Planning a day trip from Paris? We’d be lying if we didn’t think Lyon was one of the best.
High-speed trains from Paris to Lyon are super convenient, getting you from the Eiffel Tower to the Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste in two hours.
All with the comfort and convenience only a train can provide.
Image Credit, Getty Images, Gael Fontaine. Location, Lyon, France.
5 Reasons for a Paris to Lyon Day Trip
Une: Roman Ruins
Bet you didn’t think Ancient Rome would make an appearance on our Lyon list. The Gallo-Roman Museum is an archeological site which overlooks its neighbouring Ancient Roman amphitheater. Chronicling five centuries of the city's history, these ruins offer a journey into the vestiges of Lyon's ancient civilisation. The Roman amphitheater also offers music lovers a chance to indulge, with the concert Nuits de Fourvière spanning the summer months.
Deux: Very French Food
Yes, much of the food in France is “French”, but Lyon’s got some gastronomical goodness that can’t be beaten. You’ll find plenty of Michelin Stars and more down-to-earth eateries to quell your appetite for fine French cuisine. You'll find both traditional cuisine from restaurants dating back to early 20th century, such as Léon de Lyon (1904), alongside punchy modern takes on French cuisine, such a Nicolas Guilloton's restaurant L'Atelier des Augustins.
Trois: Easy On The Wallet
You won’t need to set aside a huge budget for a Lyon day trip from Paris by train. Pick one or two restaurants and attractions, then spend the rest of your time wandering the Parc de la Tête d’Or, Old Town, and the trails up to Basilique Notre Dame de Fourviere.
Quatre: Live Events Galore
If you’re missing Lyon as a host city for the 2023 Rugby World Cup, the city’s still abuzz with events. From summer music festivals to football and film festivals, plan your day trip based on Lyon’s live events calendar.
Cinq: You Only Need A Day
While you could spend weeks along the Saône River, Lyon is compact enough to explore to your liking and still make it back to Paris feeling like you’ve maximized your day trip.
Image Credit, Getty Images, Gregory_Dubus. Location, Saone River, France.
Perks off the platform: Lyon
Perks of departing from Lyon Part-Dieu:
- It’s near sites like the Lyon Botanical Garden, Lyon Auditorium, Montluc Prison National Memorial
- It’s conveniently close to the historic district and likely your hotel
- Loads of restaurants and shops in and around the station
Perks of from Lyon St-Exupéry TGV
- It’s located at the Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport, so you can fly in and head immediately to Paris
- There are multiple cafes and take away spots to grab a quick bite
- No need to head into the city’s crowds
Perks off the platform: Paris
Perks of arriving at Paris Gare de Lyon
- Easy walk to the Notre-Dame Cathedral
- It’s iconic clock tower makes for a good selfie backdrop
- Connects you to Paris Metro lines
Perks of arriving at Marne-la-Vallée
- Right at Disney World Paris’ doorstep
- Skip all of the capital city congestion
- Discover unique sites like the Louis Braille Museum and Castle of Chessy
Looking for more inspiration of what to see in Paris and what to do in Lyon? We’ve got you covered. Trying to find the cheapest price of tickets from Lyon to Paris by train? Consider that done, too. Download the Trainline app today and buy the best tickets before they’re gone.
Header Image Credit, Atlantide Phototravel. Location, Old Lyon, Lyon, France.