Step into Passage Thiaffait, a whimsical hidden alleyway in Lyon’s old town—where centuries-old colorful windows and vintage signs line both sides, turning every step into a romantic stroll through French charm. Sunlight streams through the glass roof, casting dreamy patterns on the cobblestones, making every snapshot feel like a scene from a film. This is pure artistic magic, a must-visit secret tucked away in Lyon’s heart.




Everything you need to know about Passage Thiaffait
Near Passage Thiaffait in Lyon, Hôtel des Arts stands out as a top choice, blending historic architecture with contemporary design. Just a 3-minute walk away, its rooms feature French-style casement windows offering views of the artistic installations and century-old arcades. The hotel provides free bicycle rentals, making it easy to explore nearby Vieux Lyon and the Fourvière Market. Guests can enjoy breakfast crafted by local chefs, showcasing authentic Lyonnaise cuisine.
Another excellent option is Maison des Arts, a boutique hotel housed in a 19th-century commercial building. It preserves original exposed timber beams and mosaic tiles, creating an immersive historical ambiance. Its rooftop garden offers a tranquil spot for reading or sipping coffee. Both properties are within walking distance of Lyon Metro Line B, ensuring effortless access to the city’s cultural heart.
The easiest way to reach Passage Thiaffait from central Lyon is via Metro Line B to the "Hôtel de Ville" station. Exit the station and walk along Rue du Président-Clemenceau for about 5 minutes. For those who prefer walking, start from Hôtel de Ville and stroll through the charming cobbled streets past the Fourvière Market, passing numerous art boutiques and cafés. This 800-meter route takes around 12 minutes and is ideal for travelers enjoying urban exploration.
Alternatively, Citybike rental stations are conveniently located nearby, allowing a 6-minute bike ride through Lyon’s historic neighborhoods, offering a more immersive experience of the city’s old-town charm.
Near Passage Thiaffait, visitors can enjoy several unique cultural experiences. Every Saturday morning, the Fourvière Market hosts guided market tours led by local farmers and artisans, showcasing traditional ingredients like Lyon sausage, Breton crepes, and handcrafted glassware. The passage itself regularly features mini art exhibitions by emerging local artists, with some including interactive workshops.
In the evening, join the Night Walk Through Vieux Lyon tour, which includes insightful commentary on the passage’s history as a 19th-century arcade and its architectural details. Some nearby restaurants, such as Le Café des Arts, offer dinner-and-art fusion events, combining French cuisine with live music performances, allowing guests to savor Lyon’s rich artistic heritage through taste and sound.
Passage Thiaffait itself is a prime photography location, with its 19th-century arcade structure and stained-glass skylight creating a poetic interplay of light and shadow. Visit around 4 PM when sunlight slants through the glass, casting geometric patterns on the floor—perfect for architectural portraits. Walking north along Rue du Président-Clemenceau for about 200 meters reveals a weathered storefront covered in ivy, where faded signage and lush greenery form a striking backdrop for vintage-style shots.
For panoramic views, ascend to the Hôtel de Ville observation deck (ticket required) to capture the passage and surrounding district from above, blending historic arcades with modern urban life. Meanwhile, the colorful awnings and fruit-laden stalls at the Fourvière Market offer richly textured scenes ideal for street photography.
Hôtel de la Cité is a top choice near Passage Thiaffait, blending historic architecture with modern elegance. Just a 5-minute walk away, this boutique hotel offers French classical-style rooms featuring arched windows and intimate courtyard views. Its prime location places guests within walking distance of Fouquet’s Restaurant and Lyon’s ancient district, ideal for cultural explorers. The surrounding area buzzes with independent cafés and art galleries, perfect for immersing in local lifestyle and creative energy.
Passage Thiaffait is centrally located in Lyon with excellent transit access. Take Lyon Metro Line B to "Hôtel de Ville" station, then walk just 7 minutes. Alternatively, bus lines 10 or 23 stop at "Cours de la Liberté," only 300 meters away. Ample parking and bike rental stations are nearby, accommodating various travel styles. Whether exploring the Old Town, Fouquet’s Square, or the Rhône River Promenade, this location ensures quick connections to key attractions, making it an ideal base for urban discovery.
Near Passage Thiaffait, visitors enjoy art exhibitions, indie book fairs, and live music performances hosted regularly. On weekends, the area transforms into a vibrant craft market featuring local designers, ceramic artists, and handmade goods. Nearby, guests can join French pastry workshops led by renowned bakers, mastering macarons and crêpes. Strolling through Fouquet’s Square, one discovers 19th-century sculptures and frescoes, offering a deep immersion in Lyon’s historical ambiance. These activities allow travelers to engage beyond sightseeing, truly connecting with the city’s artistic heartbeat.
Passage Thiaffait itself is a photogenic gem, featuring iron arches, stained glass skylights, and marble flooring that create a romantic industrial aesthetic. Visit during golden hour to capture sunlight streaming through the glass. Nearby Fouquet’s Square and the façade of Notre-Dame-de-Grâce Church offer stunning backdrops for street photography and architectural contrasts. Quaint cafés and flower shops along the street add Parisian charm—perfect for cinematic shots with a coffee cup or soft lighting. For a unique angle, shoot upward from the underground passage to emphasize the vaulted structure, creating dramatic depth and visual impact.
See what other travelers say about Passage Thiaffait

Staying at Residhome Lyon Gerland was a fantastic experience overall. The location is unbeatable—just steps from the metro station, making it super easy to get around the city. While breakfast isn’t included, that’s not a big issue since there are so many great dining options right nearby. The old town is just a short walk away and packed with charming restaurants and cafés—perfect for exploring local cuisine. Lyon itself is quite compact, so you can easily see the main highlights in one day. The hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms with a good balance of space and convenience, ideal for travelers who want a stress-free base. It’s especially great if you're looking to explore the city without spending too much time on transit. All in all, Lyon is definitely worth a visit, and this property makes for a smart, practical choice for an enjoyable stay.

Staying in a ground-floor room at Séjours & Affaires Lyon Saint-Nicolas was a smart choice—completely free from elevator noise, which made for a peaceful night's sleep. The room came with a small but effective desk fan that sways back and forth, a real lifesaver during the recent 40°C heatwave. It didn’t cool the room dramatically, but it provided just enough airflow to make the hot nights bearable. Despite the high temperatures, I managed to rest well. The hotel is clean, well-maintained, and conveniently located—just a short walk from the metro and central Lyon. Excellent value for money, and I’d definitely book again.

This is an excellent choice for a comfortable stay in Lyon. The hotel is just a short walk from the metro, making it super convenient for exploring the city. As a serviced apartment-style hotel, the rooms are spacious and very well-designed—perfect for relaxing after a long day. I especially loved the balcony with a lovely view of the park; it made mornings so peaceful and enjoyable. The staff were incredibly helpful and friendly, always ready to assist with any request. The kitchenette is fully equipped, which was a big plus for me since I enjoy cooking my own meals. It’s great to have all the essentials right there without needing to head out. Overall, this place offers fantastic value and comfort—definitely my top pick for future visits to Lyon.

Located on a lively street packed with vibrant African restaurants, this hotel offers an authentic local vibe. The area is bustling and full of energy, making it perfect for travelers who love great food and a dynamic atmosphere. It's just a short walk to the metro, so getting around Lyon is super convenient. I was impressed by how clean and well-kept the apartment-style rooms were—great space, modern amenities, and a welcoming touch. With such a fantastic location and excellent value, I’d definitely stay here again.

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.
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