Adventure in Lyon!

Old Lyon (Vieux Lyon)

Why Visit?

Day 1: Journey to the Heart of Old Lyon

Start your Lyon adventure by diving into the enchanting Vieux Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site. To get there, take the Metro line D to Vieux Lyon station. Step out and let the medieval charm of the district transport you back in time.

Morning Exploration: Traboules Secret Passages

Begin at the Tourist Office, where you can grab a map highlighting the famous "traboules," secretive passageways unique to Lyon dating back to the 4th century. These hidden corridors were used by silk manufacturers to transport their goods. As you navigate through these covert paths, popping out into unexpected courtyards and stunningly quaint streets, you"re tracing the steps of history.

Afternoon Delight: Saint-Jean Cathedral and Gadagne Museums

After lunch at a traditional "bouchon" Lyonnais, visit the magnificent Saint-Jean Cathedral. Its astronomical clock is a marvel of medieval engineering, with the next showing usually around 12:00 or 15:00. A short walk away, the Gadagne Museums offer a deeper dive into Lyon’s rich history and puppetry arts within a beautiful Renaissance building.

Evening Adventure: Fourvière Hill

Conclude your day with a thrilling climb up Fourvière Hill. Although the funicular from Vieux Lyon is an option, hiking up the hill promises stunning views and a satisfying end to the day. Visit the majestic Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, and as the sun sets, enjoy a panoramic view of Lyon—a perfect photo opportunity.

Nightcap: Stroll and Dine

Descend back into Vieux Lyon and stroll along the atmospheric old streets. Dinner at a riverside café offers a chance to reflect on your day"s adventures while enjoying Lyonnaise specialties. Wind down with a glass of local wine, soaking in the ambient glow of this historic district.

This action-packed itinerary blends physical activity and historical exploration, making it ideal for adventure lovers keen on discovering the pulse of Old Lyon.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Ancient Theatre of Fourvière (Théâtre Antique de Lyon)

Why Visit?

Embark on a thrilling historical adventure in the heart of Lyon, where the ancient meets the adrenaline-pumping. Start your journey at the Ancient Theatre of Fourvière (Théâtre Antique de Lyon), a remarkable relic from the time when Lyon was known as Lugdunum, the capital of Roman Gaul.

Getting There

Your adventure kicks off as you ascend the Fourvière Hill, a journey that is an adventure in itself. Opt for a vigorous hike up from Vieux Lyon, taking the Montée du Chemin Neuf, which offers not only a physical challenge but also spectacular views of the city. Alternatively, for a quicker ascent with a picturesque view, hop on the funicular from Vieux Lyon station, disembarking at Minimes - Théâtres Romains.

Exploring the Theatre

Built around 15 BC, the Ancient Theatre of Fourvière could once hold 10,000 spectators, rivalling some of today’s arenas. As you stand on the original stone steps, imagine the roar of ancient crowds during dramatic performances and gladiatorial contests. The site truly comes alive during the summer when it hosts the Nuits de Fourvière festival, featuring live music, theatre, and dance performances from international artists.

Adventure Activities

Enhance your visit with a guided tour that delves into the hidden nooks and crannies of the theatre and the adjoining Odeon, offering insights into the engineering marvels of ancient Roman architecture. Don"t miss climbing to the top tier of the theatre for a breathtaking panoramic view of Lyon.

Additional Tips

Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven and steep in places. Also, carry a water bottle, especially during the warmer months, as the climb and exploration can be quite exerting.

This ancient site not only offers a window into the past but also provides a stimulating adventure for history buffs and thrill-seekers alike.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Lyon Les Halles Market (Les Halles Paul Bocuse)

Why Visit?

Discover Lyon"s Culinary Heart: Adventure Tour at Les Halles Paul Bocuse

Welcome to Lyon, a city that blends rich history with a passion for gastronomy. Your adventure starts at Les Halles Paul Bocuse, the epitome of Lyon"s food culture. Named after the legendary French chef, this vibrant indoor market promises an immersive experience into the world of gourmet delights.

Getting There

Les Halles Paul Bocuse is centrally located at 102 Cours Lafayette in the 3rd arrondissement. Easily accessible by public transport, you can take the Metro Line B to Part-Dieu station and then it"s just a 10-minute walk to the market. If you"re up for a bit more adventure, rent a Vélo"v, Lyon’s public bicycle, and enjoy a scenic ride through the city’s bustling streets to reach your destination.

