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The Traboules: Lyon secret passageways

The traboules: lyon’s secret network.

Typical traboule in a Renaissance building in Vieux-Lyon

What is a Traboule?

Winding their way through buildings, courtyards, and up and down staircases, Lyon’s secret covered passageways, or traboules , are an ideal way of visiting the city’s hidden and colourful past . Every traboule is different though. Each has a unique pastel colour, a particular curve or spiral staircase, vaulted ceilings or Renaissance arches.

Some have counted as many as 400 traboules in Lyon, but just over 40 are open to the public , each clearly marked with a small identifying seal. It’s the atmospheric Vieux Lyon and the arty Croix Rousse that house the lion’s share.

Half of the fun is finding them of course, but failing that, you can skip to it and go on a guided tour on Saturday morning. They say if you want to be a true Lyonnais, you have to know your traboules . So what are you waiting for?

Why do we say “traboule”?

The word ‘traboules’ is a corruption of the Latin ‘trans-ambulare’, or ‘to pass through’, dating back to the 4th century, allowing folk more direct access to the town’s fresh water source than the winding streets provided.

A wander through the history of the traboules

The first examples of traboules are thought to have been built in Lyon in the 4th century. Due to lack of water and malfunctioning aqueducts, the inhabitants of what was Lugdunum had to move to the banks of the river Saône, in the lower town, at the foot of Fourvière hill. The traboules were dreamed up to allow people to get from their homes to the river quickly.

Later on, they were taken up by the Canuts silk workers of the Croix-Rousse (1 st and 4 th districts), the beating heart of 19 th century silk trade. The passageways were used for Canuts workers to carry their heavy loads from their workshops in the Croix-Rousse to the textile merchants at the foot of the hill, as well as for workers’ meetings.

Famous traboule on Croix-Rousse hill: the “Cour des Voraces”

In Vieux Lyon (5 th district), most streets run parallel to the river, making it tricky to get from one street to the next without having to make a huge detour, so courtyards with connected through a network of passages and a large number of shortcuts were created. The traboules of the Lyon’s Old Quarter thus allowed workers and craftspeople to transport clothes and other textiles more quickly through the city while remaining sheltered from the miserable weather.

A century later saw a different use entirely. During the Second World War , the traboules were used by the resistance for secret meetings, thus preventing the Nazis from occupying the whole of Lyon.

The landmark traboule

In the 1830s there were as many as 25,000 Canut silk workers in Lyon.

As further silk workshop s opened, merchants started to take advantage of the artisan class weavers by slashing their wages and benefits.

Struggling with the combination of increased competition, new technology, uncertain economic forces and the exploiting merchants, the workers decided to rebel.

Joining forces, the Canut silk workers closed workshops and marched into town, picking up weapons at the armory as they went, seeking to hold the industry hostage until a set wage was agreed to.

Croix Rousse traboule in Lyon

However, the Canut revolts were bloodily suppressed. 10,000 Canuts were reportedly tried in Paris and faced criminal deportation, but their motto of “live free working or die fighting” inspired other workers uprisings in future years.

Believe it or not, the spirit lives on in the Croix-Rousse to this day. You just have to dig a little.

One of the landmarks of the Canut Revolts is to be found in the Croix-Rousse district. It’s called “Traboule de la cour des Voraces” and is also the oldest reinforced concrete stairwell in Lyon.

How to visit the traboules?

Guided tours.

For the Canut workshops and traboules , the meeting place is Place de la Croix-Rousse, in the 4th district of Lyon, outside the underground station Croix-Rousse. For navigating the traboules in the Croix-Rousse, follow the arrows accompanied by the lion’s head.

Follow this sign to discover the traboules

For the Vieux-Lyon traboules , the meeting place is outside the Vieux Lyon metro station. In Vieux-Lyon, these passageways are marked by a bronze shield.

• Arrive 10 minutes early
• Duration: 2 hours
• Price: 12 euros
• 8 – 18 and students: 7 euros

Reserve the Vieux Lyon traboules here or phone +33(0)4 72 77 69 69 Reserve the Croix Rousse traboules and Canut Workshop here or phone +33(0)4 72 77 69 69

The longest traboule

The longest traboule in Lyon runs between 54 Rue Saint-Jean and 27 Rue du Bœuf, and a famously picturesque traboule begins at 9 Place Colbert/14 bis montee Saint Sebastion, and features a historic six-story external staircase.

If you’re a bit of an adventurer, here are a few traboules to discover on your own:

• 27 Rue St Jean connecting with 6 Rue des Trois Maries
• 54 Rue St Jean with 27 Rue de Boeuf
• 31 Rue du Boeuf with 14 Rue de la Bombarde
• 2 Place du Gouvernement with 10 Quai Romain Rolland
• 9 Rue des Trois Maries with 17 Quai Romain Rolland

Where are the Traboules in Lyon

Or have a look here at a map of Traboules located  in the Vieux Lyon .

Further reading about these famous landmarks in Lyon

• Traboules on the  Atlas Obscura
• Lyon Traboules official application

Listen to our Podcast on these secret passageways

Other landmarks of interest near the old lyon.

Place Bellecour

Place Bellecour is the largest pedestrian square in Europe. A landmark to visit in Lyon.

Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, treasure of Lyon

Fourvière basilica is a speactacular landmark to visit in Lyon, and the view from the esplanade is mind-blowing.

Lugdunum: Museum of Gallo-Roman Civilisation in Lyon

The Museum of Gallo-Roman Civilisation astounds the visitor with its avant-garde architecture and carefully-chosen exhibits, nudging you to uncover more of what Lyon’s Roman, Gaul and Celtic forebears got up to.

Related story

15 Top Tips To Visit Lyon On A Budget

Travelling, visiting, discovering new places does not always have to be expensive.

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All about the Traboules, Lyon’s Hidden Gems

Article written by Elisa - Travel Writer & Local in France This article may contain compensated links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

The traboules are hidden gems of Lyon , a world apart from the hustle and bustle of the city. In Lyon, traboules are narrow passageways cut through houses and private courtyards.

The word traboule comes from the Latin “trans ambulare, ” which means “to walk through.”

Exploring the traboules is one of the best things to do in Lyon . There are around 400 of these small pathways in the city, with 40 of them open to visitors.

Are you planning a Lyon trip last minute?

Below are some of the best Lyon tours, hotels, and more!

• Check out this Lyon transportation guide
• Book your flight to Lyon (LYS)
• Book your transer airport-city with Welcome Pickups
• Book your train to Lyon

Top Experiences and Tours in Lyon

• Lyon City Pass for 1 to 4 days
• Lyon Guided Sightseeing Cruise – Admire Lyon from another perspective
• Lyon Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour – A great way to see the capital of Auvergne
• Lyon E-bike Guided Tour – With a local for a superb experience

Top Lyon Accommodation and Lodging

Villa Florentine  (top suggestion),  Hotel Le Lumière (budget),  MiHotel Sala  (mid-range),  Intercontinental Lyon-Hotel Dieux   (luxury),  Hotel de l’Abbaye  (luxury). Check out the full list of our favorite hotels in Lyon

Don’t forget your travel insurance!

HeyMondo  offers travelers insurance that combines medical and travel-related coverage for single trips (leisure and business trips), annual multi-trip, and extended stays (with COVID-19 coverage included).  Use this link to get a 5% off.

Best Way to Visit the Traboules in Lyon

The best way to visit the traboules of Lyon and learn about their history is with a local licensed guide. There is no Lyon traboules walking tour, but this Lyon Old District walking tour can be tailored to your interests, so you can ask to focus on the traboules (which are already included in the standard itinerary).

This Lyon highlights & secrets walking tour also visits a couple of traboules in Old Lyon.

These audio-guided walking tours cover the main highlights in Vieux-Lyon and Croix-Rousse neighborhoods and can be downloaded onto your smartphone.

• Audio-guided walking tour of Vieux-Lyon
• Audio-guided walking tour of Croix-Rousse

If you prefer to explore the traboules of Lyon without the help of a guide, go on reading for the best traboules Lyon has to offer.

About the Traboules of Lyon

The traboules in Lyon are older than you may think; their origin can be traced back to the 4th century! After the fall of the Roman Empire, the aqueducts bringing water to Lyon started to fall, and the city built the first traboules to allow its inhabitants quicker access to the Old Town from the river.

In Lyon, there are many narrow passages, but not all of them are traboules. Here are the main characteristics of the traboules, Lyon’s unique attraction:

• It is a path reserved for pedestrians, and it crosses one or more buildings
• It connects one street to another
• In a traboule, there’s always an inner courtyard to provide the buildings and the passage with natural light
• There’s also a staircase that serves two or more buildings (usually through galleries)

Later in the 19th century, when Lyon became a major center for the silk trade, the traboules allowed the canuts (the name given to the silk traders in Lyon) to easily move their goods from the places of production to the markets located in the city center. Because most of the traboules were covered, they also protected the bolts of precious silk from rain, allowing goods transportation even in inclement weather.

Thanks to their usefulness in the daily life of the people of Lyon, traboules became over the years a characteristic feature of Lyon’s town planning from the Renaissance until the 19th century. Their integration into the city’s urban planning was even planned from the construction of the building.

Because of their secret nature, some of these traboules were the landmarks of the Canut Revolts , the major revolts that occurred between 1831 and 1848. They were among the first well-defined worker uprisings of the period known as the “Industrial Revolution.”

In the 20th century, during the Second World War, the traboules in Lyon were used by the resistance fighting against occupying German forces.

Best Traboules to Visit in Lyon

The traboules are secret passages, often hidden behind magnificent Renaissance doors. Even today, only a true Lyonnais has a good knowledge about Lyon’s traboules, so you can take your traboules exploration as a kind of treasure hunt.

