A Romantic Getaway in Old Lyon
A Weekend for Two Along the Saône
For a romantic getaway in Lyon, nothing beats Old Lyon: its Renaissance-era alleyways, its traboules, the banks of the Saône, and Fourvière Hill are all perfect for exploring hand in hand, without a car. Staying on the riverbanks, facing the water, makes all the difference.
Valentine’s Day is often associated with romance. In Lyon, the season matters less than the setting: golden light on the river, ochre and pink facades, and the sound of a bell in the distance. The good news is that all of this is just as real today as it is in February. Here’s how to plan a romantic getaway in the city’s oldest neighborhood, starting from the Phénix Hotel.
Stay on the banks of the Saône, in the heart of Old Lyon
The Phénix Hotel is located at 7 Quai de Bondy, on the banks of the Saône, in a neighborhood designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 4-star hotel, featuring Florentine-style Renaissance architecture, has 35 carefully renovated rooms. Some offer a direct view of the river.
- Large windows overlooking the Saône. Waking up to the reflection of the water on the ceiling is already a great start to the weekend.
- Breakfast is served in your room or in the beautiful dining room.
- Le Comptoir Phœnix, a bistronomic restaurant featuring creative cuisine.
- A bar where you can keep the party going and a 24-hour front desk, so you can check in whenever it’s convenient for you.
Our romantic getaway: a weekend in Old Lyon
Saturday: Get lost in the narrow streets
Morning: Rue Saint-Jean and the cathedral. From the hotel, it’s just a few minutes’ walk to Saint-Jean Cathedral and its astronomical clock. The cobblestone streets, shops, and Renaissance facades set the tone.
Noon: A traditional Lyon bouchon. Old Lyon is the perfect place to sample traditional cuisine: quenelles, brioche-style sausage, and praline tart. Be sure to make a reservation, especially on weekends.
Early afternoon: the traboules. These secret passageways between buildings were once used by the canuts and the Resistance. Today, couples explore them, wandering from one Renaissance courtyard to another.
Late afternoon: Fourvière. Take the funicular from the Vieux Lyon station up to Fourvière Hill. From the basilica’s forecourt, the city spreads out at your feet, between the Saône and Rhône rivers. If you prefer to walk, the Jardin du Rosaire offers a peaceful, flower-filled descent toward Vieux Lyon.
Evening: dinner at Comptoir Cecil, just a stone’s throw from the hotel, followed by a nightcap at the hotel bar.
Sunday: Enjoy the water, take your time
Morning: Breakfast in your room, overlooking the Saône.
Late morning: a stroll along the riverbanks. You can explore the banks of the Saône on foot or by bike.
Early afternoon: a boat ride. A river shuttle dock is located near the hotel and connects to the Confluence district. Check the schedules—they vary by season.
Cultural option: The Gadagne Museum, right in the heart of Old Lyon, tells the city’s history, while the ancient theater at Fourvière and the Lugdunum Museum offer a glimpse into Roman Lyon.
Our Services for Couples
- A bottle of champagne or a welcome drink in the room
- Late check-out the next morning
- VIP gourmet welcome
- Dinner at Comptoir Cecil
- A bouquet of flowers, a personalized message, or a custom decoration upon request