Lyon Tourist Attractions and Sightseeing

(Lyon, Rhône Alpes, France)



Picture of the Amphitheatre Gallo RomainLyon is the perfect location for sightseeing trips. The city boasts a wealth of historic and cultural tourist attractions, all located within a beautiful setting.

There are also many attractions that are particularly attractive for families, including Lyon's parks and gardens and its traditional puppet theatres.

To make the most of your visit, it's well worth doing a little advance planning. Below you will find Lyon's main tourist attractions and where to find them.


Further photo of the Amphitheatre Gallo Romain

Ampithéâtre Gallo Romain

Address: 17 Rue Cléberg, 69005, Lyon, France, FR
Tel: +33 04 7238 8190
On top of Fourvière, this hilltop amphitheatre was constructed during the reign of the Roman Emperor, Tiberius. During its long history, it has been used as a forum of entertainment, a place to swear loyalty to Rome, and a place of execution.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

Atelier de Soierie

Address: 33 Rue Romarin, 69001, Lyon, France, FR
Tel: +33 04 7207 9783 / +33 04 7828 6184
Silk has been manufactured in Lyon for some 400 years and this tradition continues today in a small number of workshops. Attractions include both demonstrations and displays, with this popular silk workshop allowing visitors to see the techniques used here to create fine silk objects.
Open hours: Monday to Saturday - 09:00 to 12:00 and 14:00 to 19:00
Admission: free

Exterior image of the Cathedrale St. Jean

Cathédrale St. Jean

Address: Place St. Jean, 69005, Lyon, France, FR
Tel: +33 04 7842 2825
Lyon's main church has been situated on this site in some form or other since the 4th century. The building that you can see today was built between the 12th and 14th centuries and is a fine example of how churches evolve through the centuries. Its astronomical clock, featuring the moving figures of the Annunciation and a lone bugle player, is always popular with tourists. Listen out for its chimes at 12:00, 14:00, 15:00 and 16:00.
Open hours: Monday to Friday - 08:00 to 12:00 and 14:00 to 19:30; Saturday and Sunday (and holidays) - 08:00 to 12:00 and 14:00 to 17:00.
Admission: free

Institut Lumière

Address: 25 Rue du Premier-Film, Lyon, France, FR
Tel: +33 04 7878 1895
The childhood home of Auguste and Louis Lumière pays homage to their early work in creating cinematography. The attraction's exhibits include some of the cameras that the famous brothers used to shoot their first films, together with other photographic paraphernalia. Film shows are programmed for most evenings.
Open hours: Tuesday to Sunday - 11:00 to 18:30.
Admission: charge

Aquarium du Grand Lyon

Address: 6 Place du Général Leclerc, La Mulatière, Lyon, France, FR
Tel: +33 04 7266 6566
A popular attraction, situated just outside Lyon, the Aquarium du Grand Lyon is home to a fascinating collection of marine life. Watch sharks and even get the chance to touch some of the fish. The aquarium is always a big hit with families and the gift shop contains a range of appealing fishy souvenirs.
Open hours: Monday to Friday - 10:00 to 17:00; Saturday and Sunday - 10:00 to 18:00
Admission: charge