Today, the most beautiful traboules are located in Vieux-Lyon and the Croix-Rousse neighborhoods. Originally, there were many traboules in the Presqu’Ile too, but the major urban planning works carried out in this sector in the 19th century caused the disappearance of the weaving workshops, a large part of the old buildings… and part of the traboules.

The traboules are private passages, usually linked to the courtyard of a residential building. Since 1990, an agreement between the City Council and the residents of properties with traboules allows access to everybody from morning to evening in exchange for maintenance, restoration, and lightning. Most of the traboules open to the public are marked on the exterior façade, and they have informative panels in French and English highlighting their history and architectural features.

If you prefer to visit the traboules alone rather than with a Lyon traboules guided tour, here is the list of the most beautiful traboules Lyon has to offer. There are many traboules, so if you are only spending a weekend in Lyon , it’s better to concentrate your explorations around the traboules of Vieux-Lyon. Remember that the traboules are part of residential areas, so please respect the tranquility of its inhabitants. Enjoy!

TIP: Lyon’s Tourism Office at Place Bellecour has free maps with the traboules open for visitors . In the summer, you can find their staff hanging around Old Lyon, offering these free maps to tourists.

TRABOULES VIEUX-LYON

• 3 Rue des Antonins to 68 Rue Saint-Jean
• 7 Rue du Bœuf to 34 Rue Saint-Jean
• 27 Rue du Bœuf to 54 Rue Saint-Jean
• 31 Rue du Bœuf to 14-10 rue de la Bombarde
• 2 Place du Gouvernement to 10 Quai Romain Rolland
• 5 Rue Juiverie to 3 Place Saint-Paul
• 5 Place Neuve Saint-Jean to 40 Rue Saint-Jean
• 7 Rue Saint-Jean to 7 Quai Romain-Rolland
• 19 Rue Saint-Jean to 2 Rue des Trois Maries
• 27 Rue Saint-Jean to 6 Rue de Trois Maries
• 1 Rue des Trois Maries to 14 Quai Romain Rolland
• 9 Rue des Trois Maries to 17 Quai Romain Rolland
• 2 Place du Petit Collège to 10 Rue Saint-Jean

TRABOULES CROIX-ROUSSE

• 7 Rue du Bœuf to 34 rue Saint-Jean
• 31 Rue du Bœuf to 14-10 Rue de la Bombarde

TRABOULES PRESQU’IILE

• 33-35-37 Rue Auguste-Comte to 21-23-25 Rue des  Remparts-d’Ainay
• Rue des  Trois Passages to 5 place  Gailleton
• 15 Rue  Victor-Hugo to 16 Rue Auguste Comte
• 37 Place Bellecour Presqu’Ile to 1 Rue du Plat
• 2 Rue Charles-Dullin to 1 Rue Gaspard-André
• 5 Rue Confort to 3 Rue David Girin
• 56 Rue Mercière to 26 quai Saint-Antoine (passage des imprimeurs)
• 82 Rue Président Edouard Herriot to 45 rue de Brest
• 1 Rue Constantine, 2 Rue d’Algérie, 3 Rue d’Oran to 1 Quai de la Pêcherie

Traboules and Bouchons in Vieux Lyon

If you are exploring the traboules IN Vieux-Lyon, chances are that you are not far from a bouchon Lyonnais . The bouchons are Lyon’s local eateries, usually popular and cheap places offering traditional food. Highly enhanced and promoted by the City Council, the bouchons have become trendy places perfect for a casual lunch or dinner in the Old Town.

Even if they have lost a bit of their popular character, the bouchons’ menu hasn’t changed, with typical dishes of the region like the tablier de sapron , quenelles (kind of dumplings), Lyonnaise salad , and canut’s brain . Everything is generally served copiously and washed down with a glass of Beaujolais or Côtes-du-Rhône.

To learn more about food in Lyon, try this  Lyon Old Town Food Tour  with a local guide, which explores the Old Town from a gourmet’s perspective, combining cultural discovery and local flavors.

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Old Lyon town: a tour of the famous “traboules” and the elegant Renaissance courtyards

Self-guided tour of Old Lyon town and its mysterious traboules

We have prepared for you below an itinerary for visiting the famous traboules and Renaissance courtyards that you can do alone in 1h30 to 2h, alone, as a couple, with your family or in a group.

“Traboules” definition: the old French word “traboules” refers to secret passages between streets, through Renaissance houses and courtyards.

Would you prefer a guided tour?

Enter your request here:

The Old Lyon town, from the 4th century to today

At the end of the Gallo-Roman period, in the 4th century, Lugdunum at the top of the hill of Fourvière was abandoned, its inhabitants settled on the banks of the Saône and the bishopric of Saint-Jean was the new center of Lyon. An episcopal complex develops around, its chamarriers hold the keys of its doors which they close every night. Comes the 16th century, the golden age of Lyon. Drawing what is now called “Old Lyon” town. These are the Italian wars, the arrival of the Renaissance in France, Lyon is the gateway. Large European fairs four times a year, Lombard, Flemish and Champagne merchants. Seventy banks. The population doubled, reaching 20,000 souls, hence this tight habitat like a surprise bread. The wars of religion tumble, Catholics and Protestants kill each other, everything is swept away in twenty years.

In 1998, the whole of the Vieux Lyon district was listed by UNESCO as an International Heritage Site. Old Lyon town is now well restored, in Florentine ocher tones. Its cobbled streets, traboules and courtyards restored to their former glory, with architectural gems from the early Renaissance. We feel here in Italy.

Your tour on the map

Saint-Jean Cathedral

Departing from Saint-Jean Square, you can spend time in the cathedral at the heart of Old Lyon. Its astronomical clock is one of the oldest in Europe (1383, at least) and will give you the exact time until 2019… Why? We would be happy to explain it to you during one of our guided tours. It chimes several times a day with a procession of characters. The ENS Lyon has devoted a very detailed scientific page to it.

This cathedral was actually a primatial church, as the head of the French church was long the Archbishop of Lyon, the Primate of the Gauls. Religious power counted here. Archaeological excavations have uncovered the traces of three attached religious buildings dating back in part to the 4th century. Adjacent to the cathedral and housing its treasure is what is probably the oldest building in the neighborhood (partly from the 11th century), the Manécanterie.

If you stay at the Youth Hostel above Saint-Jean, you will have the chance to admire the light on this cathedral. It is sublime at sunrise. As at sunset. This sunset that gives a warm light inside through the 12 meters in diameter stained glass of its West Rose.

The Saint-Jean Square, which has (finally) been cleared of cars, has a beautiful fountain in its center where you can find interesting photo subjects. It is also an alternative to the Louis XIV statue in Bellecour Square for some appointments.

The neighborhood has a history of over a thousand years. It almost disappeared after the Second World War when a Lyon mayor wanted to establish marinas on the banks of the Saône. Fortunately, resident associations relayed by Malraux were able to stop it. The site is now classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and as you will see during your visit, attracts many tourists and visitors… including you, we hope, because it is a magnificent neighborhood where you can feel what Lyon was like during the medieval fairs.

Take the Saint-Jean Street.

Maison du Chamarier

Access: 37 rue Saint-Jean

Next stop on the right is a sublime courtyard that has just been restored. It is the “Maison du Chamarier” where a famous pastry shop is located on the corner of the street. Spend some time in this courtyard, soak up its beauty. Imagine yourself in the 17th century when Madame de Sévigné used to come here.

The well is said to have been designed by Philibert Delorme, who had just returned from Italy at the age of twenty-six. We’ll see Philibert again later. This well is ideal for a selfie or group photo.

Maison des Avocats (Lawyers house)

Access: 6 Rue de la Bombarde

In front of you, at the end of a square named Place de la Basoche, a Tuscan-style gallery connects several buildings. The restoration of the Order of Lawyers has given it beautiful colors. The part of the building facing Saint-Jean Street was built in the first half of the 14th century. It was then the “Ostel de la Croys” inn, frequented in particular by jurists. They still occupy the building today with their training center. From 1406 to 2002, the Confrérie de la Basoche was located here.

In the Middle Ages, this confraternity brought together jurists, defended their interests, and organized their training, in which theater played an important role. In the farces and sotties that they publicly performed behind masks, the satire of the powerful and customs, anticlericalism, and a certain materialism played an important role, so much so that they were banned in 1540. The confraternity frequented this island until the end of the twentieth century.

The Miniature and Cinema Museum

The building houses the Miniature and Cinema Museum (entrance on Saint-Jean Street), which notably contains the Alien Queen created by James Cameron. 6.50 meters tall, 500 kg of metal and latex.

Around the Maison des Avocats

A little above, at 14 Rue de la Bombarde, a plaque with a fire lighter that ignites a… bombard.

At 58 Rue Saint-Jean, with a bit of luck, the courtyard behind the creperie “Au Petit Glouton” will be open. It has a very pretty well adjacent to the room and kitchen of the creperie, open to this very lively courtyard.

Don’t miss out on the medieval shop Mandragore at 52, located at the end of a dead-end traboule. This shop offers everything from gauntlets to chainmail to all kinds of period clothing, velvet and long dresses.

The Long Traboule

Now, to give credit where credit is due, at 54, one of the highlights of organized visits to Old Lyon, “THE traboule”, the longest of them all, Guinness-worthy without delay: the Long Traboule. It crosses four buildings and four courtyards. Be careful, during rush hour, due to the crowds, it can get congested (in the feminine form). Some beautiful passages that deserve a little photo.

We come out onto Rue du Boeuf.

