Two days in Lyon after a coach journey is plenty of time to get a feel for the city without turning your stroll into an exhausting marathon. Mark your arrival point, accommodation and first destination on an offline map, and group attractions by neighbouring neighbourhoods. This approach leaves time to relax and prevents you from having to retrace your steps unnecessarily.
Stay flexible: check-in times, the weather and your actual drop-off point may differ from what you expect. In France, factor in time for changing buses, neighbourhoods with pedestrian zones and possible queues at museums, as well as a buffer for a short rest.
Day one: exploring the city centre
Once you’ve dropped off your luggage, head to Old Lyon, and from there to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. This combination gives you a first impression of Lyon without any complicated logistics. It’s best to book detailed tours only once your arrival time has been confirmed.
Estimate when you’ll finish your first day before you set off. Allow plenty of time for dinner and your return journey, checking the last public transport services and making sure you’re heading in the right direction to your stop.
Day two: the main attraction and a relaxed finish
The busiest part of the trip begins at Place Bellecour and ends along the Saône embankments. If tickets for the first attraction are sold out, swap these locations around or view the attraction from the outside – there’s no need to completely rearrange your whole day.
End the day in an area from which you can easily reach your departure point without changing transport. Check the drop-off address against your ticket and the transport operator’s notifications, not just the station marker on the map.
How to draw up a realistic budget
For a two-day trip, it’s handy to set a daily budget excluding accommodation. Include transport, water, two main meals and one paid attraction. Set aside a separate amount for taxis or an unexpected luggage locker.
What to prepare before arrival
- an offline map with Old Lyon and Place Bellecour marked;
- the address of your accommodation and luggage storage facilities;
- comfortable shoes and a light layer of clothing in case the weather changes;
- the latest time you need to be back at your departure point.
Useful links
To help you prepare, also read about how to plan your first day after a long coach journey, offline maps for travelling in Europe: how to set up your phone, and how to find a hotel from the coach stop. You can check coach routes and travel options on RedRay. Check the latest visitor guidelines and events calendar via the official French tourism portal and the official websites of specific attractions. Sources verified on 6 September 2026.
Questions and Answers
Are two days enough for a first visit to Lyon?
Yes, if you focus on two neighbouring areas each day and don’t plan to visit too many museums. For a more leisurely pace, leave one main attraction per day.
Where is the best place to leave your luggage after getting off the coach?
First, check if early check-in is available at your accommodation. If this isn’t possible, use an official left-luggage facility and keep your receipt until you collect your belongings.
Do I need to buy a city travel pass?
Work out how many journeys you plan to make. If the main attractions are close together, single tickets or walking may work out cheaper than a day pass.
What should you book in advance in Lyon?
First and foremost, check access to Place Bellecour and check-in conditions. It’s best to keep the rest of your itinerary flexible in case of bus delays or a change in the weather.