Walk the Montée du Gourguillon, where every step echoes with history. This winding alleyway flanked by centuries-old buildings hides art, charm, and quiet magic—perfect for morning strolls or creative inspiration under golden sunlight.


Everything you need to know about Montée du Gourguillon
Hôtel des Arts Lyon is a top choice just steps from Montée du Gourguillon, blending historic architecture with contemporary elegance. Its prime location offers easy access to the Fourvière Hill and Saint-Jean Cathedral, while rooms feature panoramic views of the old town’s terracotta rooftops. The hotel provides complimentary Wi-Fi, luggage storage, and personalized concierge service. Guests can also explore nearby Cours de la Liberté and Croix-Rousse, renowned for artisanal shops, local cuisine, and vibrant street art—perfect for immersing in Lyon’s authentic culture.
From Lyon-Perrache Station, take Metro Line D toward "Hôtel de Ville", transfer at "Part-Dieu" to reach "Vieux-Lyon" station. It’s a 10-minute walk to Montée du Gourguillon. The journey takes about 25 minutes and avoids traffic congestion. For scenic views, travel in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy the old town’s terracotta rooftops and cobbled alleys. Alternatively, rent a Vélo’v bike nearby—affordable, eco-friendly, and ideal for exploring Lyon’s charming neighborhoods at your own pace.
Near Montée du Gourguillon, visitors can join guided heritage walks through medieval chapels and traditional workshops hidden along the cobblestone alleys. Every Saturday features street art exhibitions, where local artists transform walls into vibrant murals showcasing Lyon’s avant-garde spirit. Nearby, Les Cuisines du Gourguillon hosts French cooking classes, where guests learn to prepare regional specialties like Lyon sausages and braised dishes. At night, head to Fourvière Hill for breathtaking views of Lyon’s illuminated skyline and the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for romantic strolls.
Montée du Gourguillon, dating back to the 14th century, was originally a vital path connecting Old Lyon to Fourvière Hill, used by residents to fetch water and transport goods. The name derives from "gourguillon," meaning "small stream," reflecting its former natural landscape. Today, the narrow alley preserves its original stone paving and flanks 16th–18th century buildings, many listed as national heritage sites. Each summer, it hosts the Lumière Festival, where projection art brings history to life, allowing visitors to experience Lyon’s rich past through immersive storytelling and digital light displays.
Near Montée du Gourguillon in Lyon’s historic Old Town, Hôtel des Voyageurs stands out as a top choice. This boutique hotel blends 19th-century architecture with modern comforts, offering rooms decorated in authentic French country style. Many guestrooms provide panoramic views of Lyon’s rooftops and the Rhône River, especially stunning at sunset.
The hotel is just a 5-minute walk from the steep cobbled stairway, making it ideal for exploring nearby gems like Place des Terreaux and Cathédrale Saint-Jean. Public transport access is excellent—only 1.2 km from Lyon Part-Dieu Station, with direct access to Line L1 tram.
This area is also a favorite among photographers, particularly during early morning light when golden rays highlight the stone steps. Pair your stay with a meal at Le Bouchon des Halles, renowned for its traditional Burgundian cuisine, for a true taste of Lyon’s culinary soul.
From Lyon Part-Dieu Station, the most convenient option is taking the Tram Line L1. Board at "Part-Dieu" and alight at "Hôtel de Ville"—a 10-minute ride—then walk just 600 meters (7 minutes) to reach the entrance of Montée du Gourguillon.
For a scenic alternative, walk west along Rue de la République, pass through Place des Terreaux, turn onto Rue de la Poulaillerie, then right into the cobbled staircase. The 1.2-kilometer route takes about 15 minutes and offers glimpses of Lyon’s historic facades and street art.
Alternatively, use Vélo’v Lyon bike-sharing service available near the station. Ride along the Rhône River promenade for a relaxed, scenic journey—perfect for an evening trip during warmer months.
Montée du Gourguillon is one of Lyon’s most photogenic alleys, famed for its dramatic steep cobbled stairs framed by medieval buildings. The best time to shoot is early morning, when sunlight casts long shadows across the stones, creating striking contrast perfect for both landscape and portrait photography.
Key photo locations include the arched entrance gate, the colorful windows and wrought-iron railings along the slope, and the textured façades with intricate stonework. Shoot from a low angle to emphasize depth and perspective.
Weekends often feature street performers, offering dynamic candid moments. For a panoramic view, head to the upper level of Perrache Square—just a short walk away—to capture the entire stairway winding through the old town rooftops, framed by the city skyline and distant Rhône River.
Staying near Montée du Gourguillon offers immersive access to Lyon’s rich cultural heritage. Every Saturday morning, visit Les Halles de Lyon-Paul Bocuse, where local farmers, artisans, and chefs gather to sell fresh produce, handmade preserves, and regional specialties—ideal for food lovers seeking authentic French tastes.
The area is close to Théâtre des Célestins, which hosts intimate performances, jazz concerts, and experimental theatre, showcasing Lyon’s vibrant arts scene. In the evenings, take a short stroll up to Croix-Rousse Hill to explore historic silk workshops, many of which offer guided tours revealing Lyon’s legacy as France’s former silk capital.
During summer, join the festive atmosphere of the Fête des Lumières prelude: locals decorate the alleyways with lanterns and colorful flags, transforming the cobbled streets into a warm, magical setting—an unforgettable community celebration.
See what other travelers say about Montée du Gourguillon