That’s the miracle of the traboules. We turn right and walk along art and craft shops, the four-star La Tour Rose, where Molière played. We arrive at Place Neuve Saint-Jean, saturated with restaurant terraces. At the corner of the square and Rue du Boeuf, notice the wooden statue of an ox on the corner of the wall. You will see the same thing later at Place de la Baleine. We take this opportunity to recommend Thierry’s tour of Old Lyon in his travel journal, where he speaks and photographs his hometown and all these streets very well.

Maison du Crible, Tour Rose, rue du Bœuf

Access: 16 rue du Bœuf

There is a very pretty courtyard with a sumptuous rose tower, with an emotional cylinder shape. It has four floors and is pierced with beautiful openings. It was built in the 16th century. Doesn’t it look a little like the pink and round tower of Part-Dieu (Tour de la Part-Dieu) that the Lyonnais nickname “the pencil”? Admire the beautiful doors.

Place Neuve Saint-Jean, Palais de Justice

Come back to Place Neuve Saint-Jean. In the middle, there is a remarkable open courtyard with visible stairs. It looks like Rear Window by Hitchcock.

At the corner, there is the Palais de Justice bakery. There is often a line. It offers one of Lyon’s specialties, praline brioches. Be careful not to break your teeth!

The huge building opposite the bakery is the former courthouse. The Lyonnais call it “Les 24 colonnes” because of the Corinthian columns that decorate its facade facing the Saône. They correspond to the hours of the day. It was designed by Bathard, whose son designed the halles de Paris. In the building that preceded this one, hundreds of people were tried during the Terror, then guillotined in Place des Terreaux. The Court of Appeal and the Assize Court of the Rhône still sit here. The palace has its own prison for long trials. Maurras was tried there in 1945 and Klaus Barbie in 1987.

Traboule rue Saint-Jean to rue des Trois-Maries

Continue north on rue Saint-Jean, in descending order of street numbers. At 27 rue Saint-Jean, there is a new traboule entrance.

We come out at 6 rue des Trois Maries after two ochre courtyards and Italian galleries. A boomerang-shaped street with a visible curve. One of the most characteristic of the Vieux Lyon. You feel like you’re in the 16th century. Turn left towards Place de la Baleine. Beautiful cobblestones.

Place de la Baleine

At the corner of the very pretty Place de la Baleine and the street of the same name, we find the carved panel mentioned earlier representing a whale. It can be nice to have a drink on the terrace here in the summer, in the coolness. In the winter, there are often fire breathers. Imagine yourself here, in the Middle Ages, during one of the four major annual fairs that allowed Lyon to enter a new economic expansion, confirmed at the Renaissance by the installation of Florentine bankers who arrived in the wake of Catherine de’ Medici. They built many of the beautiful hotels that still exist today.

Traboule from Place du Gouvernement to Quai Romain Rolland

Access: 2, Place du Gouvernement

Continue down Rue Saint-Jean until you reach Place du Gouvernement. At number 2, a traboule begins with stairs leading to a beautiful courtyard. It is located above what was once the stables of the Hôtel de Saint-Christophe.

Beautiful building. It may seem almost too much due to the recent rehabilitation, but it should probably be imagined as such at its construction in the 15th century.

If you continue through the traboule, you will end up at 10 Quai Romain Rolland.

Let’s return to Rue Saint-Jean.

Gadagne Hotel and Museums

Access: 1, Place du Petit Collège

The Gadagne merchant-bankers were immensely wealthy. Simon fled Florence for Turin and then Lyon upon the return of Cosimo de’ Medici. His son, Thomas I, also succeeded in business and integrated into Lyon’s political life. His nephew, Thomas II, inherited from him, became even richer, and was elected échevin in 1537. The following year, he rented this private mansion built by the Pierrevive brothers, merchants from Piedmont. His sons Guillaume and Thomas III became its owners between 1545 and 1581. Rivals, the brothers lived at opposite ends of the hotel, where they nonetheless jointly organized sumptuous parties. In the 18th century, the building became a housing complex and was purchased by the city in 1902 and classified as a historic monument in 1920. It then housed the city’s historical museum. It was completely renovated from 1998 to 2008. The result is stunningly beautiful. The vast courtyard alone is a jewel. It contains two museums and elevated gardens.

Museum of the History of Lyon

Thirty rooms retrace the history of Lyon from Antiquity.

Its remarkable documentation center is accessible by appointment. It notably preserves manuscripts of Guignol plays (Guignol is a major puppet in the French repertoire of puppet shows).

Museum of Puppetry Arts

Organized around Guignol, it exhibits puppets in nine rooms. Paul Fournel photo Sophie Bassouls Paul Fournel © Sophie Bassouls/P.O.L

Regarding this, read our joint portrait of Laurent Mouguet, the father of Guignol theater, and Paul Fournel, the author of “Faire Guignol”.

High garden of Gadagne museum, a romantic place

Accessible without museum tickets, take the elevator to the 4th floor. You find yourself in the sky. Small terrace tables. Silence. A lawn and roses. One of the most romantic places in Lyon. You can have a drink, eat a light meal.

Place du Change, Soufflot’s spirit

Arriving at Place du Change. This is where you changed your currency before leaving the Kingdom of France. This square is often very lively with live performances. It is one of the entry points to Saint-Jean.

Temple of Change, by Soufflot

The Temple of Change, revamped by Soufflot in 1748, a famous architect, has been a Protestant place of worship since 1803. Soufflot, inspired by Andrea Palladio, who himself was inspired by the facades of Roman temples, gave it a remarkable facade, which is classified. Two clocks crown it, according to Soufflot’s wish, who had imagined an “ideal” clock marking days, months, and years. In 1999, for the turn of the millennium, his wish was fulfilled on the left of the building, in place of a clock that disappeared during the Revolution.

Maison Thomassin, place du Change

Another beautiful facade is the Gothic one of Maison Thomassin, built in 1493, which preserves a painted ceiling from the first house built in 1298 on its first floor.

Go up Rue de la Loge to the right of the Palais du Change, and at the top, take Rue de la Juiverie.

Rue Juiverie

Before entering the street, you can climb the first steps of Montée du Change to discover the Renaissance staircase of Maison Henri IV.

Almost all the facades on the street are interesting: mullioned windows, true or fake gargoyles added by the inhabitants. Several theater troop workshops.

A clock restorer at No. 20, L’Horloger de Saint-Paul, as in Bertrand Tavernier’s film, shot in this neighborhood. A beautiful sculpture workshop at No. 15.

La Galerie Philibert Delorme

Finally, at n°8 Rue Juiverie, one of the MUST-SEE places on our visit: the Galerie Philibert Delorme. A plaque in the courtyard explains its construction by the young architect returning from Italy in the early 16th century. A marvel of lightness and symbolism that unites two houses.

Place Saint-Paul

We arrive at Place Saint-Paul, the center of this neighborhood which, along with Saint-Georges and Saint-Jean, makes up Old Lyon. We continue to the beautifully restored Saint-Paul church, inside and out. It is adjacent to a quiet square, away from the tourist bustle of Saint-Jean, Place Gerson, with a cafe-theater characteristic of Old Lyon town and the spirit of cafe-theaters at their start in the 1970s on the slopes of Croix-Rousse.

Following your tour

You can leisurely retrace your steps to the cathedral, enjoying the pleasure of discovering what you may have missed.

You can also continue with a visit to the painted walls (this tour will soon on line), taking the Saint Vincent footbridge towards the Lyonnais fresco. This itinerary will bring you back to Place du Change, towards the wall of the Cour des Loges.

Do you want a guide in Old Lyon town?

Have a good tour in Old Lyon town!

Guided tour of Lyon

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• South of France
• France Off the Beaten Path
• Non-Touristy Paris
• Arles & The Camargue
• Haute-Marne
• Loire: The Department
• Nancy Art Nouveau
• 9 Sensational Road Trips
• How to Plan Your Route
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• Destinations
• Lyon's Traboules

Uncover famous secret passages: the traboules of lyon

Updated 28 June 2023 by Leyla Alyanak

Have you heard of Lyon's secret passageways? Many are closed but some traboules of Lyon can still be visited... but quietly...

If you've ever been to Lyon, you've probably walked through a traboule at some point – possibly without even knowing.

Ready for your Lyon trip?

Here are some suggestions to make your visit even more enjoyable!

TOP LYON CITY TOURS  ➽   Vieux Lyon 4-hour Food Tasting Tour  - for inveterate foodies and gastronomes ➽   Discover Lyon Walking Tour - to explore the essence of the city

LYON DAY TRIPS ➽   Golden Stones Beaujolais - heart of the Golden Stone villages for wine lovers ➽   Northern Côtes du Rhône - meeting the winemakers ➽ Beaujolais and Pérouges - wine tasting and a medieval village visit

WHERE TO STAY IN LYON ➽   Villa Florentine  - stunning 5-star luxury overlooking the entire city ➽ Mi-Hotel Tour Rose - perfect apartments in historic Vieux Lyon ➽ Fourvière Hotel - elegant simplicity in a former cloister ➽ Hotel du Théatre - budget option in the heart of the classical district

Renting a car in Lyon? Compare prices here . Traveling here by train? Book your ticket here . To see the city, don't forget to book your Lyon City Card .

You may have pushed open a heavy door, driven by your innate curiosity, only to be surprised as you walked along dimly lit corridors above which people so obviously lived.

But then, doesn't every city have its secrets? It's just that some are more "secret" than others...

The origins of the traboules of Lyon

Where to find the traboules of Lyon

Vieux Lyon traboules

Traboules of croix-rousse hill, and finally, the traboules of the presqu'île, traboules throughout the centuries, resources to visit the city of lyon.

In case haven't heard of them, the traboules of Lyon are secret passageways that usually run through a building, connecting one street to the next, or through courtyards, whose exits have been sealed in history, or even stairways, which look like anything but a secret passage!

