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Lyon attractions

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Steeped in history, Lyon boasts a wealth of interesting things to see, and plenty of famous places you can spend your time exploring. From grand cathedrals to the city’s old town, the second largest Renaissance area in Europe, you won’t have to go far to see the magic of this city.

Things to see and do in Lyon

St Jean

St Jean Cathedral

A staggering work of Gothic architecture, St Jean Cathedral was built over 300 years, between the 12th and 15th centuries. It’s home to a rare astronomical clock, built in the 14th century and visitors flock to see its bells ring.

Old Lyon

Old Lyon

This is the largest Renaissance area in Europe after Venice, and is a trip back in time to the Middle Ages. Old fashioned narrow lanes run by the riverside, and its charming cobbled streets are home to craftsmens’ shops, cute boutiques and all manner of curiosities.

Musee Gadagne

Musée Gadagne

If you find your way to this 16th-century mansion, you’ll discover the Museum of Lyon History and the Museum of World Puppets. The mansion is home to no less than 80,000 objects, all giving a rich insight into Lyon’s development as a settlement as well as the history of puppetry.

Aquarium Lyon

Aquarium du Grand Lyon

This huge aquarium features a range of incredible creatures from the deep. A shark pit, tropical freshwater and a seawater tank make up just some of the different underwater environments on display.

Presquile

Presqu'île

This district is home to the best of Lyon’s entertainment, from eating and drinking to shopping and clubbing. And the Lyon locals also like it, so expect an un-touristy taste of the city’s life. You’ll find a host of great bars and nightspots, luxury shops, cafes and restaurants.

Parc Teted or

Parc de la Tête d'Or

This beautiful inner-city park is the ideal place for a relaxing stroll or an afternoon picnic with the family. While you’re exploring, look out for the botanical garden, the rose garden and the African Plain, where you’ll find animals roaming semi-freely.

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Tips

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Invest in a Lyon City Card and you’ll be entitled to free public transport, free entry into selected museums and free access to guided tours of the city.

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Check out Annecy, also known as the Venice of Savoie due to its magnificent network of small canals. This town is as picture postcard perfect as you can get and looks like it came fresh out of a fairytale.

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For shopping, hit Rue Victor Hugo and Rue de la République  if you’re after high street stores. For something a little more upmarket check out Rue Emile Zola and Rue Gasparin, which rival anything you’ll find in Paris.