Solo Travel / Solo Travel In France / Things To Do In Lyon / …
Solo Travellers Guide To 2 Days In Lyon
TLDR: This 48-hour itinerary for solo travellers in Lyon highlights the city’s UNESCO-listed architecture, renowned culinary scene, and rich historical heritage, providing a comprehensive guide for making the most out of your 2-day trip. From wandering through ancient traboules to indulging in the local gastronomy, this guide ensures a fulfilling visit.
Highlights
- Vieux Lyon and Traboules: Explore the Renaissance district and its secret passageways.
- Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière: Enjoy stunning views and discover Lyon’s religious heritage.
- Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse: Sample gourmet delights in this famed food market.
- Parc de la Tête d’Or: Relax in one of France’s largest urban parks.
- Silk Workshops: Learn about Lyon’s historic silk industry in the Croix-Rousse district.
| Monthly | 1 Night | 48 Hours | 3 Days |
About Lyon
Lyon, situated in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, is a city where history, gastronomy, and culture converge against a backdrop of scenic beauty. Known for its historical and architectural landmarks, Lyon has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1998, reflecting its Roman ancestry and Renaissance influence.
The city experiences a temperate climate, with warm summers and mild, damp winters. Average temperatures range from 2°C (36°F) in January to 28°C (82°F) in July, making spring and autumn ideal for visiting, with pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
With a population of over 500,000, Lyon is a dynamic urban centre that maintains a strong sense of identity and tradition. Its reputation as the gastronomic capital of France, along with its thriving arts scene and easy access to the surrounding wine country, makes Lyon an enticing destination for solo travellers looking to immerse themselves in French culture and lifestyle.
Tips and Tricks for Solo Travellers to Lyon, France
Before you take a trip to this part of France, bookmark these tips to help your 2 days in Lyon go as smoothly as possible.
- Safety in Lyon: Lyon is generally safe for travellers, but as in any major city, it’s wise to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas and when using public transport. Be cautious with personal belongings and avoid poorly lit areas late at night.
- Getting Around: Lyon’s compact city centre is best explored on foot, allowing you to appreciate its UNESCO-listed architecture up close. The city also boasts an efficient public transport system, including trams, buses, and the metro, with the Vélo’v bike-share scheme offering another great way to explore.
- Language Tips: French is the official language. While English is spoken in tourist areas, learning a few French phrases will endear you to locals and enhance your experience.
- Local Culture: Start your exploration in Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon), one of Europe’s largest Renaissance districts, and wander through its traboules (hidden passageways). Don’t miss the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière for panoramic city views and the ancient Theatre of Fourvière, which highlights Lyon’s Roman past.
- Food and Drink: Lyon is known as the gastronomic capital of France. Experience the local cuisine at a traditional bouchon, where dishes like quenelle de brochet and Lyonnaise salad showcase the region’s flavours. The indoor food market, Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, offers a wide range of gourmet French products.
- Active Exploration: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Rhône and Saône rivers, or explore the Parc de la Tête d’Or, one of France’s largest urban parks, featuring a lake, zoo, and botanical gardens. For a unique perspective, take a guided tour of Lyon’s historic silk workshops in the Croix-Rousse district.
- Nightlife: Lyon’s nightlife is lively and diverse, with a range of bars, clubs, and live music venues, particularly in the Hôtel de Ville area and along the Rhône riverbanks. The city’s cultural calendar is packed with festivals and events, offering plenty of evening entertainment options.
- Recommended Hostels
Hostel Slo Living and Away Hostel & Coffee Shop provide comfortable and sociable accommodation options for solo travellers, located conveniently close to major attractions and transport links.-
- Away Hostel & Coffee Shop: Offers comfortable and stylish accommodations in a renovated 19th-century building, perfect for meeting fellow travelers.
- Location: 21 Rue Alsace Lorraine.
- SLO Living Hostel: Known for its modern design and friendly atmosphere, providing a comfortable base for exploring Lyon.
- Location: 5 Rue Bonnefoi.
- Away Hostel & Coffee Shop: Offers comfortable and stylish accommodations in a renovated 19th-century building, perfect for meeting fellow travelers.
-
- Day Trips: Lyon serves as a perfect base for exploring the Beaujolais wine region to the north or the medieval village of Pérouges. Both are accessible by public transport or organised tours, offering delightful experiences beyond the city limits.
Safety Note
Lyon’s welcoming atmosphere and rich cultural tapestry make it an appealing destination for solo travellers. By adhering to common-sense precautions, especially in busier or less familiar areas, you’re set for a memorable stay.