Much of Lyon's core is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and contains the vast majority of traboules, which are concentrated in Old Lyon (or Vieux Lyon), the former silk-weaving center of Croix-Rousse hill , and the Renaissance neighbourhood of the Presqu'île.

There appear to be some 400 traboules in Lyon Or 500. No one really seems to know and I've had city officials give me both figures.

There would seem to be some 200 or so in the Vieux-Lyon, around 160 in Croix-Rousse, and 130 on the Presqu'île. Sadly, though, only 40 or so are open to the public.

Some are signposted at the entrance, others don't even seem to have an entrance, and this unpredictability is part of their charm. 

The word traboule, we're told by historians, comes from the latin "trans-ambulare", or to move through, which makes sense when talking about a passageway.

For some reason the word is particular to Lyon, which is odd, considering plenty of other towns have their own passageways – Chambéry has allées , Nantes has cours , Marseille has traverses and Besançon has traiges . You'll find plenty more passages in  Villefranche-sur-Saône, Mâcon,  Saint-Étienne and Louhans.

And that's just the tip of the iceberg.

How to find the traboules of Lyon

Before you visit Lyon's traboules, you'll have to know where they are. You can find out in several ways:

• You can download an app to your iPhone (sadly not available for Android)
• You can take a guided Lyon traboules tour  with an expert guide for secrets and insider knowledge
• You can watch a video of the traboules (see the bottom of this story)
• You can follow a Lyon traboules map right after this section (they are divided by neighbourhoods)

The maps provided in the various sections below show many of the Lyon passageways.

The light green squares are those which "in theory" can be visited, whereas the orange ones are closed to the public. I say "in theory" because they are supposed to be open, but sometimes you'll find the doors locked.

At one point, the city bought up many of the properties surrounding the "traboules lyonnaises" and made them available as low-cost housing, but with strings attached. Residents had to agree to keep the traboule open to the public between 8 am and 7 pm.

While many residents do comply with the agreement, others are fed up with the steady stream of tourists who speak loudly, eat and laugh as they walk through, disturbing the peace.

The best traboules to visit in Lyon are in the Vieux Lyon, which has the most traboules and some of the best secret passageways.

As you can see from the map below, they are grouped closely together so if you have little time, this might be your best bet for traboule hunting.

The rue St-Jean is particularly bountiful. A few parallel streets closer to the river may seem to have more, but in my experience, many of these are often closed to the public, unless you visit them with a guide.

The key to the numbers on the map can be found on this site (explanations are in French but at least you can get the addresses). 

The longest traboule, 54 rue Saint-Jean

One of the most popular (and my favourite) is at 54 rue St-Jean. It also happens to be the Lyon's longest traboule.

It slices through several small courtyards and opens up onto the rue du Boeuf. If you turn right upon exiting, you'll soon find yourself outside the Food Traboule. Nothing to do with Lyon secret passages but an indoor food court I happen to love.

If you've eaten your fill of traditional Lyon food in a typical bouchon, this should be your next stop. It also serves local specialties, but with a modern twist.

Upstairs, you'll find the giant, aptly named "XXL Profiterolle". Either have one before lunch or share it because it is huge!

La Maison des Avocats, 60 rue St-Jean

You'll probably find this one without looking for it: it is a pink building with several stories of pink arcades on the rue St-Jean. 

The "house of lawyers" was built in the 14th century and was known as the "Ostel de la Croys", an auberge for local legal assistants. The auberge evolved and expanded upwards with the addition of several arcaded floors.

By the 19th century it was in decline, turned into rental apartments, and eventually it was scheduled for destruction, despite its listing as a historical monument (sadly, these things happen).

But an association dedicated to restoring Old Lyon stepped in and saved it. Parts were still razed, but what was once an internal patio surrounded by arcades is now open to the street for all to see and ornamented with a small public garden.

You can't miss the serene lion sculpture facing the street, although I'm still trying to ascertain its origins.

THE EMBLEM OF LYON IS A LION, BUT...

The word for lion, "lion" in French, is pronounced the same way as the city, Lyon.

So adopting the lion as the city's emblem would make sense. But that's not what happened at all.

The lion was adopted as the city's symbol nearly 1000 years ago, when it still went by the Roman name of Lugdunum. Nothing to do with our beloved feline. It was originally pictured as a white lion on a red background with its mouth open, but would evolve over the centuries, for example by including fleurs de lys.

Lions also have another connection with Lyon, as several actually lived here, offered as gifts to the city over the years. The last lion of Lyon lived in the majestic Parc de la Tête d'Or, where he died in 2021.

Today, Lyon's lions are the inanimate kind: statues in the city, the emblem of the Only Lyon tourist office, or even at the heart of the logo of the city's football club, the Olympique lyonnais.

La Tour Rose, 16 rue du Boeuf

This is another of Old Lyon's stunning internal courtyards that qualifies as a  traboule: la Tour Rose, also known as la Maison du Crible.

Just a word about the glorious pink spiral stairway that gives the tower its name: it wasn't always pink. Apparently the pink colour only surfaced in the 1970s.

It is part of a splendid private house dating back to the Middle Ages and a once-derelict traboule which has now been restored.

The complex has been turned into a prestigious rental accommodation a which patrons rave about ( you can book a suite here ). To get a good view of the tower, head into the traboule and look up, or visit the upper floor of the Food Traboule and gaze through its glass ceiling.

WANT TO EXPLORE VIEUX-LYON IN DEPTH?

➽   Lyon Highlights and Secrets Walking Tour

➽   Vieux Lyon 4-Hour Food Tasting Tour

➽  Free Walking Guided Tour of Lyon

➽  Private Walking Tour of Authentic Vieux-Lyon

The second largest concentration of Lyon underground tunnels is on Croix-Rousse, a low-lying hill in Lyon which was once home to the city's silk weavers.

Whether the traboules were designed to fetch water from below or transport bolts of silk without wetting them from the rain doesn't matter. The fact is that Croix-Rousse is riddled with traboules, except unlike the flat tunnels in Lyon Old Town, these take you to another level of the hill, in addition to opening up onto a different street.

(More details about the traboules Lyon plan at Croix-Rousse East and Croix-Rousse West  – again, you'll get the addresses but the explanations are in French.)

La Cour des Voraces

The Cour des Voraces (roughly translated as the Courtyard of the Voracious), is undoubtedly the most famous of the traboules Croix Rousse, although it looks nothing like the ones you've seen in the Old Town.

At first sight, this is a concrete stairway. But it does lead from one street to another, and from one level to another. In fact, it has three entrances: on Place Colbert, on Montée Saint-Sébastien and on Rue Imbert-Colomès.

It also happens to be Lyon's most famous traboule: it was the site of two notorious events. The first is the fabled Revolt of the Canuts, the 19th-century rebellion by silk workers, with a plaque commemorating the event on the wall of the traboule.

The other is the Nazi occupation of Lyon during World War II, when the traboule was used to help Resistance fighters escape or communicate with one another. (Lyon was a major backdrop to World War II so if you're interested by places related to this era, book a  private tour of the high points of the French Résistance  in Lyon). So yes, this Lyon tunnel may not look like one, but it most certainly is a true traboule.

THESE PRIVATE TOURS WILL DELVE INTO LYON'S WWII HISTORY:

➽   World War II and the Résistance

➽   Lyon and the Shoah

➽  Jewish Lyon

There are plenty of others, like the traboule that connects 5 rue Royale with 3 quai André-Lassagne. Its 17th-century stairwell was recently renovated and is protected as a historical monument. This one is actually a dual traboule, because you can follow a hallway and emerge in the Cour des Moirages, another Croix-Rousse traboule.

If you're a fan of historical stairways, then do visit the traboule that links  4 rue de Thou to 5 Petite rue des Feuillants. Interestingly, there are several traboules in Croix-Rousse with stairways at their heart.

For some reason, it is easier to get lost visiting the traboules of Croix-Rousse than in those of the Old Town – I'm not quite sure why, but they're not as well signposted and some of the entrances lack numbers, so a bit of map reading and sleuthing might be involved, but that's part of the fun!

If you'd like to get to know Croix-Rousse better:

I have to confess I've never visited these traboules. I've been so keen to explore the ones in the Old Town and in Croix-Rousse that I've utterly neglected the Presqu'île, an otherwise gorgeous part of town.

This is the heart of the downtown district, and also the site of many of Lyon's stunning outdoor murals .

I promise to explore them on one of my monthly trips to Lyon so I'll definitely come back and report.

The traboules don't all date from the same period, nor did they serve the same purpose in each time period.

Lyon hidden passageways were first built in the 4th century

Lyon was still called Lugdunum when the first traboules began appearing.

Lyon's streets had been built parallel to the city's two rivers, but getting to one of the rivers was no easy task, since the buildings were in the way.

Residents of Croix-Rousse hill who needed water, whether for the home or for industry, had to make their way down to one of the many wells located in the Old Town. Covered passages began to appear, making it easier to head straight downhill than along small, winding streets. 

Those traboules that remain today were built far later...

They expanded in the 19th century 

Traboules continued being built during the Renaissance, especially those in the Old Town, but they experienced a rapid spurt of growth during the 19th century, as the silk trade expanded and Lyon became its European center.

An increasing number of silk workers gathered on Croix-Rousse, as many as 90,000 at one point, and the traboules evolved to serve them: they became convenient shortcuts for workers carrying their heavy silk bolts down from the workshops to the stylish businesses below (and also helped keep the silk dry).

In 1831, the Canuts, as the silk workers were called, rebelled against their poor working conditions in one of history's first industrial uprisings, and this happened right in the Cour des Voraces. The Canuts, highly familiar with the city's traboule network, used them to reach the town below and took control. Their victory was short live and the rebellions eventually suppressed with great force.

