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Lyon

France

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City skyline with Pont Bonaparte and Saone River, Lyon, Rhone Valley, France, Europe

Getty Images/Robert Harding World Imagery

Overview

Commanding a strategic spot at the confluence of the Rhône and the Saône Rivers, Lyon has been luring people ever since the Romans named it Lugdunum in 43 BC. Commercial, industrial and banking powerhouse for the past 500 years, Lyon is France's third-largest city, and offers today's urban explorers a wealth of enticing experiences.

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  1. 1Cruising through Paris on a scenic, sightseeing boat tour that winds up and down the Seine River
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Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip

Best Things to Do

Packed with arts venues, green spaces, historic districts and world-class restaurants, Lyon is a traveler’s dream. Here are the best things to do there.

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Best Time to Visit

Whether you're heading to Lyon for food, festivals, or a slice of local life, we give you the best times to visit and why.

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Free Things to Do

Mysterious passageways, stunning street art and 2000-year-old Roman ruins can all be part of your Lyon adventure, without spending a single euro. 

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Day Trips

Go beyond France's third-largest city with these amazing day trips from Lyon.

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5 Shops

From innovative stores doing clothing rentals to places selling delicious wine and cheese, here is our guide to Lyon's best independent shops.

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