Even though May is a short month, it’s lived to the fullest. So don’t judge a book by its cover. So, what to do in May in Lyon? As the saying goes , we should enjoy May however we please. That’s perfect timing, because with all our ideas, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Let’s get May started!
Getting to the Brouilly Festival
It’s back! The Brouilly Festival returns for its 4th edition, which promises to be a colorful affair. Nestled at the foot of Mont Brouilly, the Château des Ravatys will once again be the settingfor a day just the way we like it: festive and friendly. Organized by the collective of local winemakers, the day will feature a whole range of activities. In short, it ’s an unmissable event to support our producers and have a great time in one of the most beautiful spots in our region.
👉 Info and tickets
Catch a good movie at the theater (and pay 20% less for your ticket than the person next to you)
Check out these great deals for May! A good movie at the theater—a pleasure we never tire of… especially when it’s at the best price. Snuggling into a red armchair, sharing a movie with the one you love, munching on a Smurf or some popcorn during the trailers, staying glued to your seat during the credits… So this month, head to the big screen near you for a true escape. Find your tickets for the CGR here at the best price. Lyon, home of the Lumière brothers, can’t help but celebrate cinema as it should be!
Get your hiking boots out
May marks the true comeback of hiking. Whether it’s a simple stroll for fresh air or an ultra-trail, alone or with family, walking in the great outdoors is always a pleasure. And in this regard, Lyon is among the best spots in France for a quick getaway. Do you prefer the cobblestones of old villages to hiking trails? Lyon also offersa wonderful selection of villages to visit. Whatever the case, in 2026, I’m walking, you’re walking, we’re walking!
Getting to the Gamay Days
The Gamay Days are back for a new edition in the heart of Lyon to celebrate the famous Gamay grape variety through a modern and festive approach to wine. Over two days, visitors can meet some forty passionate winemakers to taste a variety of wines from the Beaujolais region as well as other surrounding areas. The event offers a truly immersive experience with a gourmet food court, DJ sets for an electric atmosphere, and themed workshops ( food-wine pairings, masterclasses). Designed for both novices and seasoned enthusiasts, the event focuses on sharing and discovery in a relaxed, urban setting.
👉 Info and tickets
Think you know everything about Lyon? Well, you’re in for a surprise… Beyond its secrets, like its famous traboules or underground passages, Lyon has a side to its history that’s unusual and sensual, but just as fascinating. A fun tour to get off the beaten path and become an expert on juicy anecdotes!
See a hymn concert at the Temple Lanterne
The Syllepse Vocal Ensemble invites you to the Lanterne Temple for a concert like no other. Here, it’s all about the voice! Thanks to an ingenious combination of classical and contemporary works, the result is simply breathtaking. The audience will also enjoy the stage design featuring neon lights in a futuristic atmosphere, creating a striking contrast with the Lanterne Temple, a venue steeped in history…
👉 Info and tickets
Spices take center stage: a culinary journey at an affordable price. To squeeze in a gourmet getaway between two outings in Lyon this May, head to Accentué: this recently opened Lyon restaurant, awarded a Bib Gourmand, offers French cuisine with global influences centered on spices, featuring a lunch menu with starter, main course, and dessert for €27. A must-try!
This is the event you won’t want to miss! On May 30 and 31, all of Old Lyon transforms into a medieval city with the Renaissance Festival. On the program: costumed reenactors, musicians, encampments, duels, parades, treasure hunts, processions… in short, everything you need to relive a glorious era of Lyon. A completely free event for the whole family!
Are you also a fan of Asian cuisine but unable to recreate its secrets at home? Here’s something to satisfy you: a 3-hour workshop with a chef to make 20 ravioli with two types of fillings. Of course, you’ll get to taste everything, but you’ll also learn how to replicate the techniques at home. It’s original and enriching—in short, it’s worth it. Are you more into ramen? Don’t worry— the DIY workshop is available in the same format for that as well.
Enjoy a drink on a terrace with friends
It may seem trivial, but this little pleasure can radically change the course of your day. Whether it’s a coffee on a shaded terrace or a good beer at the corner of a bar, the simple pleasure of sharing should be prescribed!