They remained important during World War II

During World War II, Lyon was a Nazi stronghold (initially a part of the Free Zone, the Nazis eventually invaded all of France in 1942) and Gestapo headquarters, but was also the center of the southeastern France Résistance.

This maze of passageways also played an important role during the war: the traboules were used to escape the Nazis or to meet other rebels unnoticed. The Germans would eventually become familiar with them but initially, they were well-kept Lyonnais secrets.

Some of them became shabby and neglected and this is why, in the 1990s, the city agreed to subsidize their restoration in exchange for public visiting privileges. In 1998 the entire historic site of the city of Lyon came under UNESCO protection, and the traboules, being part of this heritage, can now rest assured they will probably survive yet another few centuries.

➽   If you need to get around Lyon, the  Lyon City Pass  is really useful if you want to save time and money: it covers all public transportation, as well as entrance to most monuments and sites.

You won't need a car in Lyon – in fact, you're better off with one and should rely on its excellent public transportation system .

BUT - if you want to take some day trips from Lyon , you will definitely need one and can check what's available here .

If you plan to rent a car, consider visiting Lyon on foot and picking up your car at the airport. You can catch the Rhonexpress bus from the Part-Dieu train station. Check the timetables here .

Where to stay in Lyon

Traboules of lyon: faq.

How many traboules are in Lyon?

No one knows exactly, but between 400-500. However, only about 10% of them are open to the public.

What is a traboules in English?

A traboule is a passageway found in Lyon, France. Usually covered and often hidden, these were once used by silk workers to keep their bolts of silk dry from the rain. They were also used to ferry water up from the river to the hills of Croix-Rousse.

What is Lyon famous for?

Lyon is famous for its traboules, or secret passageways, but also for its 150  monumental murals, its reputation as France's capital of gastronomy, and its Roman heritage.

Before you go...

Want to know even more about Lyon? Here are a few stories to help you delve into the city:

• Weird, Whimsical And Wonderful Facts About Lyon
• Irresistible Things to Do in Lyon
• Fourviere Hill: Basilica, Ruins, And The Best View Of Lyon

Did you enjoy this article? I'd love if you shared it!

Bonjour! I’m Leyla! I was born in Paris and now live in the bucolic mountain foothills of Eastern France between Lyon and Annecy. 

I'm rediscovering my own back yard after years of living abroad in Canada, Spain and Switzerland as a journalist and a diplomat － and I'm loving every minute.

Passionate about history and culture, I’ve created Offbeat France to seek out my country’s mysteries and legends, less-traveled destinations, along with plenty of food stops and many castles － I am French, after all!

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Vieux Lyon Cultural & Historical Walking Guided Tour (English)

Explore the historic heart of Lyon on this captivating walking tour. Enjoy the city’s centuries-old silk-weaving legacy , marvel at its renowned gastronomy , and uncover the secrets of the iconic traboules . With 683 glowing reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a history buff or a culture enthusiast, prepare to be enchanted by the charm of Vieux Lyon. But there’s more to discover beyond the surface – the tour’s itinerary holds surprises that will leave you intrigued and eager to learn more.

Just The Basics

• The tour provides an immersive experience covering the old town, traboules, silk workshops, Museum of Cinema and Miniatures, and Grand Hotel Dieu.
• The tour features 683 reviews, a Badge of Excellence, and covers Lyon’s centuries-old silk-weaving legacy and renowned gastronomy.
• The tour starts at 10:00 am at Place Saint-Jean and ends at Place de l’Hôpital, but is not wheelchair accessible while being stroller-friendly and allowing service animals.
• The tour has a maximum group size of 30 travelers and includes all fees and taxes.
• The tour is easily accessible via public transportation, with the meeting point at Place Saint-Jean and the ending point at the historic Hotel Dieu.

Overview of the Tour

The Vieux Lyon Cultural & Historical Walking Guided Tour provides visitors with an immersive experience, covering the old town, traboules (covered passageways), silk workshops, Museum of Cinema and Miniatures , and the Grand Hotel Dieu .

With 683 reviews and a Badge of Excellence , this tour offers a unique opportunity to learn about Lyon’s rich history and vibrant culture. Guests will discover the city’s centuries-old silk-weaving legacy and indulge in its renowned gastronomy.

The tour starts at 10:00 am at Place Saint-Jean and ends at Place de l’Hôpital, with all fees and taxes included. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and allows service animals.

Tour Details

The Vieux Lyon Cultural & Historical Walking Guided Tour starts at 10:00 am at Place Saint-Jean, with all fees and taxes included. The tour covers the old town, historical traboules (covered passageways), silk workshops, the Museum of Cinema and Miniatures, and the Grand Hotel Dieu. Guests will learn about Lyon’s rich silk-weaving history and local gastronomy.

This immersive tour provides an opportunity to explore the historical and cultural highlights of the Vieux Lyon district.

Meeting Point

According to the details, the Vieux Lyon Cultural & Historical Walking Guided Tour typically starts at Place Saint-Jean , near the statue of St. John.

From there, the tour ends at Place de l’Hôpital , inside the Hotel Dieu .

This centrally located meeting point makes it easy for travelers to find the starting point of the tour.

Once the tour concludes, guests will find themselves conveniently situated near the Hotel Dieu, a historic landmark that’s included on the tour.

The meeting and end points are both easily accessible via public transportation, allowing participants to arrive and depart the tour with minimal hassle.

Cancellation Policy

Travelers can cancel their Vieux Lyon Cultural & Historical Walking Guided Tour up to 24 hours prior to the experience, receiving a full refund . However, no refunds are provided for cancellations made less than 24 hours beforehand.

This policy allows for flexibility while also ensuring the tour operator can adequately prepare. Guests are encouraged to review the cancellation terms carefully when booking.

Should any unexpected circumstances arise, contacting the tour provider as soon as possible is recommended to maximize the chance of a refund.

Inclusions and Accessibility

All fees and taxes are included in the Vieux Lyon Cultural & Historical Walking Guided Tour, making it a convenient option for travelers. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers and service animals are allowed, accommodating a range of needs. The tour covers Lyon’s silk-weaving history, gastronomy, and popular attractions like the Museum of Cinema and Miniatures. Here’s a quick overview of what’s included:

With these thoughtful inclusions and accessibility options, the Vieux Lyon tour provides an engaging and inclusive experience for all.

Public Transportation

The tour’s meeting point at Place Saint-Jean is conveniently located near public transportation options , making it easily accessible for visitors.

Lyon’s efficient metro system has several stations within a short walking distance of the starting point. Travelers can also take advantage of the city’s extensive bus network , with numerous routes stopping close by.

For those who prefer to explore on two wheels, Lyon’s bike-sharing program offers rental stations in the vicinity.

With these convenient transportation choices, getting to the Vieux Lyon guided tour couldn’t be simpler. Whether you’re coming from elsewhere in the city or just a short distance away, you’ll have no trouble finding your way to the tour’s starting point.

Traveler Requirements

According to the information provided, the Vieux Lyon walking tour is not wheelchair accessible, though strollers and service animals are allowed. Visitors should keep in mind these accessibility limitations when deciding whether the tour is suitable for their needs.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 30 travelers, so early booking is recommended to secure a spot. Participants must also meet the minimum number of travelers required for the tour to proceed. The meeting point is at Place Saint-Jean, near the statue of St. John, and the tour ends at Place de l’Hôpital, inside the Hotel Dieu.

Additional Information

Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and the tour is located near public transportation . Participants should also be aware of the minimum number of travelers required for the tour to proceed.

The Vieux Lyon Cultural & Historical Walking Guided Tour is an excellent way to explore the rich history and culture of Lyon’s old town. With over 683 reviews and a Badge of Excellence , this tour covers iconic landmarks like the traboules, silk workshops, and the Museum of Cinema and Miniatures. Travelers will learn about Lyon’s renowned silk-weaving legacy and its vibrant gastronomy.

Although the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible , it’s stroller-friendly , and service animals are allowed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What languages is the tour offered in.

The tour is offered in English. It does not specify whether other languages are available. Customers should check with the tour provider for information on language options.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available?

The tour doesn’t mention any discounts or special offers. Prices are all-inclusive and there’s no indication of any promotions or deals available. Though the tour may occasionally offer sales or limited-time offers, the details provided don’t list any.

How Long Is the Walking Distance During the Tour?

The walking distance during the tour is not explicitly stated, but the tour covers the old town, traboules, and other key sights in Lyon’s historic district. Expect a leisurely paced stroll of around 2-3 kilometers over the course of the 2-3 hour tour.

Can the Tour Guide Provide Recommendations for Local Cuisine?

The tour guide can likely provide recommendations for local cuisine in Lyon. As part of the tour, they’ll likely share insights into the city’s rich gastronomic heritage and suggest top spots to enjoy Lyon’s famous dishes.

Are There Any Photo Opportunities During the Tour?

The tour offers numerous photo opportunities along the way, allowing visitors to capture the historic architecture, charming passageways, and vibrant local culture of Vieux Lyon. The guide can suggest the best spots for taking memorable photos.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• Lyon City Historic Neighborhoods Guided Walking Tour (English)
• Lyon Highlights & Secrets Walking Guided Tour (Small Group) Including Funicular

Final Words

The Vieux Lyon Cultural & Historical Walking Guided Tour (English) offers an immersive exploration of Lyon’s old town and its rich history.

With 683 reviews and a Badge of Excellence , the tour showcases the city’s centuries-old silk-weaving legacy and renowned gastronomy .

Though not wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and allows service animals, making it an engaging experience for a range of travelers.

