Lyon : 15 unique places to discover the city differently
Lyon is a city full of surprises. Behind the classic monuments, it is full of secret corners and unexpected atmospheres. To enrich your walks and live a true experience in Lyon, here are 15 unique places to explore, between hidden gardens, surprising panoramas and unique workshops.
The Rosa Mir Garden
A hidden masterpiece, created by a mason in tribute to his mother. This small garden is full of columns, shells and flowers. Entering it, you discover a place almost out of time, far from the noise of Lyon. The visit is ideal for those looking for a singular setting to photograph. This place also tells part of the history of its creator, whose artisanal work evokes a real open-air workshop.
The Cour des Voraces
This large seven-storey staircase is one of the symbols of the district. It recalls the life of the silk workers. Classified as a historic monument, this traboule impresses with its architecture and attracts lovers of urban photography. It illustrates the collective memory of the inhabitants, proud of this heritage.
The traboules of Vieux Lyon
In the old Saint-Jean district, these passages connect hidden inner courtyards. Some traboules can be discovered freely, others during guided tours with reservation. These unusual passages are a typical curiosity of Lyon, marked by several centuries of history. The walk can continue to the lively Saint-Jean square.
The Montée Saint-Nicolas de Lange
This discreet climb leads to a surprising panorama. From the heights, the view extends over the whole city. It is a perfect place for a break, with a peaceful atmosphere. You especially appreciate the calm that contrasts with the activity of the center.
The Fresque des Canuts
When we talk about unique places in Lyon, this is one of the most emblematic. Painted on a building, it illustrates the life of a district. This giant trompe-l’œil evolves regularly. A true living fresco of Lyon, it surprises with its details. Each passage offers new opportunities to take an original photo. It has become an identity symbol of the inhabitants of the City of Lights.
The Croix-Rousse tunnel
This tunnel, used by pedestrians and cyclists, sometimes becomes a luminous journey. In the evening, projections transform this passage into a unique experience. A walk that will also please photography enthusiasts.
The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière and its roofs
A famous monument of Lyon, but did you know you can access the walkways ? The panorama is impressive there. This basilica can be visited with a guide, and access to the roofs adds extra charm. The price is affordable and it is a perfect way to understand its role in the history of the city.
Île Barbe
An ancient abbey in the middle of the water, the place is ideal for a peaceful walk. Between medieval house and romantic promenade, the place attracts those who like calm visits and panoramas worthy of a postcard. Here, you feel like traveling to another age of Lyon’s past.
The Grand Hôtel-Dieu
This renovated monument combines heritage and modernity. Its inner courtyards house shops and restaurants. Located in the city center, it lends itself to a pleasant stroll. A perfect place for a break and a souvenir photo. Some spaces also host culinary or craft workshops, open to visits.
The Brotteaux station
A witness of the Art Deco style, this former station now houses dining spaces. It can also be discovered during thematic tours on the architecture of Lyon, with several interesting viewpoints for photos. This site tells an important page of railway history.
The street art of Perrache
Under the interchange, large colorful frescoes transform this passage into a gallery. This atypical route attracts the curious looking for different walks. The colorful walls offer an ideal playground for photography lovers. The proximity to Carnot square makes it possible to continue the discovery.
Silk workshops
Attend a weaving demonstration and discover a real workshop. These perpetuate a unique local know-how. A guided tour with reservation makes it possible to better understand their role in the identity of Lyon. The price remains accessible, and the Lyonnais artisans enjoy sharing their passion.
The Museum of Miniatures and Cinema
A surprising place that exhibits models and film sets. This singular museum attracts both cinema enthusiasts and lovers of meticulous details. Each room reveals an immersive visit, perfect to discover behind the scenes and the ingenuity of the artisans.
The Garden of Curiosities
This discreet park offers a panoramic view of the city of Gones. You find sculptures and benches there for a quiet break. This hidden garden remains one of the best places for a romantic photo and unusual visits.
The Guignol theater
An emblematic character of Lyon culture, Guignol has made young and old laugh for two centuries. This theater is a perfect stop to end your visits of the day. It has gone through the ages while keeping its popular spirit, still appreciated by families from the little ones to the grown-ups.
Conclusion: discover another side of Lyon
These 15 unique places show how Lyon is a city full of surprises. Between gardens, workshops, walks and shows, each visit is an opportunity to live a unique experience.
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