What to do in Lyon in the evening?

Lyon, the City of Light

Once you've seen the city by day, you'll surely want to see it by night.
With no less than 300 iconic buildings lit up all year round, you won't need us to tell you that a nocturnal visit is an absolute must.
Several outings offer a chance to discover Lyon from a different perspective. 

• Walk up the banks of the Saône at dusk to enjoy the illumination of the church of Saint-Georges, the cathedral of Saint-Jean, overlooked by the basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, the neoclassical Palais de Justice (law courts) and the various bridges and footbridges spanning the river. This evening outing can be enjoyed as a walk along the redeveloped river banks, or as a cruise on the river Saône.
• Make your way up the hill of Fourvière to the esplanade of the basilica, which offers a panoramic view of Lyon. In November and February, the Fondation Fourvière organises special night-time tours of the roofs of the basilica.
• Admire Place Bellecour, a square lined with buildings dating from the seventeenth to nineteenth centuries. From November to March, the square is lit up by the big wheel. Take an evening stroll through the Presqu’île district to see Lyon’s most iconic squares: Place Bellecour, Place des Célestins, Place des Jacobins, Place de la Bourse, Place des Terreaux.
• On the banks of the Rhône, discover the lively atmosphere of the boat bars, which offer a stunning view of the illuminated Grand Hôtel Dieu building.

Where to have an evening drink in Lyon?

Once you've scoured the city, you'll have earned a nice rest! And the best place to relax is along the banks of the Rhône, where you can enjoy an aperitif by the water. During summer, terraces and riversides welcome you in true "guinguette" style. With a superb view of the sun setting behind Hôtel-Dieu, this is a great way to end the day in style. 

If you'd rather remain on dry land, why not try out one of the city's bars or pubs. Although Lyon is located close to winegrowing regions, beer is also highly appreciated here! Head for Vieux-Lyon where the locals meet after work, to chat around a drink and a platter of preserved and deli meats known as charcuterie.

For those who like to rise above it, there are many rooftops offering stunning views of Lyon. Some are nestled on the roofs of famous hotels, while others are perched on top of iconic cultural venues.

Where to drink a cocktail in the evening in Lyon?

If you're in Lyon as a couple, and would rather relax in a cosy and plush environment to enjoy delicious cocktails and a quiet chat, you can do that too. The city boasts a wide range of venues, where you can chill and let your senses delight in the pirouettes of the cocktail shaker, the scent of lemon and the sound of glasses being filled with crushed ice, while enjoying a thoroughly good evening.

Exploring culture in the evening in Lyon 

Evenings are also a great time to discover Lyon's culture in the form of a show or performance. Dances, concerts, festivals…. Lyon has no end of venues for your enjoyment. 

Go for something classic

The great classics of Lyon’s nightlife: an evening at the opera, a concert at the auditorium, catch a show at the Maison de la Danse or in Lyon’s major theatre venues Les Célestins and the TNP.

Shows and food, a tasty combination

Lastly, for those who love dining and watching shows, there are venues where you can do both at once! Offering a meal combined with a cabaret, circus, magic, theatre, opera or improv show, these addresses promise an evening filled with flavours and emotions!

Enjoy an evening of live music Lyon 

There's also a wide range of choice when it comes to concert halls. International performers can be seen live at Le Transbordeur, the Halle Tony Garnier. And who knows, your favourite singer may even be in Lyon at the same time as you!

Fancy going somewhere where you can enjoy a friendly evening, a live concert, and even do a spot of dancing? Lyon has lots of small and friendly bars that host regular concerts, free of charge. If you're a Jazz enthusiast, make the most of the concerts by crowding to the stage of the Hot Club de Lyon, a historic club founded back in 1948 in the heart of the city.

If the rock 'n roll scene is more your thing, you'll need to pay a visit to the famous Hard Rock Café! Ninkasi is also an essential location in Lyon, and perfect for those in search of the ideal burger/beer/music combo.

And if your preference goes to electro music, rise to new heights at Le Sucre's rooftop club in the Confluence district, or the Mob Hotel. And for a cutting-edge yet eclectic scene, don't hesitate to check out the Groom or Super5.

And after? Lyon’s nightclubs

After a busy day of visiting and exploring the city, are you still up for a night of dancing? In Lyon there is no shortage of different atmospheres and musical styles to choose from!

Lyon, night-time and festivals 

Among the main events, don't miss Nuits Sonores in May, a must-attend event for lovers of electro music. In July, Les Nuits de Fourvière invades the Gallo-Roman theatre for some magical evening events.

Last, but by no means least, don’t forget that you’re in France’s capital of gastronomy: this is a fantastic opportunity to replenish your energy reserves in one of its many restaurants!