How do you visit the traboules of Old Lyon?

Can you enter every traboule?

No. A visible doorway does not mean the passage is open to visitors. Respect signs, closures and private entrances. Do not follow a resident through a closed door. A building’s heritage value does not remove its everyday use.

The charter supported by ONLYLYON and the City of Lyon aims to reconcile heritage visits with local life. For an independent walk, follow the practical principles: leave passageways clear, keep noise down and skip any entrance that is not authorised.

How can you look at a courtyard respectfully?

When entry is permitted, pause without blocking circulation. Look up at galleries and stairs before taking out your phone. Read a courtyard through a few details: how the floors connect, where light enters from above and how the street gives way to the interior of the block.

Avoid photographing open windows, people or apartment entrances. If listening to an app story, use headphones and stop where residents can pass. You can continue reading or listening once back on the street.

The next place has a story.
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What can you see if passages are closed?

Our Old Lyon walk starts in Place Saint-Jean and reaches the Temple du Change via Maison des Avocats, Maison du Chamarier and Gadagne. Allow around 75 minutes for outdoor stops and observation. It does not depend on crossing any particular traboule.

At Gadagne, an indoor visit is a separate extension: the building houses Lyon’s history museum and the museum of puppetry arts. Choose around your interests and check entry arrangements. A neighbourhood walk and a museum visit need separate time allocations.

How should you prepare a first visit?

Reach Place Saint-Jean from Vieux Lyon station on Metro D. Our route stays in the lower quarter: climbing Fourvière is a separate outing. Paving stones, thresholds and narrow passages can affect your pace; check suitable entrances if you have particular mobility needs.

Keep an outdoor alternative for each stop. On-site entry notices take precedence over a list found online. Street Whisperer lets you explore the history of places around you; plan an internet connection for new stories.

Your questions, answered.

Are traboules always open?

No. Access varies by building and current conditions. Your walk should be able to continue along public streets.

Does this route climb Fourvière?

No. Our Old Lyon route stays in the lower quarter, between Saint-Jean and the Temple du Change.

Check the details and explore further

Opening times and entry arrangements can change. Refer to the venues’ websites when planning your visit.

Something needs correcting? Let us know.