Staying at this hotel for the second time was a no-brainer—I couldn’t be happier with my choice. Located just steps from Part-Dieu train station and right in the heart of Lyon, it’s perfect for exploring the city without hassle. My room was spotless, and the kitchenette was fully equipped with high-quality appliances—ideal for self-catering. But what truly sets this place apart is the staff. Every single team member I interacted with was warm, professional, and genuinely attentive. Their kindness made every moment more enjoyable, turning a simple stay into a memorable experience. If you’re visiting Lyon, this is definitely a top pick—you won’t regret it.

I was completely impressed by how great this hotel turned out to be. The location is fantastic—right in the heart of Presqu'île, with everything within walking distance: the Rhône River, old town, restaurants, and shops. The room was spacious, clean, and well-appointed, making it feel more like a home away from home. Breakfast was excellent—fresh, varied, and full of local flavors. Staff were friendly and helpful, and communication in English was smooth and natural. Everything about the stay felt thoughtfully designed for comfort and convenience. Highly recommend this place if you're visiting Lyon—it's a real gem!

Staying at MiHotel le Gourguillon was a perfect little escape. The bed was incredibly comfortable—so restful that I woke up feeling completely refreshed. The jacuzzi in the room was a real highlight, offering ultimate relaxation after a long day exploring Lyon. The staff were warm, welcoming, and genuinely helpful—always smiling and going the extra mile to make your stay enjoyable. The location is ideal if you're visiting Old Lyon; it's just a short walk or quick metro ride away, making sightseeing super convenient. Small touches like the quality robe, complimentary coffee, and refreshing beverages added a nice luxury feel. It’s clear they care about details. Highly recommend this charming hotel for anyone looking for comfort, charm, and a peaceful retreat in the heart of Lyon.

Absolutely top-notch experience at Résidence Ôtelia Affaires & Bien-être in Lyon! The rooms were immaculately clean, and the bathroom was spotless—everything felt fresh and well-maintained. I especially appreciated the convenient parking; it's free and spacious, which made arriving and leaving so stress-free. Location-wise, it’s close to everything, with easy access to public transit and downtown attractions. The whole stay was seamless, comfortable, and highly recommended. Will definitely return.

My stay at Ibis Styles Lyon Confluence was absolutely excellent! The hotel is perfectly located—just a short metro ride from the city center, and surrounded by great restaurants and shops. The room was clean, modern, and very comfortable, with a cozy bed that made for a restful night's sleep. The staff went above and beyond—friendly, helpful, and always with a smile. They truly made the experience feel personal and welcoming. I’d highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Lyon, especially if you value a warm atmosphere, convenience, and great value. Definitely planning to return!

Staying at Novotel Lyon Centre Confluence Bord de Saone was a fantastic experience. The location is perfect—right in the heart of Lyon's modern Confluence district, with easy access to public transit and a peaceful, quiet atmosphere just steps from the riverfront. The room was clean, spacious, and well-maintained, with modern amenities and excellent soundproofing—no noise from the street or neighboring rooms, which made for a really restful night’s sleep. The staff were friendly, professional, and efficient throughout our stay, offering helpful tips about local attractions and ensuring everything ran smoothly. From check-in to checkout, every detail felt thoughtfully handled. It’s a reliable, high-quality choice for travelers visiting Lyon, and I’d definitely book here again. A top pick for both comfort and convenience.

