Here at Lyon Secret, we work our butts off Monday through Friday so you can truly enjoy your Saturdays and Sundays and show off with ease in the morning by the coffee machine, saying , “Well, of course—I was there!” Here’s our selection of things to do in Lyon (and the surrounding area) this weekend.
Immerse yourself in the heart of Disney magic to the glow of thousands of candles. For a musical outing that checks both the “nostalgia” and “family time” boxes, this Candlelight concert revisits Disney’s most beautiful songs, performed in the candlelit setting of Lyon’s Palais de la Bourse. The next performances are this Sunday at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. for a nostalgic, family-friendly evening.
For a cultural outing this weekend in Lyon, head to the Grand-Hôtel-Dieu, where a new exhibition dedicated to Alphonse Mucha opened in September. For the first time, it brings together more than 90 original works (posters, drawings, paintings), divided into six sections and enhanced by immersive installations. A little over a month after opening, visitor feedback has been excellent—a must-see!
For a refreshing break in nature this weekend, head to the Lacroix-Laval estate: a 115-hectare park on the outskirts of Lyon, designated a “Remarkable Garden” and an “EcoGarden,” featuring 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.
Celebrate the famous “Vogue des Marrons”
It’s impossible to talk about things to do in Lyon in October without mentioning one of fall’s most iconic events: the Vogue des Marrons. It’s back in full swing this weekend, much to the delight of all Lyon residents. Carousels, bumper cars, cotton candy, duck fishing, rifle shooting, candy apples, and, of course, the famous hot chestnuts: the collective imagination is in full swing. We’ve all kept our inner child alive, haven’t we?
Vienne shines with its heritage, culture, and monumental market. Just a stone’s throw from Lyon, Vienne is a 2,000-year-old “museum city,” famous for its ancient theater, the Jazz à Vienne festival, and for hosting one of France’s largest markets every Saturday—the perfect opportunity to visit this weekend!
Discover the new show LUMINISCENCE, The Celestial Odyssey
This is also one of the cultural highlights of the end of the year. LUMINISCENCE, which has already captivated many Lyon residents and over 2 million people worldwide, returns to the spotlight with a new show: L’Odyssée Céleste. A new video mapping show at the Saint-Bonaventure Basilica, paired with two exceptional musical renditions: one featuring a choir and organ, and the other with a live choir. A deeply moving experience to share with friends, as a couple, or with family.
Carpe Diem: savor the moment with seasonal cuisine acclaimed by the Michelin Guide. For this weekend in Lyon, treat yourself to a gourmet escape at Carpe Diem, a Lyon restaurant recently listed in the Michelin Guide. The restaurant offers seasonal cuisine that changes every month, with a menu focused on the freshness of its ingredients.
Looking for a different kind of outing in Lyon this weekend? Head to the 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 more than 10,000 original pieces—from costumes to props—from iconic franchises and universes like Star Wars, Harry Potter, and Marvel, and discover the secrets of filmmaking and special effects.
For a charming cultural outing, head to the Manécanterie de Lyon: a unique medieval building that has housed the cathedral’s treasure since 1930, featuring gold and silverware, tapestries, and embroidered garments. Its foundations date back to the 2nd to 11th centuries, and it served as a singing school (manécanterie) from the 14th to the 19th century—incredible!
Looking for a spot that still feels like summer? Le Comptoir Libanais takes you on a culinary journey in a single bite— a go-to Lebanese spot in Lyon. Highly regarded in Lyon, Le Comptoir Libanais is known for its 10,000 glowing reviews and a menu featuring mezze, hummus, kafta, and other specialties. We highly recommend you head there right away.
The trifecta of success: it’s famous, it’s original, and it’s affordable. To add a great dining experience to your weekend plans, 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 set menu (appetizer, main course, dessert) is available for €16!
For a change from the (somewhat more traditional) takeoffs at Saint-Exupéry Airport, set off on a much more unusual adventure: in July, go “live” on the International Space Station at an altitude of 400 km… without leaving Earth. If your dad has his head in the clouds,Space Explorers: The ISS Experience is coming to Lyon with an immersive experience inspired by NASA missions, based on 360° footage shot in space to recreate the International Space Station with striking realism. You have to see it to believe it!
Think you know everything there is to know about Lyon? Well, you’re in for a few more surprises… Beyond its secrets—like its famous traboules and underground passages—Lyon has a side to its history that’s unusual and sensual, yet just as fascinating. A fun tour to get off the beaten path and become an expert on juicy anecdotes!
In our beautiful region around Lyon, we have real treasures—and proof of that is a place called the “Pays des Pierres Dorées”! A string of small villages and castles in the Beaujolais valleys. In just 30 minutes—watch in hand—escape from Lyon and find yourself transported to Tuscany. Plus, the Azergues River, which flows through the Beaujolais region, offers no fewer than 50 kilometers of hiking trails along its banks… the perfect spot when the heat is on.
This weekend, once again, the Chapelle de la Trinité and the Basilique Saint-Bonaventure will be illuminated to immerse you in the magic of the Candlelight concerts… which pay tribute to the greatest artists in pop, classical, rock, and even rap. There are still a few tickets left!
For a great restaurant to add to your weekend plans, head to La Virée: located on Rue Jean-Larrivé in the 3rd arrondissement near the Guillotière Bridge, this award-winning bistro (Bib Gourmand)—voted France’s best bistro in 2025—offers a €20 lunch special featuring original and daring cuisine. We love it!
