
Lyon France Itinerary: A 7-Day Journey Through French Culture and Alpine Scenery
This 7-day itinerary takes you from the gastronomic heart of Lyon to the serene lakeside beauty of Annecy, concluding in the historic city of Dijon. Travel seamlessly by train between these captivating French destinations, experiencing diverse landscapes and rich heritage.
- 1Lyon
- 2Annecy
- 3Dijon
Day 1: Arrive in Lyon and Explore Vieux Lyon
Arrive in Lyon, settle in, and begin exploring the historic Vieux Lyon quarter and Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste.
Highlights
- Arrive at Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS) and take the Rhônexpress tram to Lyon Part-Dieu train station.
- Wander through Vieux Lyon, a Renaissance quarter with cobbled lanes and hidden traboules.
- Visit Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste, a medieval and Renaissance cathedral known for its astronomical clock.
Day 2: Lyon's Cultural Gems and Panoramic Views
Immerse in Lyon's culture and views, visiting Presqu'île, Musée des Beaux-Arts, and the panoramic Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.
Highlights
- Stroll through Presqu'île, the central peninsula between the Rhône and Saône rivers, featuring elegant streets and squares.
- Discover the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon, a major fine arts museum housed in a former abbey.
- Ascend to Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière for its grand mosaics and breathtaking panoramic views over Lyon.
Day 3: Day Trip to Medieval Pérouges
Take a day trip to the medieval fortified village of Pérouges, exploring its historic streets and ramparts.
Highlights
- Travel by train from Lyon Part Dieu to Meximieux - Pérouges (earliest outbound 05:46, latest return 23:17).
- Explore the Cité Médiévale de Pérouges, a beautifully preserved fortified village with cobbled lanes and ancient houses.
- Visit Église Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, the fortified church at the heart of the medieval town, and walk along the Remparts de Pérouges.
Day 4: Travel to Annecy and Discover the Old Town
Enjoy a morning activity in Lyon, then travel by train to Annecy, exploring its charming Vieille Ville and Palais de l'Isle upon arrival.
Highlights
- Take a train from Lyon Part Dieu to Annecy (journey around 1h 57m, tickets from €17).
- Wander through Annecy's atmospheric Vieille Ville, filled with canals, arcades, and pastel houses.
- Admire the iconic Palais de l'Isle, a medieval island palace that once served as a prison and courthouse.
Day 5: Annecy's Lakeside Beauty and Castle Views
Discover Annecy's scenic beauty, visiting Château d'Annecy, Pont des Amours, Jardins de l'Europe, and Le Pâquier.
Highlights
- Explore Château d'Annecy, a restored hilltop castle offering regional history exhibitions and superb panoramic views.
- Stroll across the romantic Pont des Amours, an iron bridge linking gardens and lakeside walks.
- Relax in the Jardins de l'Europe, a large lakeside green space ideal for picnics and mountain views.
Day 6: Journey to Dijon and Explore the Ducal Palace Area
Spend the morning in Annecy, then take a train to Dijon, settling in and exploring Place de la Libération and Rue de la Liberté.
Highlights
- Travel by train from Annecy to Dijon (journey around 3h 52m, tickets from €23).
- Explore Place de la Libération, the grand central square framed by the ducal palace and civic buildings.
- Stroll down Rue de la Liberté, a medieval shopping street lined with timbered houses and boutiques.
Day 7: Depart from Historic Dijon
Explore Dijon's Palais des Ducs and Musée des Beaux-Arts before departing from Dijon.
Highlights
- Visit the Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne, the former ducal palace and a symbol of Dijon's history.
- Discover the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Dijon, located within the ducal palace, housing extensive art collections.
- Depart from Dijon via Gare de Dijon-Ville. For international flights, consider Dole–Jura Airport (DLE), Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS), Geneva International Airport (GVA), or EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg (BSL).






