Visit Lyon in 2 days
19 must-see POIs, optimized routes and anecdotes.
Two days in Lyon: strolling, surprises and neighborhoods that sing
If you're looking for a short break that blends history, architecture and lively walks, this 2-day itinerary in Lyon has been designed for you. It starts gently at the Old Sainte-Croix Church and ends in the elegant bustle of the Stock Exchange Palace. Between the two, you'll discover alleyways, animated squares and façades that tell centuries of urban life.
This plan favors walking, a few quiet stops and spontaneous discoveries. The pace is deliberately humane: mornings for the must-sees, afternoons for lingering in gardens or enjoying a terrace. You'll encounter iconic places like the Place des Célestins, the Pink Tower and the vast Place Bellecour, not to mention less expected treasures, such as a mural that plays with the city.
I like to think of this itinerary as two connected strolls: the first revolves around the slopes and the Presqu'île, the second explores the historic center and its cultural institutions. You'll leave with precise images — a bridge, an old house, a theater — and the desire to come back. Throughout the following pages, I'll give you practical tips on accommodation, transportation, what to pack and reservations to plan. Keep your curiosity open: Lyon is enjoyed also in cafés and in the small streets where time slows down.
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You will visit the most beautiful points of interest in Lyon
Day-by-day summary
Day 1: Start the morning at the Old Sainte-Croix Church, then head up to the House of the Lawyers and cross the Bonaparte Bridge to reach the Célestins Theatre and the Thomassin House. In the afternoon, take time at the Place des Célestins (here's a visual snapshot:
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), then push toward the Pink Tower and end the day quietly in the Garden of Grande Côte.Day 2: Begin at the grand Place Bellecour, pass through the Place Ampère and the Temple of the Lantern, then explore the Garden of the Saint-Pierre Palace and the Church of Notre-Dame-Saint-Vincent. The afternoon is devoted to institutions: the La Martinière-Augustins School, the mural “The City Library,” the City Hall, the Opera of Lyon and finally the Palace of the Stock Exchange to close this weekend.
Day 1 - Lyon
10 POIs to discoverDay 1 - Morning à Lyon
5 Points of interest - Duration : 4h00 - Distance : 1.5 km - Walking : 0h19
Fresque « La bibliothèque de la cité »
- The fresco is an open-air repertoire of several hundred different literary genres related to Lyon.
- The fresco measures 400m² and was painted by the CitéCréation collective in 1998.
- Elle lists several hundred authors who were born or worked in the Lyon region such as: Rabelais, Louise Labé, Voltaire, but also Reverzy, Frédéric Dard, Annie Salager...
© Wikimedia Commons
Église Notre Dame Saint-Vincent
- The Église Notre Dame Saint-Vincent is a Roman Catholic church, built by Augustinian monks in 1759.
- The blueprints of the church were designed by Léonard Roux and completed on 4 June 1789 by Joseph Janin.
- Originally it was named Église Saint-Louis, to honor Louis Le Dauphin who provided financial support for the construction.
- Its current name was adopted in 1863.
- During 1793, the church building had various uses including a hospital, a warehouse and a gendarmerie.
- The church was devastated by a fire on 12 December 1987, but was reopened on 29 November 1992 after major renovation work.
- An organ, positioned on the platform, was inaugurated on 26 March 1995.
© Wikimedia Commons
Jardin de la Grande Côte
- The park is marked by its declivity and the presence of murier trees, a symbol of Lyon's former silk industry La montée underwent gradual urbanization from the 16th century and was already home to many Canuts (silk workers).
- In 1895, Marius Berliet developed his first automobile, the Pantoufle, and tested it on the montée de la Grande-Côte, but the car ended up in the window of a delicatessen.
- The montée de la Grande-Côte is home to several traboules, the secret passages between buildings typical of the region.
Temple of the Lanterne
- The Protestant Temple des Terreaux, located in Lyon's 1st arrondissement, was founded in 1832 by Pastor Adolphe Monod.
- Adolphe Monod, born in 1802, joined the pastoral team of the temple du Change in 1827 and later established the Terreaux parish.
- The current neo-Gothic temple was inaugurated on July 5, 1857, designed by architect Philippe Manlius Bailly.
- The parish joined the Union des Églises libres in 1875, and in 1891, an organ by Joseph Merklin was installed.
- Over the years, the parish has been part of various church unions, and today, it is a member of the Consistoire-Ensemble du Grand Lyon.
© Wikimedia Commons
Garden of Saint-Pierre Palace
- The garden is located within the grounds of Lyon's Musée des Beaux-Arts.
- The Benedictine abbey once occupied a larger area, with pleasure gardens and parterres de verdure.
- In the 19th century, the garden underwent major restoration and development work, becoming an open-air sculpture museum.
