The Musée d'Histoire de Lyon breathes life into the city’s soul—from Roman ruins to industrial innovation. Each exhibit whispers tales of how Lyon evolved from a quiet town into a cultural powerhouse. Don’t miss the recreated 19th-century street scene: step inside and hear the echoes of old shopkeepers’ voices, the air thick with history and heart.



Everything you need to know about Musée d'Histoire de Lyon
Hôtel de la Paix is a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from Musée d'Histoire de Lyon in Lyon’s historic Old Town. This boutique hotel blends 19th-century architecture with modern elegance, featuring French-style windows offering views of Saint-Paul Church and the ancient district. Its rooftop terrace café provides panoramic views of Fourvière Hill, especially stunning at sunset. The hotel is also steps away from Fourvière Square and several Michelin-recommended restaurants, making it ideal for travelers seeking culture and cuisine in one location.
Take Lyon Metro Line B to the "Cordeliers" station, then walk just 300 meters to reach Musée d'Histoire de Lyon. This route connects major landmarks like the Cathedral, Fourvière Hill, and Fourvière Square. Alternatively, take Bus 28 or 47 to "Hôpital de la Croix-Rousse" and walk 5 minutes. For eco-friendly travel, Vélo'v bike-sharing stations are available nearby, perfect for short explorations around the museum and surrounding neighborhoods.
The Musée d'Histoire de Lyon features interactive zones designed for children, such as the "Little Lyon Citizen" play area and a Roman daily life simulation room, where kids learn history through role-playing. Nearby, Fourvière Hill Park offers open green space and playgrounds ideal for families. Also worth visiting is the Musée des Enfants, which hosts themed tours and hands-on workshops, including cooking and crafts. Family-guided programs are available, making it a perfect destination for intergenerational learning and fun.
Visit Le Bouchon du Vieux Lyon, a hidden gem in Lyon’s old town known for its Burgundian-style stews and authentic Lyonnaise sausages. The restaurant retains 18th-century wooden beams and staff provide historical insights into each dish in French. Another must-try is La Maison des Truffes, specializing in truffle-based cuisine and handmade pastries. Their truffle cheese tart and Lyonnaise rose cake are crowd favorites, paired beautifully with regional red wines for an authentic taste of Lyon’s culinary heritage.
Musée d'Histoire de Lyon is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00, closed on Mondays. Admission is €8 for adults, €5 for students and seniors (65+), and free for visitors under 18. Extended hours until 20:00 are available on weekends and public holidays. HopeGoo online in advance is recommended to avoid queues. Multilingual audio guides, including Chinese, are available for international guests, enhancing understanding of Lyon’s rich history from Roman times to the present.
The Fourvière Hill area surrounding Musée d'Histoire de Lyon is rich in history. Key sites include the Roman Theatre Ruins, one of Europe’s best-preserved ancient performance venues, with visible arches and stone tiers. Nearby, Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière offers breathtaking city views from its summit. The Vieux Lyon district itself is a rare fully preserved medieval quarter with cobbled streets and 15th-century stone buildings, providing a living museum experience that transports visitors back to the Middle Ages.
See what other travelers say about Musée d'Histoire de Lyon

Stayed for two nights and absolutely loved it! The hotel is incredibly convenient—right across from the tram stop, making it super easy to get around Lyon. There’s a pharmacy, a bakery, and a supermarket just steps away, so everything you need is within walking distance. Breakfast was generous and varied, with fresh pastries, fruits, and hot options—perfect start to the day. I upgraded to a room with a balcony for €10, and it was totally worth it. Waking up to coffee on the balcony with a view of the city was such a treat. The room was spacious, quiet, and well-appointed. Great value for money, excellent location, and a fantastic stay overall. I’d definitely come back and highly recommend this place 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 Hotel Chromatics by HappyCulture in Lyon was an absolute delight. From the moment I walked in, the unique and artistic vibe of the hotel stood out—modern yet cozy, with thoughtful details everywhere. The staff went above and beyond with their warm, friendly service; they made me feel welcome and well taken care of throughout my visit. My room was spotless, beautifully designed, and super comfortable—perfect for a relaxing night’s sleep. It’s ideally located near public transit, making it easy to explore the city on foot or by metro. Every little thing felt intentional and well-executed. This wasn’t just a place to stay—it felt like home away from home. Highly recommend this gem for anyone visiting Lyon.

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.

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.
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