What to do in Lyon in autumn ?

Autumnal things to do in Lyon

With its blazing colours and events galore, autumn is a wonderful season to visit Lyon. Whether out in the fresh air or sheltering from the rain, fantastic experiences await you! Here are a few ideas for things to do during your autumn stay:

• Take in the fiery shades of the trees at Tête d’Or Park. Continue your stroll in the warm indoors of the Chalet du Parc, to have a bite to eat, play the immersive game ‘Mission Forêt’ (Forest Mission) or explore the works of the artist in residence.
• Breathe in the fresh air at the vineyards of the Beaujolais or the Coteaux du Lyonnais, with bucolic walks, cellar tours and meetings with winegrowers. Find out all about the terroirs and vineyards around Lyon.
• Enjoy a hearty meal at one of Lyon’s traditional eateries known as a ‘bouchon’: there’s nothing like a quenelle dumpling covered in Nantua sauce or a steaming andouillette to prepare you for the crisp autumn air. Discover the city’s certified bouchons.
• Soak up the culture in Lyon’s museums. Whether you’re an art lover, history nerd or film buff, you will find museums to suit all tastes and ages.
• Experience an original indoor activity. Creative workshops, life-size games or thrills and excitement… Check out these indoor leisure activities to have fun out of rain’s way.
• Go shopping in Lyon’s independent designer outlets. Get a head start on festive preparations by stocking up on souvenirs and lovely gifts made in Lyon.

Autumn events not to be missed in Lyon

Events pop up everywhere between the rivers Rhône and Saône in autumn. From art to cinema, heritage and sport, all interests are covered!

In mid-September, the Lyon Biennale marks the start of the cultural season. Whether it’s the dance biennale on odd years or the contemporary art biennale on even years, it attracts thousands of people to a dozen venues over a period of several weeks.

Soon after, the festival ‘Airt de Famille’ begins in late September and runs until the end of the year. Since the first edition in 2022, this participative festival, which brings together the diverse and colourful worlds of several artists, has been a huge success.

In mid-October, the filmmaking world gathers in Lyon – the “cradle of cinema” – for the Lumière film festival. With screenings, masterclasses and red carpets, the whole city is swept up in the excitement of this week-long event.

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Brice Robert

Autumn in Lyon also means sport. Both day and night, races and major competitions come thick and fast: Lyon Urban Trail By Night, Nordic Walkin'Lyon, Run in Lyon, and the list goes on… In 2026, another major sports gathering awaits tennis fans: the first ‘Grand Prix Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes’, to be held at the LDLC Arena, which will be part of the ATP 250 ranking.

Around the 8^th of December, the wonderful Fête des Lumières (Festival of Lights) marks the end of the autumn season. Over the course of four evenings, light and video-mapping installations illuminate the city. The magical atmosphere of this open-air spectacle is something you need to experience at least once in your lifetime!

Because there are so many things to do in Lyon, here are a few more ideas for your autumn stay in the Lyon region. From pampering indoors to nature outdoors, get inspired for your future trips!