Top 6 activities in Lyon

Here you are! The lively riverbanks, bucolic parks and wonderful people you’ll meet in Lyon are finally waiting for you. There’s just one question left: what activities can you do in Lyon?

There’s something for everyone – literally, for everyone. Many activities revolve around Lyon’s rich gastronomy. Luckily, you won’t be able to avoid them!

After all, Lyon isn’t a city you can just wander around discovering. Become a food critic at one of the many tastings, or a Michelin-starred chef during a cookery course. Enrich your culinary activities with another Rhône speciality: wine. What would Lyon be without its exquisite Côte du Rhône wines? You’ll have the chance to discover some during a food tour or a visit to a wine producer.

During your activities, Lyon and its surrounding countryside deserve your full attention. Start with the rivers that flow through it, the Rhône and the Saône. Touring the city from the river is an invigorating activity. Observe the vibrant colours of the buildings on the higher ground, as well as the most notable edifices.

Whether you choose the Left Bank, the Right Bank or our selection, you’re sure to find the best things to do in Lyon.

What to do in Lyon? 6 ideas for activities

What kind of experiences are you looking for in the Capital of the Gauls? Do you want to discover new flavours, ancient know-how or thrill to a new experience?

Or simply wander the steep streets that give Lyon its character. You’ll soon be testing out new and unusual experiences to share with your friends and family.

1. Sailing in a canoe and rediscovering Lyon from the river

photo credit Lyon-Canoe

Category: €€ /Unusual

Description: Have you thought about visiting Lyon from its rivers? With the Rhône and Saône rivers running right through it, the city has strong links with the sea. Thanks to the gentle current or the strength of your arms, (re)discover Lyon’s districts from a whole new angle. This fresh escapade, accessible to as many people as possible, will leave no one indifferent.

Good to know: If canoeing doesn’t really inspire you, don’t give up on the activity just yet. On the Rhône or the Saône, you can also get away from it all in a standing paddle. The real bonus: the added adrenalin of feeling like you’re walking on the river.

2. Take a course at the Institut Paul Bocuse’s Gourmet Cooking School

photo credit Institut Paul Bocuse

Category: €€€ / Gastronomic

Description: Founded by the pope of Lyon’s – and indeed France’s – gastronomy – let’s say the world’s – this prestigious cookery school offers all the curious and gourmets courses that will help you discover the secrets of the greatest chefs. The masters of the institute will pass on some of their knowledge for half a day or a whole day. Tasting workshops are also available. Ideal for honing your knowledge of the finest products in French and international gastronomy! Of course, children are welcome too (except for the wine tastings, of course)!

3. A wine and food tour of Beaujolais

photo credit Get Your Guide

Category: €€ / Gastronomic

Description: Leaving from Lyon centre, let yourself be carried away on a trip to the Pierres Dorées region, also known as “Little Tuscany”. It’s in this enchanting rural setting that you’ll be introduced to local wine tasting, in the midst of the Beaujolais vineyards. A variety of traditional Lyonnais snacks featuring local charcuterie and cheeses will be on offer.

4. Climb the trees in the France Aventures park

Category: €€ / Sensations

Description: Perched on the Fourvière hill, this tree-climbing park is open to all ages and boasts an exceptional location. It’s relatively close to the centre of Lyon and easily accessible by public transport. The park offers a unique panoramic view of the whole city. But the view has to be earned! To get there, you’ll have to climb to the top of the trees, but rest assured, everything is there to ensure your safety. It’s the ideal way to combine leisure, sport and city views!

5. Cruise the Saône on board a vaporetto

photo credit Guides de Voyage

Category: €€ / Gastronomic / Cultural

Description: Here’s an original and relaxing way to discover the city from the river! Board a vaporetto at one of the four stops along the Saône. Every Wednesday evening, treat yourself to a glass of wine and a platter of cold meats, cheeses or crunchy vegetables for an hour-long cruise! A captain and hostess will be on hand to ensure you have an unforgettable cruise, with nothing to worry about but the view and your aperitif tray!

6. Take a gastronomic and wine tour

photo credit Get Your Guide

Category: €€ / Gastronomic / Cultural

Description: Now that’s what you call taking a bite out of the city! With such a rich culinary heritage, Lyon is the perfect candidate for a “food tour”. Join an expert on local specialities and the city as you begin your tour of Lyon’s 5 culinary establishments. We strongly recommend that you start this gastronomic tour with at least a wolf’s appetite! In between bites, you’ll also have the pleasure of discovering all the secrets of Vieux-Lyon, one by one.