What to see in Vieux Lyon
Vieux Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a district steeped in history and charm.
Between cobbled streets, secret traboules and Renaissance buildings, every corner holds a surprise. Here’s a selection of must-see sites to explore.
Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral
Just a 10-minute walk from Le Phénix Hôtel, this 12th-century Gothic cathedral is famous for its 14th-century astronomical clock. It also boasts a peaceful archaeological garden on its northern flank.
Address: Place Saint-Jean, 69005 Lyon
Opening hours: Daily from 8am to 7pm
Price: Free admission
Miniature museum and cinema
Just a 5-minute walk away, this unique European museum features film sets and over 100 miniature scenes by Dan Ohlmann. A captivating visit for all ages.
Address: 60 Rue Saint-Jean, 69005 Lyon
Opening hours: Every day from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Price: Adults €9.50, children €6.50
The traboules of Vieux Lyon
These secret passages run through courtyards and buildings, offering a glimpse of Renaissance architecture. The Longue Traboule, for example, links 27 rue du Bœuf to 54 rue Saint-Jean.
Access: Free for some, guided tours available
Tip: Ask at the Phénix Hôtel reception desk for a map of the traboules open to the public.
Gadagne Museums
Housed in a 16th-century townhouse, these museums are home to the Musée d’Histoire de Lyon and the Musée des Arts de la Marionnette. Immerse yourself in the city’s past and the world of Guignol.
Address: 1 Place du Petit Collège, 69005 Lyon
Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Price: Adults €8, free for under-18s
Thomassin House
Dating from 1298, this Gothic residence is one of the oldest in Vieux Lyon. Located on the Place du Change, it bears witness to the wealth of Lyon’s merchants in the Middle Ages.
Address: 2 Place du Change, 69005 Lyon
Access : Outdoor, free view
Laurencin House
Also known as the “Grand Palais”, this 15th-century house features remarkable Renaissance architecture with its superimposed galleries and spiral staircase. It also features an emblematic traboule.
Address: 24 Rue Saint-Jean, 69005 Lyon
Access : Outdoor, free view
Saint Georges district
Less crowded than Saint-Jean, this district offers a peaceful atmosphere with its artisan workshops and charming alleyways. Don’t miss the Place de la Trinité and Saint-Georges church.
Access: 15-minute walk from Le Phénix Hôtel
Maison du Crible (Pink Tower)
This 16th-century house is distinguished by its ochre staircase tower. Henri IV stayed here when he married Marie de Médicis in 1600.
Address: 16 Rue du Bœuf, 69005 Lyon
Access : Outdoor, free view
Church Saint Paul
One of Lyon’s oldest churches, combining Romanesque and Gothic styles. Its lantern tower has been a listed monument since 1920.
Address: Place Saint-Paul, 69005 Lyon
Opening hours: Daily, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Price: Free admission
Theater Punch
This theater perpetuates Lyon’s puppet tradition with shows for young and old. A cultural experience typical of the city.
Address: 2 Rue Louis Carrand, 69005 Lyon
Schedule: Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays
Price: Adults €8, children €6
Plan your visit
The Phénix Hôtel, located in the heart of Vieux Lyon, is the ideal starting point for exploring these sites. Don’t hesitate to ask our reception for personalized advice, maps of the area or reservations for guided tours.