Lyon Uncovered: Secret Passages, Murals & Culinary Crowns

Lyon, France’s third-largest city, is a majestic historic treasure nestled between two rivers. Often overshadowed by Paris, Lyon is secretly preferred by many seasoned travelers because of its relaxed atmosphere, incredible giant street murals, and its status as the true food capital of France. Here is your ultimate guide to discovering Lyon!

1. The Landmarks You Can’t Miss

• Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon): One of Europe’s most extensive Renaissance neighborhoods. Walk through the narrow cobblestone streets lined with beautiful pink and yellow courtyards that make you feel like you stepped back into the 1500s.
• Fourvière Basilica: Perched high on the “praying hill” overlooking the city, this magnificent white basilica features stunning gold mosaics inside. Right next to it sit two ancient, incredibly well-preserved Roman theaters.

2. Lyon Fun Facts

• The Secret Passageways: Lyon is famous for its Traboules—a network of hidden pedestrian shortcuts that run directly through private apartment buildings and inner courtyards. They allowed silk merchants to transport delicate fabrics dry during rain, and they were used by the French Resistance to hide from soldiers during WWII.
• Giant Living Walls: Lyon is home to some of the world’s most realistic Trompe-l’œil murals. Entire sides of massive 7-story buildings are painted so realistically with balconies, shops, and famous historic local people that you have to step closer to realize it is completely flat paint.

3. The Food Scene

• Dine in a ‘Bouchon’: Lyon is the culinary heart of France. To experience it, you must eat at a certified Bouchon—a cozy, traditional tavern serving hearty local dishes like Lyonnaise sausage, onion soup, and homemade prine tarts on red-and-white checkered tablecloths.
• The Indoor Food Mecca: Visit Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, a giant covered luxury food market named after Lyon’s legendary multi-Michelin-starred chef. Here you can sample world-class cheeses, fresh oysters, and exquisite French pastries.

4. Practical Travel Tips

• Use the Funicular Railway: Don’t exhaust yourself by walking up the incredibly steep hill to the Fourvière Basilica. Your standard metro ticket works on the historic Funiculaire—a charming cable-car train that pulls you straight up the mountain inside the hill.
• Hunt for the Traboules: Many of the hidden Traboules shortcuts are located behind normal-looking heavy wooden doors in Old Lyon. Look for small bronze plaques on the walls next to doors, push the button, and if it opens, step quietly inside to explore the secret paths.