Lyon is often overshadowed by Paris when it comes to tourism in France, but once you step into this vibrant city, you’ll quickly realize that it has a unique charm all its own. From its rich history to its mouthwatering culinary scene, Lyon offers plenty for the eyes and the taste buds. But for those who enjoy a good shopping spree, especially when it comes to finding unique souvenirs, Lyon has much to offer.
During my recent visit to Lyon, I decided to dedicate a portion of my time to exploring the best places to shop for keepsakes. The city is home to an eclectic mix of boutiques, markets, and artisan shops, making it a wonderful destination for souvenir hunters. Whether you’re searching for something quirky, luxurious, or locally crafted, Lyon has something for everyone.
1. Exploring Vieux Lyon: A Historic Shopping District
The first stop on my souvenir hunt was Vieux Lyon, the city’s old town. With its narrow cobbled streets, stunning Renaissance architecture, and charming atmosphere, Vieux Lyon feels like stepping into a different era. It’s not just a place to explore history; it’s also full of little shops selling unique products that tell the story of Lyon’s past.
In Vieux Lyon, I discovered several artisan shops offering handcrafted goods, ranging from silk scarves to hand-painted pottery. One of my favorite stops was a boutique that specialized in silk products, which are a hallmark of Lyon’s history. Lyon has been known for its silk production since the 16th century, and you can find an array of silk items in the shops here. I picked up a beautiful silk scarf that I knew would make the perfect gift for a friend back home. The quality of the fabric and the vibrant colors were simply stunning, and the craftsmanship was unparalleled.
There are also shops selling vintage items in Vieux Lyon. The area is full of antique stores, where you can find quirky little trinkets and historical relics, perfect for those who love collecting. One shop, in particular, caught my eye with its collection of old postcards and vintage maps. I picked up a couple of postcards that had been carefully preserved, each offering a glimpse into the city’s past. It felt like owning a piece of history.
2. Rue de la République: The Main Shopping Street
For a more mainstream shopping experience, Rue de la République is the place to go. This wide, pedestrianized street is lined with numerous high-street stores and boutiques, offering everything from fashion to home goods. Though it’s not as quaint and historic as Vieux Lyon, Rue de la République has its own charm, and it’s a great place to shop for both international and local brands.
One shop that stood out to me was Les Artisans du Cuir, a leather goods store that specializes in handcrafted bags, wallets, and belts. Lyon has long been a center for leatherworking, and this store offered beautifully crafted leather products. I spent quite a bit of time admiring the various items, and after much deliberation, I ended up purchasing a small leather wallet. It was a simple yet elegant design, and the quality of the leather was exceptional. The price was higher than I had initially planned to spend, but the craftsmanship made it well worth it.
If you’re into fashion, Rue de la République is home to a number of chic boutiques and French fashion brands. Whether you’re looking for the latest Parisian trends or something more unique, this shopping street offers a little bit of everything. I popped into a few shops, trying on everything from cozy winter coats to delicate blouses, but I ended up buying a pair of shoes from a French brand that I couldn’t resist. Comfortable and stylish, they were the perfect addition to my wardrobe.
3. Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse: For Food Lovers
If there’s one thing Lyon is known for, it’s its food. As the gastronomic capital of France, Lyon boasts a rich culinary tradition, and it’s no surprise that the city is home to some of the best food markets in the country. Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, an indoor food market named after the famous chef, is one of the best places to pick up culinary souvenirs.
Here, you’ll find a wide array of local delicacies, from artisanal cheeses and charcuterie to gourmet chocolates and truffles. If you’re looking to bring a taste of Lyon home with you, this market is the perfect place to shop. I couldn’t resist picking up a selection of Lyonnais specialties, including some famous quenelles (a type of dumpling), a jar of saucisson de Lyon (a traditional sausage), and a few bottles of local wine. The variety of food products available was incredible, and I loved how everything was carefully packaged for travel.
As I wandered through the stalls, I also noticed a selection of gourmet oils, vinegars, and other condiments, all crafted in the Lyon region. These make great gifts for those who enjoy cooking or want to bring a taste of France back to their kitchens. I grabbed a small bottle of huile de noix (walnut oil), which had been cold-pressed from local walnuts. It’s perfect for dressing salads or drizzling over roasted vegetables.
4. Croix-Rousse: A Bohemian Neighborhood for Unique Finds
Croix-Rousse is one of Lyon’s most bohemian neighborhoods, and it offers a great mix of independent boutiques and markets selling artsy and eclectic items. The neighborhood is known for its historical ties to the silk industry, but today, it’s a vibrant area filled with creative energy. The hilltop views and narrow streets are a beautiful backdrop for shopping, and there’s a real sense of local pride here.
I stumbled upon several small boutiques that specialized in handmade goods, such as jewelry, pottery, and art. One particular store, a small ceramics shop, caught my attention. The owner was busy shaping clay as I walked in, and she explained that all of her pieces were handmade on-site. I spent quite some time browsing the shelves, admiring the intricate designs and vibrant colors. I ended up purchasing a small ceramic bowl with a beautiful blue glaze that reminded me of the Mediterranean. It was unique, and it felt like a piece of art that could be displayed in my home.
Croix-Rousse also has a fantastic market that takes place several times a week. Local farmers, artists, and craftsmen gather here to sell their goods, and it’s a great place to pick up handmade jewelry, vintage clothing, and artisanal food products. I was particularly drawn to a stall that sold handmade leather accessories, including belts, wallets, and bracelets. After a bit of negotiation with the vendor, I picked up a leather bracelet that would be a great souvenir of my time in Lyon.
5. The Luxury Boutiques of Place Bellecour
For those who are looking for a more high-end shopping experience, Place Bellecour offers a selection of luxury boutiques. This large public square, one of the largest in Europe, is surrounded by upscale stores that cater to those who enjoy designer fashion and luxury goods. It’s a place to browse if you’re in the mood for something a bit more extravagant.
While exploring Place Bellecour, I found myself browsing through a boutique that sold beautiful watches and jewelry. Lyon may not be as famous as Paris for its luxury shopping, but the city has some surprisingly high-quality stores. I treated myself to a small silver necklace from a local designer. It was simple yet elegant, and I loved the fact that it was made by a designer based in Lyon, making it a true piece of the city.
6. The Flea Markets: Hidden Treasures
If you enjoy hunting for hidden treasures, Lyon has several flea markets that are worth visiting. One of the most famous is the Marché aux Puces at the Brotteaux district, where you can find a mix of antiques, vintage clothing, and quirky second-hand items. It’s a place where you never know what you’ll find, and the thrill of the hunt makes it all the more exciting.
I spent a good few hours wandering through the various stalls, rummaging through old books, vintage postcards, and old maps. I picked up an antique brass key, which I thought would make a lovely decorative item for my home. There was something special about the pieces here; each item seemed to have its own story to tell.
7. The Final Touch: Unique Lyon Souvenirs
Throughout my time in Lyon, I found that the best souvenirs were the ones that were deeply tied to the city’s rich heritage. From silk scarves to local cheeses, each item felt like a piece of Lyon’s soul. There’s something so special about buying souvenirs that are crafted locally and tell the story of the place you’re visiting. In Lyon, the combination of history, craftsmanship, and creativity is evident in every shop and market.
Whether you’re strolling through the cobbled streets of Vieux Lyon, browsing the boutiques of Rue de la République, or picking out gourmet delicacies at Les Halles de Lyon, there are countless opportunities to find souvenirs that will remind you of your time in this beautiful city. Lyon may not have the global fame of Paris, but it certainly has a charm and character all its own, and its shops and markets are a perfect reflection of that.