- The garden is open daily, except Tuesdays and public holidays, from 10am to 6pm, Fridays from 10:30am to 6pm.
Day 1 - Afternoon à Lyon
5 Points of interest - Duration : 3h45 - Distance : 1 km - Walking : 0h12
© Wikimedia Commons
Place des Terreaux
- The square was created in the 17th century and was once known as "Place de la Liberté." It is framed by the Hôtel de Ville to the east, the Musée des Beaux-Arts and Palais Saint-Pierre to the south, and a row of striking buildings to the north, marking the beginning of the Croix-Rousse slopes.
- At the center of the square is the Bartholdi fountain, with its monumental representation of the "Char triomphal de la Garonne.".
- In 1994, the square was remodeled with 69 fountains, granite slabs and black and white striped pillars.
Bartholdi Fountain
- The Bartholdi Fountain was created by sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi (also creator of the Statue of Liberty in New York).
- Initially, the fountain was to be installed in Bordeaux on the Place des Quinconces, but the project was abandoned.
- Bartholdi went ahead with his project and the fountain was presented at the Paris Universal Exhibition in 1889, then purchased by the city of Lyon.
- The fountain is composed of two basins and a statue representing an allegory of France and its four great rivers represented by horses.
School La Martinière-Augustins
- The lycée is made up of three sites: the Augustins, La Martinière Jeunes filles and the Lycée Diderot on the slopes of Croix-Rousse. Girls were admitted from 1872 and the school expanded to the buildings of today's Lycée Jean-Moulin in Fourvière.
- In 1978, Lyon's three Martinières became independent, but still maintain a special relationship.
- The lycée offers a variety of courses, including scientific, technological, artistic and vocational streams.
- It also offers higher education, including nine sections de technicien supérieur (BTS) and classes préparatoires aux grandes écoles (CPGE).
© Wikimedia Commons
Lyon Opera
- Formerly known as the Grand Théâtre (inaugurated in 1756), the Opéra de Lyon was transformed in 1993 by architect Jean Nouvel.
- It houses a performance hall that mainly hosts the Opéra National de Lyon, ballets and concerts.
- It can accommodate up to 1,100 spectators.
- It has 18 floors, the first 5 of which are underground and the last 5 are located under a glass roof.
- The arcades in front of the Opéra de Lyon have been used by breakdance dancers to train since the 1990s.
- In 2017, the Opéra de Lyon was named "the world's best opera house".
© Wikimedia Commons
Hôtel de Ville de Lyon
- The Hôtel de Ville's foundation stone was laid on September 5, 1646, Louis XIV's birthday.
- Two years after its completion, in 1674, the Hôtel de Ville fell victim to a fire that damaged several parts of the building.
- Lyon's Hôtel de Ville features several remarkable architectural elements, such as the Escalier d'Honneur and the oval staircase.
- The building houses various rooms, including the Salle du Conseil, the Bureau du Maire and the Salon de la Conservation, adorned with decorations and works of art.
Day 2 - Lyon
9 POIs to discoverDay 2 - Morning à Lyon
5 Points of interest - Duration : 3h45 - Distance : 2 km - Walking : 0h26
© Wikimedia Commons
Ampère Square
- The statue of André-Marie Ampère (1888,) stands in the center of the square on a stone pedestal.
- Ampère was a renowned 19th-century scientist, known for his contributions to electricity, chemistry and mathematics.
- He taught at the Lycée Ampère and went on to work in Paris at the Collège de France and the Ecole Polytechnique.
- Ampère was a member of the Legion of Honor, Inspector General of the Imperial French University, member of the Académie des Sciences in Paris and correspondent of several European academies.
- A museum is dedicated to him in Poleymieux, 15 kilometers north of Lyon, where you can discover his story and that of the discovery of electricity.
© Wikimedia Commons
Théâtre des Célestins
- Opened in 1881, its history dates back to the 15th century, when the site housed a Celestine convent from 1407 to 1789.
- The original building suffered a fire in 1871 and was rebuilt in the Italian style by architect Gaspard André, being again consumed by fire in 1880 and subsequently rebuilt by the same architect.
- In addition to the main theater, a second hall, Célestine, seating 170 spectators, was created during a renovation between 2002 and 2005.
- During May '68, the theater's director helped hide collections of ancient objects from the University's Institute of Egyptology, which were in danger.
Lawyer house
- Built in the 14th century, in the following century it became an inn called "Ostel de la Croys".
- In 1416, it was renamed "Auberge de la Croix d'Or".
- Around 1516, a second main building was added in the courtyard of the house, comprising three superimposed galleries with Tuscan arcades.
- In 1528, the house was reunited and redivided several times, acquiring its definitive look at this time.
- Since 2005, the Maison des Avocats has been home to the Miniature and Cinema Museum, featuring collections of hyperrealistic miniatures and cinema special effects.