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Traboules du Vieux Lyon

• Vieux Lyon - Cathédrale St.Jean • 5 min walk
• Cordeliers • 8 min walk

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travelers

Traboules du Vieux Lyon - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Lyon Itinerary for 3 Days: What to See When Visiting the City of Traboules

Located in southeastern France , Lyon is the country’s third-largest city. The capital of the Rh ône-Alpes region can thank its cultural importance to a rich history spanning the Gallo-Roman period, but it is also well-known for its gastronomy, art, and commerce.

There are plenty of things to do when visiting this unforgettable city of traboules (not troubles! :)), so if you’re planning a short break, you better read on.

To help you make the most out of your time there, we’ve prepared our very own Lyon itinerary that should give you great starting ideas of things to see and do in Lyon in three days.

Lyon 3-day itinerary

Day 1: explore the old town via traboules.

Start your first day off right by heading to Vieux Lyon , an expansive Renaissance district bursting with charming shops, cafés, and churches. Stroll through the cobblestone streets and marvel at the 15 th and 16 th -century buildings, once home to rich bankers and merchants.

While winding your way through the courtyards and up and down the many staircases, keep an eye out for Lyon’s secret passageways, more commonly known as traboules . Years ago, these paths were used by workmen to transport textiles through the city while being sheltered from bad weather.

Around 40 are open to the public and are marked with an identifiable seal. If you don’t feel like finding them yourself, you can instead join a guided tour .

After this, consider walking up to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvi ère for a fantastic view of the city. Called the “upside-down elephant” by locals, the basilica sits atop the Fourvière hill and features both Byzantine and Romanesque architecture. Alternatively, you can take the funicular to the top if you don’t feel like walking.

Day 2: Experience art and culture in Lyon museums

After your hectic first day, consider taking it a bit easier on your second. The city is home to an excellent collection of museums, most of which are free to enter. You can easily spend half of your day at the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon , one of France’s largest art museums.

The museum is located in a former Benedictine convent from the 17 th century and contains collections from ancient Egypt to the Modern art period. It also features work from a world-class roster, including the likes of Picasso , Van Gogh , and Renoir .

In your Lyon itinerary, definitely make some room for a puppet show with Guignol, Lyon’s most famous puppet

Alternatively, you can visit the Musée d’Histoire de Lyon , which covers the entire development of the city from its archaic roots to the present day. With a variety of sculptures, paintings, photographs, and exhibits, you’re sure to leave knowing all about Lyon and its inhabitants.

Besides the Museum of Lyon History, the other half of Gadagne Museums is the Musée des Arts de la Marionnette . More than 300 puppets can be found here, revealing an intricate world of performance, emotions, and illusion. Stop to watch one of the puppet shows, which includes Guignol – Lyon’s famous puppet.

Day 3: Discover the Croix-Rousse Hill & District

Since you’ve covered the majority of Lyon’s most famous attractions, it’s now time to explore some of the city’s more underrated hidden gems. Perched on a hill, the historic district of La Croix-Rousse is packed with adorable cafés, charming boutiques, and indie musicians.

Les canuts , Lyon’s famous silk weavers, once resided here in La Croix-Russe which is what led to it gaining its reputation as the “hill that works”. The best way to get around this area is by foot so that you don’t miss out on the attractions dotted along the way.

Start by visiting the oldest Roman amphitheater in the city, L’Amphitéatre des Trois Gaules , an early 1st-century auditorium dedicated to the cult of Rome and Augustus . While relatively small, the amphitheater once hosted games and was a meeting place for representatives of the 60 Gallic tribes.

Afterward, you’ll pass through another traboule known as the Cour des Voraces , one of Lyon’s best-known passageways. Like most traboules, it provided safe passage for merchants traveling up the hill and back down again undetected. It was also the site of the Canut revolt of 1848 when these workers rose in an attempt to break free from the old system.

If you have time left and fancy getting some souvenirs to take home, head to the central part of Lyon – Presqu’ile . Here, you’ll find a mixture of major department stores and luxury brand outlets on the UNESCO-protected shopping streets.

Getting around Lyon

Lyon Saint Exup éry International Airport is approximately 25 kilometers away from the city center; therefore, you’ll need to organize transport to where you’ll be staying. While there is a shuttle bus service that connects the airport to the city center, called the Navette Lyon, a Lyon Airport transfer is the most convenient option , particularly if your flight arrives late or you have lots of luggage.

Lyon has an incredibly efficient public transport system consisting of trams, buses, and a metro. Consider purchasing a Lyon Card for your few days there as this will provide you with unlimited access to public transport and discounts on some of the attractions.

Lyon itinerary in 3 days – conclusion

In three days, we’ve journeyed through the captivating city of Lyon, uncovering its rich history, embracing its cultural wonders, and exploring hidden gems of a bygone era.

Lyon’s traboules whisper secrets to contemporary urban explorers

No Lyon itinerary would be complete without immersing not just in a place, but in an experience. The soul of France is here celebrated through a seamless blend of the beauty of the past and the vibrant energy of modern life. The art and culture breathe life into museums, while the winding traboules whisper secrets to contemporary urban explorers.

As you prepare to leave this remarkable city, some moments will be engraved in your mind. The exquisite flavors of Lyonnaise cuisine, the panoramic views from Fourvière hill, the captivating performances of marionettes, and the tales of silk merchants and revolutionaries are all part of Lyon’s unique charm.

Our 3-day Lyon itinerary has been but a glimpse into this enchanting town’s treasures, a mere taste of what it has to offer. Until we meet again, à bientôt, Lyon!

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2 hours and 30 minutes

Those of Vieux-Lyon are home to treasures of the Renaissance! Those of the Croix-Rousse, more recent, date mostly from the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Those on the Presqu'île, which are less well-known, are worth going out of your way to see!

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Hundreds of traboules connect residential neighborhoods to bustling streets in Old Lyon. From more than 400 created, 50 are still open to the public.

What secrets lie beneath Lyon?

A labyrinth of corridors conceals a complicated past in France.

Tucked between Lyon’s old-town streets and its Croix-Rousse neighborhood, the traboules —a vast network of around 400 hidden corridors, passages, and stairwells—have borne witness to historic moments from the silk trade to French Resistance meetings in World War II.

Tour guide Veronique Destombes has lived in the city for over 30 years and knows just where to dip into discreet doors, to climb stairs, and venture down subtly marked traboules to explore the 50 pathways still open to the public. Each route has its own distinct pastel color and unique architectural element, such as towering staircases, vaulted ceilings, or detailed, Renaissance arches.

As we walk along Rue du Boeuf, Destombes weaves tales of how the canuts , or Lyonnaise silk workers, used the traboules to transport the fabrics across the city safely, avoiding rain and dirt. In the 1800s, the traboules played a key role during the Canut revolts—one of the first documented uprisings of Europe’s Industrial Revolution. Exploited silk workers used the walkways to sneak into the city center and take over the town. During World War II, the French Resistance used the network to evade the Nazis. Runners would slip into the clandestine passageways to avoid capture and could use the alleys’ double doors to share important messages without suspicion.

In love with Lyon? This nearby region may be your next travel obsession.

Many of the traboules are now on private property, used only by residents. In the 1990s, Lyon city officials agreed to pay for maintenance and restoration of traboules that residents keep open to the public from morning until evening.

Where to find traboules

With a bit of detective work, savvy travelers can find their own moments of quiet in the traboules spread across the city. In Old Lyon, entrances are marked with shield-shaped bronze plaques, while in Croix-Rousse, a lion’s head on a blue marker guides the way. Here are four traboules worth sleuthing for.

Traboule de la Cour des Voraces

A sanctuary to silk workers during the Canut revolts, Traboule de la Cour des Voraces preserves canut history with its famous six-floor stairway façade—one of the oldest in the city—and a memorial that reads: “In the Cour des Voraces, a hive of the silk industry, canuts fought for their living conditions and their dignity.” The historical passage begins at 9 Place Colbert and 14 bis montée Saint-Sébastien.

The Traboule de la Cour des Voraces, located in the Croix-Rousse, was one of the landmark traboules during the 19th-century Canut revolts, where hundreds of enraged silk workers gathered and marched.

La Longue Traboule

At 54 Rue Saint-Jean, search for the green door and an engraving reading “La Longue Traboule” to find the longest traboule in Old Lyon. Stretching to 27 Rue du Bœuf, the walkway crosses through five courtyards and tunnels under four buildings. It’s one of the few traboules still used daily by locals to navigate Old Lyon.

Traboule de la Tour Rose

Enter at 16 Rue du Bœuf to discover a rose-tinted watchtower, complete with spiraling staircase, while traversing the Traboule de la Tour Rose. The stairs are closed to the public, but the delicate colors of the courtyard and Renaissance-style windows of the tower create a picturesque scene.

Traboule de Maison Brunet

Connecting 10 Rue Rivet with 5 Place Rouville, and 12 Rue Rivet with 6 Place Rouville, this traboule leads travelers to Maison Brunet, a structure built with references to periods of time—365 windows (days in a year), 52 apartments (weeks in a year), seven floors (days in a week), and four entrances (seasons in a year). During the Canut revolt, soldiers would use the numerous windows to hurl fireballs at the national guard.

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Visit Lyon in 1 day – My self-guided walking tour + itinerary

You have planned for your short weekend to visit Lyon in 1 day. Well, my self-guided walking tour could help you discover the most beautiful sites of Lyon in 1 day. Simply follow my route on foot on the attached Google Maps to discover the most beautiful places in Lyon.

This tourist circuit makes a loop which can be done leisurely on foot in one day (see route map below).

How to visit Lyon in 1 day?

To visit Lyon in 1 day, you have several possibilities:

• Lyon private tour with a guide
• Discover Lyon by bike
• Half-day group tour of Lyon with a guide
• Visit Lyon on your own on foot in 1 day following my walking tour. This circuit allows you to see most of Lyon. See details below.

