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POINT OF INTEREST

Croix-Rousse

Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Discover the charm of Croix-Rousse, a vibrant hilltop neighborhood in Lyon, France. The area is characterized by its traboules (hidden passageways) used by silk workers in the past, and its contemporary street-art scene. Today, La Croix-Rousse attracts visitors with its art studios, boutiques, markets, and authentic Lyonnaise culinary experiences.

La Croix-Rousse can be explored independently, and visitors can wander through the intriguing traboules, take in the street art, and browse the art studios at their own pace. Other attractions include the Mur des Canuts frescoes, Gros Calliou (Big Rock), and a Roman amphitheater. To fully experience Croix-Rousse, consider a walking tour. These organized excursions enable you to unravel the neighborhood’s rich history and culture, while ensuring you don’t miss the area’s iconic and hard-to-find hidden passageways.

  • Croix-Rousse welcomes all traveler types, from families to art enthusiasts, offering something for everyone.

  • Wear comfortable shoes to navigate the hilly streets and be prepared for a fair amount of walking.

  • Because of its abundance of galleries and boutiques, La Croix-Rousse is a great place to buy unique, high-quality souvenirs.

The uphill climb will be manageable for most visitors to do on foot. You can easily reach the neighborhood on public transit by taking the C metro line to Croix-Rousse station. If you’re driving, there are several parking lots available. For a hassle-free visit, consider a tour that includes round-trip transportation.

The lively atmosphere of Croix-Rousse runs from morning to night. To get the full experience, visit during the daytime when the bustling markets are at their peak. The summer season offers pleasant, sunny weather for strolling around the charming streets. Plan your visit for cooler weather and fewer crowds in May or September.

If you find the idea of searching for the traboules of Croix-Rousse thrilling rather than overwhelming, then try a Lyon scavenger hunt. These self-guided mobile tours are perfect for independent travelers who love a challenge. By solving riddles and using your observation skills, you’ll uncover the city’s hidden gems and discover the little-known stories behind them.

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