Lyon
France
Backpacking Lyon
Information on Lyon, sights to see, nightlife, activities and more.
Lyon is the third largest city in France and best known for its cuisine, historical architecture and its vibrant creative scene. Located in a strategic spot where the Rhône and the Saône Rivers meet, Lyon has been luring people ever since the Romans in 43 BC. Outstanding museums, a dynamic cultural life, busy clubbing and drinking scenes, a thriving university and fantastic shopping lend the city a distinctly sophisticated air, while adventurous gourmets can indulge in their wildest gastronomic fantasies. Don't leave the city without sampling some Lyonnais specialities in a bouchon – the quintessential Lyon experience. You can spend the first day exploring all the historical buildings of Lyon starting from a climb up the Fourvière hill. From the top, you will be able to see one of the best views of the city from the platform near the Basilica. The area around Lyon has wonderful castles and small villages. It’s great for those looking to explore the French countryside. If you want a look at medieval France, this is where you should go. The whole place is a UNESCO World Heritage site and truly feels like you have stepped back into the past.
Must See
La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière - On top of the Fourvière hill, with stunning city panoramas from its terrace, this superb example of a late-19th-century French architecture is lined with magnificent mosaics. Up here you will be able to see one of the best views of the city from the platform near the Basilica. Be sure to also explore the Ancient Theatre, a remnant of the Roman times on the Fourvière hill behind the basilica.
Vieux Lyon District - one of the oldest district in the city where you can find several old buildings from the 15th, 16th and 17th century which were erected during the silk industry boom in Lyon. While here be sure to spend some time and explore the Traboules, a narrow passageway that was used by the silk workers to get access to the water of the river Saône. Some passageways are open for public for you to explore.
Place des Jacobins - This beautiful square was first developed in 1556, with the addition of the central fountain in 1856 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are a number of good cafes situated on the edge of the square where you can grab a coffee, a bite to eat, and simply watch the world go by.
Must Do
Eat Your Way Through The City Of Gastonomy - Lyon is pretty well known as a capital of food in France. Exploring what this cuisine capital has to offer for food, is definitely what you consider for things to do in Lyon. Head to the historic bouchons, rustic eateries and you’ll know you found the spot when you see “Authentique Lyonnaise Bouchon” signs in the window.
Explore the l’Île Barbe Island - This island in the middle of the Saone river was annexed by the city of Lyon in 1963 and is connected by a bridge to the rest of the city. Stroll around and take in views of the city from all sides of this island.
Nightlife
The Vieux Lion neighborhood is where you will find most of the action after dark. Here you can listen to live evening performances by street bands. Lyon is a laid back, local city, so we recommending heading to one of the city’s local establishments. Alternatively a boat ride along the Saone and Rhone river is a great way to spend your night. You depart just as the city starts lighting up for nighttime, illuminating the historic structures of Vieux Lyon. It’s a fun way to see the city, from a different perspective.
Get started now on planning your backpacking trip with personalized recommendations from our advisors. Your plan will include: accommodation options, food/nightlife recommendations, tours or attractions to see with recommendations for best operators, 24/7 assistance with bookings, answers to any questions and more.