September is always a bit of a mixed bag: we’re happy to kick it off by sharing our summer memories while still enjoying the mild evenings on the terrace, yet we’re already dipping a toe into fall with its fateful sunset at 5:23 p.m… So, to make sure September truly lives up to its reputation as an “Indian summer,” follow our guide— we’ll show you everything!
This is, of course, the cultural highlight of the fall season. Alphonse Mucha takes over the Grand-Hôtel-Dieu in Lyon starting September 4, bringing together for the first time in Lyon more than 90 original works (posters, drawings, paintings) organized into six sections and enhanced by immersive installations. We’ve seen the pictures—it looks absolutely incredible!
Vienne shines with its heritage, its culture, and… its market. To extend the start of the school year, head to Vienne, just outside Lyon: a city-museum with over 2,000 years of history, famous for its ancient theater, the Jazz à Vienne festival, and for hosting one of France’s largest markets every Saturday. Honestly, it’s a must-visit at least once a year!
Let’s add a splash of vibrant colors to the end of September withthe IF (Illustration Festival), which returns for its fourth edition. On the program: a diverse array of talented artists will take over the SUBS and ENSBA Lyon on September 26 and 27 for two days dedicated to creativity. Exhibitions, masterclasses, talks, an art market, workshops of all kinds… Honestly, it’s a must-attend event for lovers of original artwork who want to leave with a beautiful poster to hang in their living room.
For a fall season dedicated to culture, the exhibition “Robert Doisneau, Instants donnés” at La Sucrière traces the photographer’s career through 400 original photographs—including previously unseen works—as well as personal items, archival documents, and immersive spaces. The exhibition also features an audio guide narrated by Doisneau himself and highlights his photographs taken in Lyon during the 1950s. We can’t wait!
Who said that performances have to revolve solely around music? As the new season begins, make way for art with a capital A at the 18th edition of the Lyon Biennale of Contemporary Art, which kicks off this year on September 19. In 2026, 46 artists will be featured, much to the delight of our curious eyes!
Why not swap the back-to-school grind for a healthy dose of curiosity? With Science Expériences, head to downtown Lyon for an immersive and fun experience that takes you on a journey into the heart of science! From space to the ocean floor, via the human body, physics, and natural phenomena, this sensory journey combines virtual reality, projections, hands-on activities, and scientific experiments to make learning fun. Perfect for a family outing in Lyon, an activity with the kids, or simply to hold onto that vacation feeling a little longer, Science Expériences offers, above all, an excellent way to kick off the new school year by filling up on new discoveries. So, who said September has to be all about routine?
For a getaway to the countryside from Lyon this fall, head to Saint-Claude, nestled in the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park. The town is world-renowned for its traditions of pipe-making and diamond-cutting, as well as for its rich natural and historical heritage. The town has earned several tourism certifications and offers an environment perfect for outdoor activities.
The Candlelight concerts transport you to a magical interpretation of your favorite music by candlelight. As the new season begins, several events are being organized in Lyon—whether at the Notre-Dame de Fourvière Basilica, the Chapelle de la Trinité, or even the Palais Idéal du Facteur Cheval. You’re sure to find something you’ll love!
For a change of pace during a day trip this weekend, head north of Lyon toward Tournus. On the banks of the Saône, this historic town is home to the Abbey of Saint-Philibert de Tournus, one of the most prestigious Romanesque sanctuaries in France. A masterpiece built in the 11th century, it’s remarkable for its 18-meter-high nave… You have to see it to believe it!
What better way to share your vacation memories than with a good meal to kick off September? In Lyon, head to La Virée, located on Rue Jean-Larrivé in the 3rd arrondissement near the Guillotière Bridge. This award-winning restaurant (Bib Gourmand), voted France’s best bistro in 2025, offers a €20 set menu and market-fresh cuisine focused on seasonal ingredients and natural wines. Shall we meet there?
Immerse yourself in an extraordinary world at the Musée Cinéma & Miniature, a place truly one-of-a-kind. Nestled in the heart of Old Lyon, in a 15th-century building listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this unique museum opens the doors to the magic of cinema and the art of miniatures. Across more than 2,000 m² of exhibition space, discover over 10,000 original pieces from the greatest films. A true treasure trove for movie lovers, where Harry Potter, Indiana Jones, and even Batman come together. Ready to be amazed?
Carpe Diem: seize the moment… Well , we won’t keep you waiting—we’re heading straight to Rue Molière in the 6th arrondissement to step inside this restaurant that continues to work wonders in Lyon. Carpe Diem ( a Bib Gourmand selection in the Michelin Guide) offers a seasonal menu that changes regularly and a menu focused on the freshness of its ingredients. We love it!
For a heritage outing to kick off the new season, head to La Manécanterie in Lyon: since 1930, this unique medieval building has housed the cathedral’s treasure trove, featuring gold and silverware, tapestries, and embroidered vestments. Its foundations date from the 2nd to the 11th century, and it served as a choir school (manécanterie) from the 14th to the 19th century—a true medieval “Star Academy”!
For the perfect nature getaway in September, head to the Lacroix-Laval estate: a 115-hectare park on the outskirts of Lyon, designated a “Remarkable Garden” and an “EcoGarden.” There, you’ll find trails, picnic areas, hammocks, lounge chairs, a castle, and a rose garden. Accessible by bus from Gorge de Loup, by TER train, or by car (free parking), the park is open daily and accessible to people with limited mobility.
Among the must-try spots in Lyon, Le Comptoir Libanais stands out as a restaurant you won’t want to miss. Extremely popular (10,000 reviews with an average rating of 4.9/5 on Google) and featuring a menu that takes you straight to Lebanon, dining here is a true delight. The restaurant offers a lunch special for €23. Unbeatable .
