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What to do in Lyon in winter?

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Last updated date : 05/01/2024

Winter is here... time for Christmas markets, end-of-year celebrations and those famous January resolutions! So, yes, you may find your mind a little chilled by the winter weather, but we've got the solutions to warm it up.

Fête des Lumières 2021"Iris" sur la cathédrale Saint-Jean © Brice Robert

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In Lyon, winter is punctuated by the warm and comforting dishes you can find in the bouchons lyonnais or at our local bakeries. December in Lyon is synonymous with festivities and illuminations, with the traditional Festival of Lights taking place every year around 8 December. So don't miss out on a feast for the eyes! Every 2 years in January, the capital of gastronomy hosts Sirha, Lyon's international catering, hotel and food trade show, where 24 chefs from 24 countries compete for the coveted Bocuse d'Or. January also marks the return of Lyon's galettes des rois and, a few weeks later, crêpes and traditional bugnes. Do you prefer them crunchy or soft? We're not judging anyone - we like them both! To get rid of all these delicacies, don your trainers and take part in the Lyon Urban Trail! It's the perfect way to see the city from a different angle! 

Une petite place pour des grands rêves - Moetu Batlle & David Passegrand © Muriel Chaulet

Festival of Lights

When Lyon dons its costume of light, everyone takes to the streets to admire the spectacle. The façades of the city's most beautiful buildings come alive under the spotlights, and the people of Lyon are out in force on the evening of 8 December to light up their windows with dozens of luminous lights. Over 4 evenings, you're in for one of Lyon's biggest festivities!

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Escape games, cookery classes, tastings - there's no chance of getting bored in Lyon, even in winter! Here are a few good ideas for staying away from the sofa but still well sheltered.

Defy the winter chill to satisfy your curiosity! Our guides will accompany you on your discovery of Lyon and its exceptional sites, so let yourself be tempted...

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Lyon's cultural life never stands still, so here's a quick overview of the must-see events over the winter period. 

The must-see winter events in Lyon

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