Things to do in Lyon often revolve around food—and for good reason. Known as the gastronomic capital of France, Lyon offers a blend of traditional bouchons, bustling markets, and seasonal delicacies that attract food lovers from around the world.
If you’re planning a trip in 2025, here are the best things to do in Lyon for an unforgettable culinary experience.
1. Explore Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse–things to do in Lyon
No visit to Lyon is complete without exploring Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, the city’s most famous indoor market. Named after the legendary chef, this gourmet paradise is home to over 60 stalls selling artisan cheeses, charcuterie, pastries, and fresh seafood. Sampling oysters with a glass of local wine is a must.
👉 More info: Les Halles de Lyon
2. Dine in a Traditional Bouchon–things to do in Lyon
The bouchons of Lyon are small, family-run restaurants serving hearty local dishes such as quenelles, saucisson brioché, and coq au vin. Each bouchon has its own charm, offering an intimate dining experience that reflects the city’s culinary heritage.
3. Visit Croix-Rousse Market–things to do in Lyon
The Croix-Rousse Market is a lively open-air market offering fresh produce, local honey, seasonal fruits, and street food. Visiting on a Sunday morning is ideal for tasting seasonal specialties and experiencing Lyon’s vibrant market culture.
4. Take a Rhône River Dinner Cruise–things to do in Lyon
For a unique dining experience, enjoy a Rhône River dinner cruise. As you savor regional dishes and wine, you’ll pass by illuminated landmarks, from the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière to the Presqu’île.
5. Join a Lyon Food Tour–things to do in Lyon
A guided food tour in Lyon is perfect for visitors who want to sample multiple bouchons, patisseries, and wine cellars in one afternoon. Local guides share stories about Lyon’s food traditions and introduce hidden spots that most tourists miss.
Tips for Food Lovers Visiting Lyon–things to do in Lyon
- Reserve bouchons in advance, especially on weekends.
- Try seasonal dishes, such as truffle dishes in winter or fresh produce from autumn harvests.
- Pair food experiences with cultural visits to museums or a stroll along the Saône River.
Tips for food lovers visiting Lyon go beyond just restaurant recommendations—they’re about timing, local knowledge, and hidden experiences that make your trip memorable. Autumn and spring are the best seasons to enjoy fresh produce at its peak, but each season offers unique culinary highlights. Winter brings rich, warming dishes like saucisson in pastry and hearty stews, while summer is perfect for lighter plates and riverfront dining.
If you’re looking to enjoy Lyon like a local, start your day at a neighborhood bakery for a fresh croissant, then head to a market such as Croix-Rousse or Marché Saint-Antoine to watch the city come alive. In the evenings, avoid the most touristy bouchons in favor of small, family-run spots—many of which are tucked into side streets or hidden courtyards. Pair your meals with local wines from Beaujolais or the Côtes du Rhône for a complete experience. Don’t miss trying praline tarts, a Lyon specialty, available in most patisseries.
If time allows, consider taking a short trip to the nearby Beaujolais vineyards for wine tasting or visiting a cheese producer in the Rhône-Alpes region. These experiences transform a list of things to do in Lyon into a true immersion in its food culture.
Lyon is a city that rewards curiosity—by exploring markets, tasting seasonal specialties, and discovering new bouchons, you’ll find that the best things to do in Lyon always lead back to its extraordinary food culture.
👉 Related read: Best Autumn Destinations in Europe
Lyon is a city that celebrates food at every corner. By exploring these things to do in Lyon, food lovers can savor the authentic heart of France in 2025.