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The Atlas Obscura Guide To Lyon

18 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in Lyon, France

Updated May 20, 2025
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Unusual Attractions in Lyon

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See All 18 Things To Do in Lyon
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Explore Lyon, France

Museums 4
Churches 2
Monuments 2
Sacred Spaces 2
Statues 2
Clocks 2
Astounding Timepieces 2
Architecture 2

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Stories About Lyon

Though the arêtes de poisson, or “fishbones,” tunnels were discovered in 1959, research on their origin has been halting and inconclusive.

Was There Treasure Buried Under Lyon?

Since their discovery more than 60 years ago, the "Fishbones" tunnels beneath the French city have been an enigma.
by Anna Richards, Atlas Obscura
“La Fresque des Lyonnais,” one of the 150 murals that now decorate the city, pictures famous residents such as Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, author of The Little Prince, and the Lumière brothers, pioneers of cinematography.

Look What Happened When Lyon Got a Fresh Coat of Paint

Scores of enormous murals rehabilitated the French city's image and started a mesmerizing street-art trend.
by Anna Richards, Atlas Obscura
In the World Championship of Pâté-Croûte, aesthetic helps contestants stand out.

This Fraternity of Frenchmen Is Reviving the Beloved Pâté-Croûte

A foodie brotherhood launched a world competition dedicated to their favorite meaty pastry.
by Emily Monaco, Atlas Obscura
Thierry Ehrmann’s La Demeure du Chaos - The Abode of Chaos.

A French Artist's 'Abode of Chaos' Project Is Inspired by 21st-Century Upheaval

Thierry Ehrmann uses giant skulls, burned-out cars, and piles of steel to represent global disorder.
by Hudson Lindenberger, Atlas Obscura

Lists Featuring Lyon

They were built in 1979.
Seward Street Slides

When Stairs and Slides Are Hiding in Plain Sight

Play real-life Chutes and Ladders at these obscure thruways.

9

Including Secret Tiled Staircase, Esmeralda Slide Park, and Howe Street Stairs

Aerial image of Vietnam, displaying the picturesque rice terraces, characterized by their layered, verdant fields.
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