Lyon Saint-Paul: must-see places in the district
Welcome to Lyon’s emblematic Saint-Paul district
This picturesque district is a cultural and architectural gem, steeped in centuries of history and tradition.
From its cobbled streets and colorful facades to its mysterious traboules and lively squares, Lyon Saint-Paul is full of treasures to discover.
Saint-Paul church
Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of the Church of Saint-Paul, a veritable treasure nestled in Lyon’s eponymous district. Dating back more than eight centuries, this emblematic church bears witness to the city’s cultural and spiritual wealth.
Founded in the 12th century by the canons of the Order of Saint Augustine, the church of Saint-Paul has undergone several transformations over the centuries, reflecting the artistic and religious evolutions of its time. Its architecture harmoniously blends Gothic and Baroque styles, with its imposing façade and magnificent stained glass windows bathing the interior in divine light. Upon entering, visitors are immediately struck by the beauty of its frescoes and sculptures, witnesses to a glorious past and intense religious fervor.
The BondyPalace
Let me take you on a journey through the fascinating history of the Palais de Bondy, an architectural marvel nestled in the heart of Lyon. Built in the 18th century, this majestic palace bears witness to the opulence and refinement that characterized the Age of Enlightenment.
Commissioned by the Comte de Bondy, this masterpiece of neoclassical architecture was designed by the talented architect Antoine-Michel Perrache. With its elegant lines and harmonious proportions, the Palais de Bondy is a perfect example of the architectural style in vogue at the time. Its sumptuously decorated salons, frescoed ceilings and formal gardens make it a must-see for history and art lovers alike. Today, the Palais de Bondy houses the Rhône prefecture, perpetuating its role as a privileged witness to Lyon’s history and heritage.
Philibert de l’Orme gallery
Enter the enchanting world of the Galerie de Philibert de l’Orme, a hidden treasure in the heart of Lyon that transports you back to the Renaissance. Built in the 16th century by the famous French architect Philibert de l’Orme, this elegant and refined gallery is a true architectural gem.
Its ingenious design harmoniously blends elements of classical and Renaissance architecture, creating a unique and enchanting atmosphere. Adorned with exquisite details such as delicate sculptures and elaborate friezes, the Galerie de Philibert de l’Orme seduces visitors with its timeless charm and peaceful ambience.
Rue juiverie and its houses
The charming Rue de Juiverie is a medieval gem nestled in the heart of Vieux Lyon. With its half-timbered houses and cobbled alleyways, this picturesque street exudes history at every turn. Once home to Lyon’s Jewish community, Rue de Juiverie is brimming with architectural treasures and centuries-old traditions.
Stroll along its narrow sidewalks and admire the elegance of its medieval houses with their colorful facades. Some of these mansions have been transformed into artisan boutiques and art galleries, offering visitors an insight into local craftsmanship and unique creations. Be sure to stop by the charming souvenir and local produce stores to take a little of Lyon’s soul home with you. For an authentic experience, take the time to lose yourself in the narrow streets of Rue de Juiverie and discover its hidden treasures, quaint little cafés and artisan boutiques. A stroll down this medieval street is an unforgettable escapade into Lyon’s past, where history blends with the timeless charm of local architecture.
The former Saint-Paul prison
Immerse yourself in the intriguing atmosphere of the former Saint-Paul prison, a place steeped in history in the heart of Lyon’s eponymous district. Once a notorious prison, it now offers a captivating visit for the curious and lovers of fascinating stories. Imagine walking through the dark corridors and narrow cells where illustrious figures and notorious criminals have been held.
Explore the secrets and anecdotes of this emblematic site that has seen so many stories and destinies unfold. Transformed into a museum, the former Saint-Paul prison invites you to discover its turbulent past through interactive exhibits and poignant testimonials. It’s a visit not to be missed, as you delve into the bowels of Lyon’s history and discover the fascinating stories that marked this once-dreaded place.
Saint-Paul station
Ah, the Gare Saint-Paul, a little-known nugget nestled in the heart of Vieux Lyon! If you thought a simple train station couldn’t be a place full of charm and surprises, think again. This little railway station, located in one of Lyon’s most picturesque districts, is packed with hidden treasures that are well worth a visit.
As soon as you set foot on the platform, you’re transported into an atmosphere that’s both retro and bohemian. With its stone walls and vaulted arcades, Gare Saint-Paul exudes an authentic charm that takes us back to a time when train travel was synonymous with adventure and discovery.
But what really makes this station special are the boutiques and small businesses that surround it. From local artisans and independent designers to vintage boutiques and cozy cafés, Gare Saint-Paul is a veritable melting pot of talent and good addresses. You can unearth unique treasures in the craft stores, feast on local delicacies in the small restaurants or simply sip a coffee while admiring the ballet of travelers.
And what about its location? Nestled just a stone’s throw from the magnificent Vieux Lyon district, Gare Saint-Paul is the ideal starting point for exploring the cobbled streets, secret traboules and historic monuments of this emblematic part of the city. So the next time you take the train in Lyon, be sure to stop off at Gare Saint-Paul. You won’t regret it!
The currency exchange temple
As soon as you step through its doors, you’re transported to another time, when Lyon was the nerve center of international trade. Built in the 16th century, the Temple du Change was once the headquarters of the city’s moneychangers and merchants, where commercial transactions were in full swing. Today, this magnificent edifice is home to a dynamic cultural space featuring exhibitions, conferences and artistic events.
But what really makes the Temple du Change special are its magnificent vaulted rooms and remarkable Renaissance architecture. Every stone tells a story, every fresco evokes a bygone era. As you stroll through its corridors, you can almost feel the bustle of the past, and hear the whispers of the merchants of yesteryear.
And that’s not all! The Temple du Change is also a meeting place for artists and cultural enthusiasts. From contemporary art exhibitions to classical music concerts and lectures on the history of Lyon, there’s something for every taste and sensibility.
Located close to many of the city’s other treasures, such as the Place des Terreaux and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, the Temple du Change is a must-see on any visit to Lyon.
Visit visit to Lyon Saint-Paul
One of the most convenient ways to get to Saint-Paul is by public transport. The Saint-Paul metro station, served by line D, is close to the station of the same name.
From here, you can easily reach the Vieux Lyon district on foot. If you prefer to travel by tramway, the T1 line also has a stop nearby, called “Saint-Paul – Saint-Vincent”. For strollers, Saint-Paul is also accessible on foot from various parts of Lyon, notably from the Presqu’île via the Palais de Justice footbridge, or from the Croix-Rousse via the Jardin des Chartreux staircase. Finally, for those who prefer to travel by car, parking is available in nearby public parking lots, although spaces may be limited in the historic district. In short, whether you choose to take the metro, streetcar, walk or car, you’ve got plenty of options for getting to Saint-Paul and discovering all that this emblematic district of Lyon has to offer!