Things to do in Lyon for self travelers

Have you ever dreamt about going back in time? Now you have a chance to do it in Lyon! Discover the most splendid historical spots of old Lyon. First, you will see the Cathedral of Saint-Jean, which was started as a Norman or Romanesque-style building and finished in Gothic style. Do you like taking photos? You will have a chance to do it in front of the most photographed facade of the Vieux Lyon — the Lawyers House, which is also one of the top 10 most instagrammable places in the entire city! You will also visit the Place du government, not just one of the most beautiful places in Lyon but a house of a very important Lyonnais family, the Neuville de Villeroy, who ruled the city for a long time. Your trip will continue at the Place du Change — one of the busiest squares with famous restaurants and silk shops (don't forget that Lyon is the city of silk!). Of course, you will see a fascinating Maison du Chamarier, a unique example of a transition between the Gothic and the early premises of Renaissance architecture. During the tour, you will wander through a maze of cobblestoned alleyways and hidden passages called "les traboules" which communicate from one house to another through courtyards without using the streets. They date back to the Renaissance and remind the Roman patio. Already interested? Get ready for your journey in time!

Delve into the heart of Lyon with a Self-Guided Audio Tour crafted for curious explorers eager to navigate the maze-like Traboules and uncover the city's storied past. This immersive journey is ideal for history buffs and architectural enthusiasts keen to experience Lyon’s rich tapestry of culture and heritage at their own pace. Your starting point is the breathtaking Lyon Cathedral, and from there, the path winds through historic neighborhoods, revealing tales of the city from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance. As this independent adventure progresses, you'll explore iconic locations including Maison des Avocats, Montée du Gourguillon, and the bustling Croix-Rousse district, celebrated as the cradle of the silk industry. The tour seamlessly threads from the Presqu'île at the heart of Lyon, through the terracotta rooftops of Vieux Lyon, culminating in the vibrant Croix-Rousse. Along the way, the Mur des Canuts and treasured landmarks like the Palais de Justice Historique and Maison Gadagne enhance the narrative of this historic city. The most memorable pieces of this journey are the Traboules themselves, secret passages where the whispers of past inhabitants linger, inviting you to trace their steps. Engaging the senses, the tour paints vivid images of bustling silk workers and the grandeur of Lyon's Renaissance, ensuring memories of this captivating stroll through time linger long after the last step is taken.

Embark on a solo journey through Lyon, immersing yourself in a city shaped by history and tradition. This tour is designed for curious explorers eager to uncover the mysteries of Lyon's UNESCO districts, from hidden traboules to the commanding presence of Fourvière hill. The audio guide will lead you through time, offering insights and tales at every corner. Starting at the grand Lyon Cathedral, you'll be guided through the narrow, historic streets of Vieux Lyon. Along the way, the tales of ancient tradesmen and gladiators will come to life. Your path will take you past the architectural marvel Maison des Avocats and through the secret passageways of the Montée des Chazeaux traboule. The route concludes at the Palais de Justice Historique, where tales of law and order span centuries. Highlights of your expedition will include the chance to stand where Roman audiences once cheered in the Ancient Theatre of Fourvière, and the serene Gardens of Saint-Jean, juxtaposing the city's bustling modernity with its storied past. Envision the historical journey of puppets at the Guignol Puppet Museum and the echoes of the past in the Gallic Roman Amphitheatre. With each step, the audio guide connects you deeper to Lyon's soul, creating a memorable and intimate encounter with the city's rich heritage.

Dive into the heart of Lyon's historical grandeur with this self-guided audio tour. Aimed at history buffs and cultural enthusiasts, it unveils the labyrinth of traboules—ancient passageways that offer a peek into the city's rich past. Stroll at your own pace, with the power to pause, rewind, and play stories of the Renaissance-era wonders tucked away in Lyon's Old Town. The journey kicks off at the impressive Saint-Jean Cathedral and weaves through cobbled streets to the secretive La Longue Traboule. Each stop, from the Cour des Voraces to the panoramic view atop Fourvière Hill, narrates a chapter of Lyon's storied tapestry, culminating at the magnificent Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Along this route, travelers will unearth architectural treasures and tales of the silk workers that once thrived here. Memorable moments include the encounter with the vast Mur des Canuts mural and the stunning Bartholdi Fountain. These highlights and more make for an immersive adventure into Lyon's hidden gems, transforming an ordinary walk into a treasure hunt through time.

Journey through a city alive with love on this Self-Guided Audio Tour tailored for couples in Lyon. This romantic exploration invites anyone looking to experience a tender, shared journey through the city's most enchanting landmarks and historical spots. It's a great fit for couples who wish to bond over the captivating narratives that lie behind the scenic beauty of Lyon. The tour commences at the architectural gem, Saint-Georges Church, and concludes at the tranquil Saint Paul's Church, guiding you through a route rich with history and charm. Along the way, embrace the warmth of Lyon Cathedral, the mystique of ancient traboules, and the grand design of the Palais de Justice Historique. Each step on the cobbled stones is a beat in the heart of this historical city that unfolds its romantic tales to you. Peek into times past at the Maison du Crible, feel each other's heartbeat at Cour des Loges, and share an intimate moment against the backdrop of St-John's Archaeological Garden. The reflection of old structures on the water at Passerelle Saint-Vincent and the striking essence of the House of the Gadagne will also be the highlights of your amble. Each point of interest on your journey through Lyon ensures a tapestry of sensory delights, perfect for creating lasting memories.

Set off on a solo adventure with this immersive self-guided audio tour designed for history aficionados and culture enthusiasts. The journey takes you on a fascinating exploration of Lyon's storied past and architectural grandeur. From the sweeping views at Brotteaux Bridge to the royal grandeur of the Equestrian Statue of Louis XIV, this tour encapsulates the city's essence through its most iconic landmarks. The walking tour begins at the Brotteaux Bridge, a testament to Lyon's engineering prowess, and concludes amid the commanding presence of Louis XIV at Place Bellecour. As you navigate through the city, you will encounter imposing structures like the Cité Internationale Convention Center and the Historical Court of Justice, witness the artistic fluidity of the Charity Fountain, and marvel at the enigmatic design of the Contemporary Art Museum. Along Rue de la République, the Haussmann-style buildings transport one back to the era of 19th-century urban development. Lyon's mercantile and religious history comes to life at sites like the Temple du Change and the Loge du Change. This tour promises a captivating experience with enduring memories of Lyon's artistic legacy and cultural vitality. Embark on this auditory journey and let each location unveil its unique narrative, leaving you with a profound appreciation of Lyon's majestic cityscape.

Unveil the magic of Old Lyon with this self-guided audio tour designed for explorers eager to uncover the mysterious allure of one of Europe's largest Renaissance neighborhoods. Designed for enthusiasts of history and architecture, this tour is a ticket to a vivid journey through time in the enchanting streets of Lyon's illustrious past. Beginning at the metro stop of Vieux Lyon, travelers will embark on a captivating route through an intricate maze of Renaissance architecture, stunning courtyards, and hidden passageways. The tour meanders through the heart of the old quarter, with a grand finale at the serene Church of Saint George by the Saône River. Landmarks such as Saint John's Cathedral with its breathtaking glass windows, and the Miniature and Cinema Museum housed in the Maison des Avocats, tell tales of the legacy and culture of this historic city. Memories are shaped by special moments, and this tour promises many: marveling at the Maison des Avocats' intricate facade, feeling the ambiance of ancient streets, and peeking into the secret traboules. Concluding by the tranquil waters near the Church of Saint George, travelers take with them a piece of Lyon's grandeur to cherish forever.