At an altitude of 740 meters, the Terrasse de Chiroubles offers one of the most beautiful views in the region. For a getaway to the countryside from Lyon, head to La Terrasse de Chiroubles: at an altitude of 740 meters, this spot offers an exceptional panoramic view of the Beaujolais region, the Ain plain, and, on clear days, all the way to the Alps and Mont Blanc. Accessible by car, it’s an ideal stop for a gourmet break, hikes (the “10 Crus” scenic trail), and, every summer, the “Beaujolez-vous” evenings featuring concerts, a giant barbecue, and wine tastings.
Treat yourself to a series of 5-star concerts
This year, the lineup of concerts in Lyon looks particularly strong. In May, we’re offering (among other things) the Nuits Sonores concerts, featuring some major headliners this year: Laurent Garnier, Amelie Lens, and Folamour. Not available in May, or just not really into electronic music? Come experience the magic of Candlelight with more intimate concerts by candlelight in magical venues.
For a change of pace from the concerts and festivals in Lyon this May, head to the Lyon Museum of Cinema and Miniatures. Housed in a UNESCO-listed Renaissance architectural masterpiece, this unique venue takes you behind the scenes of the movie world. Once there, explore over 1,000 original pieces —from costumes to props—from iconic sagas and universes like Star Wars, Harry Potter, and Marvel, and discover the secrets of production and special effects. And the big new addition this spring: the Batmobile (the real deal) is parked in the museum courtyard. Let’s go!
What if spring were simply about living on love… and cool water? While waiting to fall in love, you might as well take a dip. Here are a few spots around Lyon where you can take a refreshing plunge as soon as the temperatures rise. You have to admit, it feels good to pull your swimsuit out of the closet.
Can’t make it to the festivals this summer? Don’t panic! Among the events to check out in Lyon this May, Candlelight in Lyon offers weekly dates featuring tribute concerts in absolutely fantastic venues. Pop, classical, rock, and even rap… there’s something for everyone! You’ll regret not having thought of this sooner.
The trifecta of success: it’s famous, it’s original, and it’s affordable. To add a great spot to your monthly itinerary, Orizzo is a new Japanese restaurant located at 64 Rue Mercière in Lyon, offering cuisine made with fresh ingredients in an intimate setting.At lunchtime, a three-course menu (appetizer, main, and dessert) is available for €16.
Riverie offers a 360° panorama and irresistible medieval charm. For a day trip from Lyon in May, head to Riverie: nestled at an altitude of nearly 700 meters in the Monts du Lyonnais, this charming little town offers exceptional views, medieval heritage, and a rich network of trails. It captivates visitors with its cobblestone streets, its thousand-year-old castle, and the nature that surrounds it.
Warm up your appetite: the mâchon brings together all of Lyon’s specialties from early in the morning. Among the must-try experiences in Lyon this May, the mâchon fits perfectly into your gourmet itinerary. This traditional breakfast of the Canuts brings together Lyon specialties such as cervelle de canut, tablier de sapeur, andouillettes, and Beaujolais. It’s a convivial moment still offered in some of the city’s bouchons.
In May, spring bursts forth, so to add a floral touch to your ideas for outings in Lyon this May, head to the immersive exhibition Monet: The Immersive Experience. This 360º immersion in the work of the 19th-century artistic genius Claude Monet takes you on a journey through digital projections, sound effects, and a unique virtual reality experience. A one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore the secrets of his masterpieces. The eventis open to all and takes place at Studio 24.
Cross footbridges 80 meters above turquoise waters for a day of escape near Lyon. For a change from city outings this month, head 1.5 hours from Lyon: Lake Monteynard-Avignonet, in the Vercors Regional Nature Park, combines suspension bridges over turquoise waters, hiking loops (up to 12 km), and water activities for the whole family. The site offers flexible routes, including a 12-km loop (allow about 4.5 hours), with departures from the parking lots by the lake or by boat (for a fee).
A little secret Babylon in the heart of Old Lyon, perfect for recharging your batteries without leaving the city. For a quieter break between outings in May, head to the hanging garden nestled on the 4th floor of the Hôtel de Gadagne in Vieux-Lyon. This intimate little haven of peace invites you to daydream and features a café-restaurant in a historic setting first mentioned as early as the 14th century.
