The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourviere, named after the old Roman forum that once graced the site, was built using private funds in the late 19th century. The church venerates the Virgin Mary, who locals believe spared them from the bubonic plague that tore through Europe in the 1600s. The building’s design is a combination of Romanesque and Byzantine styles and features a bell tower topped with a statue of the Virgin Mary. The interior is decorated with intricate mosaics and impressive stained-glass windows. Illuminated every night, the basilica is a popular stop on nighttime tours of the city.
The basilica is located at 8 Place de Fourvière, Lyon 69005, France. Visitors can walk, ride an electric bike, or take the funicular railway from Vieux Lyon station to the top of the hill.
The basilica is open daily from 7am–7pm, while the grounds are open later, until 9:30pm. Group visits are not permitted during mass.
With a host of restaurants, specialty produce shops, and the famous Paul Bocuse markets, Lyon is a popular destination for gastronomes. Many people choose to take a guided food tasting tour of the city to uncover the tastiest offerings, while others plan out a self-guided itinerary taking in wine bars, boulangeries, chic cafes, and more.