Exploring Lyon: 5 must-visit sightseeing spots

In a little less than six months, the world will get to discover the city of Lyon during the 47th WorldSkills Competition. Visitors, Competitors and all participants coming from all over the world will attend the unique event, while having the opportunity to discover the beauty of Lyon, third-largest city in France after Paris and Marseille. In the meantime and before seeing it in real life, discover these 5 must-visit sightseeing spots.  

The Presqu’île 

The Lyon Presqu’île is the city’s central part, extending between the Rhône and Saône rivers, with the popular square ‘des Terreaux’ in the north and the modern ‘Confluence’ district in the south. The Presqu’île isn’t just renowned for its shopping opportunities; it’s also an ideal location for strolling amidst the city’s 19th-century architecture and significant landmarks, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1999. With its abundance of cafes, restaurants, high-end boutiques, department stores, governmental edifices, and cultural establishments, it offers a diverse array of attractions.   

Tête d’or Park

In the middle of the city of Lyon stands the Tête d’Or Park, a refreshing piece of nature. Inaugurated in 1857, this park is the most popular and largest park in Lyon with its 105 hectares of land. Its design was inspired by English landscape gardens, and features a 17 hectare lake, as well as a zoological park and a botanical garden. The park is the perfect place to breathe some fresh air among a beautiful landscape, right in the middle of the city.  

Grand Roman Theaters of Lyon  

Located on the historic grounds of Lyon, once known as Lugdunum, the Grand Roman Theaters of Lyon date back to 43 BC. They comprise the well-preserved remains of the Grand Theater and the Odéon, former places of entertainment such as theater performances, music, and readings. The two buildings now host festivals, concerts, and other events. Each summer, it hosts the popular festival of theater, dance, music and cinema, ‘Nuits de Fourvière’, that welcomes renowned international and national artists. The remains are now open to the public and can be visited for free. 

Vieux Lyon (Old Town)  

Vieux-Lyon, nestled between Fourvière hill and the Saône river, is a part of the city that showcases Renaissance-era charm across around 24 hectares. It features traditional architecture such as stairwell towers and Italian-style galleries. Comprising Saint-Georges, Saint-Jean, and Saint-Paul districts, Vieux-Lyon boasts over a millennium of history, inviting exploration of hidden passages and historic inner courtyards, and offers traditional bouchon dining, or cultural landmarks like the Saint Jean Cathedral.  

The Halles de Lyon – Paul Bocuse 

It’s no surprise that a capital of gastronomy like Lyon is home to dedicated places that introduce the finest of what the city’s culinary scene has to offer. One example of it are the Halles Paul Bocuse, a famous indoor market hall that is home to around sixty shopkeepers, and is, additionally, a foodies’ heaven. The Halles are a mandatory stop for any tourist interested in getting a taste of a large variety of local and regional delicacies. 

Want to know more about Lyon? Read other articles from our series about the host city.