Itinerary for a one-day visit to Lyon

Here is the program and the itinerary which allows you to visit Lyon in 1 day and which you can follow with my self-guided tour (map below):

• Place Bellecour
• Place des Jacobins
• Celestins Square
• Célestins Theater
• Saint John Cathedral
• Hill of Fourvière
• Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière
• Restaurant Christian Tedoie
• Gourguillon climb
• Traboules of old Lyon
• Evening: Hermès restaurant dinner cruise

Walking tour to visit Lyon

Here is the tourist circuit of Lyon to follow on foot with the route on Google maps downloadable below:

Visits to do during your day in Lyon

Departure from the circuit from Place Bellecour. It is the heart of the Lyon Presqu'ile, a large square where the Lyonnais gather for all types of events (sporting, cultural or political). You will of course take a photo of the statue of Louis XIV on his horse and why not have a little coffee to start the day off right!

Then, you will leave via rue Emile Zola, to join the 1 st stop on my tour: One of the most beautiful squares in Lyon, Place des Jacobins!

Then taking rue Jean Fabre, you will arrive at Place des Célestins and then discover the Théâtre des Célestins which is a magnificent Italian-style theater.

By joining the Quai Tisitt, you will take the Pont Bonaparte which allows you to cross the Saône to arrive in the heart of Old Lyon (medieval and Renaissance district). The best thing to do will be to start visiting Saint Jean Cathedral and admire its gigantic rose window, its menacing gargoyles and its majestic Gothic architecture.

Then I advise you to go to the funicular station which is located at the Vieux-Lyon metro station. So, with the funicular, you will go directly (and more easily than on foot) to the Coline de Fourvière.

This is where the Notre-Dame de Fourvière Basilica is located, which has overlooked the city of Lyon since the end of the 19th century.

From the basilica esplanade, you will have a panoramic view of Lyon. You can visit the basilica which was built to thank the Virgin for having spared Lyon from the Prussian invasion in 1870.

Then the circuit continues via rue Roger Radisson to turn into rue Cléberg to enter the Lugdunum site. This is the ancient site of Fourvière, entry to which is free. You can visit the large Gallo-Roman theater (15th century BC), the Temple of Cybele or, further down, the Odeon which has preserved some beautiful mosaics.

Which restaurant for your visit to Lyon?

To continue the route, you will have to take rue Clébert, go back down Place de l'Antiquaille to rue Pierre Marion to arrive at number 4 of the street. This is where I advise you to take a lunch break: at the Christian Têtedoie restaurant.

It's a good deal for lunch because this gourmet restaurant offers gourmet and refined cuisine with a menu priced at €24 and in a really nice setting (panoramic terrace).

Visit Old Lyon

Now that you have regained your strength, I suggest you do the Montée du Gourguillon in the opposite direction!

Going down rue Pierre Marion, you will turn left onto rue des Farges to reach Montée Gourguillon which you will go down again. This street (little known to tourists) is one of the oldest streets in Lyon with its cobblestones and its medieval houses from the 15th century. You can admire rare half-timbered houses in Impasse Turquet, a street perpendicular to Rue Gourguillon.

Visit the Traboules of Lyon

At number 2 of the street, a traboule opens which goes up to Chemin Neuf. You can take it to reach Place Beauregard and take the stairs of Montée des Épies.

A but you surely think of yourself as a traboule? What is this ?

These are small passages characteristic of the city of Lyon that allow you to cross from one street to another or from one district to another. Lyon has more than 300 which have become real tourist attractions. If you want to visit them, there is an app ( Mobile application to download ) which allows you to follow itineraries specifically dedicated to visits to the traboules.

And if you want to discover it for yourself, here is the list of the most visited traboules:

• Rue Royale / Quai Lassagne
• 6-8 small rue des Feuillants / 19 place Tolozan
• 2 Place des Terreaux
• 4 rue Désirée / 7 rue Puits-Gaillot
• 3 place Louis Pradel / 1 rue Luigini
• 5 rue Joseph-Serlin / 2 place Louis Pradel
• 13 rue de la Poulaillerie / 2 rue des Forces
• Passage de l'Argue
• 2 rue Charles-Dullin / 1 rue Gaspard-André

After getting lost in the alleys and traboules of old Lyon , you can return to your hotel to relax before dinner.

Rhone cruise

And to finish in style, why not have dinner while taking a beautiful boat cruise on the banks of the Rhône? It was a report some time ago that gave me this idea: View report

The advantage is that you can spend a romantic evening along the water while discovering monuments that you will not have had time to visit in my circuit "  Lyon in 1 day  "!

To do this dinner cruise at  Hermès restaurant (provided by the Cie Les Bâteaux Lyonnais), you have to go to 16 Quai Claude Bernard (Left bank of the Rhône at the foot of the University Bridge) just 10 minutes walk from the hotel which I present to you below. Remember to book at 04.78.42.96.81!

Where to stay to visit Lyon on foot?

For a little one weekend in Lyon , I recommend that you choose a hotel well placed to be accommodated in the most beautiful districts of Lyon (beware of areas to avoid in Lyon ). Its location is ideal so as not to waste time in transport and to be close to restaurants and shops while being quiet.

My good plan is hotel La Residence because it is really perfect in terms of services, has an ideal location and all this at an unbeatable price for Lyon! Indeed, it is located in a pedestrian street on the Lyon peninsula, a 3-minute walk from Place Bellecour and 450 meters from the old town.

View this hotel on Booking.com

I hope my circuit inspires you. If you prefer to let yourself be guided to visit Lyon, here is a good plan: Guided tour of Old Lyon . So, perhaps for the Festival of Lights or a whole weekend in Lyon: Lyon in 2 days or a combined circuit Lyon - Annecy

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clock This article was published more than  2 years ago

In Lyon’s network of hidden passageways, footfalls of the past

In the Croix-Rousse district of Lyon, residential buildings tower over the city, narrow gaps between them revealing slivers of the Rhône River flowing below, carving through the pastel-hued landscape at the foot of the hill. It’s a quiet, early Saturday morning, and I was strolling down in a sort of pre-coffee haze during a day trip this spring.

Suddenly, a disheveled man with a suitcase, probably in his 20s, rushed past me. He peeked down into a stairwell giving way to a residential building. “C’est fermé cela?” (This one’s closed?) He cursed in frustration, throwing his free arm up in sheer exasperation before scurrying farther down the road, suitcase flying behind. This man was looking for a shortcut. This staircase is one of Lyon’s hundreds of “traboules,” or hidden passageways, that carve through the city, allowing its connoisseurs to slip through one way, exit through another and circumvent the official grid.

For tourists in Lyon, tracking down and snaking through the traboules has become an activity akin to a real-life treasure hunt.

The image of the traboules holds a lot of mystique. Although it’s commonly accepted that their use has evolved throughout the history of the city — playing a role in the silk worker revolts during the 19th century and the resistance movement during World War II, for example — the extent to which the passageways were used, in a detailed historical sense, remains largely uncertain. What is certain is that the majority of the traboules appeared during the Renaissance, when the city started a phase of rapid development.

“It’s not a story of humans. It’s a history of urbanism, of architecture,” Nicolas Bruno Jacquet, an architectural historian and guide-lecturer in Lyon, said over the phone.

Jacquet explained that, during the 14th and 15th centuries, the city began to densify, and buildings began to multiply, particularly in the Vieux Lyon neighborhood, which abuts the River Saône. Because the structure of the district is largely made of long, parallel roads, the traboules allowed residents to access the River Saône more quickly and perpendicularly, essentially serving as a system to ease circulation.

The traboules of the Croix-Rousse neighborhood in Lyon’s 4th district — which differentiate themselves by the hilly landscape of the district and multistoried staircases — appeared later.

“In the Croix-Rousse, you have traboules that are stairs. These stairs were constructed when the weavers arrived, what we call the canuts,” Claude de Sars, a guide-lecturer in Lyon, explained in a phone call. “The difference is the stairs in the Croix-Rousse versus the small traboules in Vieux Lyon that connect two parallel roads.”

You ate what?! A fearless foodie’s foray into the bouchons of Lyon.

I was on my way to meet Jacques Rossiaud, a historian who specializes in Lyon’s history, at his apartment in the center of the city. From the Place Bellevue, a viewpoint over the city in the Croix-Rousse, I dipped down some stairs onto the Rue Mottet De Gérando, following a map from René Dejean’s “ Traboules de Lyon: Histoire secrète d’une ville .” The wooden, unmarked door signaled in the book looked indistinguishable from the rest. I pushed it open; it was unlocked. Inside, a salmon-pink courtyard encompassed a large staircase, spiraling downward.

The exit was now closed — something common nowadays — so I climbed back up and took the stairs bordering the building down to the Rue Bodin, making my way to the Place Colbert, walking through the small doorway marked Number 9. This is one of the entrances to the Cour des Voraces, the most famous traboule in the Croix-Rousse, with its towering stairwell. Street art dots the courtyard, giving way to more stairs snaking downward, leading to a passage that exits onto the Rue Imbert Colomès.

I continued to follow Dejean’s map, dipping in and out of traboules — though some were now closed, as the work was published in 1988 — feeling like a kid in a grown-up’s body, on a sort of secret mission. Finally, I arrived at Rossiaud’s door.

After welcoming me into his living room, which carried the faint scent of old books, Rossiaud jumped into the history of the traboules. But in his view, the role of the passageways is exaggerated, particularly when talking about the resistance movement during World War II.

“We insist a lot, fantasize a lot, give too much importance on the role of the traboules during the resistance,” he said. “Lyon was the capital of the resistance between 1940 and 1944, and a certain number of people say yes, we had the traboules in Lyon, which was good, because one could hide themselves, enter into a house by one road and exit by another road. It’s true, if you want, but it doesn’t really correspond to the reality. One could hide themselves otherwise.”

