Is Lyon Worth Visiting? Top Reasons to Explore in 2025

Should You Visit Lyon in 2025?

Lyon is a city in France that is often overlooked, even though it's between Paris and the Alps. Paris or Nice are what most people think of first, but Lyon possesses centuries of history, fantastic food, and local charm. If you're asking yourself, "Should I visit Lyon?" — the answer is absolutely yes.

From the charming old buildings of Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon) to being called the Gastronomic Capital of the World, this city is a great experience for any kind of traveler.

1. A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Lyon's old town is the best-preserved Renaissance quarter in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander cobblestone streets, secret passageways called "traboules," and colorful buildings along the River Saône. The climb to Fourvière Hill provides tourists with panoramic views and the stunning Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

Did you know? The Romans founded Lyon more than 2,000 years ago and once declared it the capital of Gaul!

Want to visit these cool places while travelling France then you must get the France Schengen visa appointment also did you know that UK residents need a France visa?

2. Lyon is Culinary Heaven – A Foodie's Dream

If you're a foodie, Lyon is almost heaven. With 17 Michelin-starred restaurants, dozens of authentic "bouchons lyonnais" (local bistros), and an infinite number of markets, this is where your taste buds vacation.

Below is the Must-try dishes while traveling to Lyon:

• Sausisson brioché (sweet bread-cooked sausage)
• Rosette de Lyon (cured pork sausage)
• Crust pâté
• Tarte à la praline

Lyon is ranked #1 for dining experiences in Europe, beating out Paris and Florence, according to the 2025 Culinary Travel Index.

3. Abundant in Art, Culture & Museums

Lyon has something for each culture enthusiast:

• Musée des Confluences: It is architectural wonder and science museum.
• Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon: It is France's largest fine arts museum. You can add this is your traveling bucket list.
• Marionette Museum: Celebrating Lyon's puppet-making heritage.

And you can catch open-air opera, riverbank jazz evenings, or street acts during this summer activities.

4. Vibrant Nightlife and Entertainment Scene - Travel to Lyon

If you enjoy a wine bar on the riverbank, a hidden cocktail bar, or dancing late at night, Lyon nightlife is vibrant. Presqu'île contains a number of chic cafés and bars, and student-populated Croix-Rousse offers a different, more laid-back mood.

In a Travel Trends Report for 2025, Lyon was among the top 5 nightlife cities for international tourists in France.

Can't get Schengen visa appointment timeslots?

Don't miss your trip! You can simply fill out the online Schengen visa application form and book an appointment hassle-free. They will take you through available slots according to your preferred date and time.

5. Local Character with Shopper's Paradise 

Thrill seekers and vintage shoppers will love Lyon's:

• Fashion shops in Croix-Rousse
• Small craft shops in Old Town
• Modern malls like La Part-Dieu

Stores like Marché Saint-Antoine offer fresh produce and vegetables, cheeses, and local treats—perfect for a picnic along the river.

6. Great Weather in summer

If you visit between May and September, you can expect clear skies and a vibrant atmosphere. The summer temperature is approximately 22°C (71°F), and it typically goes up to 28°C (82°F).

Summer also consists of outdoor films, river festivals, and food truck festivals.

Lyon received over 8 million visitors in 2025, July and August being the busiest months.

7. Inexpensive to Backpackers and Students

Lyon is an affordable deal compared to larger cities like Paris:

• Low-cost hostels & Airbnbs
• Free sites (most parks, basilicas, traboules)
• Public transport and museum student discounts

It also has a large population of foreign students, so it is lively and vibrant.

8. Simple to Get Around

With the vast public transportation system (metro, trams, buses), it is easy to navigate Lyon. Lyon is also extremely pedestrian-friendly, particularly in the city center.

The Lyon metro was among the top 3 safest and most efficient in France, according to a 2025 urban transport survey.

Thus, is Lyon worth visiting?

Definitely. If you enjoy history, cuisine, art, or are traveling on a shoestring — Lyon has it all. It is real, it is welcoming, and it is full of character, without the masses of Paris.

So if you're organizing your next trip to France, don't miss Lyon — it could be the unexpected highlight you didn't know you needed.