© Wikimedia Commons
Bonaparte Bridge
- The first wooden bridge, known as the Pont de l'Archevêché, was built between 1634 and 1642.
- It was regularly damaged by flooding.
- The bridge was destroyed by German forces in September 1944.
- Construction of the current 148m bridge began in 1946 and was completed in 1950.
- The bridge was named the "Tilsitt Bridge" when it was built, but it was renamed the "Bonaparte Bridge" in 1964.
© Wikimedia Commons
Maison Thomassin
- One of the oldest residential houses in Lyon, built in the 13th century by the de Fuers family.
- The Thomassin family, who succeeded them at the end of the 14th century, were among Lyon's leading families, enriched by the cloth trade.
- On the Place du Change were held the City's 4 annual fairs, attracting wealth from Northern Europe to Italy.
- It was only during a renovation in 1968 that a painted ceiling from 1295 was discovered here!
Day 2 - Afternoon à Lyon
4 Points of interest - Duration : 2h45 - Distance : 1.7 km - Walking : 0h22
© Wikimedia Commons
The Pink Tower
- La Maison du Crible, or Tour Rose, is an emblematic residence in Vieux-Lyon.
- The exterior façade of the house is classical, but the central entrance is remarkable for its unique portal adorned with bosses and ringed columns.
- The interior of the house reveals a small, open inner courtyard that leads to a huge circular tower, invisible from the outside.
- Frescoes, depicting entertainment scenes and mythological representations, have been discovered inside the house.
- King Henri IV stayed at the house in 1600 during his alliance with Marie de Médicis.
© Wikimedia Commons
Place Bellecour
- The square is the 3rd largest in France, after Place des Quinconces in Bordeaux and Place de la Concorde in Paris.
- It measures 312m by 200m.
- It is home to a statue of Louis XIV on horseback.
- Legend has it that its creator, François-Frédéric Lemotse, committed suicide for forgetting to put stirrups on the king.
- It also features the Veilleur de Pierre, a memorial to French resistance fighters during the Second World War.
- It is also home to a representation of Saint-Exupéry's The Little Prince.⏰ The square has had various names throughout history, including Place de l'Égalité and Place Bonaparte, before taking on its current name of Place Bellecour.
© Wikimedia Commons
Old Sainte-Croix church
- The church was built in Merovingian times (before the 9ᵉ century) to replace a possible reception hall from late antiquity.
- Rebuilt in Carolingian times, the church had an imposing form with three naves and a semicircular apse.
- It was rebuilt or modified several more times over the centuries.
- It served as a place of parish worship during the Middle Ages, but was partially demolished in the 19ᵉ century and the nave was incorporated into a building that was demolished in the 1970s.
- Archaeological excavations have been carried out on the church site, revealing the foundations of most of the church, as well as those of the former baptistery and chancel of Saint-Étienne church.
Practical details for visiting Lyon
Where to stay
To enjoy this itinerary, favor the Presqu'île or the Pentes de la Croix-Rousse. The Presqu'île puts you at the heart of monuments and transport, ideal if you like to be at the center of the action; the Pentes offer a village-like vibe, perfect for wandering in the evening. Look for accommodation close to tram lines or major metro stations to maximize your breaks.
In terms of accommodation types, consider the following options: charming hotels for a comfortable and personalized experience, apartments if you prefer autonomy, and small guest houses for a convivial atmosphere. The tourist districts are lively in the evening: if you want quiet, head slightly north of the slopes or toward secondary streets of the Presqu'île.
Practical tips: book a place with easy walking access to main sites to limit movements, and check proximity to a transport station. If you're traveling with family or a group, a place with a kitchenette will make your stay more flexible. Prioritize the quality of location over size if your stay lasts only two days.
Getting around
The itinerary is designed to be mostly walked: most sites are close to each other, making it easy to discover continuously. For longer journeys, the urban network is convenient: metro and tram quickly connect the main hubs, while the bus completes options for the off-line sectors.
For short distances, consider the bike-sharing system and the dockless scooters: fast for crossing the Presqu'île or reaching a point on the opposite bank. Walking remains the best way to discover alleys, façades and hidden small squares.
Tip: plan your routes by combining walking and one or two trips on public transport to save time. If you come by car, opt for peripheral parking and reach the center by public transport: parking can be tight in historic zones. Keep comfortable shoes for pavements and slopes.
What to bring
Your suitcase will depend on the season, but a few staples stay useful all year round: comfortable shoes for pavements and slopes, a light raincoat or windbreaker and a compact backpack for daily essentials (water, guidebook, camera).
For cooler months, add a warm piece of clothing and layers that are easy to add or remove. In summer, bring a hat and sun protection as well as a reusable bottle. If you plan to attend a show or dine at a fancy restaurant, wear something a bit more elegant.
