17 must-see free activities and visits in Lyon

Activities

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Emilie

Published on 09/09/2025

Lyon has a wealth of free activities to help you discover the treasures of the capital of Gaul without spending a penny. With its historical heritage, green spaces, murals and museums, visiting Lyon offers a host of enriching experiences that are accessible to everyone. Here is our selection of 17 must-do free activities to help you explore Lyon in a different way.

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Discover Lyon on our audio tour of 26 points of interest, from the heights of Fourvière to the historic districts of Vieux-Lyon. This 7.9km, 3.5-hour walk takes in the highlights of the city of two hills, with captivating historical commentary and anecdotes for a totally self-guided tour.

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1. Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

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The symbol of Lyon, the Basilica of Fourvière has stood majestically on the hill of the same name since 1896. This neo-Byzantine architectural marvel can be visited free of charge every day from 7am to 8pm. Inside, admire the sumptuous mosaics, colourful stained glass windows and unique architecture that blends Byzantine, Gothic and Romanesque influences. The panoramic view from the esplanade offers an unforgettable view of the whole city. Don’t hesitate to let theNavaway itinerary, which includes this architectural gem, be your guide.

2. Parc de la Tête d’Or and its free zoo

The 105-hectare Parc de la Tête d’Or (Boulevard des Belges, 69006 Lyon, rated 4.5/5 on Google out of 32,000 reviews) is Lyon’s green lung. This magnificent area offers a multitude of free activities: walks around the lake, relaxing on the lawns, discovering the botanical garden and visiting the zoo. Lyon Zoo, which is entirely free of charge, is home to over 400 animals of 66 different species spread over 9 hectares. It is one of the few European capitals to offer a free zoo, making it one of Lyon’s most popular free activities.

3. The Roman theatres of Lugdunum

Immerse yourself in Lyon’s ancient history with a visit to the Roman Theatre on the Fourvière hill. This exceptional archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reveals the remains of Lugdunum, capital of the Roman Gauls. The great theatre, dating from 15 BC, is one of the oldest and largest in Roman Gaul, measuring 108 metres in diameter. Access to the theatres is free all year round, allowing visitors to admire these remarkable witnesses to over 2,000 years of history.

4. Musée Lugdunum free on the first Sunday of the month

The Musée Lugdunum (17 rue Cléberg, 69005 Lyon, rated 4.3/5 on Google out of 2,500 reviews) offers a fascinating insight into Lyon’s Gallo-Roman history. Every first Sunday of the month, admission is completely free for all visitors. The museum houses some exceptional collections, including the famous Table of Claudius, remarkable mosaics and numerous archaeological objects that tell the story of Lugdunum. This free monthly visit gives you the chance to discover one of the richest archaeological collections in France.

5. Fresco of the Lyonnais

The Fresque des Lyonnais, located at the corner of 49 quai Saint-Vincent and rue de la Martinière, is one of Lyon’s most famous painted walls. This gigantic 800 m² work depicts 30 famous Lyonnais who have left their mark on the city’s history, from Antoine de Saint-Exupéry to Paul Bocuse and the Lumière brothers. Created in 1995 by CitéCréation, this trompe-l’œil fresco attracts over a million visitors a year and is a veritable open-air history book.

6. The Canuts Wall

In the Croix-Rousse district, the Mur des Canuts (Boulevard des Canuts, 69004 Lyon, rated 4.4/5 on Google out of 1200 reviews) impresses with its exceptional dimensions of 1200 m², making it the largest painted wall in Europe. This trompe-l’œil fresco, created in 1987 and regularly updated, pays tribute to the silk workers, the famous Canuts, who made Lyon so rich. The work depicts everyday life in the district with striking realism, showing staircases, windows and inhabitants who seem to emerge from the wall.

7. The traboules of Vieux-Lyon

Traboules are one of Lyon’s most fascinating features. These secret passageways that cut through buildings to link two streets offer a unique experience that is completely free of charge. In the Vieux-Lyon district, discover the Longue Traboule at 54 rue Saint-Jean, which is the longest in the area. These passageways, once used by silk manufacturers to transport their goods out of the weather, reveal magnificent Renaissance courtyards and remarkable spiral staircases.

8. Place Bellecour and the surrounding area

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Place Bellecour, one of the largest pedestrian squares in Europe at 62,000 m², is the beating heart of Lyon. This huge red esplanade offers magnificent views of the Basilique de Fourvière and the surrounding districts. In the centre stands the equestrian statue of Louis XIV, while in the south-east corner hides the Statue du Petit Prince, a discreet tribute to Antoine de Saint-Exupéry perched 5 metres high. The square is an ideal starting point for exploring Lyon on foot.

9. Saint-Jean cathedral and its primatial church

Cathédrale Saint-Jean, a jewel of French Gothic art, is open to visitors every day. This primatial church of the Gauls, built between the 12th and 15th centuries, is home to a remarkable 14th-century astronomical clock that comes to life several times a day. The architecture is a harmonious blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, while the 13th-century stained glass windows illuminate the interior in a thousand colours. The cathedral occupies a central place in the history of Lyon and is a must-see religious heritage site free of charge.