I absolutely loved my stay at Hôtel des Artistes in Lyon—truly one of the best experiences I’ve had during my trip. The location is unbeatable for a short visit; it’s perfectly situated right in the heart of the city, making everything within easy reach by foot or public transport. Despite its central spot, the price-to-quality ratio is outstanding—this isn’t a luxury hotel, but it comfortably meets all essential needs without breaking the bank. From the moment I arrived, the staff were warm and welcoming, creating an instant sense of comfort. The entrance has such a unique artistic charm that sets the tone for the whole experience. My room was immaculate—spotless clean, with a cozy, well-made bed that ensured a restful night’s sleep. I especially appreciated the hotel’s eco-conscious efforts: no single-use plastics, thoughtful sustainability practices, and a genuine commitment to protecting the environment. It’s refreshing to see a place that cares beyond just service. Overall, this stay was exceptional—not just because of the convenience or cleanliness, but because of the little details that show real care. I’d happily come back and recommend it to anyone visiting Lyon.

Lyon truly lives up to its reputation as a world capital of gastronomy—every day was a delicious adventure! The hotel’s location is fantastic, making it super easy to explore the city on foot or by public transit. Staff were incredibly attentive and friendly, adding a warm touch to our stay. But what really stood out was the tiny vintage elevator in the hallway—it’s small, yes, but so charming and cinematic, like stepping into a classic black-and-white film. It added a unique, nostalgic flair to the whole experience. Everything about this place felt thoughtfully designed, from the ambiance to the details. A perfect blend of comfort, character, and convenience—10/10, would absolutely recommend!

Staying at this hotel was an absolute delight. The entire property has been recently renovated with a perfect blend of modern elegance and cozy charm. From the moment I walked in, the staff made me feel truly welcomed—attentive without being intrusive. The breakfast was exceptional, featuring fresh local ingredients that really showcased Lyon’s culinary spirit. My room was a dream: stylish yet comforting, with luxurious bedding that made for a restful night’s sleep. Located right in the heart of Brotteaux, it’s ideal for exploring the area on foot or by metro. I’d highly recommend this gem to anyone visiting Lyon.

Staying at Hôtel le Roosevelt Lyon was an absolute delight. Located right in the heart of Lyon, it’s incredibly convenient for exploring the city—just a short walk to the main attractions and public transit. The hotel is brand new with modern, stylish rooms that feel both luxurious and welcoming. The staff went above and beyond with their warm hospitality, making us feel right at home from the moment we arrived. Clean, well-designed, and thoughtfully equipped, this place truly stands out. If you're visiting Lyon, this is one of the best choices for comfort and location. I’d definitely come back and highly recommend it.

Staying at Apparthotel Privilodges Lyon Lumière was an absolute delight. The on-site fitness center is perfect for guests who like to stay active—whether it’s a quick workout in the morning or winding down with some light exercise, it’s always available and well-maintained. Right outside the hotel, there’s a convenient mini-market, so grabbing snacks, drinks, or essentials late at night is never an issue. As an apartment-style hotel, each unit comes with a small kitchenette, which made preparing simple meals easy and cost-effective—ideal for longer stays or travelers who prefer cooking their own food. Located just steps from the city center, it’s incredibly easy to explore Lyon’s top attractions by foot or public transit. With its unbeatable convenience, comfort, and thoughtful touches, this place truly stands out as one of the best options in the area.

First time staying here and overall, I'm really pleased! The bedding is super comfortable, and the dorms are spacious with a peaceful atmosphere—everyone was respectful of others' rest. The bathrooms are clean, showers have consistent hot water, and there's a hairdryer available, which is a nice touch. The only minor issue is that the pancake machine in the breakfast area is awkwardly placed, making it a bit tricky to use. But honestly, this doesn't take away from the great value and vibe of the place. It's well-located for exploring Lyon, and the staff are friendly and helpful. I’d definitely come back and recommend it to fellow travelers looking for a cozy, budget-friendly stay.
Explore more amazing destinations