My Essential Sunday Survival Guide in Lyon

“Sundays are my marché, Vélov and museum days in Lyon”

(Fair enough!) So don’t be alarmed when you see “Fermé” on storefronts on Sundays in Lyon (Fermé = Closed). All you need to do is plan ahead. Trust me, it’s well worth it!

Sunday closures in Lyon

So what exactly is closed on Sunday? I learned the hungry way that many grocery stores, as well as restaurants and retail stores, but there are still some stores that are open, especially in Vieux-Lyon.

Note that the two shopping malls in town (La Confluence and La Part-Dieu) are also closed so save your retail therapy for another day.

Don’t let this be a deal-breaker to visit Lyon because this city doesn’t close its doors on the vast cultural, historical and architectural landmarks and local farmers markets on Sunday.

These are the gems that make Lyon a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the capital of gastronomy in France. There is something for everyone and for every palette.

Vélov & public markets in Lyon

Sundays are my marché, Vélov and museum days in Lyon. I wholeheartedly embrace the sense of community, chatting with the local producers, buying local, and getting some exercise in-between.

I hop on a Velov around the corner from my apartment, and ride to either Marché St-Antoine (1e arrondissement) or Marché Victor-Augagneur (3e arrondissement), whichever direction the wind takes me.

I make sure to bring euros in small denomination to the market (1€, 2€, 5€), pack my grocery bag, cutlery and bring an appetite.

Since the markets are typically nearby the river, I like to find a spot to kick back, enjoy my baguette, cheese and some fruits that I purchased. I pinch myself every Sunday because it still feels so surreal.

Vélov & Museums in Lyon

For inspiration and enlightenment, I look for the nearest Vélov stations using the app on my phone and off I go to the museum of my choice that particular Sunday, depending on the current exhibitions:

• Musée des Confluences,
• Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon,
• Musée d’art contemporain de Lyon,
• Musée de l’Imprimerie et de la communication graphique are some of my local favorites.

From classical, contemporary to modern day art, there are a variety of museums to choose from. There is no better way to spend a Sunday afternoon: relax, learn and enjoy the heritage of humanity.