10. Quays of the Saône and their panoramas

The Quais de Saône offers an exceptional free walk along the river, with breathtaking views over Vieux-Lyon and the Basilique de Fourvière. These landscaped banks allow you to stroll along admiring the colourful Renaissance facades reflected in the water. The route offers changing views of the Fourvière hill and is one of the most beautiful free viewpoints in Lyon. Don’t hesitate to let yourself be guided along these quays by the Navaway route.

11. Place des Terreaux and its Bartholdi fountain

Place des Terreaux is one of the liveliest squares on the Presqu’île. This historic square is home to the magnificent Bartholdi fountain, the work of the sculptor of the Statue of Liberty, which represents the Garonne and its four tributaries. The Town Hall and the Musée des Beaux-Arts frame the square majestically. The 69 fountains spouting from the ground create a free water show that is particularly popular with children. The square regularly hosts cultural events and markets.

12. Rosa Mir Garden

The Jardin Rosa Mir (87 Grande Rue de la Croix-Rousse, 69004 Lyon, rated 4.2/5 on Google out of 800 reviews) is one of the most unusual gardens in Lyon. Created by Jules Senis Mir, a Spanish mason, this little 400 m² paradise combines shells, stones and vegetation in an enchanting setting. Listed as a historic monument, this hanging garden bears witness to the history of Spanish immigration to Lyon. Access is free on Saturday afternoons from April to October, offering a poetic and surprising interlude in the heart of the Croix-Rousse.

13. Lyon Opera and its free concerts

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TheOpéra de Lyon, located on Place de la Comédie, regularly offers free concerts in its amphitheatre beneath the main Opera House. These lunchtime performances are an opportunity to discover music from all over the world in an exceptional setting. The diverse programme includes classical, contemporary, jazz and world music. These free concerts are a great way to discover emerging talent and enjoy a rewarding cultural break in the heart of Lyon.

14. Municipal museums free on the first Sunday of the month

Lyon offers free admission to its main municipal museums every first Sunday of the month. The Musée des Beaux-Arts, the Musée Gadagne (History of Lyon and Puppets), the Musée d’Art Contemporain and the Musée des Arts Décoratifs open their doors free of charge. This initiative allows visitors to discover exceptional collections, from ancient to contemporary art, including local history and traditional crafts. These free days democratise access to culture and provide excellent opportunities to broaden your knowledge.

15. Banks of the Rhône and ViaRhôna

The banks of the Rhône (Quai Claude Bernard, 69007 Lyon, rated 4.6/5 on Google out of 5,000 reviews) are an exceptional place to relax, stretching over several kilometres. These pedestrian and cycle-friendly banks are part of the ViaRhôna, the cycle route linking Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean. There are playgrounds, picnic areas, sports fields and magnificent views of the Grand Hôtel Dieu. The banks are also home to a number of barges that have been converted into bars and restaurants, creating a unique convivial atmosphere.

16. Montluc Memorial

The Mémorial National de la prison de Montluc (4 rue Jeanne Hachette, 69003 Lyon, rated 4.3/5 on Google out of 1100 reviews) is a free place of remembrance that is essential for understanding the history of Lyon during the Second World War. This former prison, used by the Gestapo as a detention centre, now houses a memorial recounting this dark period. Free guided tours take in the cells, the testimonies of the detainees and the history of the Lyon Resistance. An essential place for meditation and civic education.

17. Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique et de Danse

The Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique et de Danse de Lyon (3 quai Chauveau, 69009 Lyon, rated 4.1/5 on Google out of 300 reviews) regularly offers free concerts and performances open to the public. These performances are an opportunity to discover tomorrow’s talent in exceptional professional conditions. The programme includes classical, contemporary and jazz music, as well as classical and modern dance. These free events generally require prior booking, but offer a unique opportunity to attend top-level performances in an intimate setting.

In conclusion, Lyon demonstrates that a city can combine a rich heritage with cultural accessibility. These 17 free activities reveal the exceptional diversity of the capital of the Gauls, from ancient remains to contemporary creations. Whether you’re a lover of history, nature, art or culture, Lyon offers a multitude of enriching experiences, with no budget constraints. To maximise your discovery of these free wonders, let yourself be guided by theNavaway audio itinerary, which takes you from site to site with fascinating commentary and captivating anecdotes.

Frequently asked questions

What museums are free in Lyon?

Several of Lyon’s museums offer free admission: the Musée Lugdunum and the municipal museums (Beaux-Arts, Gadagne, Art Contemporain, Arts Décoratifs) are free every first Sunday of the month. The Fondation Bullukian and the Musée des Moulages are free all year round.

How can I get free access to the Basilica of Fourvière?

The Basilica of Fourvière can be visited free of charge every day from 7am to 8pm. To get there, you can walk up the paths or take the F2 funicular (with a valid ticket) to the Fourvière stop.

Is the Parc de la Tête d’Or zoo really free?

Yes, Lyon Zoo in the Parc de la Tête d’Or is completely free all year round. It houses more than 400 animals over 9 hectares and is one of the few free zoos in European capitals.

Are all the traboules free to visit?

Most of the traboules in Vieux-Lyon and Croix-Rousse are accessible free of charge. Look out for the signs above the doors and don’t hesitate to push open the doors. However, please respect the peace and quiet of residents, as these passages pass through residential buildings.

Are there any free guided tours in Lyon?

Some associations offer free guided tours, notably the “Free Tours” in English. The Heritage Days in September also offer many free tours. For free self-guided tours, use the Navaway app with its detailed audio guides.