Sights

Basilique Notre Dame de Fourviere
This is the conspicuous, huge white church on Fourviere Hill, above Lyon's old town. Built in 1896, it contains impressively detailed neo-Byzantine mosaics. Climb up to the top of the hill or take the funicular train from Vieux Lyon station. The church museum houses unique religious artifacts, including liturgical vestments and gold and silver vessels and objects. The museum also tells the history of the basilica.
The northeast tower of the basilica (La Tour de l'Observatoire) is the best vantage point for enjoying a panoramic view of Lyon and the Alps beyond.

Theatres Romains de Fourviere
The two ancient Gallo-Roman theaters (an amphitheater and an odeum) on Fourviere Hill bear witness to Lyon's importance as a city of the Roman Empire from the first century BC. Views are great, too. Concerts and plays are still held each summer in the theaters, weather permitting.

Chariot of Liberty Fountain
Designed by Alexandre Bartholdi (most famous for the Statue of Liberty), this magnificent fountain represents the Garonne River flowing into the ocean. The fountain was originally intended for the city of Bordeaux (hence the rather inappropriate geographical theme) and is most impressive at night, when illuminated.

Traboules
These covered passageways, an impressive feature of the architecture of Vieux Lyon and Croix Rousse, were originally used by silk weavers to transport rolls of precious fabric around the districts without exposing them to wind and rain. During World War II, the traboules were used as a means of escape and communication for members of the French Resistance. Tours of the traboules -- in both English and French -- run regularly throughout the year, but you can explore them yourself with the aid of a booklet available from the tourist office.
 
Musee des Beaux Arts
This is one of France's most impressive art collections, housed in perhaps the grandest building in the Presqu'ile. The collection includes works by such famous artists as Monet, Degas, Bacon and Picasso. Check out the ornate ceilings and the tranquil interior garden.

City Murals
More than 150 giant murals on walls all over the city commemorate historical events and celebrities or simply create a trompe l'oeil effect. One of the most popular is La Fresque des Lyonnais -- on the corner of Quai Saint Vincent and Rue de la Martiniere -- which depicts 24 of Lyon's most famous historical figures throughout the centuries. Some are illuminated at night. Guided tours are available through the tourist office.

Cathedrale Saint Jean
This 12th-century Gothic cathedral at the foot of Fourviere Hill is the oldest seat of the Catholic Church in France and has some original stones recycled from Roman buildings. Inside is a 15th-century astronomical clock, which chimes the "Hymn to Saint Jean" while automated figures play out the Annunciation (daily at noon, 2, 3 and 4 pm).