48 Hours in Lyon
Welcome to Lyon, France’s third-largest city, celebrated for its gastronomic heritage, historical architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Nestled at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon offers solo travellers a captivating blend of Roman ruins, Renaissance districts, and modern innovation. Here’s how to make the most of 48 hours in Lyon.
Day 1
Morning
Vieux Lyon and Fourvière Hill: Starting your exploration in Vieux Lyon allows you to delve into the city’s Renaissance past, with its traboules offering a unique glimpse into historical living quarters. The journey up to Fourvière Hill not only rewards with panoramic city views but also a visit to the majestic Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, symbolizing Lyon’s spiritual heritage.
Les Cafetiers is an excellent choice for breakfast, offering a taste of Lyon’s café culture with quality coffee and freshly baked goods, perfectly situating you in the heart of the city’s old town.
- Budget: €5-€15.
- Location: 36 Rue Ferrandière, near Place Bellecour.
Afternoon
Musée des Beaux-Arts: This museum, set in a stunning 17th-century abbey, showcases an impressive collection that spans centuries, reflecting Lyon’s artistic and cultural significance.
Dining at Le Musée, a local bouchon, introduces you to Lyonnais cuisine, where traditional dishes are served in a convivial atmosphere, highlighting the city’s gastronomic legacy.
- Budget: Museum entry €8; Lunch €20-€40.
- Location: 20 Place des Terreaux; Le Musée: 2 Rue des Forces.
Evening
La Mère Jean: Offering a cozy setting to enjoy Lyon’s regional specialties, this bouchon exemplifies the city’s culinary tradition, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts. The Croix-Rousse district, known for its creative and lively nightlife, provides an exciting end to the day.
- Budget: €30-€50.
- Location: 5 Rue des Marronniers, near Place Bellecour.
La Maison Mère stands out with its eclectic mix of live music and DJs, capturing the vibrant spirit of Lyon after dark.
- Budget: €10-€30 for drinks.
- Location: 21 Place Gabriel Rambaud, Croix-Rousse.
Day 2
Morning
Parc de la Tête d’Or: Lyon’s green heart offers a peaceful retreat with its expansive lake, botanical gardens, and zoo.
Le Kitchen Café near the park provides an exceptional breakfast experience, where exquisite pastries and specialty coffee set the tone for a day of exploration and relaxation.
- Budget: Park entry is free; Breakfast €10-€20.
- Location: Boulevard de la Tête d’Or; Le Kitchen Café: 34 Rue Chevreul.
Afternoon
Confluence Museum: This architectural marvel at the city’s confluence point offers insightful exhibits on the sciences and humanities, illustrating Lyon’s forward-thinking mindset.
Le 333, with its contemporary dishes and river views, offers a dining experience that complements the museum visit, blending culinary innovation with scenic beauty.
- Budget: Museum entry €9; Lunch €15-€30.
- Location: 86 Quai Perrache.
Evening
Brasserie Georges: This historic brasserie serves as a culinary landmark in Lyon, offering a blend of traditional French and Alsatian cuisine in an impressive Art Deco setting, providing a grand finale to your Lyon adventure.
- Budget: €25-€50.
- Location: 30 Cours de Verdun Perrache.
The banks of the Saône River, especially around Pont La Feuillée, offer a tranquil setting for a nightcap, with several bars featuring terraces that overlook the water, reflecting the city’s romantic and serene ambiance.
- Budget: €10-€20 for a drink.
- Location: Quai de la Pêcherie, along the Saône River.
Departure Day
A Chacun Sa Tasse: This café is a perfect spot for a reflective breakfast before departure, known for its cozy atmosphere, wide tea selection, and homemade cakes, encapsulating the charm and hospitality of Lyon.
- Budget: €5-€15.
- Location: 2 Rue du Griffon, near Hôtel de Ville.
Time to fly
Lyon, has real historical depth, great art and fantastic food, it’s also pretty lively too. From the ancient Roman amphitheater in Fourvière to the Renaissance district of Vieux Lyon and the cutting-edge Confluence museum, Lyon offers lots to see and do. It’s a great place for solo travellers with its regular flow of backpackers, digital nomads and adventurers, but it’s also just an all round great city break for couples and families too.
Additional Resources
- Lyon Tourist Information: +33 4 72 77 69 69
- Tourist map of Lyon: Click Here
Get the App.