Experience the Market

Start your tour early in the morning to catch the market at its liveliest. As you wander through the aisles, you"ll be surrounded by the finest local produce, seafood, meats, and much more. Each stall offers a story and a taste of Lyon"s culinary heritage.

Must-Do Activities

1. Tasting Sessions: Join a tasting tour led by a local expert. Try the "Rosette de Lyon", a cured sausage, or the delightfully creamy Saint-Marcellin cheese.

2. Cooking Class: Book a session with one of the market’s chefs who will teach you how to prepare a traditional Lyonnais dish using ingredients sourced from the stalls around you.

3. Wine Tasting: Lyon is near the famous wine regions of Rhône and Beaujolais. Don"t miss out on a guided wine tasting experience right in the heart of the market.

Interesting Fact

Les Halles Paul Bocuse isn’t just a market; it"s a place where locals and chefs meet, making it a lively hub of culinary innovation and tradition.

End your visit at Les Halles with full senses and a happy heart, carrying not just souvenirs but also the taste and tales of Lyon"s finest culinary secrets.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Bellecour Square (Place Bellecour)

Why Visit?

Title: Adventure Awaits at Place Bellecour

Welcome to the heart of Lyon, where adventure seekers can soak in the grandeur of Place Bellecour, one of Europe"s largest public squares. Surrounded by the stunning architecture and historic allure, this iconic plaza is not just a feast for the eyes but a gateway to thrilling experiences around Lyon.

Morning: Arrival and Exploration

Kick off your day at Place Bellecour early to enjoy the cooler morning air. Easily accessible by the Metro, take line A or D to Bellecour station, which deposits you right beneath this expansive square. Begin with a brisk walk around the site to admire the equestrian statue of Louis XIV, which dominates the landscape. Fun Fact: This square is uniquely free of modern commercial traffic, making it a serene starting point for your adventure.

Mid-Morning: Segway Tour

As the square wakes up, hop on a Segway tour to zip around not only Place Bellecour but also to cover other emblematic sites nearby, like the historic Vieux Lyon and the vibrant riverbanks of the Rhône. This tour allows you to cover more ground and adds an exhilarating twist to sightseeing.

Lunch: Local Delights

By noon, you"ll be ready to refuel. Just a short walk from Place Bellecour, delve into Lyon’s famed culinary scene. Try a "bouchon" — a type of traditional Lyonnais restaurant — where dishes like "quenelles" and "salade lyonnaise" offer a taste of local cuisine.

Afternoon: Urban Climbing

Post-lunch, challenge yourself with some urban climbing at Mur de Lyon, the tallest indoor climbing wall in France. Just a quick tram ride away, take T1 from Bellecour to Debourg. Scaling this wall will not only test your physical limits but also give you a unique aerial view of Lyon.

Evening: Sunset by the Saône

Conclude your adventurous day by unwinding along the banks of the Saône River, witnessing a breathtaking sunset that perfectly frames your day of exploration and excitement in Lyon’s beloved Place Bellecour.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière (Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière)

Why Visit?

Embark on a thrilling day at the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, a majestic symbol perched on the hilltop of Fourvière, offering not only spiritual solace but also breathtaking views of Lyon. Your adventure begins with a funicular ride from Vieux Lyon metro station. Feel the anticipation build as you ascend to this historic site, dating back to the late 19th century and dedicated to the Virgin Mary, protector of the city.

Upon arrival, marvel at the basilica"s intricate architecture blending Gothic and Byzantine styles. Step inside to be awe-struck by the opulent interiors filled with mosaics, stained glass, and gilded sculptures creating an ethereal atmosphere. For an elevated experience, literally, climb the 287 steps to the top of the basilica’s north tower. Your effort will be rewarded with panoramic views of Lyon, stretching from the winding Rhône and Saône rivers to the distant Alps.

Adventure enthusiasts will love delving deeper into the hill’s hidden gem: the ancient Roman theatre, just a 15-minute walk away, reminding visitors of Lyon"s historical depth as the capital of Gaul. Explore the remnants where audiences of up to 10,000 once gathered for performances.

To round off your visit, grab a map at the basilica and venture onto one of the marked trails crisscrossing the hill. Whether you choose a leisurely walk or a challenging hike, the lush paths offer a refreshing retreat with scenic spots overlooking the city—perfect for contemplative breaks or a picnic.

This journey not only tests your physical limits but also connects you with Lyon’s celestial and historical essence, making it a must-do for every adventure lover visiting this enchanting city.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.