48 hours in Lyon: explore France’s gastronomic capital
What would you do with 48 hours in Lyon? From Ancient Roman ruins to traditional breakfasts (with wine!) to cool vintage finds, Lyon is full of surprises.
Known as France’s gastronomic capital, this is the perfect place to getaway if you’re a foodie. But it’s got so much more on offer other than food. And you’re about to find out just what’s so special about this inland city in southwestern France…
Say bonjour on Friday afternoon
When you arrive on Friday afternoon, your first job is to get from the airport to the city centre.
The quickest way to do this is with the Rhônexpress, but if you don’t mind taking a little extra time, the local buses are easy and cheaper. Simply use your phone or bank card to tap on whenever you use public transport on your trip.
There are lots of great places to stay in Lyon, from blow out luxury to budget options. But if you’ve only got 48 hours in Lyon, we’d recommend staying in central La Presqu’île to get the most out of the city.
Choose from the intimate Hôtel de l’Abbaye, luxe spa hotel Boscolo Lyon, aparthotel Adagio Lyon Patio Confluence, trendy SLO Hostel Lyon Les Pente and much more.
After your commute, you’ll need to treat yourself to a decent meal to refuel. Lyon is known for its foodie heritage and the historic Le Café des Fédérations is an ideal introduction into traditional Lyonnaise cuisine.
Fancy a nightcap? Head to the Opéra de Lyon and go straight up to rooftop bar Les Muses. With an unbeatable view of the city, it’s the perfect place to plot your weekend’s exploits.
Lyon is known for its gastronomic delights. All you need to do is bring your appetite!
A Saturday full of surprises
Something very special happens in Lyon on a Saturday morning. People all over the city tuck into their mâchon. This is a hearty morning meal, served from 8am and consisting of rich meats and wine. It’s certainly one way to start the day!
Down a laneway, through a hidden entrance in a 17th century building, Le Musée is one of the best places to do just that.
And after your mâchon, pop into the Musée de l’Imprimerie, which shares a building with the restaurant. In there you’ll discover treasures from the early days of printing right up to the present day.
Speaking of treasures, there are few more satisfying things than picking up something unique on your travels. Puces du Canal is a great place to while away a Saturday afternoon. It’s one of the biggest flea markets in the country and is a haven for vintage lovers. And if you get peckish after your bargain hunting, there are lots of tasty places to grab a bite.
If you’re not laden down with shopping bags, spend the rest of the afternoon in Parc de la Tête d’Or. It’s a real oasis in the city, with a zoo, the largest botanical garden in France and even pedal boats for the lake if the weather’s playing ball.
When it’s time to relax in the evening, grab a glass or two in the effortlessly cool Jaja wine bar. Then move on to Brutal for a dinner to remember. This exciting restaurant is at the top of their game, with interesting flavour combinations and beautiful presentation.
With 48 hours in Lyon, a great night out is a must. If you’ve a little energy left after dinner, head to a buzzy bar like La Faute aux Ours for cocktails, great music and a quirky personality.
Wave adieu on Sunday
It’s the last day of your whirlwind 48 hours in Lyon, so let’s make sure it’s one to remember. First things first, head to local institution Les Halles de Lyon, created by the so-called “Pope of Gastronomy” late chef Paul Bocuse.
This market hall is packed with gastronomic delights, from the finest ingredients to amazing cafés and restaurants. So it’s the perfect place to have a final meal, plus pick up a few foodie souvenirs for your suitcase.
For a final goodbye to the city, head to UNESCO world heritage site Théâtre Gallo Romain. Built on a hill over 2,000 years ago, this Ancient Roman site gives you an impeccable view of the city.
If you’ve got a little time to spare before your flight, enjoy a slice of the bright pink tarte aux pralines with a coffee and start planning your next trip to Lyon.
