A Taste of Lyon: An Essential 48-Hour Guide

Arrive at the Lyon Part-Dieu station just before lunch and walk a few short steps to the conveniently located Pullman Lyon hotel for early check-in.

Afternoon eats & sights

Then, head to Les Halles Paul Bocuse for a true Lyon culinary experience! Explore this bustling indoor food market, which features over 50 gourmet shops and vendors selling a variety of regional specialties. Grab a table or bar seat at Gueleton Lyon for a formule lunch (3-course set menu) in a French bistro setting right inside the market. Make sure to stop at Richart Chocolat on your way out for one of the best macarons in the city (and possibly all of France!).

After lunch, make your way to Parc de la Tête d’Or, one of the largest urban parks in France. Explore the park’s botanical and rose gardens or take a stroll around the lake (weather permitting).

Evening

At this point, you’ll probably want a break to freshen up. Go back to your hotel to rest and get ready for your dinner reservation at Les Bons Vivants. Located in the 1st arrondissement, Les Bons Vivants offers unpretentious French fare with a solid wine selection. While brasserie lovers will delight in the various meat options, there are plenty of vegetarian items on the menu as well. The lively atmosphere makes it an excellent spot to celebrate that special day, or just celebrate life.

After dinner, take a short walk across the Pont de la Feuillée for a nightcap at Cigale Gintoneria & Cocktails. As you stroll along the Saône river, enjoy an enchanting evening view of old Lyon and the lit-up Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

Breakfast: Coffee & croissants

Start your morning at Erikoffee Boutique for a delicious coffee and croissant. This exceptional artisan coffee roaster and chocolatier will satisfy even the most discerning coffee lovers. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself going back the next day for a box of their delicately handcrafted chocolates and a bag of freshly roasted coffee beans.

Explore the city

Next, travel to Place Bellecour to meet your tour guide for a walking tour of Lyon. Make sure to wear comfy shoes for this comprehensive 2-hour exploration of Lyon’s major sites, such as Notre-Dame de Fourvière Basilica, the Ancient Roman Theatre, and the secret passages (traboules) of old Lyon.

After working up an appetite, enjoy delicious Lebanese cuisine at Adonys before heading to Lyon’s Fine Arts Museum (Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon) just around the corner. Housed in a former Benedictine convent dating back to the 17th century, you can enjoy viewing a variety of works, including pieces by artists such as Rembrandt, Matisse, and Picasso. Note: The museum is closed on Tuesdays and during public holidays, so you’ll want to make sure to check schedules in advance and book your timed tickets online.

Dinner: Lyon-style

No trip to Lyon is complete without visiting an authentic bouchon Lyonnaise, and Le Mercière is just the spot. Opt for the 3-course menu for a Lyonnaise dining experience you won’t soon forget. Their Rhum Baba dessert is to die for!

You are now at the tail end of your 48-hour whirlwind stay in Lyon! Indulge in room service for a quiet breakfast before hopping on your train to your next destination.

That is, if you don’t decide to head back to Erikoffee one last time, of course.

Alternatively, if you are a wine enthusiast, consider booking a later train and signing up for a half-day wine tour to extend your time exploring the region. You can leave your luggage stored at your hotel and depart Lyon later in the evening for a complete foodie experience.