Although Rossiaud isn’t convinced that the traboules contributed to the resistance movement, de Sars maintains that they played an important role.

“The resisters hid themselves in the traboules. … Certain resisters, unfortunately, were arrested or shot in them. So, from time to time, we see small plaques at the entrance or exit of the traboules that evoke these episodes,” she said. “They’re old passages where people could hide. There were traboules, and there were mailboxes inside. In the mailboxes, people picked up messages.”

After leaving Rossiaud’s apartment, I strolled to the Rue du Boeuf in the heart of Vieux Lyon. Throngs of tourists moved in waves, gazing into souvenir shops wielding fine silks and sausages. Cobblestones poked into sneakers and flip flops, wending their way through the neighborhood’s numerous bouchons.

In Lyon, a new museum celebrates a longstanding culinary tradition

There was a crush of sightseers, and I hate crowds; when people stop short in the middle of the street without veering off to the side, which I deem the cardinal sin of urban walking etiquette, it triggers an uncontrollable rage inside me, probably a consequence of my New York upbringing. So, cursing under my breath in a perfectly beautiful stretch of the city, I rapidly searched for the gaps between people that would allow me to swiftly flee and replenish my serotonin levels.

I beelined to 27 Rue du Boeuf and pushed open the unlocked door giving way to Lyon’s long traboule, cutting through to the Rue Saint-Jean.

I was making my way to Le Luminarium, a cafe, to meet Damien Petermann, who wrote his PhD thesis on the image of Lyon according to travel guides in the 19th and 20th centuries. He sat down across from me, pulling out some printed notes, and dove into the traboules. We talked about the canut revolts and resistance, invoking all the usual points. But what really interests Petermann is the mystery surrounding the traboules — and the lack of available historical references to back up such an important part of the touristic landscape of Lyon.

“There aren’t many things to say about them, which is astonishing. We visit them, we show them, we explain what they were used for, what we know and what we don’t, and people pass through,” he said. “It’s become an unmissable element of Lyon, but when you dig a little bit, there isn’t a lot to find.”

According to Petermann, the intrigue surrounding the traboules could largely be attributed to the fantastical image of the passageways in literature and film.

“In the 19th century, there were secret societies in Lyon, and the literary image that was formed itself on the mystery of Lyon,” Petermann said. “It’s the fantasy of not really knowing what’s going on in the traboules: what kind of activities, who’s passing through.”

The traboules have further increased in popularity throughout the past 30 years, and especially after the historic districts of Lyon were listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites in 1998. According to Petermann, the city began to clean up the passageways, many of which were run down, and it created agreements with certain landowners to leave them open throughout the day for residents and tourists. Remember that the traboules are private spaces; they run through residential buildings, differentiating them from the passages of Paris, for example.

On my way back to the train station, I envisioned the canuts slipping through the Croix-Rousse traboules, evading police detection in elaborate schemes. I thought of the resistance movement, imagining one person entering from Rue du Boeuf, attending a secret meeting in the courtyard of the long traboule, waiting to join an entrant from Rue Saint-Jean 10 minutes later. I thought of secret societies, lovers and the multitudes of clandestine encounters that could have taken place within these passageways.

But at the end of the day, in the words of de Sars, “the traboules are really interior passageways, nothing more and nothing less.” Much else is left to the imagination.

Radziemski is a writer based in Paris. Find her on Twitter : @lilyradz.

Where to eat

Cafe du Soleil

2 Rue Saint-Georges

011-33-4-78-37-60-02

Word on the street is that Cafe du Soleil serves up the best quenelle — the must-have bouchon dish — in Lyon, and I’d believe it. This is the place to order the classics in a non-fussy environment. Reservations recommended. Open weekdays noon to 2 p.m., 7 to 10 p.m.; open weekends noon to 3 p.m., 7 to 10 p.m. Mains from about $15.

Brasserie le Nord

18 Rue Neuve

011-33-4-72-10-69-69

brasseries-bocuse.com/en

Opened by legendary French chef Paul Bocuse, this brasserie serves classical dishes in a more formal setting. Reservations recommended. Open weekdays noon to 2 p.m., 7 to 10:15 p.m.; open weekends noon to 2:30 p.m., 7 to 10:15 p.m. Mains from about $11.

Odessa Comptoir

14 Rue René Leynaud

011-33-9-80-34-32-51

bit.ly/odessa-lyon

Odessa Comptoir is a trendy natural wine bar on the way up the hill to Croix-Rousse. Apart from French wines, the bar carries bottles from Georgia, Spain, Germany, Italy, the Czech Republic and Austria. The small plates are delicious and perfect for an aperó before falling into a quenelle-induced food coma. Open Monday to Saturday, 6 p.m. to midnight. (Monday from 6:30 p.m.) Closed Sundays. Glass of wine from around $5.

Vieux Lyon tour

Place Saint-Jean

bit.ly/vieux-lyon-tour

If you’d like to forgo the map and take a tour around the traboules, there are numerous operators in the city. This one leaves from Place Saint-Jean, a central meeting point in Vieux Lyon. Open daily; times vary. Tours from about $10.50 per adult, about $6 ages 8 to 18, and children under 8 free.

Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

8 Place de Fourvière

011-33-4-78-25-86-19

fourviere.org/en

This basilica, located in the Fourvière district with panoramic views of Lyon, boasts elements from both Romanesque and Byzantine-style architecture, with ornate gold interiors. Basilica open daily, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Free.

Information

en.lyon-france.com

PLEASE NOTE

Potential travelers should take local and national public health directives regarding the pandemic into consideration before planning any trips. Travel health notice information can be found on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s interactive map showing travel recommendations by destination and the CDC’s travel health notice webpage .

Free Walking Tours in Lyon

Free Tour Lyon provides free walking tours in the splendid city of Lyon, once the capital of Roman Gaul and now the culinary capital of France, and thus the world! Lyon has a long history, a picturesque old town (Vieux Lyon) and lots of culture. But it is also a very modern French city, full of life, class and food! Join us on a Free Tour of Lyon to discover the city on a walking tour with an enthusiastic and knowledgeable guide. Come with us and fall in love with Lyon!

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Explore Lyon on a Free Tour

Our free walking tours in Lyon are the perfect way to start your visit. Get to know Lyon with a local guide and learn what makes this city tick! We show you the best local restaurants, teach you about local culture and amaze you with the long history of Lyon. Free Tour Lyon loves to show you around. We love this amazing city and enjoy talking about the Bouchon, the Traboules, Food, The French Resistence and the Silk Workers. Come Join us Today!

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On foot is the best way to discover the little streets of Vieux Lyon and Presqu'ile. On a walking tour, you can discover some of the beautiful hidden passageways and courtyards in the old city. There are so many! Also, cathedral St. Jean is well worth a visit. We will show you the impressive astronomical clock and point you to many small details in this impressive church. It is a perfect time to visit Lyon, most of the city has been restored! Come with us today!

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I love to show people around Lyon on a free tour, it's an amazing city with a lot of hidden things to discover!

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I have more than 800 5 star ratings on TripAdvisor for a 5/5 rating. People like you love the tours!

Discover the hidden passageways

One of the amazing things about Lyon is how much is hidden from plain view. Come discover the many Traboules and hidden courtyards on my tours!

Hi, my name is Paul!

I have been a tour guide for many years and I just love the city of Lyon. It is such a nice place to live and I get to tell people everyday what I love about it. On my free tours, I love to talk about what makes Lyon special, it's history and culture.

There is so much to talk about!

Lyon has many nicknames. It was the Capital of Gaul during Roman times. People still call it La Capitale de La Résistance. And of course, it's La Capitale de la Gastronomie. So I have so much to talk about: the Bouchons, Paul Bocuse, Emperor Claudius, the Traboules, Klaus Barbie and the Résistance, Silk, Jacquard and so much more!

My Tours are Free to Book!

Book now for free, and after, if you liked the tour, you could leave a tip to thank me! I enjoy answering all the questions you might have, before, during or after the tour. Email me, call me or send me a message and I'm happy to help in any way I can.

What people are saying about Free Tour Lyon...

Check my Current TripAdvisor Rating

Free Tour Lyon has an excellent rating on TripAdvisor. Check for yourself by clicking on the TripAdvisor logo! But make sure to book (for free) on freetourlyon.com, TripAdvisor asks money to book through them.

The Tour Schedule

I do different tours on different days. They are both great introductions to (vieux) Lyon, but cover different areas

Free Tour of Vieux Lyon

Time: 10:00 am Days: Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays Meeting point: Place Saint-Jean Areas covered: Cathedral & Place St. Jean, Horloge Astronomique, Basoche, Le Long Traboule, La Tour Rose, Palais de Justice, Saône, Presqu'île, Theatre des Celestins, Rue de la Republique, Hôtel Dieu

Free City Tour Lyon

Time: 10:00 am Days: Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays Meeting point: Place des Terreaux Areas covered: Terreaux, Hôtel de Ville, Croix-Rousse, Village des Créateurs, Amphitheatre, Fresque des Lyonnais, Vieux Lyon, Rue Juiverie, Galerie Philibert Delorme, Hôtel du Gouvernement

Reserve your Free Walking Tour of Lyon now, click on Book Now below

My Free Tours of Lyon sell out fast sometimes, so better reserve your spot now! I'll send you a confirmation and also an email with all my tips for things to do in Lyon, where to eat and practical information.

You can also just show up , but check the schedule to see if the tour is sold out or closed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Why is the Free Tour Lyon Free?

Which free walking tour should i choose, where are the meeting points of the free tour lyon, how long do the walking tours of lyon take, where do the tours end in lyon, do you do private walking tours, do you do social media, what are your covid19 policies.