What to do in Lyon in September?

Are you planning to visit Lyon in September? That is a great idea. September is an excellent time to discover the city. The weather is usually milder than in summer, the days are still pleasant for walking, and the new cultural season brings a fresh atmosphere with many major events.

Things to do in Lyon in September

• Enjoy the new cultural season : In September, Lyon’s main theatres and performance venues present their new programmes. It is the perfect time to discover famous places such as: The Lyon Opera House, The Célestins Theatre, The Maison de la Danse. See the list of current shows.
• September is when the new student year begins, bringing a lively atmosphere to the city. You can enjoy: Outdoor events in parks, happy hours on Lyon’s bar terraces, drinks with friends along the Rhône and Saône rivers, concerts on boats and in Lyon’s music venues.
• Walk along the Banks of the Rhône : The Banks of the Rhône are one of the best places to enjoy the warmer months. They have cycle paths and walking areas. The route runs from Gerland Park to Tête d’Or Park. Along the way, you will find playgrounds and boats. At the end of the day, local people like to meet there and enjoy the last rays of sunshine.
• Take a cruise on the Saône : You can take a cruise on the Saône all year round, but an evening cruise is especially enjoyable in September. The late-summer light stays on the riverbanks for a long time. Some boats also offer aperitif cruises, where you can enjoy a drink while discovering Lyon from the river. Take a look at our full range of cruises.   
• Discover the region and its wines : Lyon is only a short distance from some of the region’s best vineyards. September is grape-harvest season, making it a great time to discover local wine-making traditions and taste wines in the nearby Beaujolais hills.
  You can book wine tours, vineyard visits and tastings through the Lyon tourism website.

Must-see events in Lyon This September

Every September, Lyon hosts several major events. They are great opportunities to explore the city, meet new people and enjoy culture.

The Lyon Biennale: contemporary art and dance

In Lyon, the new cultural season often begins with the Biennale. Depending on the year, the event focuses on either contemporary art or dance. The Lyon Biennale takes place in many locations across Lyon and the surrounding area. It attracts thousands of visitors from September to December.

• In odd-numbered years, the Dance Biennale presents around 40 shows. About 20 of them are often new productions. The event also includes a colourful and joyful parade in the centre of Lyon.
• In even-numbered years, Lyon hosts the Contemporary Art Biennale, with works by international artists shown in around ten venues across Lyon

In 2026, the 18th Lyon Contemporary Art Biennale will take place from September 19 to December 13. Its theme is 'To pass from one dream to another'. The exhibition will be presented in several places in Lyon and the surrounding area, including: macLYON, Les Grandes Locos, the Textile Museum, the Musée des Confluences, the Institute of Contemporary Art in Villeurbanne, several outdoor and urban locations.

European Heritage Days

The European Heritage Days take place every year on the third weekend of September. It gives local people and visitors the chance to enter places that are usually closed to the public. The programme includes: special visits, demonstrations of traditional skills, free or discounted guided tours.

In 2026, the event will take place on September 19 and 20. This will be the 43rd edition.
The two main themes will be: the Heritage of Photography and Heritage in Danger: Renew, Resist, Reimagine.

For the occasion, the Lyon Metropolitan Tourist Office will organise many guided tours. Discover the guided tours offered by the Lyon Metropolitan Tourist Office.

Les Tupiniers in Old Lyon

Since 1986, potters from around the world have gathered in one of Lyon’s most famous squares, in the heart of Old Lyon. The event is called Les Tupiniers du Vieux Lyon.

Every second weekend in September, around 120 ceramic artists and creators display their work in the Renaissance setting of Old Lyon. It is a great opportunity to walk around the stalls, discover traditional crafts and continue your visit towards Saint-Jean Cathedral and Lyon’s famous covered passageways, known as traboules.

In 2026, the event will take place on September 12 and 13. This will be the 41st edition.