Useful accessories: a power bank for your phone, tickets or a transport map already downloaded, and a small guide or notes for the itinerary. Simplify your suitcase to stay mobile and fully enjoy your two days.
Advance bookings
For a short stay, save time by booking the essentials: accommodation (especially on weekends), a few popular restaurants to avoid queues, and if you wish, tickets for the opera or the theatre for a cultural evening. For in-demand guided tours, a prior reservation ensures you have a seat.
If you plan to dine at renowned establishments or try a trendy table, book in the late afternoon or evening. For transportation to/from the station or bus station, consider organizing your transfers if you're traveling with a lot of luggage.
Practical tip: make your main reservations several weeks in advance if your trip falls during a busy period. For free entries or outdoor strolls, a reservation is usually not necessary, but checking opening hours is always wise.
Must-see extras
In addition to the itinerary, here are a few ideas to enrich your getaway: explore hidden passages and traboules if you love secret architecture, stroll through local markets to feel the neighborhood's vibe, and climb to a viewpoint for a panoramic photo of the city.
For a playful experience, try Coddy's urban escape games which offer city-designed game routes: it's a creative way to (re)discover the streets while solving puzzles. If you're looking for a different cultural moment, scout temporary exhibitions and small independent galleries.
Finally, schedule a sunset stroll along the quays: the atmosphere changes and reveals another facet of the city. These extras nicely complement the main itinerary without weighing down your schedule.
Local delights
The culinary discovery is an integral part of the stay. Try the traditional bouchons for simple and generous local cuisine, explore the neighborhood markets for fresh produce, and take time for a tasty break in a local bakery for a pastry or regional dessert.
Don't miss the small spots where you can enjoy signature dishes and local wines: a tasting on a terrace or in a traditional room will give you a better sense of the flavors of the place. For a convivial experience, share a few specialties among several people — it's often the best way to sample everything.
Tip: favor nearby establishments to support local artisans and have a more authentic experience. If you have an hour to spare, a covered market or a gourmet hall lets you sample several specialties in a short time.
When to visit Lyon and how much it costs
Best seasons
The best time to come depends on what you’re looking for. In general, spring and autumn offer a mild climate and streets less crowded than in summer, perfect for strolls and terrace dining. Summer draws more people but offers a festive atmosphere and long evenings to enjoy the nightlife.
If you love cultural events and happenings, check the local calendar before you go: some periods offer festivals or special programs. For a calmer experience, opt for the off-season outside school holidays, where lines and waits are often shorter.
Practical advantage: off-season, accommodation prices and availability are generally better. On the other hand, some sites may reduce hours in winter, so check openings if you’re traveling in the cold season.
Crowds
Crowds vary by time and place: the Presqu'île and the major squares are naturally busier during the day, especially on weekends and in peak season. The Croix-Rousse slopes can be lively in the evening with cafés and restaurants.
To avoid the busiest moments, favor visits early in the morning or late afternoon, and plan popular sites on weekdays if possible. Some narrow streets and gardens offer quiet breaks even when the main axes are crowded.
Practical tip: if you're seeking a more intimate experience, head outside school holidays and avoid announced festival days. With a bit of organization, two days allow you to see the essentials without being overwhelmed by crowds.
Estimated budget
Budget economy: Choose simple options such as hostels, homestays, or small apartments away from the main routes. Eat at bakeries, markets or small cafés, favor walking and use the transport network for a few essential trips. This approach lets you discover the city without aiming for maximum comfort, prioritizing the local experience.
Budget medium: Choose a 2–3 star hotel or a well-located apartment on the Presqu'île or near the Croix-Rousse slopes. Combine a few good local restaurants with quick meals, and plan a cultural outing (theatre, museum or concert). This level offers a good balance between comfort, proximity, and culinary experiences.
Budget comfort: Aim for a charming hotel or a 4-star city-center establishment, book quality restaurants and leave room for paid activities (shows, private guided tours). This choice prioritizes comfort, immediate proximity to sites, and the possibility of enjoying a more refined experience in a short time.
Frequently asked questions about your stay in Lyon
In conclusion
These two days form a short pause where you take time to wander, listen, and look. Beginning at the Old Sainte-Croix Church and ending at the Stock Exchange Palace, you'll have had a coherent and varied glimpse: busy squares, tranquil gardens, theater, murals and iconic buildings. The pace proposed leaves room for unexpected discoveries, tasty pauses, and encounters with the city.
My advice: go with an open mind, keep your plan as a guide rather than an imperative, and let yourself be surprised by a street, a shop, or a look. The walks, the tasty stops, and one or two activities booked in advance are enough to make the most of this short break. Return with concrete memories and the desire to rediscover other neighborhoods next time.
Want more adventure?
Discover our urban escape games to transform your visit into an interactive adventure!
