, Palace of Justice, and Lyon Old Town. Let’s discover more of Lyon, France. Read on for some unique things to do in Lyon, France!
Navigate the Traboules
Winding their way throughout the city, the traboules are a perfect way to experience the city’s colorful and hidden past. There is thought to be more than 400 traboules but only around 40 are open to the public. If you don’t want to hunt for the passages yourself then head to the tourist office on Place Bellecour for a self guided map or guided tour.
The passages are mainly located in Vieux Lyon, La Croix-Rousse, and in La Presqu’île. Originally they were used to help the silk workers get to the riverbank quickly. Later they were used to aid the resistance in WWII. Most all the traboules are on private property so be respectful.
Picnic in Parc de la Tête d’Or
This park sits atop the ritzy 6th arrondissement on the east side of the Rhône. Along with beautiful grounds for a picnic, you can visit a beautiful botanical garden, paddleboat on the lake, or see animals at the zoo. In the spring don’t miss the rose garden! With lunch from one of the delicious charcuteries or boulangeries, this is a wonderful way to spend a couple hours.
Visit the Croix-Rousse
This neighborhood sits atop the other hill in Lyon. To get there you can walk up La Montée de la Grande Côte which is a pedestrian path with boutiques and cafe’s on either side. The buildings are a sight to be seen from below and on the way up the hill. And at the top there is a small park which has a beautiful view of the city.
This is also the location of the largest outdoor market in Lyon. Open early in the day Tuesday-Sunday, this is another perfect place to get some lunch and picnic in the park!
Musée Miniature et Cinéma
Lyon, France is the home to many museums but the Musée Miniature et Cinéma is one of the most unique things to do in Lyon, France. In fact, it is the only one of it’s kind. Located in Vieux-Lyon this museum is dedicated to two things: miniatures and film props. The main attraction is the over 100 different miniature scenes created by Dan Ohlmann. The attention to detail and craftsmanship is astounding!
The other section of the museum houses more than 300 authentic movie props, artifacts and models from the last 50 years. A truly unique experience!
The Murals of Lyon
Discover the distinct culture of Lyon, France through the more than 100 murals painted on walls around the city. These huge murals are painted in the trompe l’oeil style. The paintings depict historical events, important people, or just the everyday moments of life in Lyon.
The most famous mural is La Fresque des Lyonnais. Located near the Quai Saint Vincent on 2 rue de la Martinière, this painting depicts many famous people of Lyon.
The oldest mural is Le mur des canuts. You can find it on Boulevard des Canuts near the Henon metro.
Otherwise, just keep your eye out and your camera ready as you tour the city!
Have you done something in Lyon, France that was unique or off the beaten path? Let me know in the comments below!
If you would like more information about river cruises that have Lyon, France as part of the itinerary please contact me. I would love to help!
Happy Travels to you…until we meet again!
Other Posts that might interest you:
- River Cruise through countries on the Upper Danube
- 5 Reasons to add a pre/post-cruise extention to your river cruise
- Getting to know the AmaMagna
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