Plan a trip Family and Friend,Cultural exposure,Foodie,Educational at Lyon, France for 4 days In December
Oct 18, 2024 | Arnold-West
Exploring of Lyon, France: An Overview
Lyon is France's third-largest city and is known for its vibrant cultural scene, historical architecture, and gastronomic heritage. The city is divided by two rivers, the Rhône and the Saône, and is home to a plethora of museums, theatres, and traditional markets. Its old town, Vieux Lyon, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a picturesque labyrinth of narrow streets, Renaissance buildings, and secret passageways.
Lyon has a rich history dating back to Roman times. It was once the capital of the Gauls.
Lyon is a bustling metropolis with a diverse economy that includes banking, pharmaceuticals, and software. The city is also famous for its culinary scene, which boasts numerous Michelin-starred restaurants and traditional 'bouchons'—small bistros serving local specialties.
What Is the Weather Like in Lyon, France During December?
In December, Lyon experiences winter weather with temperatures ranging between 1°C to 7°C. The city can be damp, with occasional snowfall adding a magical touch to the landscape. Layered clothing and waterproof outerwear are recommended to handle the chilly and sometimes wet conditions while exploring the city's attractions.
What Is the best Season for Visiting Lyon, France?
Although December can be cold, it is a wonderful time to visit Lyon due to its famous Fête des Lumières (Festival of Lights), which takes place early in the month. This event transforms the city with spectacular light displays, making it an enchanting destination for families and friends.
1 : Explore Vieux Lyon and the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière
01 December, 2024
Lyon, France
Breakfast at a local café
Start your day with coffee and croissants at a quaint café in Vieux Lyon. Enjoy the atmosphere of the old town while planning your day.
€10-€15 per person
Look for cafes that offer freshly baked pastries.
1 hour
Tour Vieux Lyon
Stroll through the cobblestone streets of Vieux Lyon, exploring its Renaissance buildings, traboules (secret passageways), and boutique shops.
Free
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the streets can be uneven.
2 hours
Lunch at a bouchon
Dine at a traditional ‘bouchon’ restaurant to experience authentic Lyonnaise cuisine, such as sausages, duck pâté, and tarte tatin.
€20-€35 per person
Make reservations in advance to ensure a table.
2 hours
Visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière
Take a funicular ride up to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Explore the stunning interior, and enjoy panoramic views of Lyon from the basilica grounds.
€5 per person
Check the basilica’s opening hours before your visit.
2 hours
Saône River Cruise
End your day with a relaxing river cruise on the Saône River. Enjoy the picturesque views of Lyon’s landmarks from the water.
€15-€20 per person
Book tickets online to avoid long queues.
1 hour
2 : Museums and Art in Lyon
02 December, 2024
Lyon, France
Musée des Beaux-Arts
Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts, one of the largest art museums in France. The museum boasts a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and antiquities.
€8-€12 per person
Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum.
3 hours
Lunch at a brasserie
Enjoy lunch at a classic French brasserie near the museum. Choose from a variety of French dishes accompanied by local wines.
€20-€30 per person
Sample the daily specials for a taste of local flavors.
1.5 hours
Musée Gadagne
Explore the Musée Gadagne, a twin museum housing the Museum of Lyon History and the Puppetry Museum. Learn about Lyon’s past and enjoy a collection of traditional puppets.
€9 per person
Purchase a combined ticket for both museums to save money.
2 hours
Café break
Relax with a coffee and pastry at a nearby café. This is an ideal time to reflect on your day and take a break before evening activities.
€5-€10 per person
Choose a café with outdoor seating to enjoy the atmosphere.
1 hour
Dinner at a gourmet restaurant
Dine at one of Lyon’s renowned gourmet restaurants. Indulge in unique culinary creations made from fresh, local ingredients.
€50-€70 per person
Reserve well in advance, as popular spots fill up quickly.
2 hours
3 : Outdoor Exploration and Shopping
03 December, 2024
Lyon, France
Visit Parc de la Tête d'Or
Start your morning at Parc de la Tête d'Or, Lyon’s largest urban park. You can rent bicycles, visit the botanical garden, or take a boat ride on the lake.
€5-€15 per person
Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for outdoor activities.
3 hours
Picnic in the park
Have a picnic in the park using fresh ingredients from a local market or deli. Enjoy a relaxed meal surrounded by nature.
€10-€20 per person
Bring a blanket and reusable containers for your picnic.
1 hour
Explore Presqu'île District
Head to the Presqu'île district for an afternoon of shopping and sightseeing. Browse the boutiques along Rue de la République and admire the architecture of Place Bellecour and Place des Terreaux.
Varies by purchases
Keep a map handy to navigate through the area.
3 hours
Relax at a café
Take a break at one of the numerous cafés in the Presqu'île district. Enjoy a coffee or tea as you people-watch and rest your feet.
€5-€10 per person
Try a local pastry like the praline tart, a Lyon specialty.
1 hour
Dinner in a riverside restaurant
End the day with dinner at a riverside restaurant. Enjoy stunning views of the Rhône or Saône rivers as you dine on exquisite French cuisine.
€40-€60 per person
Request a table with a view when making reservations.
2 hours
4 : Day Trip to Beaujolais Wine Region
04 December, 2024
Lyon, France
Drive to Beaujolais
Travel to the Beaujolais wine region, known for its rolling vineyards and charming villages. Consider renting a car for the day or joining a guided tour.
€30-€50 per person for transportation
Leave early to make the most of your day trip.
1 hour
Visit a vineyard
Tour a local vineyard and winery. Learn about the winemaking process and sample a variety of Beaujolais wines.
€20-€30 per person
Check for vineyard tours that offer English-speaking guides.
2 hours
Lunch in a countryside inn
Dine at a traditional inn or bistro in one of the region’s picturesque villages. Enjoy local dishes paired with Beaujolais wines.
€25-€40 per person
Try regional specialties like coq au vin or Beaujolais sausages.
1.5 hours
Explore local villages
Spend the afternoon exploring the charming villages of the Beaujolais region. Visit local artisan shops, historic churches, and scenic viewpoints.
Varies by purchases
Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces.
3 hours
Return to Lyon
Travel back to Lyon in the late afternoon, reflecting on your memorable day in the countryside.
Included in morning travel cost
Ensure you have a designated driver if you’ve consumed alcohol.
1 hour
Remark
Travel Requirement
Use public transportation to save costs. Purchase a Lyon City Card for discounts and free access to various attractions.
Local Sayings
Common greetings include 'Bonjour' (Good morning) and 'Merci' (Thank you). Politeness is highly valued.
Connectivity Info
Lyon is accessible by air via Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport. The city is also well-connected by train and bus.
Accept Currency + Payment Type
The currency is Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to have some cash for smaller establishments.
Nearby Shopping
Places like Rue de la République and Presqu'île offer ample shopping opportunities, ranging from high-end boutiques to local markets.
Safety Tips
Lyon is generally safe for tourists. However, be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas. Avoid isolated areas at night.
Health & Medical Facilities
Lyon has several hospitals and pharmacies. Carry basic first aid and medications. EU citizens should bring their EHIC card for health services.
Other Facilities
Public toilets are available at most tourist spots. Free Wi-Fi hotspots can be found in major areas of the city.
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