Lyon in 3 days: what to see and do
Three days in Lyon give you enough time to discover many of the city’s must-see sights while still enjoying its neighbourhoods, gastronomy and riverside walks.
From Vieux Lyon and Fourvière to the Presqu’île, Croix-Rousse, Parc de la Tête d’Or and the banks of the Rhône, the city offers a variety of atmospheres and plenty of places that are easy to reach on foot or by public transport.
In this itinerary, discover what to see and do in Lyon in 3 days, with a route designed to minimise unnecessary travel and help you make the most of each neighbourhood.
Day 1: Vieux Lyon and Fourvière
For your first day, start in Vieux Lyon, one of the city’s most iconic historic areas. Its cobbled streets, Renaissance façades and traboules offer a wonderful way to discover Lyon on foot.
Take some time to explore the Saint-Jean and Saint-Paul districts, then head to Saint-Jean Cathedral. From there, take the funicular from Vieux Lyon station up to Fourvière.
At the top of the hill, visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière and enjoy panoramic views over Lyon. Nearby, the Roman theatres offer a glimpse into the city’s ancient past.
To end the day, head back down towards Vieux Lyon and the banks of the Saône. Depending on your pace, you can have dinner in the neighbourhood or continue your walk across the Saône to the Presqu’île.
Day 2: Presqu’île and Croix-Rousse
On your second day, explore the Presqu’île, in the heart of Lyon. Start at Place Bellecour, then gradually make your way north through the city-centre streets, passing shops, historic squares and characteristic Lyon architecture.
Along the way, discover Place des Jacobins, Rue de la République and Place des Terreaux, home to Lyon City Hall and the Museum of Fine Arts. You can also head towards the banks of the Rhône or Saône, depending on what you feel like exploring.
Then continue towards the slopes of Croix-Rousse. This neighbourhood is particularly enjoyable to explore on foot, with its stairways, traboules and streets that reflect the history of Lyon’s silk workers, known as the canuts. As you make your way up to the plateau, you can enjoy several viewpoints over the city.
At the end of the day, take some time to experience the atmosphere of Croix-Rousse, with its small squares, cafés and restaurants. To return to the city centre, you can take the metro and avoid walking back down the slopes.
Day 3: Parc de la Tête d’Or and the Banks of the Rhône
For your third day, discover another side of Lyon, starting at Parc de la Tête d’Or, one of the city’s largest green spaces. Its wide paths, lake, gardens and walking areas offer a more relaxed start to the day.
Take your time exploring the park before heading to the Brotteaux area, known for its restaurants, cafés and elegant architecture. It is also a pleasant place to stop for a break or have lunch.
Then continue towards the banks of the Rhône, which have been developed for pedestrians and cyclists. They offer a long waterfront promenade and allow you to gradually make your way back towards central Lyon while seeing the city from a different perspective.
For your final evening, head to the Presqu’île and enjoy the city centre, its restaurants and lively atmosphere one last time.
Practical Tips for Visiting Lyon in 3 Days
Lyon is easy to explore on foot and by public transport. Many of the sights in Vieux Lyon, the Presqu’île and Croix-Rousse can be grouped together in a single day, while the metro, tram and funicular make it easy to save time when travelling between different neighbourhoods.
Bring comfortable walking shoes, especially for Vieux Lyon, Fourvière and the slopes of Croix-Rousse. Lyon’s hills are part of the city’s charm, but some days on this itinerary involve quite a lot of walking.
Depending on your interests, this itinerary can easily be adapted to include museums, gastronomy, shopping, walks or heritage sites. If it rains, there are also plenty of indoor attractions, so you can adjust your plans without losing a day.
Finally, if your stay coincides with a major event in Lyon, remember to check opening times, whether reservations are required and any access conditions before your visit.
Where to Stay When Visiting Lyon for 3 Days
Pour un séjour de trois jours, privilégiez avant tout un hébergement bien desservi par les transports en commun, afin de rejoindre facilement les différents quartiers sans perdre de temps dans les déplacements.
Un logement situé à proximité du métro, du tramway ou de la gare Part-Dieu permet de combiner facilement Vieux Lyon, Fourvière, Presqu’île, Croix-Rousse et parc de la Tête d’Or au cours du séjour.
Nos appartements meublés à Lyon constituent une solution pratique pour quelques jours, que vous veniez découvrir la ville en couple, en famille ou que vous souhaitiez associer tourisme et déplacement professionnel.