# The 16 Best Things to Do in Lyon
Lyon demands time. France's second-largest city sprawls across two rivers where the Rhone meets the Saone, offering everything from Renaissance old towns to cutting-edge museums. Wine enthusiasts anchor themselves here for tastings in the surrounding Beaujolais region. Art lovers hit the Musée d'Art Contemporain for contemporary installations. Foodies gravitate toward Bouchons, traditional Lyonnais restaurants serving quenelles and saucisson lyonnais.
Start in Vieux Lyon, the medieval quarter wedged between the Saone and the hills. Traboules, hidden Renaissance passageways connecting buildings, lace through narrow streets. The 15th-century St-Jean Cathedral anchors the neighborhood. Climb to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière for city views spanning both rivers.
The Presqu'ile district contains the main commercial and cultural spine. Place Bellecour ranks as Europe's largest square. The Musée des Beaux-Arts houses everything from ancient Egyptian sculptures to Impressionist paintings. The Lumière Brothers film museum celebrates Lyon's role in cinema history.
Beaujolais wine country lies just north. Wine tour operators run tastings through villages like Oingt and Ternand. Expect Gamay-based reds lighter than Burgundy, meant for immediate drinking at modest prices. Local restaurants pair these wines with Lyonnaise specialties.
Food shapes the Lyon experience. Beyond Bouchons, the Paul Bocuse Market offers fresh produce, cheeses, and prepared foods. Street food stalls sell saucisson wrapped in bread. Macaroni Gratin appears everywhere. Pralines, distinctive pink confections, line every patisserie.
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